Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of projects are eligible for Foundation funding?

At a minimum, you must be able to say YES to the following questions. Click here to learn more about eligibility requirements.

1. If your organization is on the Qualla Boundary or other tribal property of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI), is it a tribal or community service organization?
   
   If your organization is NOT on the Qualla Boundary, will the work you want the Foundation to help fund directly benefit the people of the EBCI?
   
   
2. Is your project focused on environmental protection of Cherokee tribal lands, economic development, the creation of employment opportunities or the preservation and enhancement of the Cherokee culture?
   
   
3. Are you already collaborating with other groups that have similar goals, or do you have a concrete plan to work with others on the project you want to propose?
   
   
4. Is your organization located on the Qualla Boundary or in either Cherokee, Clay, Graham, Haywood, Jackson, Macon or Swain County, or does it serve people in this specific region?
   
   
5. Does your organization have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, or is it a school, institute of higher learning, or government unit (federal, state, local or tribal)?
   

May I call to discuss my project with you before I submit a request?

Yes, we encourage calls to help you determine if the Cherokee Preservation Foundation is the best match for your project. Be sure to read about eligibility before contacting us.

Does my project have to benefit the Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians in some way in order to be eligible to apply?

Your project should benefit the EBCI. The Cherokee Preservation Foundation was created to strengthen and enhance the quality of life for the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI).

How many grants can my organization apply for?

An organization may apply for one large grant and one small grant during a grant cycle.

What if I need the grant money before your deadline and grant review process are completed?

The Foundation is unable to expedite funding decisions for any group, therefore we encourage your organization to complete a long range plan that includes a timeline for resource development. An application to our Foundation and to other sources would be a part of that annual resource development plan.

How much money can I apply for?

We ask that you realistically determine your needs and where the Cherokee Preservation Foundation grant may fit into the overall funding picture for your project as one of many funding sources. The Foundation does not want to be the sole source of support for your project or organization. Typically, we will not fund over 50% of the total budget. The Foundation much prefers to make a sizable number of smaller grants that will make a real impact on the local community.

When will the Foundation's next grant cycle start?

See the calendar.

Does my organization need a 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS before I can apply for funds?

Your organization must have received a 501(c)(3) designation from the IRS or be a school, institution of higher learning, or government unit (federal, state, local or tribal) to apply for a grant. Otherwise, the Cherokee Preservation Foundation cannot consider funding for your organization.

Does the Foundation fund faith-based organizations?

The Foundation will consider applications from faith-based organizations such as churches when they are undertaking community-oriented projects, but we will not fund projects of a religious nature or projects that require participation in a religious activity.

Will you accept applications by fax or E-mail?

No. Applications sent by fax or E-mail will not be accepted. All applications must be sent by postal mail or courier, or delivered to our office at 71 John Crowe Hill Road, P.O. Box 504, Cherokee, NC 28719 before grant cycle deadlines.

What if I miss your grant application deadline by just a day or two?

We would be unable to process your application for that grant round and would ask you to submit your application at the time of the next cycle.

How long will the grant review process take?

See the calendar.

How soon will I get my grant if my application is approved?

Once a project has been approved for funding, the applicant will be notified. A legal agreement between the Foundation and the grantee that outlines the responsibilities of each party will be necessary prior to funding. The grantee must submit an annual report on grant activities and financial expenditures at the end of the grant period and prior to any further grant application to the Foundation. Costs incurred prior to written authorization of a project from the CPFdn will be ineligible for reimbursement.