Information for grant seekers

We regret to inform you that the Bernard van Leer Foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals from grantseekers, and cannot enter into correspondence with potential grantseekers. If you contact us to ask about how to apply for funding, we will not be able to reply.

Why is this? Previously, when we invited contact from grantseekers, we received a large and time-consuming volume of mail. But it resulted in very few grants being made. The vast majority of grants resulted from extensive consultations with organisations we knew already.

As a result of the financial crisis that started in 2008, we have had to make difficult choices about how best to use our limited funds. We have decided to consider working with new partner organisations only when they come recommended to us through our existing networks.

We appreciate that this will disappoint many people who visit our website in the hope of obtaining financial support. Below is a list of links to organisations that can help you find funding partners. Please note we accept no responsibility for the accuracy of this information.

Council on Foundations
"The Council on Foundations is a membership organization of more than 2,000 grantmaking foundations and giving programs worldwide. We provide leadership expertise, legal services and networking opportunities - among other services - to our members and to the general public."

EFC - European Foundation Centre
"As an independent international association, the European Foundation Centre (EFC) is the gathering point for independent funders active in and with Europe. Foundations and corporate citizens from all over Europe and the world are members and partners of the EFC, which promotes and underpins their work."

The Foundation Center
"The Foundation Center's mission is to strengthen the nonprofit sector by advancing knowledge about U.S. philanthropy."

Fondswervingonline.nl (in Dutch)
"Fondswervingonline.nl maakt het verwerven van subsidies, fondsen en sponsors door organisaties makkelijker. Niet alleen door haar abonnees de veruit meest uitgebreide informatiebron op dit gebied ter beschikking te stellen maar ook door de gebruikersvriendelijkheid van de software."

Idealist.org help for fundseekers
"I need funding for a project. Where do I start? Unfortunately, we are not a grant making organization, so we can't help you directly. But here are some useful starting points..."