The EQUUS Foundation funding program primarily consists of its Equine Welfare Grants. 

The EQUUS Foundation also provides funding in association with other programs including our awards program.

Equine Welfare Grants

Equine Welfare Grants (formerly known as Transparency Awards) range from $500 to $5,000 and do not exceed 5% of an organization's operating budget. Equine Welfare Grants are to be used to underwrite the costs associated with the care of horses, such as veterinary, dental, and farrier care, horse feed, supplements, bedding, horse gear, equipment, and supplies as well as alternative treatments and interventions.

Only organizations that receive the Guardian Seal of Transparency are eligible to receive Equine Welfare Grants. The Guardian information serves as the grant application. Submission of a separate grant application is not required.

Eligible organizations are equine charities that provide:

• Shelter and rehabilitation for America's equines subjected to abuse and neglect, and at risk for slaughter;

• Retraining and re-homing of America's equines in transition with careers as athletes, companions, teachers, and healers;

• Peaceful and humane retirement and end of life for aged equines that ensures that they are able to live out their lives in comfort and with dignity;

• Mutually beneficial opportunities for people and equines to partner for the purpose of contributing positively to cognitive, physical, emotional and social well-being.

The Guardian Seal of Transparency is awarded annually and appears on the Equine Welfare Network profile of an approved organization. While the Guardian Seal of Transparency is not an endorsement, the Guardian Seal of Transparency is a recognition of an organization's commitment to transparency and accountability by their willingness to make comprehensive data about their programs, horse care practices, and governance available for public scrutiny.

How to apply for Grants from Equus Foundation:

• Create a Profile: Eligible organizations must first register with the Equus Foundation's website and create a profile in their online database of equine charities called Equine Welfare Network.

• Submit the Equine Welfare Network Profile: Once registered, you must submit detailed information about your organization's programs, governance, and financials. This step is critical for becoming a verified partner, which allows eligibility for grants.

• Complete the Guardian Application: To apply for grants, charities must apply to become a Guardian in the Equine Welfare Network. This is a designation that shows your organization meets high standards of transparency and accountability. You’ll need to provide data about your programs, finances, horse care practices, and achievements.

• Grant Application: Once your organization is accepted as a Guardian, you can apply for grants when the Equus Foundation opens its grant cycle. Typically, the foundation has annual grant opportunities that vary by year.

• Evaluation and Reporting: If awarded, grantees are expected to provide follow-up reports on how the grant funds were used and the impact achieved.

Timeline

• Between December 1 and December 31: All member public charities will need to verify the information displayed on its Equine Welfare Network profile and any additional information requested by the EQUUS Foundation. The verification process is Step One of your charity's Guardian submission.

• Between January 1 and March 31: The charity will have 10 days from the date that the charity's Step One/Annual Verification is approved starting on January 1. The Step Two process will close on March 31. The charity will receive a notification by email whether the Guardian designation has been approved or deferred. Once approved, Guardians may participate in all programs, including other grant programs.

• On or before August 31: Equine Welfare Grant Recipients will be selected.

• Between September 1 and September 30: Equine Welfare Grant Recipients will be notified by email and financial support will be disbursed.