Arts Grants

The Master-Apprentice Artist Award, offered by the Southwest Folklife Alliance (SFA), provides direct financial support to master traditional artists in Arizona. Its core mission is to facilitate the intergenerational transmission of art, culture, and heritage practices from master artists to apprentice learners. This aligns with SFA's broader goal of strengthening community-based traditions throughout the Southwestern United States, emphasizing the vital role of mentorship and hands-on experience in cultural preservation. Target beneficiaries include master traditional artists and culture bearers residing in Arizona, as well as apprentices aged 16 and older (or younger if immediate family of the master artist). The program prioritizes masters and apprentices within the same cultural community and aims to support underrepresented traditional art forms with few remaining local practitioners. The impact goal is to ensure the continuity and vitality of diverse traditional art forms, fostering a new generation of skilled practitioners and preserving cultural heritage. The program focuses on a one-on-one teaching-learning relationship, where funds can cover artist fees, raw materials, and essential travel. Traditional master artists receive $5,000, and apprentices receive $500. SFA's strategic priority is to identify and support artists who demonstrate mastery of their art form, community recognition, and the ability to effectively share traditional knowledge. This approach reflects a theory of change that informal, community-rooted mentorship is the most effective way to transmit and sustain traditional arts. Expected outcomes include the successful transfer of traditional art skills and knowledge from master to apprentice, leading to a strengthened base of cultural practitioners. Measurable results would involve the number of successful apprenticeships, the continuation or revitalization of specific traditional art forms, and the increased recognition and practice of these traditions within their respective communities. The program ensures that applicants are full-time Arizona residents, further embedding the initiative within the local cultural landscape.

The Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin's C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund is dedicated to investing in grassroots conservation and education projects throughout Wisconsin. The foundation's mission is to benefit the state's lands, waters, and wildlife, while simultaneously fostering a deeper connection between people and Wisconsin's natural resources. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's broader goal of supporting community-led initiatives that directly impact and preserve the state's environmental heritage. The fund targets a diverse range of beneficiaries, including public charities with 501(c)(3) status, federal, state, or local governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, and accredited educational institutions. The impact goals are centered on creating positive change for Wisconsin's natural resources and its communities. Specifically, the program aims to support projects that protect imperiled natural communities and native species, engage and impact underserved communities while promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in conservation, and build climate resiliency through natural climate solutions or adaptation strategies. The program's priorities are clearly defined to address critical environmental and social needs. Proposals should focus on projects that contribute to the conservation of Wisconsin's most vulnerable natural communities and native plant or wildlife species. Furthermore, a significant emphasis is placed on projects that actively involve and benefit underserved communities, fostering a more inclusive and equitable conservation movement within the state. Finally, the fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance the climate resilience of Wisconsin's natural resources, either through nature-based solutions or strategies for adapting to climate change. All projects supported by the C.D. Besadny Conservation Fund are expected to demonstrate measurable outcomes, ensuring accountability and tangible results. The foundation encourages innovative projects that maximize their impact by leveraging existing resources and forging strategic partnerships. While specific funding ranges from $500 to $2,000, the total project budget may not exceed $10,000, with overhead costs capped at 15% of the grant. A one-to-one match, which can include in-kind support like volunteer hours or donated materials, is a required component of all applications, underscoring the foundation's commitment to community involvement and shared investment in conservation efforts.

The City of Takoma Park’s Community Quality of Life Grants Program aims to enhance the well-being of its residents by supporting programs, projects, and events that increase access and opportunities in the arts and sciences. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to foster community engagement and enrichment, ensuring that residents have avenues to participate in and benefit from cultural and educational activities. The program seeks to create a vibrant community where residents can thrive through diverse experiences in the arts and sciences. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of the City of Takoma Park, with specific requirements ensuring that at least 75% of participants are city residents and at least 51% are from low-to-moderate income households (defined as 80% of the Area Median Income). The impact goals are centered on improving the quality of life by expanding access and participation in the arts and sciences, particularly for those who may face economic barriers. This focus on inclusive access aims to bridge gaps in opportunity and ensure that a broad segment of the community can benefit from these enriching experiences. The program prioritizes projects falling into one of three categories: Arts and Humanities (A&H), Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM), and Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM). This broad focus allows for a diverse range of initiatives that can contribute to the program's overall goals. The emphasis on these specific areas reflects a strategic approach to community development, recognizing the importance of both creative and scientific literacy in fostering a well-rounded and engaged populace. Expected outcomes include increased participation of Takoma Park residents, especially those from low-to-moderate income households, in arts and science programs. Measurable results will likely involve tracking participant numbers, demographic information, and the successful completion of funded projects between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025. The program operates under a theory of change that by providing financial support to local organizations offering such programs, the City can directly influence and improve the quality of life for its residents, fostering a more equitable and culturally rich community.

