Frequently Asked Questions

1. Has the recent drop in the stock market affected Foundation giving?
   Yes. Just like other foundations dependent on stock and other investments to fund grants, the current economic downturn will likely reduce both the number and dollar amount of grants the Foundation can award.



2. Can you send me an application?
   You can apply using the guidelines on the "Grants Guidelines" page. There is currently no online application available.



3. Where do I send my completed grant application?
   Send it to the Alabama Power office nearest to the organization making application. Find the location and address of the Alabama Power office nearest you.



4. Must my organization be a 501(c)3 to apply?
   Yes, your organization must have a determination letter from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) stating that your organization is a 501(c) 3 organization. Please include a copy of that letter with your grant application.



5. How do I find out the status of a grant I've submitted?
   Allow six to eight weeks for a response to your request. If you need to inquire, call the Alabama Power office to which you mailed your grant application.



6. I live in North Alabama. Does the foundation provide grants in my area?
   The Alabama Power Foundation prefers to make contributions in central and south Alabama where Alabama Power provides service.



7. What are the deadlines for submitting a grant application?
   There are no formal deadlines for grant applications. Keep in mind that grant requests for $50,000 or more are considered quarterly - in March, June, September and December - by the board of the foundation. Please submit your grant in the month prior to the board meeting.
   
   Grants for less than $50,000 are considered by a grant review committee every six to eight weeks.



8. Does the foundation support athletic tournaments, band trips, trips for research, field trips and other similar events?
   Because it would be impossible to fund all of these and similar events, we don't make contributions for these types of events.



9. Should I suggest my idea to the foundation before sending in a grant to measure its chances of success?
   No, the foundation does not preview or consider letters or e-mails designed to determine whether the proposal has a chance of succeeding.



10. Do you offer scholarships to two-year and four-year colleges? Do you offer scholarships to technical schools?
    While Foundation scholarships are available only to dependents of APC employees and retirees, the Foundation has established endowed scholarships at most public colleges and Universities in Alabama. These scholarships are awarded by the colleges and universities. Information on how to apply for these scholarships can be obtained by calling the appropriate schools financial aid office.



11. Has the Alabama Power Foundation discontinued its Urban Forestry Project (the Tree Grant Program)?
    Due to economic conditions, the foundation has temporarily discontinued the Urban Forestry Project. We plan to reinstate the program at a later date.