The Hyde and Watson Foundation Grant

The Hyde and Watson Foundation focuses on providing grants for capital projects, supporting a variety of fields including education, social services, the arts, health, religion, and humanities. These capital projects include expenses such as construction or renovation of facilities, purchase of new equipment or furnishings, and other one-time capital needs. However, subscription-based software or other recurring expenses are not eligible for funding. The foundation primarily supports projects within the five boroughs of New York City and in Essex, Morris, and Union Counties in New Jersey. Recent grant awards typically range between $5,000 and $20,000.

To be eligible for funding, organizations must have valid 501(c)(3) status and be classified as public charities under Sections 509(a)(1) or (2) of the Internal Revenue Code. Private foundations, individuals, and projects outside the U.S. are ineligible. The foundation does not support endowments, operating costs, annual fund appeals, benefit fundraisers, or lease and rental costs. Additionally, organizations must be fully compliant with federal and state tax filing requirements to qualify for a grant.

Applications are accepted exclusively through the foundation’s online portal, and only during designated grant application periods. The Spring application window runs from December 15, 2024, to February 1, 2025, and the Fall period is open from June 15, 2025, to August 1, 2025. All applications must be submitted within these timeframes.

Organizations must submit several documents with their application, including a completed online grant application form, a narrative (no longer than three pages) detailing the organization’s background, project purpose, and anticipated timeline, as well as a budget breakdown of the project. Additional required documents include the organization’s current fiscal year operating budget, a list of corporate and foundation supporters from the most recent fiscal year, a list of the organization’s Board of Directors and their business affiliations, and either an audited financial report or the most recent Form 990. Optionally, applicants may include a copy of their annual report. Lastly, organizations must provide a copy of their IRS determination letter to verify their tax-exempt status.

Given the competitive nature of these grants, applicants should carefully ensure their projects meet the foundation’s focus on capital improvements and that their application is submitted within the correct grant period. Organizations are encouraged to plan accordingly and provide detailed, accurate information to increase their chances of securing funding.