The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina (CFWNC) offers Human Services grants of up to $20,000, aimed at supporting programs and projects that deliver significant assistance to economically-disadvantaged individuals within mountain communities. The foundation's mission, as evidenced by this grant, is deeply rooted in addressing critical social needs and fostering well-being among vulnerable populations in its service area. This grant program directly aligns with a strategic priority to support human services and build stronger, more resilient communities by targeting the root causes and consequences of economic disadvantage. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are economically-disadvantaged people residing in selected WNC counties. The impact goals are to address timely community needs or opportunities, continue or expand proven programs, increase cooperation among service providers, build organizational capacity for self-sufficiency, and acquire equipment that provides immediate and substantial benefits. These goals collectively aim to improve the quality of life and opportunities for those facing economic hardship, reflecting a theory of change that by strengthening local service delivery and capacity, the foundation can create lasting positive change. The program prioritizes initiatives that are not currently being addressed by other agencies, those that replicate or expand successful models, and projects that enhance collaboration among providers. A significant focus is also placed on building the internal capacity of organizations, enabling them to operate more efficiently and sustainably, and on funding equipment that offers immediate and substantial benefits to the target population. These priorities demonstrate CFWNC's commitment to strategic, impactful funding that not only provides direct services but also strengthens the ecosystem of support for economically-disadvantaged individuals. Expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the lives of economically-disadvantaged people, enhanced effectiveness and sustainability of human service organizations, and more coordinated and comprehensive community responses to pressing social needs. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the objectives imply a focus on quantifiable improvements in service delivery, access to resources, and organizational health. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly centered on maximizing community benefit through targeted investments in human services. Organizations are eligible if they focus on serving economically-disadvantaged people, are financially sustainable, hold 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or are governmental entities, and are located in and serve the specified WNC counties. The foundation explicitly does not fund general operating expenses (unless directly tied to the project), capital support for new buildings, recreational programs, private primary/secondary schools (with exceptions), festivals, scholarships, activities before grant decisions, sectarian religious purposes, partisan political purposes, endowment/deficit funding, or state/national organizations unless local benefits and leadership are demonstrated. This careful delineation of what is and isn't funded further clarifies the foundation's strategic focus and commitment to specific types of interventions.

The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) is accepting applications for its Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Bicycle and Pedestrian Education Program, a grant initiative aimed at enhancing safety and promoting active transportation. This program aligns with the broader mission of moveDC, DDOT's strategic plan, which seeks to strengthen the multimodal network for all roadway users and support goals in safety, mobility, and sustainability. The grant, ranging from $500,000 to $1 million over a four-year duration, focuses on providing comprehensive education to reduce injuries and fatalities related to walking and bicycling in the District of Columbia. The target beneficiaries of this program include DC charter school students, adults, families, and children who will benefit from various safety courses and events. The impact goals are multifaceted: to reduce the number of injuries and deaths, promote healthy and active lifestyles that can lower healthcare costs, and further the moveDC objectives of safety, mobility, and sustainability. By addressing critical areas of bicycle and pedestrian safety, the program aims to foster a culture of safe and active transportation within the District. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined. These include providing in-school pedestrian and bike safety classes for DC charter schools, establishing a Bike Ambassador program, offering "learn to ride" and bicycle safety courses for adults, families, and children, and organizing pedestrian and bicycle safety events. Furthermore, the initiative emphasizes maintaining a pedestrian and bicycle safety website with a calendar of events and a dashboard for Bike Ambassador activities, providing necessary equipment, and distributing printed educational materials. Expected outcomes and measurable results revolve around increased participation in safety education, a reduction in pedestrian and bicycle-related incidents, and greater adoption of active transportation methods. The program's success will be tracked through metrics such as the number of participants in courses and events, engagement with the safety website, and ultimately, a decline in injury and fatality rates. This continuous commitment reflects DDOT's strategic priority to enhance the safety and functionality of its multimodal network, operating under the theory that comprehensive education and outreach are critical drivers for achieving a safer, healthier, and more sustainable urban environment.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) have established the Hurricane Response Marine Debris Removal Fund. This fund supports projects focused on assessing, removing, and disposing of marine debris in coastal communities affected by hurricanes and other storm events. The initiative aligns with the foundations' broader mission to conserve and restore fish, wildlife, and their habitats, as well as to benefit human communities impacted by natural disasters. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are coastal communities in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Puerto Rico, and South Carolina that were impacted by the 2022 hurricanes Fiona, Ian, Nicole, and Typhoon Merbok. The impact goals are to reduce the effects of marine debris on these communities, protect industries, and prevent further harm to habitats and fish and wildlife populations. The program aims to address both the immediate and long-term consequences of storm-related marine debris. The program prioritizes projects that offer dual benefits, meaning they benefit both human communities and fish and wildlife. Emphasis is placed on projects that are ready for direct clean-up efforts and have already completed marine debris assessments, addressed hazardous materials, and secured necessary permits and disposal logistics. Community engagement and co-design processes that incorporate traditional knowledge are also encouraged to ensure maximum benefits and sustainability. Expected outcomes include a significant reduction in marine debris from coastal habitats and nearshore waters, leading to enhanced ecological integrity and functionality of ecosystems. Measurable results will include the reduction of impacts to properties, community infrastructure, assets of economic and cultural importance, and improved navigational safety. The grant duration is four years, with awards of up to $6 million to achieve these accelerated and comprehensive outcomes for impacted coastal resources and communities.

