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