Applying for a Grant Every month, the foundation receives about 1,800 requests for grants via email, phone, fax and letters. Regrettably, the foundation is only able to provide funding to a relatively small number of qualified organizations. The foundation will consider letters of inquiry from tax-exempt, charitable organizations whose requests fall within program guidelines. Please note that the foundation neither encourages nor generally considers unsolicited proposals. In keeping with its charter, the foundation cannot accept proposals that benefit specific individuals or that serve exclusively religious purposes. More information on Grant Inquiries One enterprising individual heard that Bill Gates, Sr. held informal William H. Gates Foundation meetings at a local eating establishment, and sent his grant request to him there!