The Gulf Coast Community Foundation offers Community Grants to support nonprofit organizations across several counties in Florida, with the intent of initiating programs, projects, and events that create a meaningful and positive impact in their local communities. This grant opportunity is part of the foundation’s broader mission to transform the region through bold and proactive philanthropy. Grant funding is available for initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s core areas of focus: health and human services, arts and culture, civic and economic development, education, and the environment.
Eligible applicants for Community Grants must be tax-exempt public charities as recognized by the Internal Revenue Service. Organizations must also be located in or primarily serving one or more of the following areas: Sarasota County, Charlotte County, DeSoto County, Boca Grande, Lakewood Ranch, and Longboat Key, Florida. The foundation places particular emphasis on proposals that address key regional priorities identified in its 2023 Regional Scan, including Affordable Housing, Mental Health, and Water Quality and Access to Green Space.
Community Grants provide up to $25,000 per organization per fiscal year, defined as July 1 through August 11. Organizations may submit one application per fiscal year that encompasses all proposed events, programs, and projects for which they are seeking funding. The funding is intended to help nonprofits launch or support initiatives that benefit their constituents and the region more broadly. Importantly, grants cannot exceed the annual ceiling, and duplicate applications from the same organization in the same fiscal year are not permitted.
First-time applicants are encouraged to seek guidance from the foundation before applying. The designated contact for initial outreach is the Community Leadership team, available via email at communityleadership@gulfcoastcf.org. Additional support can be accessed through the foundation’s main offices located in Venice and Sarasota, Florida. General inquiries can also be directed to info@gulfcoastcf.org or by phone at 941.486.4600.
The Gulf Coast Community Foundation emphasizes a collaborative and strategic approach to philanthropy. By focusing its resources on timely and impactful local initiatives, it ensures that its grantmaking fosters long-term improvements and sustainable growth in the communities it serves. Applications should clearly articulate the anticipated benefits of the proposed activities and how they align with the Foundation’s mission and regional priorities.
