Empowering Resilient Communities Grant

The Empowering Resilient Communities grant cycle is administered by the Community Foundation of Tompkins County, a place-based philanthropic organization focused on advancing equity, inclusion, and community well-being. The foundation brings together donors, nonprofits, and community leaders to support initiatives that strengthen the social fabric of Tompkins County, New York. Grounded in values such as racial equity, social justice, and community engagement, the foundation emphasizes trust-based philanthropy and aims to reduce barriers between funders and grantees. This grant cycle reflects that philosophy by offering flexible, unrestricted funding designed to support organizations holistically rather than limiting funds to specific projects. The primary purpose of this funding opportunity is to support organizations working to enhance resilience, equity, and well-being across Tompkins County communities. The foundation prioritizes efforts that advance racial and social justice, respond to real community needs, and are rooted in lived experience and community voice. Funding may be used for general operating support, organizational capacity building, or programmatic efforts, with an emphasis on strengthening long-term sustainability and impact. The grant is intentionally unrestricted, allowing recipients to allocate resources where they are most needed within their mission-driven work. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, government entities such as municipalities and school districts, and faith-based organizations offering programs open to all. Organizations that do not meet these criteria may apply through a qualified fiscal sponsor. All applicants must serve residents of Tompkins County, New York, and must be in good standing with any prior grant reporting requirements if previously funded. The foundation encourages both new and returning applicants and supports first-time grant writers with resources and guidance throughout the application process. The application process is conducted through an online grants management platform and requires applicants to create or log into an account to submit their materials. The application is structured to guide organizations through sections such as organizational overview, community need, program approach, goals and outcomes, equity practices, and financial information. Applicants may also be required to upload supporting documents, including prior grant reports if applicable. The foundation provides multiple support resources, including office hours, information sessions, and one-on-one assistance to ensure accessibility and clarity throughout the process. Applications are reviewed by a community-based team trained to assess proposals with attention to equity, authenticity, and impact. Evaluation criteria include alignment with community needs, strength of organizational relationships and collaborations, commitment to racial equity, and clarity of goals and learning processes. The review process is designed to be transparent and inclusive, with feedback offered to applicants following funding decisions whenever possible. Final funding approvals are made by the Community Foundation’s Board of Directors. For the 2026 cycle, applications open on March 30, 2026, and must be submitted by May 4, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Funding notifications are expected on June 20, 2026. Grant funds must be utilized within 12 months of receipt, and recipients are required to submit a final report by March 31, 2027. Additionally, organizations that received funding in the prior year must submit their 2025 grant reports by March 31, 2026, in order to remain eligible for the current cycle. The foundation emphasizes an ongoing partnership with grantees beyond the funding period, offering continued support, connections to additional funding sources, and opportunities for collaboration. Applicants are encouraged to communicate openly with foundation staff for assistance, including contacting Gloria Coicou, Vice President of Engagement, Equity and Grants, via email for program-related inquiries. This grant cycle is part of an annual funding effort, reinforcing the foundation’s long-term commitment to building resilient and thriving communities across Tompkins County.

Focus on clarity and authenticity; align work with community needs; demonstrate collaboration and equity commitment; avoid overly complex language; ensure completeness before submission