The Alexander Eastman Foundation is committed to listening and responding to the needs of our nonprofit community. Recent grantee feedback underscored the urgent need for flexible, reliable funding to help organizations stabilize operations, retain staff, manage rising costs, and adapt to shifting state and federal budgets. We recognize the extraordinary challenges nonprofits face in a rapidly changing environment, and these grants aim to sustain their vital work during this time of uncertainty and transition.

In 2026 the Alexander Eastman Foundation’s focus will be to:

  • Expand the use of Micro Grants ($5,000 and under) to fund urgent or small needs.
  • Support our Community Partners with funding for programs which reflect our area of focus.
  • Work to strengthen area nonprofits with the Nonprofit Management Incubator Program sponsored by the Foundation.
  • Expand access to services that address the effects of food and housing insecurities for those in need in our community.

Grants will be funded throughout the year with applications submitted through our grant portal. https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=alexef

We ask that organizations who are interested in funding first contact the Foundation at: grants@alexandereastman.org

AREA SERVED
The Foundation supports activity which benefits the greater Derry, New Hampshire area, which includes the towns of Derry, Londonderry, Windham, Chester, Hampstead and Sandown, New Hampshire. The Foundation does not support programs outside of this area.

GRANT PROGRAM
The purposes of the Alexander Eastman Foundation are served through grant support to organizations awarded in response to proposals and special initiative commitments planned collaboratively by the Foundation with local service providers. Grants are awarded to support the capital, special projects and operations needs of qualifying organizations.

PROGRAM PRIORITIES
In considering proposals, priority is given to funding activity which serves the Foundation’s priority interests.

ELIGIBILITY
Nonprofit 501(c) 3 organizations with public charity status and public agencies serving the greater Derry, New Hampshire area are eligible to apply. Although renewable commitments to important programs are made over several years, the Foundation does not provide ongoing general operating support or underwrite programs indefinitely. The Foundation will not replace public or other funding available to support basic services. Grants are made neither to individuals nor to qualifying organizations to support the cost of services to particular individuals.

Organization’s who have received grants MUST file a Final Grant Report prior to applying for new grants. Applications will not be accepted or considered if the report has not been received by the Foundation.

CRITERIA
Clear, thorough and concise answers to the questions in the application will aid the Foundation in evaluating the quality of all proposals. Proposals will also be evaluated in terms of fiscal soundness of the project and applicant organization.

WHEN TO APPLY

Grant inquiry form paused; will reopen in February of 2026 

To begin the funding process, AEF requests that organizations submit a short inquiry form to share how their work may align with the Foundation’s focus. The grant inquiry form will be closed for the remainder of the year as we wrap up and reflect on 2025 and plan for next year. Organizations are welcome to submit the inquiry form when it reopens at the beginning of February 2026.

Where to Apply

https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=alexef

Please feel free to contact us at: grants@alexandereastman.org

Alexander Eastman Foundation Office 603-685-4275