Scam Warning: Fraudulent Grant and Funding Approaches
25 September 2026
Gandel Foundation has become aware of reports of individuals and organisations being approached by people claiming to represent philanthropic foundations, including Australian grantmakers, to secure funding opportunities or assist with grant applications for a fee.
These approaches may target charities, community organisations, researchers, and not-for-profit groups and are often presented as exclusive funding opportunities or introductions to philanthropic funders.
We encourage organisations to remain vigilant and to be aware of Gandel Foundation’s funding practices.
How Gandel Foundation Works
Direct engagement
Gandel Foundation manages its grantmaking and funding relationships directly. We do not use third-party brokers, agents, or consultants to identify potential applicants or secure funding on our behalf.
No application or access fees
Gandel Foundation will never ask an organisation to pay a fee to:
- Access funding opportunities
- Submit a grant application
- Meet with Foundation staff
- Secure a grant or introduction to a funding opportunity
Official funding opportunities
Gandel Foundation is a proactive funder with all grants outside our published open grant program and scholarships by invitation only. Any grant programs, funding rounds, scholarships, fellowships, or other opportunities offered by Gandel Foundation will be published through our official channels, including our website and authorised communications.
Official correspondence
Legitimate communications from Gandel Foundation staff will come from official Gandel Foundation email addresses.
If you receive correspondence claiming to be from Gandel Foundation and you are unsure of its legitimacy, we encourage you to verify it directly with us.
Be Cautious of Approaches That:
- Offer access to Gandel Foundation funding in exchange for payment
- Claim to guarantee funding outcomes
- Request fees for introductions to Foundation staff
- Encourage you to work with a specific consultant to improve your chances of receiving funding
- Use the names of well-known philanthropic organisations or individuals to add credibility
What To Do
If you receive a suspicious approach claiming to represent Gandel Foundation:
- Do not provide payment or personal information.
- Do not engage further with the sender.
- Report the matter to Gandel Foundation.
- Consider reporting the incident to https://www.scamwatch.gov.au.
For enquiries regarding the legitimacy of a funding opportunity or communication, please contact Gandel Foundation directly via the contact details listed on our website.