Grantmaking: What to Expect in 2027 and 2028
The Sarah Ralston Foundation is entering an exciting new chapter. Our 2026–2029 Strategic Plan builds on our commitment to older Philadelphians through more flexible grantmaking, expanded capacity-building opportunities, and a new focus on advocacy.
Here’s what our grantee partners can expect over the next two years.
What will grantmaking look like in 2027? +
We will not accept new grant applications in 2027. Instead, we will focus on renewing qualifying 2026 grants while preparing to launch a redesigned grantmaking program that will include multi-year Sustaining and Accelerating Grants in 2028.
The new programs are designed to be more flexible, accessible, and impactful.
What happens to current General Operating Support grantee partners in 2027? +
All 2026 General Operating Support grantee partners will be considered for renewal funding in 2027 without submitting a new application.
Will current grantee partners need to submit an application, report, or renewal request? +
SRF will base GOS renewal decisions on the GOS reports due April 1, 2027. We will verify that each organization’s senior programming remains active and financially sustainable for the year ahead before releasing Year 2 funding.
When and how will grantee partners be notified? +
Year 2 renewals will be confirmed by email on May 31, 2027.
What happens to current Innovative Project Support grantee partners in 2027? +
The following 2025 and 2026 Innovative Project Support grantee partners will be considered for renewal funding in 2027 without submitting a new application.
2025 Grantee Partners — Year 3 Funding
- Chestnut Hill Meals on Wheels
- Urban Resources Development Corp
- Penn Asian Senior Services
2026 Grantee Partners — Year 2 Funding
- Kaiserman Jewish Community Center
- Korean Community Development Services Center (KCDSC)
- Catholic Housing and Community Services
- Esperanza Arts Center
- HumanGood Foundation
- UUH Outreach Program
- Small Things
- Northern Living Center by North City Congress
- Legal Clinic for the Disabled
Will current grantee partners need to submit an application, report, or renewal request? +
SRF will base IPS renewal decisions on the IPS reports due September 1, 2027. We will verify that each organization’s innovative project remains active and financially sustainable for the year ahead before releasing the final year of funding.
When and how will grantee partners be notified? +
Final-year renewals will be confirmed by email on November 15, 2027.
What will the 2028 grantmaking model look like? +
In 2028, SRF plans to launch a redesigned grantmaking program featuring multi-year funding, clearer funding priorities, and a more streamlined application process.
The new model will emphasize long-term partnerships, organizational sustainability, and measurable impact for older Philadelphians.
Will the 2028 process be open to new applicants? +
Yes. We anticipate welcoming applications from both returning and new organizations in 2028.
Updated eligibility guidelines, funding priorities, and application timelines will be shared in the fourth quarter of 2027.
What capacity-building opportunities will be available to SRF grantee partners? +
SRF will continue offering educational convenings and networking opportunities. We also plan to expand opportunities for peer collaboration and technical assistance in 2027.
Grantee partner feedback will help shape these offerings so they respond to the challenges and opportunities organizations are currently facing.
What will SRF’s advocacy efforts look like? +
In 2027, SRF will conduct an environmental scan to identify opportunities for high-impact advocacy. The goal of this work will be to strengthen the systems that support older Philadelphians.
Working alongside grantee partners and advocacy peers, we will identify shared priorities, elevate community voices, and develop a specific advocacy agenda to launch in 2028.
Our goal is to complement the work of our grantee partners and help address challenges that individual organizations cannot solve alone.
More information is coming.
As implementation of the strategic plan continues, The Sarah Ralston Foundation will share additional details, timelines, and opportunities with grantee partners.