The CalMoneySmart Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation (DFPI), is an annual initiative dedicating a total of $2 million to nonprofit organizations. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to enhance financial well-being, specifically targeting individuals experiencing financial insecurity within California. The grants, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, are awarded for a two-year period, with individual grants up to $200,000, to support programs that foster financial education and empowerment. The primary beneficiaries of this program are unbanked and underbanked consumers in California. The impact goals are centered on enabling these individuals to achieve financial stability by identifying and accessing lower-cost financial products and services, establishing or improving their credit, increasing their savings, and lowering their debt. The program prioritizes comprehensive financial literacy and practical tools to empower vulnerable populations. The core focuses of the CalMoneySmart grants include the design, development, or offering of free classroom- or web-based financial education and empowerment content. This content is specifically tailored to assist unbanked and underbanked consumers in navigating financial systems and making informed decisions. Additionally, the program supports the provision of individualized, free financial coaching, offering personalized guidance to help beneficiaries overcome specific financial challenges. Furthermore, the grants can be used to design, develop, or offer free financial products or services that help unbanked and underbanked consumers identify and access responsible financial products and services. The expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the financial health of participants, evidenced by increased access to responsible financial products, improved credit scores, higher savings rates, and reduced debt burdens. The DFPI's strategic priority is to promote consumer protection and financial well-being, with a theory of change that by providing targeted financial education and access to appropriate resources, financially insecure Californians can achieve greater economic stability and security. Eligibility for the grant requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, in good standing with the California Secretary of State, and to have submitted a satisfactory final report for any prior DFPI grant funding. This ensures that the grants are awarded to reputable and effective organizations capable of delivering impactful programs.

Operating Grants I & II, offered by the Arts Council for Long Beach (ACLB), provide unrestricted support to Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations. The primary mission of these grants aligns with the ACLB's commitment to fostering artistic excellence by supporting organizations that collect, preserve, present, and/or commission exemplary works of art, including visual art exhibitions, theatre, dance, and musical performances. This directly supports the foundation's goal of enriching the cultural landscape of Long Beach by empowering organizations that contribute to the arts. The target beneficiaries for these grants are Long Beach-based arts and cultural organizations with annual budgets exceeding $250,000. These organizations must produce works of art of regional significance, benefiting the general public, and offering educational opportunities to enhance artistic understanding and appreciation. The impact goals are multi-faceted, aiming to strengthen both artistic programming and organizational management, ultimately leading to a positive community impact. The program prioritizes several key areas. Artistically, it seeks to encourage the development of long-term, high-quality artistic programs and support innovative, creative, and unique projects that challenge audiences and participants. In terms of organizational management, the grants support best practices, including long-term planning, accountability, fund development, transparency, evaluation, appropriate qualifications of board and staff, and overall fiscal health. Community impact is also a significant focus, supporting organizations that identify and meet community needs through planning and program delivery, develop new audiences, and foster tourism or expand the market for artistic disciplines. Expected outcomes include the creation of quality artistic programs, innovative projects, and improved organizational management practices. Measurable results would involve the development of new audiences, enhanced community engagement, and a stronger arts ecosystem in Long Beach. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated, the program implicitly operates on the theory that by providing robust operational support and promoting best practices in artistic and organizational development, the ACLB can cultivate a vibrant and sustainable arts and culture sector that enriches the lives of Long Beach residents and attracts visitors. Funding information indicates grant awards for OPG I range from $5,000 to $8,000, and for OPG II from $18,000 to $25,000.

