Fact Sheet on Donations
Fact Sheet on Grants
Fact Sheet on Major Projects
Fact Sheet on Resources
LCIF has awarded US$640 million in grants since the foundation began awarding grants in 1972. In fiscal year 2007-2008, it awarded US$41 million in grants. LCIF's SightFirst program has awarded US$231 million since it began in 1990.
LCIF often returns to countries in the form of grants as much or more than was donated to LCIF by that country.
A description of the various types of grants, is available online.
Frequently Asked Questions About Grants
How does a district apply for a grant?
Contact LCIF at 630-571-5466, ext. 580 or e-mail LCIF. Or download the appropriate grant application form.
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, an international assistance grant or a SightFirst grant. Lions cannot apply for seed or major catastrophe grants, as those are directed by the board.
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.
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. It is best to discuss with LCIF before applying.
What qualities does LCIF look for to approve a grant application?
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. 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.
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 and other supporters 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.
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.
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