Editor's note: This article was revised and updated on 10/5/21.
Although many corporate headquarters are based in Delaware, there are only a handful of philanthropic foundations that make this tiny state a top priority. One such funder is the Longwood Foundation, which has been investing in the quality of life and future of Delaware since 1937.
Here are some key facts to know about the Longwood Foundation and how its local giving strategy works.
Broad Funding Areas
Each year, the Longwood Foundation supports a wide range of local nonprofits in many different focus areas. These include but are not limited to arts, civic causes, environment, education, health, housing and social services. Over the years, education has been the program area most often funded by Longwood grants. These are some of the most common types of grantees that receive Longwood’s support:
Two Annual Grant Cycles
The Longwood Foundation has spring and fall grant cycles with proposal submission deadlines on March 1 and September 1. Following those deadlines, the foundation makes grant decisions in May and November. Site visits are very common with this funder.
When applying for a grant, keep in mind that Longwood shares a grant application portal with two other foundations, the Welfare and Crestlea Foundations. However, these are all entirely separate entities, so applicants must make sure they are using the Longwood-specific online application. Note also that an organization may not receive Longwood support within two years of a previous grant request, regardless of whether the foundation approved or denied the request.
A Small Portion of Pennsylvania is Considered
Although Longwood is primarily a Delaware funder, it also considers a very small portion of Pennsylvania for grant opportunities. In addition to the entire state of Delaware, the area within a four-mile radius of Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, Pennsylvania is also eligible for grants. In fact, Pierre S. du Pont created this foundation to support Longwood Gardens specifically, a mission that has broadened over the years.
It Offers Grant Information Sessions
The foundation typically receives about 70 requests for each of its grant cycles and is only able to award about $1 for every $2.50 in requests received. Due to the competitive nature of these grants, it is advisable to attend one of the foundation’s grant information sessions to get a better sense of what it’s looking for. Organizations can register for these sessions online and secure two seats per organization. Pre-session homework is required in order to attend and participate.
If there are no sessions currently on offer, organizations can learn more about this foundation in IP’s Mid-Atlantic States profile of the Longwood Foundation. With its support for programs, general operating support and capital projects, this is one of the most active foundations in Delaware and definitely one to know for groups in the region.