Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation Inc

Quick Stats

• Annual Giving: $1,372,191 (2023)
• Success Rate: Not publicly disclosed
• Decision Time: Not publicly disclosed
• Grant Range: $10,000 - $150,000
• Geographic Focus: Primarily Sheridan, Wyoming; occasionally other Wyoming communities including Laramie and Ranchester
• Number of Grants: 16 grants in 2023

Contact Details

Phone: (307) 672-1498
Address: PO Box 6085, Sheridan, WY 82801
Website: No website available
EIN: 83-0330482

Note: The foundation does not have a website to guide grant seekers. Contact by phone or mail for application information.

Overview

The Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation Inc was established in 2000 by Joe Watt (1905-2002) and Arlene Bundy Watt, both born to Wyoming homesteading families in the Moorcroft and Gillette areas. Following their marriage in 1928, they built the Triangle T Ranch into one of the most successful cattle operations in Wyoming, expanding it to a 64,000-acre operation before retiring in 1984. With no children, the couple channeled their legacy into supporting the Wyoming communities they loved, particularly Sheridan.

The foundation is a private independent foundation with total assets of approximately $22.6 million (2022 data). In 2023, the foundation made $1.37 million in grants to 16 organizations. The foundation operates as a family foundation with three trustees who maintain the Watts' commitment to strengthening Sheridan's communities through support for education, health, human services, and youth development. Education remains a top priority, honoring the couple's belief in investing in Wyoming's future generations.

Funding Priorities

Grant Programs

The foundation does not have formally structured grant programs but accepts unsolicited applications on a rolling basis. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $150,000, with some exceptional grants reaching $500,000 for major initiatives like the University of Wyoming's invasive species research program.

Priority Areas

Education (Top Priority)

• K-12 education initiatives
• Higher education and university programs
• Local libraries and literacy programs
• Wyoming history and cultural preservation
• Educational scholarships and capacity building

Human Services

• Elder care and senior services
• Abuse prevention programs
• Housing security initiatives
• Family support services
• Youth development programs

Health and Hospitals

• Healthcare facilities and services
• Community health initiatives
• Medical programs serving Sheridan area

Environment and Conservation

• Invasive species research and control
• Rangeland and landscape restoration
• Wyoming wildlife and natural resource preservation

What They Don't Fund

The foundation does not publicly disclose specific exclusions or restrictions. However, their geographic focus is highly concentrated, making them "one of the most geographically focused funders in Wyoming." Organizations outside the Sheridan area or broader Wyoming region are unlikely to receive consideration. The foundation's giving patterns suggest strong preference for established local organizations serving direct community needs rather than national organizations or causes outside Wyoming.

Governance and Leadership

Trustees:

• John M. Pradere
• Robert Eberhart
• Ky Dixon

Foundation Representative: Richard Hammer has spoken publicly on behalf of the foundation regarding major grants. In announcing the $500,000 gift to the University of Wyoming, Hammer stated: "Wyoming's grasslands and wildlife are some of our most important resources. We're excited for this opportunity for the Watt Foundation to continue to invest in the future of our great state through maintaining our wildlands while offering hands-on education, research and outreach."

This quote reflects the foundation's core philosophy—investing in Wyoming's future through practical, hands-on programs that address real community needs while honoring the state's natural and cultural heritage.

Application Process & Timeline

How to Apply

The Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation accepts unsolicited applications from nonprofit organizations. Applications should be sent directly to the foundation via mail to their Sheridan address. Prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the foundation office by phone at (307) 672-1498 for guidance on application procedures and requirements, as the foundation does not maintain a website or publish formal application guidelines.

Given the absence of formal published guidelines, applicants should include standard grant proposal elements: organizational background, project description, budget, expected outcomes, and demonstration of community benefit aligned with the foundation's priorities in education, health, human services, or youth development.

Decision Timeline

The foundation does not publish information about its decision timeline or review schedule. Limited information exists regarding the breakdown between competitive grantees and pre-selected grantees. Applicants should inquire about expected review timelines when submitting proposals.

Success Rates

Specific success rate statistics are not publicly available. In 2023, the foundation made 16 grants totaling $1.37 million, compared to 19 grants in 2022. The foundation appears to maintain ongoing relationships with certain organizations, suggesting that successful grantees may receive repeat funding.

Reapplication Policy

No specific reapplication policy is publicly disclosed. However, the foundation's pattern of supporting certain organizations repeatedly (such as the University of Wyoming, Sheridan County Library Association, and various human service organizations) suggests that previous grantees are welcome to apply for future funding.

