Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find funding for my project or organization?
Funding is available from many sources including local businesses, corporations, foundations and state and federal government agencies.  Visit the Links section of this site for more information.  Regrettably, CTC did not receive enough project funds to issue a second round of open public solicitations for sub-grants. 

What if I can't make the training dates but want to receive training?
CTC is only offering the DOL-subsidized training on the dates listed in the Training section. However, if there is enough interest, CTC may offer the training programs at near-market rates. Contact the project manager to be put on a list to be notified if and when such training opportunities become available. Otherwise, there are several companies and organizations that provide training on grant writing, grants management and a variety of other nonprofit-related topics.

Where can we get funding to expand our church and/or add ramps, etc. to assist the disabled?
The government rarely funds "bricks and mortar" projects and NEVER funds construction on a religious institution unless it is historically significant.  There may be opportunities with private foundations that provide funds to religious organizations.  Visit The Foundation Center (www.fdncenter.org) to find more information on private foundations.

What is 501(c)(3)?
501(c)(3) refers to the Internal Revenue Code Section 501(c)(3) that describes charitable organizations, including churches and religious organizations, which qualify for exemption from Federal income tax and generally are eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.

Do I need a 501(c)(3)?
Yes. There are many benefits to obtaining official 501(c)(3) status and CTC has developed the Establishing a 501(c)(3) Notebook (PDF 71KB) to assist organization's in obtaining their 501(c)(3) designation.

I filled out a form with the Secretary of State. Is that the same thing?
No. Only the IRS can grant 501(c)(3) status.  The state form is one step in the process.  To learn more, review CTC's Establishing a 501(c)(3) Notebook (PDF 71KB).  For more information, download the Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations from the IRS at: http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p1828.pdf

My church as a 501(c)(3). Is that sufficient?
In most cases it is preferable to obtain separate 501(c)(3) status for providing social services. It is STRONGLY recommended that outreach activities such as child care and housing projects have separate 501(c)(3) designation to prevent the church from assuming liability risk from the activities.  Obtaining separate 501(c)(3) status prevents the church from being sued for activities conducted by the social service organization and it limits the government's oversight to those activities rather than the church as a whole.

Concurrent Technologies Corporation
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