There are many foundations that give money to sailors and teams that are aspiring to raise their “game” and compete at the regional, national and international levels of the sport. These foundations have a special relationship with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that allows individuals to make tax-free contributions to them. In turn, these foundations need to spend the money they raise in ways that help people improve at what they are doing, in this case sailing. These “gifts” of money are called “grants.”

To receive a grant, you normally need to apply for it. Most foundations will have a simple form to fill out. Others will want a letter. Basically the foundation will want to know:
• who you are
• what your short and long term goals are in the sport
• what your short and possibly long term sailing plans are
• what your current budget needs are

It is important to convey to the foundation that you are serious about your efforts to organize a successful campaign. That doesn’t mean you will necessarily be successful at first. But it does mean that you will try your hardest to be as successful as you can be.