The Grantmaking Process

Due diligence ensures impact, and volunteers are essential. The Broomfield Community Foundation is entrusted with the responsibility to thoroughly review grant applications, ensuring that the generous gifts from our donors are used to build a thriving community and serve those in need.

01

The role of a review team

To make sure the grant process is fair, open, and thorough, community foundations set up a review team for each grant cycle—often board members, staff, and volunteer reviewers. Each person brings their own knowledge and point of view, helping the Foundation carefully review proposals and ensure the money goes to the projects with the biggest impact.

Each year the BCF seeks grant review committee members for the Arts/Civic cycle in spring and the Human Service/Education/Seniors cycle in fall.

02

Making sure funds are used effectively

The review team uses a scoring tool to evaluate each application, looking at the nonprofit’s financial health, its ability to manage the project, and whether it has clear goals. After reviewing proposals, the team discusses them to make sure projects are well-planned and can make a real difference. By choosing nonprofits with strong financials and achievable goals, the Foundation ensures grants are used wisely and create lasting change.

03

Proactively monitoring progress

After giving grants, the Foundation keeps track of how well funded programs are doing through visits, meetings, and written reports from the nonprofits. This ongoing check-in process helps the Foundation follow progress, solve problems, and celebrate successes.

Community member volunteers needed

Volunteer reviewers use a clearly defined scoring rubric, and most review work can be done remotely. The process culminates in a group meeting where final funding recommendations are made collaboratively—offering a unique window into the heart of our community.