The Sprout Foundation looks for the following traits in organizations considered for our support

  • High-touch programming that delivers measurable outcomes
  • Sound strategic planning and financial practices, such as a diverse funding stream and approximately 9-12 months of reserve funds
  • A strong management team and varied board
  • Collaboration with other established organizations to maximize impact and reduce duplication of services
  • Ideally, early childhood programming would support parents and caregivers as well as their children, i.e., parenting support in addition to support for children
  • Early childhood programs that reach underserved, at-risk children (if you are in Grand County, please click on the Grand County link, as the programming we support will be slightly broader)
  • A budget that goes toward programming, keeping administration costs to a minimum
  • Environmental programs that deliver tangible improvements in our environment

 

The following are examples of programs/areas not supported by the Sprout Foundation, to help you determine whether your organization could be a possible fit:
  • Stand-alone food, medical-oriented, mentoring, clothing/book/school supplies programs; they must be tied to a broader program that contributes to measurable outcomes
  • Respite services
  • Farming programs
  • Recycling services
  • Scholarships
  • After-school or preschool programs not tied directly to academic outcomes
  • Start-up funding
  • Advocacy, legal, or adoption programs
  • Church-related, religious, or political programs
  • Fundraising events or sponsorships
  • Sports programs