What is the True Inspiration Awards™ program?
Through the annual True Inspiration Awards program, Chick-fil-A, Inc. provides grants to nonprofit organizations that are working to strengthen our neighborhoods and cities. The True Inspiration Awards program was created in 2015 to honor the legacy of Chick-fil-A’s late founder, S. Truett Cathy.
How does my organization apply for the True Inspiration Awards?
The application period for the 2023 True Inspiration Awards has closed. In Spring 2023, eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for a 2024 True Inspiration Awards grant by filling out this application form. At that time, organizations may also be nominated by Chick-fil-A Operators who wish to support local organizations in their community.
When can I apply?
Applications for the 2024 True Inspiration Awards program will be available in Spring 2023.
What is the deadline for submitting an application?
The application period for the 2023 True Inspiration Awards has closed. In Spring 2023, eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for a 2024 True Inspiration Awards grant by filling out this application form. At that time, organizations may also be nominated by Chick-fil-A Operators who wish to support local organizations in their community.
How many grants will Chick-fil-A award this year?
We will award 46 grants in 2023.
What type of organizations are eligible to apply?
Organizations must be either (i) a 501(c)(3) based in the U.S. or (ii) a Canadian T3010 charitable organization that can provide, prior to receiving the grant and upon our request, an opinion of counsel that confirms it is the equivalent of a U.S. 501(c)(3) public charity in its home jurisdiction. Organizations who received a True Inspiration Awards grant in 2020 or 2021 are not eligible to apply.
Organizations must also have needs that align with our Corporate Social Responsibility priorities: Caring for People, Caring for Others through Food, Caring for Communities and Caring for our Planet.
Does my organization need to be a certain size or serve a certain area?
There are no size limitations to eligible organizations, however, their work must fit within the four categories.
What type of grants are awarded?
Grants will range between $30,000 and $350,000 within the following categories:
- Caring for People
- Caring through Food
- Caring for Communities
- Caring for our Planet
Twenty-nine organizations will be selected as 2023 Regional Winners for their work in one of the four categories. These organizations must be nominated by a Chick-fil-A Operator. Chick-fil-A One members will have the opportunity to vote for finalists in the Chick-fil-A App in the fall.
One exemplary, Operator-nominated organization will be selected as the S. Truett Cathy Honoree and the recipient of a $350,000 grant. The S. Truett Cathy Honoree embodies the generous, innovative spirit of Chick-fil-A’s late founder – pioneering new ways to solve problems and serve others. Read more about our 2022 S. Truett Cathy Honoree, Precious Lamb Preschool, here.
Do I have to be nominated by a Chick-fil-A Operator?
No. A nonprofit organization can apply on its own for a True Inspiration Awards grant. To apply for a True Inspiration Awards grant, fill out the application form.
How much money will each winner receive?
Grants will range between $30,000 and $350,000.
When will the award winners be announced?
The winners will be announced in December 2022 or early January 2023.
Will grants be awarded on a first come, first served basis?
No — our team will thoroughly review and evaluate applications to help determine which organizations are selected to win each category. Winners will be announced in December 2022 or early January 2023.
Will all applicants receive a grant?
Unfortunately, not every organization that applies will receive a grant. We will award 46 grants in 2023.
If I am selected as a recipient, how may my organization use the grant?
True Inspiration Award grant recipients may use their grants as they wish to further the strength and depth of their organization’s impact.