St. Mary’s Bank – 1908 Funds Grant for Nonprofits (2026)
This program provides project-based funding to nonprofit organizations that support financial independence and economic self-sufficiency initiatives within communities served by St. Mary’s Bank.
This grant offers one-time, special need or project support to nonprofits focused on promoting thrift, financial capability, and economic self-sufficiency, with awards typically ranging from $500 to $5,000.
Organization: St. Mary’s Bank Charitable Foundation
Support Type: Competitive charitable grants for project or special need activities
Geographic Focus: Communities served by St. Mary’s Bank, primarily in New Hampshire and surrounding areas
About the Funder
St. Mary’s Bank, the nation’s first credit union founded in 1908, supports local community initiatives through its charitable giving efforts. The 1908 Funds program is administered by the St. Mary’s Bank Charitable Foundation to uphold the bank’s historic mission of promoting thrift and economic self-sufficiency by providing grant support to nonprofit organizations.
What This Program Supports
The 1908 Funds program provides project-based funding to nonprofits that support financial capability and economic empowerment.
Eligible Support Types
- One-time project grants
- Special need funding for program activities
- Support for initiatives that help individuals or families move toward financial independence
These grants are often used to support specific tools, services, or event-related costs that improve financial stability within communities.
Eligibility
Eligible applicants typically include:
- 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
- Charitable entities serving communities where St. Mary’s Bank operates
Organizations must:
- Focus on programs or projects that align with financial capability, economic self-sufficiency, or related community benefits
- Serve residents within the geographic service area of St. Mary’s Bank
Not typically supported:
- Requests that do not demonstrate clear program impact or community benefit
- Individuals, businesses, or political entities
Funding Amounts
- Grant Range: Typically $500 to $5,000 per award
- 1908 Funds are designed for smaller project needs rather than large multi-year funding
Timeline & Deadline
📅 Application Timeline: Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, meaning requests may be submitted at any time throughout the year.
📅 No Fixed Deadline: Because funding is project-based and awarded throughout the year, nonprofit applicants should submit well in advance of planned project start dates.
Application / Request Process
- Visit the St. Mary’s Bank Community Giving page and locate the 1908 Funds section.
- Complete the 1908 Funds request form with organization information, project description, budget, and desired funding amount.
- Submit supporting documentation as required.
- Allow time for review; the foundation will contact applicants with decisions or follow-up requests.
Website:
➡️ https://www.stmarysbank.com/about-us/community/our-community
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is ideal for nonprofit organizations that:
- Are IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) entities
- Deliver project-based programs focused on financial independence, economic self-sufficiency, or thrift education
- Operate within St. Mary’s Bank’s community footprint
- Need modest project or special needs support rather than general operating funds
The 1908 Funds provide accessible, project-level funding that helps community nonprofits deliver targeted outcomes and services related to financial capability.
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
- Review Type: Rolling evaluation
- Typical Lead Time: Submit at least 4–6 weeks before project launch
- Best Suited For: Small to mid-sized community nonprofits with defined project goals
