What We Look For

The Waitt Foundation is currently considering grant requests in the areas of Ocean Conservation, Scientific Innovation, and Exploration & Discovery.  We have no geographical restrictions.

Who We Look For

We look for and encourage collaboration among our grantees. We look for grantees who want to make a lasting difference and share our principles. We look for grantees willing to leverage their relationships to effect positive change.  We also look for the following characteristics:

• Focus on results
• Thoughtful strategy
• Sound operations
• Strong execution
• Financial stability
• Dynamic leadership
• Collaborative environment
• Strategic alliances
• Continuous evaluation/improvement
• Mass communication savvy

All applicants will be treated without regard to age, sex, color, religion, race, national origin, citizenship, veteran or future military status, sexual orientation, gender identification, marital status, physical or mental disability, legal source of income or any other by law.

Your Tax Status

Organizations must have a U.S. tax identification number and be able to provide a current copy of their IRS 501(c)(3) determination letter. You may apply through a fiscal sponsor if you are not currently registered as a 501(c)(3).

Only organizations with federal non-profit agency tax status can receive financial support.

Our Grant Minimum

There is a $100,000 USD minimum for all grant requests. Multi-year proposals will be considered.

Our Grant Maximum

We have no maximum limit on the dollar amount requested.  We do, however, ask that the grant amounted requested reflect the scope of the project.

Ineligible Categories

Generally, the Waitt Foundation does NOT fund the following categories:

• For-profit organizations
• Individuals
• Capital campaigns
• Endowments
• Debt reduction
• The arts
• Religious organizations
• Public education institutions
• Healthcare organizations/hospitals
• Violence prevention campaigns (supported by WIVP Program)
• Lobbying of any kind