How To Apply | BNSF Foundation

How To Apply

Apply For Grants

We are able to consider your request only if your organization meets the requirements outlined under the Policies section, and meets at least one of the following criteria:

  • the organization is a public charity and has obtained IRS status under Section 501(c)3
  • the organization is a division of local government
  • the organization is a federally recognized tribal government
  • the organization is a school or university

For more information on how to apply, see our Frequently Asked Questions.

Qualifications

Please note the following updates in order to be considered for a BNSF Railway Foundation grant:

In order to more effectively accomplish our mission and continue to respond to the hardships and difficulties currently experienced by nonprofits stretched to their limit to provide services, the BNSF Railway Foundation has further refined our criteria for consideration.

While we understand that nonprofits' needs are great, we have a responsibility to make the most impactful investments possible in our communities. Therefore, it is highly unlikely that your request will be considered if you do not meet the following criteria:

  • You will be considered for a BNSF Railway Foundation grant only if you can show that you meet at least two of the following criteria:
    • Your organization or project has significant BNSF employee participation
    • Your organization or the services provided are in close proximity to a BNSF main line; or if BNSF is the only railroad or major corporation in your area of the state
    • Your request is related to the railroad industry
    • Your request is for direct programming or project support

  • If your organization is volunteer-driven, there must be significant BNSF employee involvement in order for the BNSF Railway Foundation to consider funding your project.

  • In addition, strong preference will be given to requests that fall under one of the following areas of interest:
    • Environmental, sustainability or conservation projects
    • Health & human services
    • Cultural and historic preservation

  • Finally, priority will be given to organizations having an established relationship with the BNSF Railway Foundation.

Online Application

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