The Ben B. Cheney Foundation offers grants to improve the quality of life in communities where Mr. Cheney’s lumber company operated, primarily in Washington, Oregon, and Northern California. Eligible applicants include public charities recognized by the IRS under 501(c)(3) and units of government for specific projects. The Foundation favors project grants that involve capital improvements, equipment purchases, or program expansions with a focus on sustainability and community support. There are two levels of grants: small grants up to $15,000, which can be processed more quickly (within 1-2 months), and larger grants exceeding $15,000, typically ranging from $20,000 to $40,000, which require board approval and may take 6 to 9 months for consideration. Applications begin with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), and the entire process from LOI submission to grant approval can vary based on the grant size.

The Foundation provides varying levels of funding and support depending on the location, with different amounts and numbers of awards given in each county