Request for Funding

The KSU Foundation holds and invests all philanthropic gifts made to the university. It’s important to note that 98% of funds are connected to donor discretion and cannot be used for other purposes. The majority of remaining funding is used to cover annual operating expenses for the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement and matching gifts for Giving Tuesday.

Therefore, our ability to fund additional projects, events, programs, etc. around the university is quite limited. On occasion, a project, event or program aligns with DPAE overall strategy or can be paired with something we are working on. In that case, we may be able to consider a small amount of funding. For some requests, we can offer staff support rather than financial support as well. 

If you would like to fundraise, please refer to our Special Appeals and Events sections. Additionally, you may want to review the Sponsorship section for ways to make events more profitable.  

Key Considerations
  • How does this request elevate the overall goals and strategies for university alumni and donor engagement or fundraising?
  • What budget and staffing does your unit have available to co-support this request?
  • Do you need funding assistance or is this a chance to fundraise for a special appeal or sponsorships? 
What To Avoid
  • Requesting funds that don’t align with alumni and donor engagement and philanthropy efforts. 
  • Requesting support from the foundation to cover an operational expense in your unit.
Step-By-Step Guide
  • Determine how your request supports overall alumni and donor engagement or philanthropy.
  • Determine the overall expense request.  
  • Secure confirmation on how much budget your unit is contributing. 
  • Fill out the request for funding form.  
FAQs

Does the Foundation offer support for unit-based alumni and donor programs? 
In general, all financial support (outside of donor designated funds) goes to the operations of the Division of Philanthropy and Alumni Engagement. The division does offer staffing support for most alumni and donor outreach, communications, stewardship, solicitation, etc. Please contact your unit’s project manager to begin a discussion.  

How do I know if my project or program idea supports the overall alumni and donor goals?  
If it has impact beyond one unit or is celebrating a key milestone that alumni would appreciate. Start by talking with your project manager to see how the idea rolls into your annual plan and/or DPAE priorities.  

Who To Contact

If you have any questions, contact Leigh Greenfelder, Senior Associate VP and COO at lgreenfe@kent.edu.  

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