All grants made by the San Marcos Community Foundation must support San Marcos residents. Applying nonprofits are encouraged to ask for what they need, and all completed applications are carefully reviewed. Board members rotate serving on the Grants committee and go on site visits for grants under consideration. Grants are made to a variety of nonprofit organizations serving the community, with a brief follow-up report required. Requests exceed available funds. Mini-grants (up to $1,500) are decided 11 times per year, based on a one-page application plus documentation. Regular grants (up to $10,000) are decided quarterly, based on the above plus a two-page narrative. The Advisory Board provides additional insights regarding community needs and trends and meets with the Board at least annually.