How the funds work
Donate
These funds can be named in your succession plan. Gifts of $5,000 or more are also accepted and, unlike a DAF, donations from an IRA may qualify as a qualified charitable distribution or QCD.
Management
Grants are researched by an in-house committee and then selected by our Board of Trustees.
Goal
Grants from this fund will equal 5% of the average of the previous three fiscal-year-ending fund balance.
Sustainable Disaster-Relief Fund
The Sustainable Disaster-Relief Fund (SDRF) was established in 2006 to aid communities hit by natural disasters. This fund supports communities as they rebuild and establish necessary infrastructure to better handle the impact of a repeat disaster.
The Philanthropic Impact Fund
The Philanthropic Impact Fund (PIF) issues grants that elevate the philanthropic industry. The PIF works to help donors make informed granting decisions and educates nonprofits on providing effective and efficient solutions to increase capacity and capability.
Information about funding for nonprofits
Information about funding for nonprofits
Are you a 501(c)(3) registered nonprofit interested in applying for funding from the Philanthropic Impact Fund (PIF) or the Sustainable Disaster-Relief Fund (SDRF)? Grants are awarded annually via a competitive request for proposal process (RFP). The process varies between the PIF and SDRF. Click on the links below to read about eligibility criteria and how to apply for funding from Vanguard Charitable.
To submit an RFP or LOI, click on the applicable link below. You will be asked to create a profile for your organization and complete a funding application for this year’s funding.
Sustainable Disaster-Relief Fund request for proposal
Request for proposals: Open | December 1, 2025 – January 9, 2026
Review our SDRF Frequently Asked Questions for additional details.
Philanthropic Impact Fund request for proposal
Please note: In order to apply for funding from the PIF, you will need to complete a Letter of Interest (LOI), demonstrating that your request is aligned with one of the PIF's focus areas. If your LOI is approved, you will be invited to complete a full proposal.
Request for LOIs: CLOSED
If you're interested in submitting an LOI for our next granting cycle, please check back in Fall 2026 for more information.
Did you know that you can support disaster relief through your DAF account?
DAFs are uniquely positioned to support both long- and short-term disaster relief efforts.
Get started by opening your account.
Maintenance fee may be applied
Accounts having a balance below $25,000 may be subject to an annual maintenance fee of $250.
You are eligible for special rates
Our premier clients enjoy reduced pricing to further maximize their impact.
Our representatives are happy to guide you through.