Slough Support Fund

The Slough Support Fund, administered by the Slough Farm Foundation, provides annual grant funding to nonprofit organizations located on Martha’s Vineyard. This program is designed to support organizations that contribute directly to the wellbeing of the island’s residents through services, projects, or initiatives that have a measurable local impact. As a private philanthropic entity, the Slough Farm Foundation prioritizes community-focused efforts that promote equity, inclusion, and sustainability across Martha’s Vineyard. Eligibility for this grant is limited to 501(c)(3) or other nonprofit organizations that are based on Martha’s Vineyard and whose work serves the island community. Only locally based organizations are considered eligible, and applicants must demonstrate that their work directly benefits residents. The Foundation does not accept applications from off-island or national organizations, even if they provide indirect services to the community. This restriction ensures that all grant dollars remain on the island and support local priorities. Applications for the Slough Support Fund must be submitted online via the Foundation’s website using the designated Google Form. The application window is open annually from March 1 through April 1. Submissions received outside this period will not be considered. All applications must be complete and submitted electronically to be eligible. The Foundation’s staff grants committee is responsible for evaluating submissions and selecting recipients. Award announcements are made by May 1 each year. Projects that receive funding must be completed within one year of the grant award. Specifically, funds distributed in 2026 must be used by June 1, 2027. Upon project completion, recipients are required to notify the Foundation. Additionally, awardees must credit the Slough Farm Foundation in any press or media coverage related to the funded initiative. This acknowledgement serves to highlight the Foundation’s contribution and helps reinforce its commitment to public service on Martha’s Vineyard. The Foundation’s selection process is managed internally by its grants committee. While formal evaluation criteria are not published, the emphasis is on alignment with the Foundation’s values and on the tangible benefits delivered to the island community. Strong proposals are likely to demonstrate clear goals, measurable outcomes, and a compelling case for local impact. The Foundation’s highly localized focus encourages submissions from a broad range of nonprofit sectors, provided they address needs within Martha’s Vineyard. Overall, the Slough Support Fund is a targeted, place-based grant program with a clearly defined eligibility scope, fixed application period, and structured award process. By focusing exclusively on Martha’s Vineyard and maintaining an annual award timeline, the Foundation ensures that its resources support timely, community-centered work across the island.