[Foundation For Enhancing Communities](https://www.tfec.org)

August 18, 2026 (Draft review request cutoff) | September 1, 2026 (Full application submission deadline)

Up to $1,700 per award; typical grants range from several hundred to $1,700 for one-year projects.

Supports programs that enhance knowledge, quality of life, or inspire positive outcomes for individuals and families in Central Pennsylvania.

--- ## Description The GHCF Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund Grant, administered by The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), honors Benjamin Franklin’s legacy by funding programs that increase knowledge, improve quality of life, or inspire positive outcomes for individuals and families. The grant specifically supports initiatives in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, and Perry Counties, as well as the Dillsburg area of York County, Pennsylvania. Projects must demonstrate a clear need, defined roles, measurable outcomes, and a commitment to inclusivity and community impact. --- ## Due Dates - **August 18, 2026:** Deadline to request a draft review of your application (requests must be submitted at least 2 weeks before the final deadline). - **September 1, 2026:** Full application submission deadline (all materials must be submitted online). - Applicants will be notified of their status by December 1, 2026. - Funded projects must take place between January 1, 2027 and December 31, 2027. --- ## Funding Amount - **Maximum award:** Up to $1,700 per grant. - **Typical award size:** Ranges from several hundred dollars up to $1,700. - **Project duration:** One year (January 1, 2027 – December 31, 2027). - Only projects occurring within the stated grant year are eligible for funding. --- ## Eligibility - Projects must serve individuals, groups, or locations within Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, and Perry Counties, or the Dillsburg area of York County, PA. - Applicants must be: - A registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, - A nonprofit as recognized by the IRS, - Or have a registered 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor for the proposed project. - Only one application per organization per grant opportunity is permitted, but organizations may apply to multiple TFEC grant opportunities. - **Not eligible:** Individuals, for-profit entities, religious organizations for religious purposes, national/statewide organizations without a local presence, capital campaigns, direct lobbying, new staff positions without sustainability plans, retroactive projects, or advertising (unless scope is justified). --- ## Application Process 1. **Review Guidelines:** Carefully review the [grant guidelines](https://www.tfec.org/grants/ghf-benjamin-franklin-trust-fund-grant-guidelines). 2. **Draft Review:** Optional—request a draft review by contacting the Community Investment Team at [grants@tfec.org](mailto:grants@tfec.org) by August 18, 2026. 3. **Online Submission:** Complete and submit your application using TFEC’s [online portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=tfec) by September 1, 2026. 4. **Notification:** Applicants will be notified of award decisions by December 1, 2026. 5. **Project Period:** Funded projects must take place between January 1, 2027 and December 31, 2027. **Evaluation Criteria:** - Alignment with the fund’s mission. - Clearly stated needs and target audience. - Defined roles and responsibilities. - Funding diversification (project should not rely solely on this grant). - Measurable goals and outcomes. - Commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. **Resources:** - [GLM Applicant Tutorial](https://support.foundant.com/hc/en-us/articles/4479853059991) for step-by-step application instructions. --- ## Additional Information - Applicants may request a draft review of their application up to two weeks prior to the final deadline. - Only projects taking place during the grant year (2027) will be considered. - TFEC promotes equity and embraces diversity in all funded projects. --- ## External Links - [Grant Guidelines & Details](https://www.tfec.org/grants/ghf-benjamin-franklin-trust-fund-grant-guidelines) - [Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=tfec) - [Funder Homepage](https://www.tfec.org) - [GLM Applicant Tutorial](https://support.foundant.com/hc/en-us/articles/4479853059991) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |--------------------|-----------------------------|---------------| | Community Investment Team | [grants@tfec.org](mailto:grants@tfec.org) | 717-236-5040 | | Teresa Gonzalez | [tgonzalez@tfec.org](mailto:tgonzalez@tfec.org) | 717-236-5040 | | Aubrie Wingert | [awingert@tfec.org](mailto:awingert@tfec.org) | 717-236-5040 | For general inquiries, use the [TFEC contact form](https://www.tfec.org/connect-with-us/).

GHCF Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund Grant Guidelines

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