The Seattle International Foundation is now accepting applications for its Global Program. The goal of the Global Program is to support and foster local organizations working internationally. The Foundation is interested in development projects in all regions of the world, although it has a special interest in Central America.
Preference will be given to organizations based in the greater Puget Sound region and organizations based outside of Washington State are not eligible. The program is open to 501(c)3 organizations, or those with fiscal sponsorship, with an annual organizational or project budget of less than $2 million.
The program seeks to support organizations launching new projects, or working to establish or expand an international project or program. Organizations may request general operating support or project support, and generally the maximum grant award is $15,000. The application deadline is March 15, 2010 and grant recipients will be announced by mid-May 2010.
SIF is a supporting organization of The Seattle Foundation. In 2009, SIF awarded $2.2 million in grants to 43 organizations (31 based in Pacific Northwest) working in over 40 countries.
SIF was founded by Bill and Paula Clapp, who have 15 years of experience in international development work. They co-founded Global Partnerships where Bill was formerly the CEO, and currently serves as Chairman. Bill also co-founded the Initiative for Global Development with other notable international philanthropists from the Pacific Northwest, where he currently serves as director.
Bill served as the CEO for 30 years of Matthew G. Norton Company, a Seattle based investment, real estate and management company. He has served on the board of Alaska Airlines and Weyerhaeuser Co. as well as numerous private companies and non-profit organizations. Paula Clapp has worked with numerous non profit organizations in the Seattle area in addition to Global Partnerships focusing primarily in education and social needs.
