FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)

When will I know if my grant application has been approved?

There is no set timeline for grant approval. Selections and award times depend on the applications received and the deliberations of the Headwaters Fund Board and the County Board of Supervisors. Typically, grant decisions are announced 3-4 months after the application deadline.

How does the Headwaters Fund Board evaluate proposals?

The primary factor the Board looks at is economic benefit to the county - creating jobs, supporting the growth of a quality work force, bringing revenue into the county and building infrastructure for economic development. The Board also looks at the ability of the project to sustain itself, long-term public benefit, cost effective administration, organizational capacity, benefit to the environment, the degree of match funding from outside sources, and quality of life issues for local residents.

Can I apply for funding if my project is based out of Humboldt County?

No - the Headwaters Fund is solely for the benefit of organizations operating within the county and for projects which benefit Humboldt County residents.  However, if your organization is within the county and some aspects of the project serve Humboldt County, you can apply for funds for those portions of the project that affect Humboldt County.

I own a business, can I apply for Headwaters Grants?

Headwaters Fund grants cannot go to private businesses.  However, if you have an idea which would benefit a group of businesses in Humboldt County, you can partner with a government organization or non-profit.  Please contact Headwaters staff for more information on potential partners.

At the time of writing my grant application, I do not have confirmed matching fund.  Can I still apply?

Yes - you can apply while you are pursuing matching funds.  However, if awarded, you will need to prove match funding before the contract is executed.  You have 6 months from the grant award date to prove matching funds.  You should also be aware that in general, the Headwaters Fund Board looks more favorably on projects with a high confirmed cash match than those which do not yet have matching funding.

How do I know that the amount I am asking for is appropriate for the number of jobs I will be creating or retaining with my project?

The standard formula the Headwaters Fund Board uses in evaluating proposals is that one job should be created or retained for every $35,000 awarded.