The Spark Cleantech Accelerator (CTA) is a 12-week in-person program at the UT Research Park in Knoxville, Tennessee, designed to support early-stage cleantech businesses and drive the commercialization of their technologies. Created in partnership with Evergreen Climate Innovations, the program aims to foster innovation in Tennessee, the Midwest, and the Southeast. This initiative aligns with the broader mission of supporting sustainable technological advancements and economic development in the region by focusing on emerging cleantech enterprises. The program targets early-stage cleantech entrepreneurs and companies, particularly those with applications from Tennessee, the Midwest, and beyond. Eligible businesses are those demonstrating a positive impact on energy efficiency, renewable energy generation, greenhouse gas emissions reduction, carbon capture, increased recycling/upcycling, and a circular economy. The program prioritizes companies with strong market potential, defensible intellectual property (issued or pending patents), and technologies that can address the challenges of Spark partners such as utilities, local governments, and manufacturing companies. It also focuses on software or hardware technologies, including intelligent connected devices and advanced materials processes, at a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 2-6, and applicants open to establishing a permanent business location in Tennessee. The Spark CTA provides a comprehensive suite of services, including $15,000 stipends to offset travel/living costs and support business/technical milestones, prototyping services through the University of Tennessee’s Center for Materials Processing, and one-on-one mentorship from experts in various fields like business, market analysis, IP/patent strategy, product design, engineering, and manufacturing. It also facilitates crucial connections with customers, investors, strategic partners, suppliers, universities, and national laboratories, along with training workshops. The program emphasizes partnership opportunities with key organizations such as the Tennessee Valley Authority, Oak Ridge National Lab, and the City of Knoxville. Expected outcomes include the successful commercialization of new cleantech innovations, the growth of early-stage cleantech businesses, and the creation of a vibrant cleantech ecosystem in Tennessee and surrounding regions. Measurable results would encompass the number of businesses supported, the development and deployment of new technologies, the securing of investments, and the establishment of new partnerships. The program's strategic priority is to accelerate the development and market entry of technologies that contribute to environmental sustainability and economic prosperity, operating on a theory of change that by providing targeted support, resources, and connections, early-stage cleantech companies can overcome barriers to commercialization and achieve significant impact.

The Special Project grants, offered by the City of Saint Paul through its Cultural STAR fund, aim to support quality arts activities across all disciplines within the city's geographic boundaries. This initiative is deeply aligned with the fund's overarching mission to promote cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly within the downtown Cultural District, by strengthening the arts and culture community. The grants are designed to support projects that contribute to a vibrant cultural landscape, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents and attracting visitors, thereby fostering economic development. Target beneficiaries for these grants include nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located within the City of Saint Paul, as well as informal arts-focused groups, individuals, and one-time arts projects that partner with eligible nonprofits. Businesses in the Cultural District are also eligible for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment. The impact goals are centered on building and diversifying audiences, promoting a broad range of cultural offerings, producing long-term cultural impact, and leveraging additional financial support for the arts. The Cultural STAR Program prioritizes projects and programs that attract audiences, develop and improve cultural facilities, and build the capacity of artists and cultural organizations. A significant focus is placed on the Cultural District of downtown Saint Paul, with at least 80% of funds allocated to nonprofit organizations within this targeted area. The remaining 20% can support businesses in the Cultural District or nonprofit organizations located elsewhere in Saint Paul. This geographic focus underscores the strategic priority of revitalizing and enriching the downtown cultural hub. Expected outcomes include increased audience engagement with diverse cultural offerings, enhanced and accessible cultural facilities, and strengthened organizational capacity within the arts and culture sector. Measurable results could include metrics related to audience attendance, the number and variety of cultural events, improvements in cultural infrastructure, and the ability of organizations to secure additional funding. The Cultural STAR fund's theory of change is that by investing in these areas, it will lead to sustained cultural vitality and economic growth, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for both residents and tourists.

