Grant Application Guidelines
Quest for the Best funds clearly defined projects, programs, and equipment purchases that align with our mission and demonstrate measurable, lasting community impact. Applications should include specific goals, budgets, timelines, and outcomes rather than general operating support.
Applications are evaluated based on mission alignment, feasibility, expected outcomes, financial stewardship, and community impact.
First-time grants are typically $5,000 which allows us to assess organizational fit. Continued funding may be available as relationships develop.
When / How to Apply
Applications are accepted on our website and reviewed on a rolling basis throughout the year.
Funding Amounts
- Maximum award: $50,000
- Larger requests are generally reserved for organizations with an established relationship with Quest for the Best
- Applicants should request only the amount necessary to complete the project
Eligibility
Applicants must:
- Be an IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit
- Be based in the United States
Funding is generally limited to small and mid-sized nonprofits where support has meaningful impact. Organizations with annual revenue over $5 million or assets over $10 million are typically ineligible, unless they have a longstanding funding relationship with Quest for the Best.
Applications are accepted nationwide, with preference given to organizations serving Southeastern Pennsylvania.
Organizations are eligible to receive only one grant award per year. At its discretion, Quest for the Best may provide limited additional support outside of the grant application process, such as contributions to fundraising events.
Priority Funding Areas
Quest for the Best’s funding is focused exclusively on the following areas.
- Improve educational access for underserved populations
- Advance affordable housing and housing stability
- Address food insecurity and hunger relief
- Expand healthcare access
- Support substance and alcohol use prevention, treatment, and recovery
- Improve clean water access
Quest for the Best may provide minimal discretionary donations to charitable organizations outside these funding areas when consistent with Quest for the Best’s mission.
Funding Restrictions
Quest for the Best does not fund:
- Individuals
- Political or campaign-related activities
- General operating expenses (including salaries, rent, overhead, or administrative costs)
- Expenses incurred or items purchased prior to application
- Religious organizations unless the project is secular and meets our grant criteria
Matching Requirement
All grants require a 1:1 match of committed resources, including cash, in-kind contributions, or securities. In-kind contributions must directly support the approved project scope and may not include unrelated goods or services. Grant awards are limited to a maximum of 50% of the total eligible project cost.
Application Process
- Submit an application through our website
- Receive confirmation within two business days
- Supply additional information if requested by Quest for the Best
- Attend virtual meeting with Quest for the Best, or a site visit during review
- Funding decisions are typically made within 45 days of receiving a complete application
Project Changes and Budget Revisions
Any changes to the approved project scope, budget, or use of funds must receive prior written approval.
Reporting Requirements
Grantees must submit timely financial and narrative reports and maintain records of grant expenditures.
A final report is required upon project completion. If the project is not completed within one year, an annual progress report is required for each year the project remains active.
Failure to comply with reporting requirements may result in suspension of funding, repayment of funds, or ineligibility for future grants.
Additional Conditions
Quest for the Best reserves the right to request additional information, modify funding amounts, approve awards in full or in part, or decline any application.