The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to support communities near BNSF rail lines, where their employees live, work, and volunteer. Eligible applicants include public charities with IRS 501(c)(3) status, divisions of local government, federally recognized tribal governments, and educational institutions. The Foundation focuses on several key areas, including civic services (e.g., environment, crime prevention, and community development), cultural organizations, educational institutions, health and human services, and youth organizations. The Foundation also administers scholarship programs for dependents of BNSF employees and other targeted groups. Grants generally range from $1,000 to $10,000, with larger grants considered under special circumstances. The BNSF Railway Foundation has an open application system, allowing submissions at any time. However, applicants should ensure that their organization or project is located near a BNSF route and meets at least two of the specific criteria outlined by the Foundation.

Applicants can submit their proposals at any time. However, each application is reviewed monthly, so organizations can expect decisions to be made as part of a monthly review cycle.