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Bissell Pet Foundation

Annual Giving
$8.6M
Grant Range
$5K - $0.0M
Decision Time
5mo

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Quick Stats

  • Annual Giving: $8.64 million (2024)
  • Success Rate: Not publicly disclosed
  • Decision Time: 3-6 months for grant applications
  • Grant Range: $5,000 - $10,000 (Partner Grants)
  • Geographic Focus: All 50 US states

Contact Details

Overview

Founded in 2011 by Cathy Bissell, BISSELL Pet Foundation is a 501(c)(3) private operating foundation dedicated to ending pet homelessness across the United States. With assets of approximately $4.58 million and annual expenses of $8.64 million, the foundation has impacted over 1.2 million pets through its comprehensive programs addressing pet overpopulation. The foundation operates with a unique commitment that 100% of donations go directly to pets in need, with no funds allocated to executive salaries or administrative costs. In 2024 alone, BPF facilitated nearly 96,000 adoptions, marking their most impactful year yet.

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

  • Partner Grants: $5,000 - $10,000 (First-time recipients typically limited to $5,000)
    • Application method: Twice yearly (spring and fall) via website announcement
  • Empty the Shelters®: Sponsorship of reduced-fee adoption events nationwide
    • Application method: Through Partners for Pets membership
  • Fix the Future®: Direct payment to veterinarians for spay/neuter services
    • Application method: Through approved Host Organizations
  • Grateful Pet Grants: Medical assistance for individual shelter pets
    • Application method: Through Partners for Pets membership
  • Crisis and Disaster Response: Emergency funding for natural disasters, hoarding cases
    • Application method: Case-by-case basis through Partners for Pets network
  • Transport Program: Funding for ground and air transport of pets
    • Application method: Through existing shelter network

Priority Areas

  • Spay/neuter programs and services
  • Pet adoption initiatives
  • Microchipping programs
  • Vaccination services
  • Emergency and disaster response for animal welfare organizations
  • Medical care for shelter pets with special needs
  • Transport programs to move pets from overcrowded shelters

What They Don't Fund

While not explicitly stated in available materials, the foundation focuses exclusively on animal welfare organizations. Individual pet owners and non-animal welfare causes are not eligible for funding.

Governance and Leadership

Founder: Cathy Bissell, whose life changed in 2008 when she adopted a black Labrador named Bear, leading her to establish BPF in 2011. Under her hands-on leadership, the foundation has achieved significant milestones including impacting over 1 million pets.

The foundation maintains both a formal Board of Directors and an active Junior Board of Directors (ages 20-35, primarily Michigan-based) who lead events, campaigns, and community advocacy efforts. Each Junior Board member has specific fundraising goals and responsibilities.

Key Quote from Cathy Bissell: "Our country is experiencing a pet overpopulation crisis. Spay and neuter is the only way to get to the root cause of pet homelessness."

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

  1. Prerequisite: Organizations must first join the Partners for Pets (P4P) program

    • Must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit or public/government animal welfare organization
    • Must be located within the 50 United States
    • Submit application through website

  2. Eligibility Period: Must be a P4P member in good standing for at least 6 months before submitting grant application

  3. Grant Cycle: Opens twice yearly (spring and fall), pending fund availability

    • No direct invitations sent - organizations must monitor the grant webpage
    • Applications submitted through online portal when cycle opens

Decision Timeline

  • Initial P4P application response: Within 3 months (contact info@bissellpetfoundation.org if no response)
  • Grant decision timeline: Typically 3-6 months from submission
  • Disbursement: 50% upon Grant Acceptance Agreement, 50% after 6-month Progress Report

Success Rates

While specific application success rates are not disclosed, the foundation awarded $413,510 to 69 organizations in a recent spring grant cycle, demonstrating substantial distribution across multiple states.

Reapplication Policy

Organizations can reapply in subsequent grant cycles. Must maintain Partners for Pets membership in good standing and submit required progress reports from previous grants.

Application Success Factors

Based on the foundation's priorities and funded projects:

  • Demonstrate clear impact on pet overpopulation through measurable outcomes
  • Show collaboration with veterinary partners for spay/neuter programs
  • Present realistic project timelines that align with the 12-month grant period
  • Include detailed budget showing how funds will maximize pet impact
  • Highlight service to underserved communities lacking animal welfare resources
  • Submit complete applications with all required supporting documentation
  • Maintain active participation in BPF programs like Empty the Shelters

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

  • Partners for Pets membership is mandatory - plan for 6-month waiting period before grant eligibility
  • Monitor the website regularly as no application invitations are sent
  • First-time applicants should request $5,000 or less to establish track record
  • Prepare for two-phase disbursement requiring detailed 6-month progress reporting
  • Focus proposals on direct pet impact rather than operational or administrative costs
  • Leverage participation in multiple BPF programs to strengthen relationship
  • Contact info@bissellpetfoundation.org proactively if application status unclear after 3 months

References

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