Foundation Funding Guide

Throughout its history, Shady Side Academy has developed long-standing relationships with generous donors to support school-wide initiatives. Corporations and foundations continue to support Shady Side through generous donations and grants annually.

Faculty and staff who are interested in securing funding through a corporation or foundation are invited to work directly with the Alumni & Development Office, which is equipped with the tools to guide you through the grant proposal process.

Guide to Grant Proposals

Institutional Support

Prior to inquiring for funding, please start the conversation with your department head or school head. Your department head and school head will be able to guide you with regard to budget details and institutional approval.

Preparing to Submit A Foundation Proposal

Foundation funders will often examine the project through a variety of different questions. Below is an example of questions that you will want to be prepared to answer for the grant proposal.

The Problem
- Define the problem you are seeking to solve. (Why is this problem significant to the Academy? What are the central questions that will help guide you in your project?)
Potential Contributions
- What will you be able to do differently once your project is completed?
Approach
- What conceptual framework and research design will guide your work?
- What is the scope of the project?
- How will you analyze the success of the project?
Team
- Provide the name of the project lead, with the experience and expertise they bring to the project.
- Include names of other members of the project team and what makes them qualified to conduct the work.
Funding
- Indicate the total amount needed for the project and the total amount requested of the funder.
Demographic and Geographic Focus
- What demographics will the project focus on? Is there a particular focus on a certain geographic area of the region? (e.g. Demographics: 37% students of color, 35+ languages spoken in homes of SSA families; Geographic area - Southwestern PA)
Timeline
- When are you seeking to start the project, and what is the timeline for completion?

Intent to Apply For Funding Form

Required

Contact Us

Restricted Foundations List

The Academy has established relationships with foundations throughout region and nationally. We currently manage a portfolio of more than 100 corporations and foundations.

For specific foundations, we require notification prior to any contact as there may be limitations on the number of applications that may be made, particular donor preferences, and current interest with the President's Office and Alumni & Development Office.

School Name