Imagine planting a seed in dry soil, you need the right conditions and care for it to flourish. When you consider applying for the Tyler Perry Foundation Grant, you’re fundamentally preparing to nurture a project aimed at transforming underserved communities through education, health services, social justice, or economic empowerment. The foundation also values efforts led by locally funded charities that demonstrate strong community roots and sustainable impact.
To succeed, you’ll need a clear, actionable plan backed by detailed budgets, impact narratives, and proof of nonprofit status. But what exactly does the foundation expect from your application to turn your vision into reality?

Key Takeaways
- Applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or have a qualified fiscal sponsor and align with the foundation’s mission for underserved communities.
- Applications require a detailed project description, measurable objectives, a comprehensive budget, financial statements, and IRS documentation.
- The Tyler Perry Foundation accepts only online applications via their official portal before specified deadlines, emphasizing accuracy and completeness.
- Grants are project-specific, capacity-building, or emergency relief, focused on education, health, economic empowerment, and social justice.
- Applicants should expect an initial screening, review by a board-appointed selection committee, and notification within six to eight weeks post-submission.
Overview of the Tyler Perry Foundation’s Mission and Community Impact
While most foundations simply write checks, the Tyler Perry Foundation does more—it strategically channels its resources to drive real, lasting change in underserved communities, turning empathy into tangible action.
You’ll see this in its commitment to community empowerment by supporting education, health services, the arts, social services, and essential housing support for those facing instability. The foundation focuses on creating systemic change, addressing the root causes that hold communities back.
Eligibility Requirements for Grant Applicants
To qualify for a grant from the Tyler Perry Foundation, your organization must demonstrate a strong alignment with its mission to support underserved communities, especially within education, health, social justice, or economic empowerment.
Your grant eligibility hinges on meeting application criteria that include possessing 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or partnering with a qualified fiscal sponsor. You must present a clear, actionable plan showing commitment to improving lives.
The foundation values diversity and inclusivity, so prioritize projects promoting equality.
Finally, submit a complete application by the specified deadline to guarantee your request is considered for funding.
Types of Grants Offered by the Tyler Perry Foundation
As you seek funding through the Tyler Perry Foundation, it’s essential to understand the distinct grant types available—each designed to address different organizational needs and boost impact in underserved communities.
The foundation offers project-specific funding for initiatives with clear objectives, capacity-building grants to strengthen organizational infrastructure, and emergency relief grants for unexpected crises. These opportunities complement federally funded grants your organization may also pursue, helping you build a diversified and resilient funding strategy.
These grant types allow you to tailor your approach to maximize impact, especially for programs serving veterans and other vulnerable groups. Each option aligns with the foundation’s mission of fostering equality and community development through education, health, social justice, and economic empowerment.
Organizing a Comprehensive Grant Proposal
- A detailed project description with measurable objectives and a clear timetable, showing emotional and community impact.
- A comprehensive budget that reflects the scope and sustainability of your project.
- Current financial statements and evidence of your organization’s capacity to execute the project successfully, reinforcing credibility and trust.
Key Components of the Application: Narrative, Budget, and Attachments
Your grant application to the Tyler Perry Foundation must include a detailed narrative clearly outlining your organization’s mission, the project you’re proposing, and its expected community impact, aligned with the Foundation’s priorities in education and health.
You’ll also need to prepare a thorough budget showing both planned and actual expenditures, supported by financial documents such as balance sheets and cash flow statements from recent fiscal years to demonstrate financial stability.
Additionally, submit essential attachments like your 501(c)(3) determination notice, the latest IRS Form 990, and current financial statements, ensuring all materials are accurate, complete, and submitted electronically since paper applications aren’t accepted.
Narrative Structure Essentials
Although the narrative section is often the first part you write, it must clearly explain your organization’s mission, the specific project you propose, and how it aligns with the Tyler Perry Foundation’s focus areas like education, health, social justice, or economic empowerment.
This narrative importance lies in demonstrating your community alignment effectively.
To craft a compelling narrative, focus on these essentials:
- Show your project’s potential to create positive change and emotional resonance in the community.
- Connect your mission and goals directly to the foundation’s priorities.
- Convey your organization’s capacity to deliver and sustain impact.
Budget Preparation Guidelines
| Budget Element | Description | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Budgeted Amounts | Planned project expenses | Guide use of funds |
| Actual Amounts | Real expenses incurred | Accountability and tracking |
| Fund Allocation | Breakdown by project needs | Effective resource management |
Required Supporting Documents
The grant application requires you to submit a detailed narrative clearly outlining your project’s objectives, goals, and expected community impact.
To complete your submission, the required documents include comprehensive financial verification. You must provide:
- Financial statements such as balance sheets, cash flow statements, and prior fiscal year support and revenue.
- Your organization’s most recent IRS Form 990 and the 501(c)(3) determination notice to verify tax-exempt status.
- A thorough budget detailing both projected and actual expenditures, plus anticipated revenue sources.
Ensure all attachments are current and complete to secure consideration for funding.
Submission Procedures and Important Deadlines
How do you guarantee your Tyler Perry Foundation grant application is submitted correctly and on time? Start by using the foundation’s online grant portal since paper applications aren’t accepted.
Follow a careful application checklist: include a proposal summary, narrative, budget, and all necessary attachments to avoid delays. Note the firm deadlines—5:00 p.m. on March 1, June 1, September 1, and December 1—adjusted if they fall on a weekend or holiday.
