Frequently Asked Questions
My non-profit organization is interested in applying for a donation or sponsorship. Must I use the online application?
Yes, you must complete the application online; it is the only way an application will be received by the Bank.
What is required for the application process?
Complete the full online application, which will prompt you to upload supporting documentation:
- A 501(c) determination letter (or equivalent document W9)
- A financial statement or project budget
- A list of the organization’s board of directors (or an equivalent document)
- Those seeking sponsorships are recommended to upload a listing of sponsorship options
- Space is available to upload any additional information that strengthens the application
Why is our organization’s Tax ID number not recognized by the application?
The application system checks Tax ID numbers against the IRS database of federally recognized non-profits. If your organization is not listed in this database, the system will not recognize it. We do understand that, because of their unique filing requirements, certain religious institutions, government agencies, and universities may not be listed in the database despite their status as officially recognized non-profits.
If our organization’s Tax ID is not recognized, can we still apply for support?
Yes, follow the on-screen instructions to proceed. There is an opportunity for you to upload evidence of your tax-exempt status on the “Attachments” section of the application. Please keep in mind that the Bank favors organizations with 501(c) tax exempt certification.
Can we still apply if our request fails the eligibility quiz?
Yes. The quiz is a diagnostic tool meant to show you if your request meets some of BayCoast Bank’s giving guidelines. If you fail the quiz, you may choose to continue to the application by following the on-screen instructions and clicking the link at the bottom of the page. Learn more about BayCoast Bank’s giving guidelines here.
How do I upload an attachment?
On the “Attachments” page of the application, there is a separate attachment field for each item. Locate the appropriate field and click the “Browse” button. Use the pop-up window to locate the item or file you want to attach. Please note that the file you wish to attach must be saved on your computer before you can upload it. Once you have found it, select the item and click “Open.” It will now be listed in the application’s attachment field. Click “Upload” to attach it to the application. You can preview your uploaded item by clicking on it. To remove or change the attachment, click “Remove.”
Is there a maximum or minimum amount we can request?
No, requests will be considered for any amount. Some larger grants may be paid over a period of 3 to 5 years.
How many times may we apply?
You may apply as many times as you would like throughout the year, but only one donation or sponsorship will typically be awarded to an organization per calendar year. Please keep in mind that submission of an application does not guarantee that it will be approved, or that it will be funded at the level requested.
What is the deadline to submit a request?
Requests for support are reviewed on a monthly basis. Depending on the type and size of the request, the review process may take several weeks. Please be sure to allow adequate time for review and approval. We suggest submitting an application at least 2 to 3 months before your event or fundraising deadline.
How will we know that our request has been received by the Bank?
After submitting your online application, you will be sent an e-mail confirming that your application has been received.
Who will review our donation and sponsorship application?
All requests are collected by the Bank’s Executive Office and then directed, depending on the size of the request, to local Branch Managers, the CEO and/or the Executive Board for review.
How will we be notified about the status of our request?
Once a decision has been made, we will advise you via mail, e-mail or telephone.
If we have any other questions or concerns, who should we contact?
You can contact us at community@baycoastbank.com.
