Direct Charitable Expense (DCE): Costs for activities that primarily benefit the public or charitable sector by (a) advising or otherwise assisting grantees or beneficiaries; (b) sharing information related to a programmatic strategy with grantees, beneficiaries, or the field; or (c) engaging in activities to develop, refine, implement, or evaluate a programmatic strategy.Grant: A sum of money used to fund a specific project or purpose. The foundation funds work that meets specific grantmaking priorities and supports the foundation’s guiding principles. In keeping with its charter, the foundation does not provide funding to individuals.

Concept Memo: A document submitted by an institution seeking a grant or funding for a project. The Concept Memo describes the concept, anticipated outcomes, and includes financial information for the project. Lobbying: The efforts to influence federal, state, or local legislation within the United States or international legislation. Private foundations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation are, by law, prohibited from lobbying.

Request for Proposal (RFP): An open invitation to submit a funding request for consideration.