After submission, mail completed proposals and materials to The Perrys Foundation, Inc., Board of Directors, C/O Ronni Walker, at 213 E. Main Street, Olney, TX 76374.
Submission tips include meeting all deadlines and providing a full, polished application to guarantee your proposal is reviewed promptly.
Evaluation Criteria and Grant Selection Process
When you submit a grant application to the Tyler Perry Foundation, it undergoes a rigorous evaluation process.
The foundation uses a detailed grant scoring system focusing on:
- Alignment with focus areas: Education, health, economic empowerment, and social justice are key to scoring highly.
- Feasibility and sustainability: The project’s practicality and your organization’s capacity to execute it effectively matter a great deal.
- Clarity and completeness: Your application’s thoroughness, clear financials, and demonstration of past success shape the evaluation process.
You’ll typically hear back within three to six months.
If selected, expect to sign a grant agreement and submit progress reports.
Reporting Requirements and Post-Award Responsibilities
Grant recipients must submit reports and meet specific post-award responsibilities to maintain good standing with the Tyler Perry Foundation. You are required to submit an interim report halfway through the project and a final report upon completion. These reports help maintain financial accountability and adhere to reporting timelines.
| Reporting Type | Submission Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Interim Report | Mid-project |
| Final Report | Project completion |
| Payment Structure | Two installments |
| Feedback | Post-application |
| Grant Agreement | Pre-funding |
Examples of Successful Projects Funded by the Foundation
- Educational programs providing youth mentorship and academic access in underserved U.S. cities.
- Health initiatives targeting public wellness and emergency relief for organizations facing crises.
- Social justice and economic empowerment projects, particularly in states like California, Georgia, and Texas.
These projects uplift disadvantaged populations, ensuring lasting impact and growth.
Contact Information and Resources for Applicants
You can reach out to the Tyler Perry Foundation directly at their Atlanta office or use their online grant portal for application submissions and inquiries.
They provide email support and phone contact options to help clarify any questions you might’ve about eligibility, documentation, or deadlines.
Make sure to connect early for partnership discussions and to receive community feedback that can strengthen your grant proposal.
Contact Information
How do you get in touch with the Tyler Perry Foundation for grant application inquiries?
You can reach them at 541 10th Street Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318 to kickstart your grant inquiry and understand the application process.
Though no specific email is listed, phone contact is an option for detailed conversations.
Use their EIN 260426383 to verify tax-exempt status and research their Form 990 filings for financial transparency.
To engage effectively:
- Visit or call to discuss your grant inquiry in detail.
- Reference the EIN for official application checks.
- Propose collaborations to align with their community goals.
Email Support
Applicants seeking support from the Tyler Perry Foundation often face the challenge of finding direct email contact. You can reach out via email at [email protected] for quick assistance or inquiries related to your grant application.
Practicing good email etiquette is essential: be clear, concise, and professional to facilitate smooth communication. Review the grant guidelines thoroughly before applying to improve your chances.
Expect application results within three to six months and make sure you provide accurate information.
For application tips, contact the foundation Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM CST. They welcome feedback and partnership discussions to support your cause.
Phone Numbers
Two primary phone numbers are relevant for contacting the Tyler Perry Foundation and the closely related Perry’s Foundation regarding grant applications.
For phone inquiries about the Tyler Perry Foundation, you must use the email [email protected] as direct phone contact is unspecified.
Meanwhile, the Perry’s Foundation provides a dedicated phone line at (940) 227-4362 for grant application questions and support resources. You can reach them Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM CST.
- Keep your lines open for prompt clarifications during the process.
- Use the Perry’s Foundation phone to receive detailed support on applications.
- Direct broader inquiries to the provided email to guarantee comprehensive assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Tyler Perry Give to Charity?
Yes, Tyler Perry actively engages in Perry philanthropy by making substantial charitable contributions through his foundation, which supports diverse causes like education, health, and community upliftment across the U.S. and beyond.
How Do I Get a Grant From Bill Gates Foundation?
To get a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, you must first verify your grant eligibility by ensuring your organization aligns with their focus areas and has 501(c)(3) status or a qualified partner. Then, start the application process by submitting a letter of inquiry through their website; if invited, submit a detailed full proposal showing clear impact, sustainability, and measurable outcomes.
How Do I Contact Tyler Perry for Help?
You can request assistance by contacting the Tyler Perry Foundation office at 541 10th St Suite 140, Atlanta, GA 30318; try phoning 678-500-3710 or 678-355-6870, since direct email contact methods aren’t publicly listed—clearly explain your need when you reach out.
What Is the Perry Foundation?
The Perry Foundation is a private philanthropic organization that funds charitable initiatives—especially in education, health, arts, and economic development—for underserved communities, requiring non-profits to demonstrate real impact and alignment with its mission to receive support.
Conclusion
You can make a real difference by applying for the Tyler Perry Foundation Grant with a clear, focused project like a community tutoring program that improves literacy among underserved youth. Detail your objectives, budget, and community impact to align with the foundation’s mission of education and empowerment. For example, a nonprofit in Olney, Texas successfully secured funds to launch after-school STEM workshops, boosting student performance and engagement. Follow guidelines precisely, show measurable goals, and submit all required documents to increase your chances.