The City of Ventura offers Special Event Grants to support events and festivals that enhance public spaces and boost visitor spending. The program aims to champion community celebrations that draw in both residents and visitors, reinforce Ventura's cultural identity and economic vitality, and foster an entrepreneurial spirit alongside innovative public-private partnerships. While the document does not explicitly state a "foundation mission alignment," the grant's objectives align with broader municipal goals of community enrichment, economic development, and cultural promotion within the city. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are City of Ventura-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status, or those with a City of Ventura-based fiscal agent that holds 501(c)(3) status. The grants are intended to increase the number of free and affordable community events, thereby benefiting residents and visitors by providing accessible cultural and entertainment opportunities. The impact goals include strengthening Ventura’s cultural identity, enhancing economic vitality through increased visitor spending, and promoting collaboration between sectors. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around activating public spaces and celebrating community. Specifically, the annual funding through the Special Event Grant Program aims to support events that attract residents and visitors, strengthening the city's cultural and economic fabric. This year, there is an additional focus, approved by the Ventura City Council in their 2023-24 goals, to award one-time funding to specifically increase free and affordable community events throughout the city. Expected outcomes and measurable results, while not explicitly detailed with specific metrics, can be inferred from the grant's objectives. These would likely include an increase in the number of free and affordable events, a rise in visitor spending attributable to these events, enhanced community engagement and participation in local celebrations, and a strengthened sense of cultural identity within Ventura. The grant also seeks to promote innovative partnerships, suggesting an outcome of increased collaboration between private sector and public agencies. The "theory of change" underpinning this program is that by funding special events, the city can achieve its broader strategic priorities of community development, economic growth, and cultural enrichment.

The Walter F. Goodnough Trust offers grants specifically designed to support the rehabilitation of underprivileged disabled children. The foundation's mission is directly aligned with improving the health and well-being of this vulnerable population through hospitalization within the state of Florida. This grant program is a core component of the trust's philanthropic efforts, focusing on a critical area of need within the healthcare sector for children facing both disability and financial hardship. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are underprivileged disabled children in Florida who require hospitalization for rehabilitation. The impact goal is to facilitate their recovery and improve their quality of life by providing financial support for necessary medical interventions. The trust prioritizes health-related programs and aims to ensure that eligible organizations, specifically 501(c)(3) exempt organizations, can access funding to serve these children. While specific detailed expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly stated beyond "rehabilitation," the implicit outcome is improved health and functional abilities for the children served. Success would likely be measured by the number of children assisted, the types of rehabilitation services provided, and potentially the duration or effectiveness of their hospitalization and recovery. The average grant size of $2,500 to $5,000, with an average total giving of $15,000 per year, indicates a focus on supporting individual or smaller-scale rehabilitation projects. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on direct impact within Florida's healthcare landscape, particularly for disabled children. Their theory of change appears to be that by providing financial grants to qualified organizations, they can directly enable access to crucial rehabilitation services that might otherwise be out of reach for underprivileged families. The geographic limitation to Florida and the program area of Health further underscore this focused approach to addressing specific community needs.

This funding opportunity supports Maine-based nonprofits, municipalities, and tribal governments in promoting large-scale events that attract visitors from over 50 miles away, particularly during off-peak seasons, to boost tourism and economic impact.

The County History Partnership Program (CHPP), established in 2015 by the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), aims to decentralize the administration of local re-granting programs across all 21 New Jersey counties. This initiative directly aligns with the mission to support local history organizations that serve the public, fostering a broader engagement with the state's historical heritage. The program is administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission, which functions as the donor, extending the NJHC's strategic goal of strengthening local historical infrastructure. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are historical societies, organizations, nonprofits, and municipalities responsible for historic structures or archaeological sites. Eligible applicants must be Somerset County-based. The program's impact goals revolve around increasing public access to New Jersey history, expanding knowledge of the state's past, and improving the management capabilities of local history organizations. This approach is intended to create a more robust and accessible local history ecosystem within Somerset County. The grant prioritizes organizations that provide programs or services that achieve these goals. Specifically, applicants must demonstrate a commitment to enhancing public access to history or expanding historical knowledge. Another key focus is on improving the operational and managerial effectiveness of local history organizations, thereby ensuring their long-term sustainability and impact. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by empowering local organizations with financial support and clear objectives, they can more effectively serve the public and preserve historical assets. Expected outcomes include a more engaged public with New Jersey history, a greater depth of historical knowledge disseminated, and more efficiently run local history organizations. Measurable results would likely include increased participation in historical programs, documented improvements in organizational management, and successful preservation efforts of historic sites. Organizations are also required to have provided public history programs and/or services in Somerset County for the benefit of the general public for at least two years prior to application, and must provide proof of stability and fiscal responsibility, ensuring the grant's investment is directed towards established and accountable entities.

