Frequently Asked Questions
Questions? We’ve got answers.
Everything you want to know about OtterCares, our grant programs, volunteering, and Project Heart — in one place. Can’t find what you’re looking for? Reach out and we’ll help you directly.
About OtterCares
What is the mission of the OtterCares Foundation?
We inspire students to become entrepreneurs and philanthropists who create lasting and impactful change in their communities. OtterCares was founded by Nancy Richardson in 2009 to invest in education and empower youth through philanthropy and entrepreneurship — and that mission drives everything we do.
Why entrepreneurship?
It’s a mouthful — and it’s the best way we know to grow confidence and build character in future leaders. When students learn to think like entrepreneurs, they learn to identify problems, develop solutions, take initiative, and create value for the people around them. In turn, they grow up to create jobs, contribute to economic growth, and develop innovative products and services that change everyday life for everyone.
Why philanthropy?
Philanthropy — it’s not just for aristocrats anymore. Sure, it sounds like benefit balls and socialite luncheons, but anyone who gives time, talent, or treasure is a philanthropist. The earlier students learn about giving, the more it becomes a lifelong habit. We’ve seen it happen again and again: the student who learns to give at age 7 becomes the adult who gives all their life.
Our Grants
Where does OtterCares give grants?
OtterCares focuses its grant giving in Northern Colorado — specifically Larimer and Weld counties. We invest in communities where Otter Products has physical offices, because these communities are where Otter employees work, live, and play. This geographic focus allows us to stay close to the programs we fund and see firsthand the impact they’re making.
What programs will OtterCares fund?
We are committed to investing in programs and projects that intentionally teach K–12 students entrepreneurship and/or philanthropy. Whether it’s an afterschool program, a classroom initiative, or a new program you want to implement at your nonprofit, we’re always excited to explore opportunities. We also fund hands-on learning spaces (Innovation Stations), single-day community events (NoCO Fund), and student-led giving projects through Project Heart (Illumination Fund).
I live outside of Northern Colorado — can you give to my school or nonprofit?
At this time, we limit our geographic area of giving to Northern Colorado (Larimer and Weld counties). The Illumination Fund — our student grant administered through Project Heart — is an exception and is available to Project Heart educators nationally. If our geographic focus ever expands, we’ll announce it through our newsletter and website.
How do I know which grant is right for my organization?
A good rule of thumb: if you’re running an ongoing K–12 program, look at the Impact Fund. If you’re building a hands-on learning space, explore the Innovation Station Fund. If you’re hosting a single community event, the NoCO Fund is designed for you. If you’re a Project Heart educator with students ready to take action, the Illumination Fund is your grant. Our Grant Support page also has a side-by-side comparison and our team is happy to help you decide.
Can I apply for more than one OtterCares grant at the same time?
Yes — in most cases. Applying for or receiving a NoCO Fund grant does not prevent an organization from also applying for the Impact Fund or Innovation Station Fund. Each grant program is managed separately with its own eligibility criteria. However, there are annual limits within each individual grant program. Review the requirements for each grant or visit our Grant Support page for details.
Applying for Grants
What is a pre-application and why is it required?
The Impact Fund and Innovation Station Fund both use a two-step process: a short pre-application followed by a full application for qualifying organizations. The pre-application helps our team quickly assess whether a program is a potential fit before asking you to invest significant time in a full submission. If your pre-application meets fund criteria, we’ll reach out to invite you to the full application and discuss a suitable grant amount.
Does my organization need to be a 501(c)(3) to apply?
Most of our grant programs require applicants to be a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit or a public school operating under their school district’s EIN. If you’re unsure whether your organization qualifies, reach out to our team, and we’ll help you figure it out before you invest time in an application.
How long does the grant review process take?
Review timelines vary by grant program. The NoCO Fund notifies applicants within 45 days of a completed application. The Impact Fund and Innovation Station Fund follow their respective cycle timelines. The Illumination Fund, managed through Project Heart, has its own review timeline.
Visit the individual grant pages for more details:
Impact Fund
NoCO Fund
Innovation Station Fund
Illumination Fund
Can I reapply if my application is not selected?
Yes — in most cases, organizations are welcome to reapply in a future grant cycle, see grant information pages for more details. We encourage organizations to reach out after receiving a decision if they’d like to discuss their application or learn how to strengthen a future submission.
After You’re Awarded
How should grant recognition be attributed?
All grant recognition should be attributed to the OtterCares Foundation. Approved logos and brand guidelines will be provided via email upon request. If you’re sharing your project or program publicly — on social media, in press releases, or at events — we love to be included! Tag us and let us know so we can celebrate your work alongside you.
Are there restrictions on how grant funds can be spent?
Yes — grant funds must be used for the specific purposes outlined in your approved application. Each grant program has specific limitations on what can and cannot be funded (for example, most programs do not fund capital campaigns, travel, or political activities). If you need to make adjustments to your approved budget, reach out to our team before spending.
Getting Involved
How do I get sponsorship for my nonprofit’s event?
The NoCO Fund provides sponsorship for single-day fundraising and community engagement/awareness events hosted by schools and youth-serving nonprofit organizations that offer direct services to youth in Larimer or Weld Counties of Colorado. Learn more about the NoCO Fund →
How do I get volunteers from OtterBox to help with my classroom or nonprofit?
At Otter Products, employees, or “Otters” as we’re affectionately called, are encouraged to go out into our communities and make a difference! Every single Otter – from new hire to CEO – is given 24 hours of paid time off annually to volunteer with schools and nonprofits in our communities. Reach out to us and let us know how we can help!