Donations and Sponsorships

One important way that Grinnell College contributes to the vitality of our local community is through financial support for local initiatives.

Grinnell is an active community driven by local nonprofit organizations that plan programs and fundraising activities to bring their ideas to life.  Throughout the year, Grinnell College makes smaller-scale donations in support of these local organizations and projects.

Donation and Sponsorship Guidelines

Types of Activities

Smaller donations and sponsorships that do not fit the criteria for one of our other programs (Community Mini-Grants, Volunteer Initiative Program, etc.) are addressed throughout the year. Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research makes, on average, five to ten gifts per month through this program. Examples of common donation and sponsorship opportunities include: 

  • Community fundraising events (dinners, auctions, dances, concerts, walks, runs, golf outings, bowling teams, etc.)
  • School activities (proms, college fairs, etc.)
  • Bulk ticket purchase (theater tickets) 
  • Other miscellaneous donations

Types of Donations

  • Monetary donations/sponsorships
  • Bookstore merchandise/gift certificate donations
  • Dining and catering donations
  • Complimentary or discounted use of Grinnell College accommodations (including Grinnell House and dormitories)
  • Logo items/door prizes

Priority is given to projects that have a significant impact on the local community, as well as those which demonstrate collaborative partnerships and/or involve challenge funding. Support traditionally focuses on, but is not limited to:

  • Arts and culture
  • Community outreach and infrastructure
  • Economic development
  • Education
  • Health and wellness
  • Public safety
  • Recreation
  • Social needs

Exclusions 

Generally, the College does not sponsor or make gifts to:

  • Individuals
  • Business ventures
  • Non-governmental organizations without IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
  • Organizations that limit membership or services based on race, religion, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, or national origin
  • Requests for loans or debt retirements
  • Reimbursement for projects that have already taken place or have been completed
  • Civic/labor/fraternal groups
  • Political organizations
  • Projects or organizations with no connection to the community of Grinnell
  • Projects or organizations that might in any way pose a conflict with the mission, goals, or programs of Grinnell College
  • High School athletic programs are also excluded from sponsorships in accordance with NCAA guidelines.

To Request a Donation or Sponsorship

To request a donation or sponsorship, please complete and submit the Donation and Sponsorship Request Form. If you choose not to use this form, please ensure that your request is in writing (paper or e-mail) and addresses the questions outlined on the form. Requests will be reviewed and processed within 30 days of receipt. Please allow adequate time for review before the event or project is scheduled to occur.

Monetary donations will be issued in the form of a check unless arrangements have been made for electronic transfers. To find out more about direct deposit, please contact Grinnell College Accounting.

Submit requests electronically to Donnette Ellis, community relations and grant coordinator, or to:

Community Partnerships, Planning, and Research
1127 Park Street
Grinnell, IA 50112
641-269-3900

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