Is there a deadline to submit a proposal?
The Foundation accepts unsolicited letters of inquiry through its Responsive Grantmaking strategy on an ongoing basis.  Program staff review letters of inquiry monthly.  In an effort to manage the Foundation's review of letters of inquiry, proposals submitted before the 15th of a given month will be reviewed during the following month.   If a letter of inquiry is a match with the Foundation's priority areas a full proposal will be requested.  A timeline will be established between the organization and the Program Officer.  Quarterly, the Foundation makes funding determinations.  There is no guarantee that proposals received prior to the quarterly meeting will be on the agenda for that corresponding meeting. However, the proposal will be reviewed in the next cycle.

What kinds of budget items can be requested?
Any reasonable costs associated with conducting the project may be considered, keeping in mind the general exclusions.  The Foundation also limits the amount allowable for indirect costs to a maximum of 10%. 

What is the typical size of a grant awarded?
There is no typical size. The amount awarded varies considerably based on the size and complexity of the project.

What is the maximum number of years a grant can be awarded?
Repeat funding on any specific project is limited up to a maximum of three years.

If my proposal is approved, how soon would I receive funding, and how are funds distributed?
Upon award, grant payments are issued annually in payments of 90% up front and 10% upon completion.

I run a local service program for seniors in another state, would I be eligible for funding?
Probably not, generally all direct service delivery programs are limited to Southern California.

Can I make a donation to the Archstone Foundation?
No. We are an independent private foundation, with assets of over $100 million and can not accept donations. However, there are many other organizations that may match your areas of interest and can take donations. Please refer to our list of grantees to find many aging-related programs. Thank you for your interest.