Introduction to Rural India Supporting Trust
The Rural India Supporting Trust (RIST) is an initiative aimed at fostering sustainable development in rural areas. It provides financial assistance to deserving projects in various fields such as education, health, and livelihood development. If you’re looking to apply for a grant from RIST, understanding the eligibility criteria and application process is essential.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
Before applying for a grant, ensure that you meet the RIST eligibility criteria. Generally, applicants must:
Assess Eligibility
An applicant must meet the following criteria:
• Be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Service Code or have a fiscal sponsor that has 501(c)(3) status and provides written authorization confirming its willingness to act as the fiscal sponsor.
• A non-US organization wishing to apply for a grant from RIST without a 501(c)(3) ruling from the IRS should be prepared to demonstrate its capacity to receive RIST funds, either through determination by counsel that it is the equivalent of a US public charity or by other means of qualification.
• Engage in work that aligns with the Foundation’s funding interests and priorities. Please read our Grant Guidelines and previously awarded grants to understand our funding interests and priorities.
Concept Note
The Concept Note allows us to dig deeper into your organization and your specific project or program in need of funding. We use a variety of questions to explore and refine concepts—which helps us to understand your perspective and your commitment. This step ends with the decision to solicit a grant application. Concept Notes are accepted on a rolling basis.
In this step, we ask for some contact information, a brief description of your organization and the project design, confirmation of your tax-exempt status and the amount of money you are requesting.
The Application Process
The application process for a grant from RIST includes several key steps:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to Rural India Supporting Trust’s application page.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Provide detailed information about your organization and the project for which you are seeking funding.
- Submit Required Documents: Include any necessary documentation, such as your organization’s registration certificate and project budget.
- Await Review: After submission, your application will be reviewed by the RIST team.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your application is complete and aligns with RIST’s requirements. This increases your chances of receiving financial support for your projects dedicated to improving rural livelihoods.