For basic information, contact LCIF at 630/571-5466, ext. 580 or e-mail us at lcif@lionsclubs.org. Or download How to Apply for an LCIF Standard Grant (LCIF-109) and Standard Grant Application/Criteria (LCIF-27).

What type of grant should we apply for?

It depends on the type of project. Districts can apply for a standard grant, a Core 4 grant, an emergency grant and an international assistance grant. Districts also can seek a major catastrophe grant, a designated grant and a SightFirst grant (upon working with a SightFirst technical adviser). Click here for information on the various types of grants.

When should a grant application be filed?

Applications must be in completed form at least 60 days before an LCIF Board of Trustees meeting. The board meets three times a year - October/November, March/April and June/July. Applications are reviewed as they are received.

How much are grants for?

That depends on the type of grant. Standard grants cover up to 50 percent of a project's total cost and can be as much as US$75,000. International assistance grants are between US$5,000 and $10,000. Click here for information.

What is a typical project covered by a grant?

Again, that varies depending on the type of grant. Typical standard grant projects include mobile health units, hospices, nursing homes, medical units, street children's homes, blind and disabled centers, eye clinics, research centers and schools in developing countries. Click here for information on the various types of grants.

What qualities does LCIF look for to approve a grant application?

For standard grants, for example, the budget must show ample funding from local Lions' organizations, have a strong Lions' identity and involvement, be endorsed by the district cabinet and involve at least two to three clubs. Furthermore, the project must address an important humanitarian need, serve a relatively large population, be cost effective and be beyond local fund-raising capability.

Is there grant money available for my individual club?

Most grants require the participation of a district, either single, sub or multiple. But the International Assistance Grant (IAG) allows a sponsoring Lions club or district to partner with a host club or district in the country where the project will take place. Note that even though grants to individual clubs are limited, a club can participate in any number of service projects funded by grants. One such example is building homes in coordination with Habitat for Humanity. For information, contact LCIF at 630/571-5466, ext. 580 or e-mail us at lcif@lionsclubs.org.

What is the relationship between LCIF and my local Lions' foundation?

Both provide valuable services to communities. The difference is that LCIF is the only Lions' foundation to serve the entire world community. Because of our size, we can initiate more ambitious projects than a local foundation.

How are the LCIF grant programs funded?

Grants are made possible by donations from Lions clubs and individual members worldwide. Interest on investments, gifts from corporations and the general public are also funding sources. LCIF does not receive any portion of Lions membership dues.

How are operating expenses paid?

By ruling of the board of trustees, all administrative and promotional expenses must be paid from interest on investments. Donated funds are never used to cover these costs. Administrative and promotional expenses average about 9 percent per year--much lower than for most charitable foundations.

Does LCIF make grants directly to an individual?

No, there is no program for making grants to an individual; instead, LCIF grants are made to Lions districts, multiple districts and clubs.