Amount
$10,000–$100,000 typical grants; larger multi-year investments for catalytic work.[18][19]
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John R. Oishei Foundation
Timeline
Rolling LOI; allow ~60–90 days for review and board consideration.[19]
Effort & Priority
Effort: 5 | Priority: Must Pursue
Success outlook: High.
Match
No match required; leverage and partnerships strengthen proposals.
Why Oishei
As Buffalo’s flagship foundation, Oishei funds racial equity, economic mobility, and systems change projects. Their endorsement carries significant signaling power for other regional funders.[18]
Positioning Guidance
- Pitch a transformative concept—e.g., East Side wraparound hub or regional workforce coalition—with clear systemic outcomes.
- Engage program staff early; share a concise concept memo and request feedback before submitting the LOI.
- Highlight community leadership and decision-making roles for residents and partners.
Application Notes
- LOI: 1–2 page overview covering problem, solution, expected outcomes, partners, and budget.
- Full proposal (if invited): detailed narrative, logic model, equity plan, organizational budget, audited financials, board data.[19]
- Large requests may involve site visits or presentations.
Risks & Mitigation
- Strategic alignment: Ensure proposal advances Oishei priorities (racial equity, health equity, self-sufficiency).
- Capacity needs: Outline governance, staffing, and evaluation resources to manage complex projects.
ROI & Next Steps
A $75K grant for roughly 40 hours of cultivation and proposal work nets ≈$1,875/hour and significant reputational value. Next actions: book a concept discussion, refine theory of change with partners, and assemble letters of support.[18]