Tiger Foundation gives funding consideration to organizations and programs serving the five boroughs of New York City in three main areas: education, job training, and social services/youth development (which includes the support of early childhood (ages 0-3) and family support programs). See Program Guidelines for detailed descriptions of each program area’s focus.

ACROSS ALL PROGRAM AREAS, WE SEEK:

• Comprehensive, long-term, preventive programs that are in line with the foundation's mission and programmatic goals. Programs providing one-time services and short-term interventions are not likely to receive support.
• Skilled executive and program leadership, as well as committed board members who contribute both financially and through their time and expertise. Strong financial management capacity and the ability to articulate organizational needs and response in times when revenues are scarce.
• Strong, and consistent measurable outcomes over time. Clearly defined, measurable goals and objectives, and supported by realistic implementation strategies, and comprehensive outcomes tracking and reporting mechanisms.
• Cost-effectiveness, replicability and the potential to scale.
• The ability to leverage other funding sources, both from private sector donors and from the substantial investment of the public sector.

Applicants must be exempt from income taxes under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Requests for support are not considered for individuals, annual or capital campaigns, endowments, benefits, public policy or lobbying groups, legal aid, existing obligations or debt liability.

THE TIGER FUNDING CYCLE

Tiger Foundation provides grants typically ranging in size from $50,000 to $500,000. Unlike many foundations, which determine grant budgets based on a rolling average of endowment values, Tiger Foundation has historically relied on an annually re-circulating pool of capital raised from its board members and other close partners. In recent years, the foundation has raised a larger pool of funds thanks to several generous contributions by its founder, board members, and friends. Grantmaking and technical assistance budgets are set each year based on recognized levels of need within organizations operating in Tiger’s funding areas, and on the foundation’s ability to identify and make sound investments in high-performing organizations and programs. In 2008, Tiger made grants totaling approximately $12.5 million. While many foundations make multi-year awards, Tiger considers each grant a one-year investment. While all grants contractually represent a one-time commitment, we do consider grant renewal requests when evidence of continued strong performance and continued financial need have been demonstrated. After receiving three consecutive annual grants, organizations are ineligible for funding for a period of one year. After this hiatus, grantees are in many cases invited to reapply.