Application Success Factors

While the foundation does not publish formal guidance for applicants, several patterns emerge from their grantmaking history that can inform strong applications:

Geographic Connection is Critical: The foundation is deeply rooted in Sheridan, Wyoming. Organizations with strong ties to Sheridan and demonstrated impact on the local community will be most competitive. Some grants extend to other Wyoming communities, but Sheridan remains the clear focus.

Demonstrated Community Impact: The foundation's legacy stems from Joe and Arlene Watt's commitment to Wyoming communities. Applications should clearly articulate tangible community benefits and how the project serves local residents' needs.

Education and Youth Development: Education "remains a top priority for the Foundation." Recent grantees in this area include Sheridan County Library Association, Rooted in Wyoming, and the University of Wyoming. Programs that combine education with practical, hands-on learning (like the invasive species research program) align well with the foundation's values.

Alignment with Wyoming Values: The Watts built their success through ranching and maintaining Wyoming's landscapes. Projects that honor Wyoming's heritage, protect natural resources, or support working families and youth development resonate with the foundation's mission.

Capacity Building and Sustainability: The foundation has supported "capacity building grants" for organizations like Rooted in Wyoming, suggesting interest in strengthening organizational infrastructure, not just funding one-time programs.

Strong Local Partnerships: Given the lack of formal application guidelines, developing relationships within the Sheridan nonprofit community and understanding local needs is valuable. The foundation has supported collaborative efforts across multiple sectors.

Clear, Direct Communication: Without formal guidelines or a website, the foundation values straightforward communication. Prospective applicants should reach out by phone to discuss fit before submitting formal proposals.

Key Takeaways for Grant Writers

• Contact Before Applying: With no website or published guidelines, call (307) 672-1498 to discuss your project's fit and learn about current application procedures before submitting a full proposal.

• Sheridan Connection Essential: This is one of Wyoming's most geographically focused funders. Strong ties to Sheridan and demonstrated local impact are critical for competitive applications.

• Education is the Priority: Education remains the foundation's top focus area. Projects combining education with youth development, libraries, or hands-on learning opportunities are particularly strong fits.

• Think Long-Term Impact: The foundation values sustainable impact, having supported major multi-year initiatives like the $500,000 (matched to $1 million) invasive species program and capacity-building grants for local organizations.

• Honor Wyoming Heritage: Projects that align with Wyoming values—land stewardship, community self-reliance, youth development, preserving natural resources—will resonate with trustees who honor the Watts' ranching legacy.

• Build Relationships: Without formal application processes, networking within Sheridan's nonprofit community and developing relationships with foundation trustees or staff can help position your organization effectively.

• Grant Range Flexibility: While typical grants range $10,000-$150,000, the foundation has made exceptional larger grants for compelling initiatives, suggesting flexibility for transformative projects.

References

• Cause IQ: Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation profile. https://www.causeiq.com/organizations/joe-and-arlene-watt-foundation-inc,830330482/ (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• Inside Philanthropy: Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation. https://www.insidephilanthropy.com/find-a-grant-places/wyoming-grants/joe-and-arlene-watt-foundation (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer: Joe And Arlene Watt Foundation Inc. https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/830330482 (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• University of Wyoming News: "Watt Foundation Gift to UW Supports Healthy Wyoming Landscapes," May 2022. https://www.uwyo.edu/news/2022/05/watt-foundation-gift-to-uw-supports-healthy-wyoming-landscapes.html (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• Sheridan Media: "Big Brothers, Big Sisters Receives $20,000 From Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation," November 23, 2021. https://sheridanmedia.com/news/91679/big-brothers-big-sisters-receives-20000-from-joe-and-arlene-watt-foundation/ (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• The Sheridan Press: "Watt Foundation gift to UW supports Wyoming landscapes," May 2022. https://www.thesheridanpress.com/news/local/watt-foundation-gift-to-uw-supports-wyoming-landscapes/article_ea78d208-d175-11ec-afb2-3b0b69d86634.html (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• Instrumentl: Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation Inc. | 990 Report. https://www.instrumentl.com/990-report/joe-and-arlene-watt-foundation-inc (Accessed March 4, 2026)

• GuideStar: Joe and Arlene Watt Foundation Inc Profile. https://www.guidestar.org/profile/83-0330482 (Accessed March 4, 2026)