How many organizations receive The Signal Grant each year?

One. We focus on one organization per grant cycle to ensure you get our full attention and that the support is meaningful.

What's the application process like?

It's a short form that asks basic organizational information, a few narrative questions, and a link to your website or digital presence. You can also upload any materials you'd like to share.

Who reviews the applications?

Applications are reviewed by the same team members who will be doing the work. There are no gatekeepers or automated filters. Just real people looking for mission fit, clear goals, and readiness to collaborate.

How are applications selected?

We review all applications focusing on mission alignment, clarity of purpose, and organizational readiness. We're looking for small nonprofits doing meaningful work that could benefit from communications support. We consider your goals, current capacity, and whether our team is a good fit for what you need. You don't need perfect language or a polished proposal. What matters most is clearly explaining who you are and where you're trying to go.

Can I nominate an organization?

Yes. The application form includes a field to share basic details about a nonprofit you'd like to recommend. We'll follow up with them directly.

What if my organization is volunteer-run or has no staff?

That's not a deal-breaker. What matters most is your active programming, clear goals, and someone who can be a consistent point of contact throughout the project.

Can past applicants reapply?

Yes. If your organization meets the eligibility criteria, you're welcome to apply again during future cycles.

How long does a Signal Grant project last?

Most Signal Grant projects last 6 to 10 weeks. The timeline depends on your goals, availability, and the type of work we do together. We'll establish a clear scope and schedule before the work begins.

When would the project start if we're selected?

We ask that organizations be ready to begin within two to three weeks of being notified. During the 6 to 10 weeks of the project, you should plan to commit a few hours each week to meetings, content review, and collaboration.

Can the support be used for a specific campaign or event?

Yes. We're happy to focus the work on a specific effort, as long as we can still bring a strategic lens to the project.

Does receiving the grant mean we'll be featured by DeSoto & State?

Only if you want to be. Some organizations want visibility, others prefer to keep the work internal. We'll take your lead and won't share your name, story, or materials without your permission.

Are there any costs not covered by The Signal Grant?

Yes. The Signal Grant covers all professional services and related communications costs, like distributing a press release through a paid service. Other expenses, such as event space rentals, catering, printing, or paid ads, are not included. If any of these come up, we'll talk through options and either refer you to a vendor or manage the logistics and pass through the cost with full transparency.

What happens after the grant work is finished?

That's up to you. You're not obligated to continue once the project ends. We're open to it if it makes sense to keep working together. Some of our longest client relationships started this way, and because we'll already understand your organization, we can pick up right where we left off.

Can we apply if we've already received pro bono support from another partner?

Yes. We just ask that you share that information in your application. It helps us understand your capacity and whether our support would add value.

What if we don't have a communications plan or any materials?

That's not a problem. Many organizations we work with are building their communications efforts from the ground up. We can help you define priorities, develop a plan, and identify the tools that make sense for your team.

Will our participation be public-facing?

Only if you want it to be. Some organizations want visibility, others prefer to keep the work internal. We won't share anything without your permission.

Is there a contract or formal agreement?

Yes. If you're selected, we'll create a simple agreement outlining the scope of work, responsibilities, and timeline. It's an easy way to make sure expectations are clear on both sides.

Ready to be unforgettable?

Connect with DeSoto & State and watch your impact soar. Start by filling out this contact form. After our team reviews your information, we'll reach out to have a deeper conversation about your business and goals.

We look forward to hearing from you!