FAQ

Here are the most frequently asked questions we receive. Do you have a question? Email it to us at osvinstitute@osv.com.

Q. Do I have to use the form?

A. No, as long as the questions are answered in the same order.

Q. When will I be notified of funding?

A. There are 3 deadlines throughout the year. After each deadline, the applications are reviewed by two boards. The Institute Advisory Committee meets first, then gives their recommendations to the OSV Board of Directors, which then makes the final decision. The dates are as follows:

  • April 10 application deadline – Institute board meets in June; OSV Board meets in July.
  • August 10 application deadline – Institute board meets in October; OSV Board meets in November.
  • December 10 application deadline – Institute board meets in February; OSV Board meets in March.

Q. What is the average donation amount?

A. $25,000 to $35,000.

Q. Do you give donations to individuals?

A. No. We give donations to organizations that are listed in  "The Official Catholic Directory."

Q. What if my organization is not listed in "The Official Catholic Directory"?

A. You can apply through another organization that is so listed. If your project is awarded a donation, the funds are dispersed to the organization listed in the OCD, and they in turn would give the money to you.

Q. Do you give donations to overseas projects?

A. Yes, but priority is on U.S.-based projects.

Q. In the "Policies," what does it mean to "give serious consideration to the role of OSV"?

A. We are required as a not-for-profit organzation to be involved in all donations we make. Some examples:

  • as an advisor to the project
  • as a member of the planning committee
  • as a co-sponsor
  • some other meaningful capacity in which OSV participates in the project.

Q. In the "Policies," what does it mean that OSV has "rights of first refusal to enter into collaboration with the Recipient to so market"?

A. If you are requesting funding for a book or other marketable product, OSV has the first option to carry it in our line of products.

Q. Do you fund projects for more than one year?

A. No, we normally fund for only one year, then you may reapply. We encourage start-up projects with the hope that after two years you are self-reliant, or can seek other funding.

Do you have a question? Email it to us at osvinstitute@osv.com.