The F. M. Kirby Foundation is committed to supporting bold ideas and transformative solutions through its Innovation Engine Grant Program. To assist applicants in navigating the process, this resource hub provides essential materials, including application questions, guidance documents, and budgeting samples. Here, you will find tools to strengthen your submission, from a webinar recording offering insights into our evaluation criteria to a comprehensive glossary and bibliography.
For further clarity, explore our frequently asked questions page or dive deeper into the program’s inspiration by reading the Stanford Social Innovation Review article, “Twin Engines for Propelling Social Impact.”
The F. M. Kirby Foundation hosted a webinar for interested grantees on February 27. Click on the links below to download a copy of the presentation or hear a recording of the webinar.
Grant Questions Preview
The Stage One application questions for the Innovation Engine grant program are available for download at the link below. We encourage prospective applicants to review the questions in advance and begin crafting their responses ahead of the official application window, which runs from April 1 to May 30. Thoughtful preparation can help ensure a clear and compelling submission. Be sure to explore the additional resources on this page for guidance and best practices.
Semi-Finalist Questions Preview
The Stage Two semi-finalists application questions are available for download at the link below. Semi-finalists will be contacted directly by the F. M. Kirby Foundation if their application has been advanced to this round. At this stage, applicants will need to provide additional materials, including a detailed program budget and other supporting documents. We encourage semi-finalists to review these requirements in advance to ensure a strong and complete submission.
Additional Resources
To support applicants throughout the Innovation Engine grant process, we have compiled additional resources to help clarify expectations and strengthen submissions. The Guidance Document provides an overview of key considerations, while the Bibliography and Glossary offer helpful context and definitions. Applicants can also reference Sample Budgets to better understand how to structure financial details — though these are examples, not templates, and grantees are welcome to use their own format if preferred. For further clarity on the process, be sure to visit our FAQs page for answers to common questions.
Sample Budget – Medium Program
Frequently Asked Questions
For questions about the program, please refer to the FAQ page linked below. If your question is still not answered, please contact Dave Cucchiara, Communications & Program Associate, at [email protected].