The Greater Harrisburg Foundation’s (GHF) Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund grant supports programs and services that increase knowledge, improve quality of life, or inspire positive outcomes for individuals and families in Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Mifflin, Lebanon, Perry Counties, and the Dillsburg area of York County.
The donor is the Greater Harrisburg Foundation (GHF), located in Pennsylvania, serving several counties including Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lebanon, Mifflin, Perry, and York. This grant opportunity offers funding between $1,000 and $10,000 for a duration of one year. The deadline to apply is September 1, 2025.
Funding is available up to $1,700 per project. Proposed projects can take place anytime during the grant year, from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2026. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or have a fiscal sponsor that is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Projects must serve individuals, groups, or locations within the specified counties and the Dillsburg area of York County. Applicants may propose any project that fits their needs and aligns with the grant guidelines.
Grant decisions are made by the GHCF Advisory Committee, a group dedicated to improving the service area. The committee may request additional information before awarding or denying grants.
Applications are evaluated based on several criteria. These include connection to the mission of the Benjamin Franklin Trust Fund, with clear statements of need, target audience, activities, dates, and locations. Roles and responsibilities, partnerships, and collaborations are also considered.
Funding plans must show diversification, not relying entirely on the grant, with clear budget details. The project’s success must be measurable with defined goals and anticipated outcomes.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are important, with projects expected to be accessible to all applicable audiences and to reflect the community in their board, staff, and volunteers.
A total of 50 points are available in the evaluation. The committee ultimately recommends whether or not to fund each project.
For more information, visit TFEC.
