El Pomar Foundation
/OVERVIEW: The El Pomar Foundation supports arts and culture programs, civic and community initiatives, education, health, and human services in Colorado.
FUNDING AREAS: Arts and culture, civic and community, education, health, human services
IP TAKE: El Pomar has very broad interests and numerous accessible ways to secure support for Colorado nonprofits.
PROFILE: Established in 1937, the El Pomar Foundation is a private, general purpose foundation that is based in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Spencer Penrose and his wife, Julie McMillan, established the foundation to contribute to the future of Colorado. The couple’s wealth derives from investments and business ventures in mining and real estate. Today, the foundation awards over $21 million in grants per year and operates over a dozen community stewardship programs. El Pomar supports local arts and culture programs, civic and community initiatives, education, health, and human services.
The El Pomar Foundation’s competitive process is its primary grantmaking vehicle for local nonprofits. The foundation trustees approve grants in a broad range of issue areas each year for general operating support, program support, and capital support. Some El Pomar funds accept unsolicited applications, such as the Anna Keesling Ackerman Fund that supports the Pikes Peak region, the Freda Hambrick Fund that supports animal care in Colorado, and the Sally Beck Fun that supports equine care and programs. Meanwhile, other funds held at the El Pomar Foundation are available by invitation only. These include the regional partnership council grants, Dorothy Ferrand Fund, Karl E. Eitel Fund, and others. Also, the funder offers its historic Penrose House to nonprofits for meetings and training sessions. It has a summer internship program, a nonprofit executive leadership program, and partners with the American Council of Young Political Leaders.
Grants range between about $5,000 and $25,000. Learn more about this funder’s local giving by searching its grant history page. Grantmaking focuses on Colorado, with special preference given to groups in the Pikes Peak region. Past local grantees include Valley Assisted Living, South Park Food Bank, Aspen Youth Center, and Meals on Wheels of Canon City.
This foundation accepts unsolicited grant applications for its competitive process from nonprofits on a rolling basis with no deadlines. The application process is conducted online. Direct grant-related questions to the staff at 719-633-7733 or via online form.
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