From a local non-profit to an alma mater to everything in between—donor-advised funds (DAFs) were created to support causes like yours.
What is a DAF? An account dedicated to philanthropy. Nationally, DAFs grant out approximately $50 billion to a wide range of charities every year.
DAFs are maintained and operated by a sponsoring organization—like AEF.
When the account is opened and funded, the assets in the account can only be used for charitable purposes. And the best part? Because the assets in the account can potentially grow over time, there is a chance for recurring donations for the donor’s chosen charities.
AEF approves most grant recommendations to U.S. charitable organizations recognized as a 501(c)3 organization. Potential grant recipients may include community groups, churches, educational institutions, environmental organizations, and more.
DAFs are still considered a relatively new charitable giving option.
Here are the areas of impact our DAFs have positively impacted.
With nearly 32,000 distinct charities (and counting) supported, AEF DAFs have granted to charities in all 50 states and average nearly $5 million in grants per business day.
How can your charity stay connected with DAF donors?
01
Keep contact information current.
This includes GuideStar.
02
Mention DAFs at donor events or in your brochures.
Let people know you accept donations granted via DAFs.
03
Share your ACH information.
We can add you to our system.
Have a question or two? We thought you might.
Here are some common ones to help you better understand DAFs and AEF.
01 Am I eligible to receive a grant from AEF?
If you’re a 501(c)3 charity, there’s a good chance. But refer to our granting guidelines to be sure.
02 Can I apply for a grant directly from AEF?
Sorry, no. Individuals with a DAF recommend grants to AEF.
03 How does a charity receive a DAF donation?
The donor recommends a grant to the charity, it is vetted through AEF, if the charity fits granting guidelines, we then send the funds directly to the charity with information about the DAF and congratulating them on the donation.
04 How do I let donors know we accept grants from DAFs?
The best way is to make sure all your contact information, online profiles, and collateral materials are up to date so donors have the proper information for their grant recommendation.
05 What exactly is the grant recommendation process?
First, a donor submits an online grant recommendation through our granting portal, DonorCentral. Then, AEF does due diligence on the recommendation. Next, AEF will contact the donor’s financial advisor and request liquidity in the investment account to cover the grant. The advisor then transfers the money to AEF’s liquidity account. The grant is then paid to the charity and the charity will receive a grant letter informing them of the grant. This process typically can be completed within 5 to 10 business days.
06 Can I contact AEF directly with questions?
Absolutely. We are available at 888.440.4233 or email us at grants@aefonline.org