The France-Merrick Foundation concentrates its grant making within the state of Maryland with a primary focus on the Greater Baltimore area. 

The Foundation favors one-time, project-oriented requests which have defined beginnings and endings, as opposed to annual giving or ongoing operational support. Funding is targeted to organizations that already demonstrate the ability to sustain their work and are looking to the Foundation to provide one-time funding to enhance the organization’s ability to fulfill its mission over time. The Foundation’s funding is aimed at increasing capacity of organizations to have a positive impact on lives and communities. 

Many of the Foundation’s grants support new construction or renovations of existing buildings. In capital grant making, special attention is given to sustainable building practices and energy conservation measures incorporated into the project.  High priority is placed on demonstration of financial sustainability and good business practices, including audited statements.