Partner With Us

We believe that society’s challenges are best addressed by the social entrepreneurs — employers, faculty, students, administrators, and nonprofit leaders — who have first-hand knowledge of a problem, a vision for solving it, and a passion for working with others to drive lasting change.

Requests for Proposal

submit a proposal

Applying for Support

The Charles Koch Foundation seeks to empower our partners to spend more time on their project than they do on grant administration.

Initial review

CKF has an open, rolling application process, which means we welcome proposals for research and educational programs throughout the year. Applicants are asked to submit a brief (1-3 page) abstract that explains how their project will advance inquiry on a pressing challenge; a CV or résumé; and a brief itemized budget. Proposals related to the Foundation’s vision and focus areas are selected for further review.

assessing proposals

Proposals chosen for consideration undergo a review process focused on the proposed project’s relevance to the appropriate field of inquiry or practice, as well as the applicant’s capacity to complete the project in a timely fashion and at a high level of quality.

The Foundation provides applicants with timely decisions based on four key factors.

  • Vision: Does the project contribute to a society of mutual benefit where people succeed by helping others improve their lives?
  • Quality: Does the project meet the standards of its field? Has the applicant demonstrated potential or past excellence in the corresponding field of study or practice?
  • Impact: Can the applicant articulate how the project has potential to improve the lives of others?
  • Sustainability: If necessary, is the project likely to receive the additional support necessary for the applicant to build on their progress?

ineligible programs

Requests for funding that fall outside of the Foundation’s vision or giving practices are declined at the selection stage. Among other items, the Foundation is not able to support:

  • Percentage-based overheard costs
  • Applied Research and Development
  • Community development
  • Infrastructure
  • Cultural exchange programs
  • Economic development
  • Medical treatment
  • Political activity
  • Lobbying activity