Grants Award Process

The Papal Foundation provides grants to Roman Catholic charities, religious and educational organizations serving people in developing nations around the world. The grants support projects and programs recommended and endorsed by the Holy See.

Steps in the Application and Award Process

The Papal Foundation does not accept requests directly. All applicants, including those reapplying for additional funding, must follow these steps:

  1. An application form should be requested from the Apostolic Nunciature in the country where the project will be realized. Projects involving construction or major renovations must also include a copy of the architectural plans.
  2. The completed application form with the accompanying documentation should be submitted to the Bishop in the Diocese where the project will be realized and/ or to the Major Superior of the relative religious congregation. The Bishop and/or Major Superior must provide a letter of support for the project.
  3. With the letter of support from the Bishop and/or Major Superior, the proposal is then forwarded to the Apostolic Nunciature of the country where the project will be realized.

The application form and accompanying documentation are to be sent to the Apostolic Nunciature in both paper and electronic copy.

If the request is approved by the Apostolic Nunciature, it will be sent to the Office of the Assessor in the Secretariat of State for consideration.

The Secretariat of State reviews the request and submits it to the Papal Foundation for consideration and final approval. Once a project is fully approved, the funds are distributed through the Apostolic Nunciature.

Timeline for Submitting Applications

The Apostolic Nunciature sends its recommended projects to the Office of the Assessor in the Secretariat of State no later than 1 August.

Late applications will not be considered.