Micro-Grant Program

The Northern New York Community Foundation’s Micro-Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations within Jefferson, Lewis, and St. Lawrence counties by offering small-scale, flexible funding designed to meet immediate or short-term needs. As a private philanthropic institution, the Foundation aims to foster community impact through strategic giving. This specific program is tailored to provide grants ranging from $250 to $2,500, intended to catalyze local projects, serve pressing community needs, or provide bridge funding to nonprofit initiatives. The Foundation’s mission emphasizes advancing charitable work that enhances quality of life across Northern New York. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations operating in and serving one or more of the three designated counties. The program prioritizes support for programs addressing urgent needs, organizations pursuing capacity building or strategic planning, and efforts aimed at leveraging broader community support. Notably, micro-grants are not intended to fund ongoing operational costs, cover deficits, or reimburse already-completed projects. Religious organizations are excluded unless the proposed project offers a clear, non-sectarian community benefit. Applicants must submit an online application form that includes a project description, the community need addressed, a budget overview, total project cost, and the amount requested. Additional requirements include providing a project timeline, a breakdown of funding sources (secured, pending, or prospective), and outlining specific, measurable goals. Applicants are also expected to describe how they would publicly acknowledge the grant, such as through media outreach or public events. The Foundation reviews applications on a rolling basis and determines awards accordingly. As a result, there is no fixed deadline, and applicants may apply at any time. There are no pre-application requirements, and submission of a micro-grant request does not conflict with pending or active requests under other Foundation programs. However, recipients must submit and receive approval for a grant report before they may apply again. Evaluation focuses on the alignment of the project with the Foundation’s mission and its anticipated community impact. There is no stated performance period, but applicants are required to provide start and end dates for their proposed projects. Key contacts for questions or further guidance include Emily Pfeil (Philanthropy Associate), Kraig Everard (Director of Philanthropy), and Max DelSignore (Vice President), all reachable via their respective email addresses listed in the guidelines.

Grant reports must be submitted and approved before reapplying; alignment with community benefit is a priority.