Role in the Funding Ecosystem
The Sand Hill Angels Charitable Fund serves as a bridge between successful early-stage investment returns and community impact. Founded in 2019 by members of Sand Hill Angels, an angel investment group, the fund reinvests a portion of investment successes into charitable causes. This unique model allows the fund to support emerging nonprofit organizations that align with its focus areas.
General Evaluation Criteria
Applications are reviewed based on organizational credibility, financial stability, leadership quality, and alignment with the fund's focus areas. The fund considers third-party reviews from Charity Navigator and GuideStar as part of the evaluation process. Educational programs must provide additional information about teacher credentials, curriculum effectiveness, and student outcomes.
Grant Program Structure
The fund awards grants twice annually: in July and December. Application deadlines are May 31st for July awards and October 31st for December awards. Grant amounts range from $1,000 to $5,000 per organization. Applicants must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and provide IRS Form 990 filings, board information, and financial statements.
Transparency and Accountability
As a registered 501(c)(3) organization (Tax ID: 84-6685399), the fund maintains transparency in its grant-making process. All applicants undergo review by fund trustees and voting members. Donors at certain contribution levels participate in the final vote determining grant recipients.
History and Impact
Since making its first grants in 2020, the fund has supported numerous nonprofit organizations across multiple periods each year. Grant recipients are documented in a public timeline showing organizations supported in areas including environmental conservation, education, health, and community services.
