FAQ Topics
- General Questions
- Accounts and Signing In
- Organization Information
- Uploading Files
- Reviewing & Submitting Applications
- Application Status
The Foundation Registry i3 serves as a centralized platform designed to simplify the process of connecting organizations with matching foundation funds for their Investing in Innovation proposals. By streamlining the registration and review process, the registry helps applicants present their project ideas to a network of participating foundations in an accessible and viewable format. This collaborative approach reduces administrative burden and allows grant seekers to focus on developing strong proposals. The registry was created with the understanding that navigating the funding landscape can be complex, and it aims to make the matching process more straightforward for all eligible organizations seeking support for their educational innovation projects.
Creating an account on the Foundation Registry i3 is a simple and straightforward process that allows applicants to begin their journey toward securing matching funds. Once registered, users can save their progress, return to incomplete applications, and upload necessary documents at their own pace. The platform is designed with user convenience in mind, offering clear guidance at each step. If users encounter any issues during the registration or application process, the system provides helpful prompts and instructions. The goal is to ensure that every eligible organization can participate without unnecessary technical hurdles or confusion about what is required.
Participating foundations review proposals submitted through the registry to identify promising educational innovations that align with their funding priorities. The registry makes these proposals viewable to multiple funders simultaneously, increasing the chances that applicants will find a suitable matching partner. Foundations benefit from having a streamlined pipeline of vetted proposals, while applicants gain exposure to a wider network of potential funders than they might reach on their own. This mutual benefit has helped the registry grow into a valuable resource within the educational grant-seeking community, fostering connections that support meaningful projects in classrooms and communities across the country.
The application process involves several clear steps, beginning with account creation and followed by the submission of organizational details and project documents. Applicants are guided through each phase with clear instructions about what information is needed and how to format their submissions. The platform allows users to upload supporting materials, describe their proposed innovation, and articulate how matching funds would be used to strengthen their project. Once submitted, applications enter a review phase where participating foundations can access and evaluate them. The entire workflow is designed to be intuitive, reducing the time and effort typically associated with grant matching processes.
After submission, applicants can monitor the status of their proposal through their account dashboard, which provides updates on the review process. While the registry facilitates connections between organizations and foundations, the ultimate funding decisions rest with individual participating foundations. Applicants are encouraged to ensure their proposals are complete and clearly communicate the impact and innovation of their planned work. The registry team works diligently to maintain a fair and transparent process for all participants. For those with additional questions, the FAQs section and account support resources offer further guidance on navigating the system and understanding what to expect after submitting an application.
General Questions
What is the Foundation Registry i3?
A website created by a group of funders connected to the Department of Education's Investing in Innovation (i3) program. The group grew to more than 70 funding organizations, as noted in 2016. The Foundation Center managed the Registry for the 2012 competition.
Is there a cost to use the Registry?
No. There is no cost to register a proposal.
Who can register?
Registrants must be applicants to the Department of Education's i3 program. Registering does not guarantee that a proposal will be contacted or funded by a participating foundation.
What matching amounts apply to i3 grants?
i3 requires private-sector matching funds tied to grant type:
| Grant Type | Match Requirement |
|---|---|
| Development | 15% |
| Validation | 10% |
| Scale-Up | 5% |
How do funders decide who to support?
Participating foundations are guided to review registered proposals and consider supporting applicants with the highest i3 ratings.
Accounts and Signing In
How do I sign in?
Registrants create an account to sign in, enter organization details, and manage a proposal submission.
I forgot my password — what do I do?
Use the password recovery option on the sign-in page, or contact help@foundationregistryi3.org for assistance.
Organization Information
Registering organizations provide identifying and tax-status information as part of the proposal entry process. For federal tax-exempt status verification, applicants may refer to www.irs.gov.
Uploading Files
Supporting documents can be uploaded as part of a proposal. Files are best viewed with a current PDF reader, such as Adobe Reader, available from get.adobe.com/reader.
Reviewing & Submitting Applications
Registrants can save their work and return later before final submission, reviewing organization details, proposal information, and uploaded documents prior to submitting.
Application Status
Proposal and application status is tracked through the registrant's account. Registration alone does not guarantee that a foundation will make contact or provide funding.
Have a question not covered here? Contact the Foundation Registry i3 team.