How to Apply: Carnival Foundation Application Guidelines
Please note that due to the high number of requests we are receiving, effective May 1, 2016, applications that do not meet our guidelines will no longer receive a written response. We understand our application process requires time and substantial information. Therefore, we ask you to carefully read our guidelines to see if your organization qualifies for consideration for a grant, sponsorship or in-kind donation from Carnival Foundation.
Grants or Sponsorships
To apply for a grant or sponsorship from Carnival Foundation, prospective applicants must submit a letter of request (emails and fax will not be accepted) with the following information:
- A brief description of the organization, including its legal name, history, activities, purpose and governing board
- Purpose for which the grant is requested
- Grant amount requested
- Listing of other sources of financial support
- Operating budget of the project for which the funds are requested
- Organization’s annual budget
- Copy of the organization’s most recent audited financial statement
- Copy of organization’s most recent 990 filed with the Internal Revenue Service.
- Copy of Internal Revenue Service determination letter indicating 501© (3) tax-exempt status as an organization that is not a private foundation.
- Organization’s completed W-9 form
- Geographical area(s) served
Organizations applying for a grant renewal must submit a final report detailing use of the prior grant award.
In-kind Donations
To apply for an in-kind donation from Carnival Foundation, submit a letter of request (emails and fax will not be accepted) with the following information:
- A brief description of the organization including its legal name, history, activities, purpose and governing board
- Contact name and information, including phone number and address for the individual who is organizing the event
- Name and date of the event
- Average amount of funds raised from the auction in previous years and estimated number and demographics of the event audience
- Description of how funds raised from the donation will be used within the organization
- List of other cruise suppliers, if any, participating in the event
- An outline with details of Carnival’s publicity/promotional opportunities associated with the event
- Copy of Internal Revenue Service determination letter indicating 501© (3) tax-exempt status as an organization that is not a private foundation.
- Geographical area(s) served
Requests for sponsorships and/or in-kind donations must be received four to six months prior to the event.
Giving Priorities
Carnival Foundation supports a broad range of causes and organizations with primary funding interests in:
- Arts and Culture
- Community Affairs (human/social needs, children, social welfare)
- Education
- Health and Human Services
- Special emphasis is given to requests focusing on youth education and welfare.
Eligibility
Carnival Foundation only makes contributions to organizations that have been granted an exemption from federal income tax under Section 501 c (3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
Carnival Foundation will not consider requests from/for:
- Individuals, including participation in events or fundraisers
- Religious, fraternal, political or athletic organizations
- Rotary Clubs
- Animal welfare organizations or causes
- Labor/Union groups
- Elementary or secondary schools
- Film production, including documentary
Geographic Focus
Preference is given to South Florida and other homeport communities throughout the United States.
Review Process
Funding proposals are received and reviewed on a continuous basis throughout the year. Requests are screened for thoroughness and compliance with Carnival Foundation’s requirements. If applicable, a meeting with a representative from the organization and/or a site visit may be conducted.
All requests must be submitted, in writing, to:
Linda Coll
Executive Director, Carnival Foundation
Carnival Corporation & plc
3655 N.W. 87th Avenue
Miami, FL 33178
