Gaming Grant

The Charitable Gaming Program administered by Washington County, Maryland, offers financial support to eligible community organizations through an annual Gaming Grant cycle. This program is rooted in local regulation of gaming operations, primarily focused on managing revenue generated from tip jar sales and bingo licenses. The program is designed to promote transparency and ensure that gaming revenues benefit the local community through well-defined, lawful channels. The 2026 Gaming Grant Cycle officially begins on April 1, 2026, with applications due by 3:00 p.m. on April 30, 2026. Only complete applications received before the deadline will be considered; late or incomplete submissions will not be reviewed. Applicants are instructed to download and complete a specific application packet, which consists of several documents primarily in PDF format, along with an Excel-based Budget Narrative Worksheet. A key technical requirement is saving the application file to a local device before inputting data—failure to do so can result in the loss of entered information. The process underscores the importance of strict adherence to submission protocols. The Charitable Gaming Program has multiple administrative functions. It issues licenses related to tip jar sales—covering wholesale, operator, and temporary licenses—as well as licenses for Bingo operations. The program ensures enforcement of both state laws and specific Washington County regulations. Additionally, it oversees compliance by assessing fines, penalties, and suspensions, while maintaining thorough reports from licensees. One of its core financial responsibilities is the collection and distribution of funds into the Washington County Gaming Fund, which is then allocated to eligible community-based organizations through this grant program. This funding is distinct from other local funding streams, such as General Fund Contingency Funding or Hotel Rental Tax Funding, but it contributes similarly to the enhancement of community services. Grants may support a variety of needs among community organizations, though the specific allowable uses or restrictions are not explicitly stated in the available information. It is implied, however, that funding must align with community benefit purposes, consistent with the regulatory oversight and purpose of the Gaming Fund. Eligibility appears to center on local, community-based organizations within Washington County, Maryland. While the precise types of eligible entities are not defined in the provided information, the local nature of the program and its administration by the County suggests a geographically restricted scope. Furthermore, no information was provided regarding cost sharing or matching fund requirements, performance periods, or award amounts, which will require clarification or follow-up from potential applicants. For further assistance or to submit application materials, applicants may contact the Grant Management Office at the Washington County Administration Complex, located at 100 West Washington Street, Hagerstown, MD. The office operates Monday through Friday, from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and can be reached by phone at (240) 313-2040. TTY users may use the Maryland Relay Service at 1-800-735-2258.