The Southern Maryland Agricultural Development Commission (SMADC) is offering its 11th round of farmer mini grants in Spring 2024, providing a total of $60,000 in funding. This program was established in 2016 in response to feedback from the farming community, aligning directly with SMADC's mission to support farms and the future of agriculture in Southern Maryland. The core objective is to expand and promote a viable, market-driven, sustainable, and profitable agricultural farming community in the region. The primary beneficiaries of this program are actively farming individuals in Anne Arundel, Calvert, Charles, Prince George’s, and St. Mary’s counties in Maryland. Both urban and rural farms are encouraged to apply, including youth aged 16 and older who have a background in agriculture. The impact goals are centered around enhancing farm sales strategies, facilitating business maintenance and expansion, and improving overall farm operations through tangible investments. The grant program prioritizes projects that are simple in scope and can be completed within one year. Specific areas of focus include services or equipment to transition sales strategies (e.g., online sales, home delivery, on-farm sales), purchase of foundation livestock or plant stock, marketing and promotion, new fencing, hoop houses, materials for value-added production, on-farm upgrades for food safety, irrigation installation or upgrades (especially in relation to GAP certification or FSMA standards), washing/packing stations, and freezer/refrigeration units. The expected outcomes are diverse, aiming to directly improve farm infrastructure, market access, and operational efficiency. Measurable results would include increased sales due to new strategies or equipment, enhanced food safety compliance, improved crop yields or livestock health, and expanded market reach for participating farms. The grants are awarded up to $3,000 per applicant, requiring a one-to-one dollar match from the farmer, ensuring a shared investment and commitment to project success. SMADC's strategic priority is to foster a robust and sustainable agricultural sector in Southern Maryland. Their theory of change suggests that by providing direct financial assistance for practical, farm-level improvements, they can empower individual farmers to adapt to market demands, enhance their competitiveness, and ultimately contribute to the long-term economic viability and environmental sustainability of agriculture in the region. The matching fund requirement further reinforces this by promoting farmer self-sufficiency and accountability.

The Eddie C. and C. Sylvia Brown Family Foundation offers grants between $1,000 to $10,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations in the Baltimore area, focusing on mental health, cancer prevention and treatment, arts exposure for youth, and educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, excluding start-ups, capital projects, individuals, multi-year projects, higher education institutions, and organizations outside Baltimore.

The Prince William County Department of Parks & Recreation is offering an Arts Grant to support nonprofit arts organizations in the Greater Prince William area, including Manassas and Manassas Park. This initiative aligns with the department's mission to enrich the cultural landscape of the community by fostering and sustaining artistic endeavors. The grant aims to ensure that both newly established and established nonprofit arts groups have the resources to provide diverse cultural and art performances to citizens across the region. The grant targets all nonprofit organizations engaged in dance, literary arts, media arts, music, theater, visual, and related arts. It has two main granting areas: the New and Emerging Grant, designed to assist start-up nonprofit arts groups within their first three years of existence, and the General Operating Grant, which provides sustained support for established nonprofit organizations. The impact goal is to strengthen the local arts community, promote cultural development, and ensure the continued availability of rich artistic experiences for residents. The program prioritizes organizations that are recognized as non-profits (with a 501(c)3 designation or applied for status for New & Emerging Grants), have completed a season of programs (exception for New & Emerging), and are based in Prince William County, Manassas, and/or Manassas Park. Furthermore, applicants must comply with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Americans with Disabilities Act and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination. Organizations are also expected to have a significant portion of their members, participants, or services originating from or offered within the community. Expected outcomes include the successful establishment and growth of new arts organizations, and the sustained operation and continued provision of high-quality cultural and artistic programs by established groups. Measurable results could include the number of new organizations supported, the number of programs and performances offered, and the reach of these programs within the community. The grant period for activities is July 1 through June 30, with a deadline of May 8, 2024, for applications. This strategic approach ensures a continuous cycle of support for the arts, reflecting the department's commitment to a vibrant and accessible cultural environment.

The Go Outside Fund, provided by the Natural Resources Foundation of Wisconsin, aims to connect youth with outdoor, nature-based learning experiences. This grant program directly aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering an appreciation for natural resources and encouraging hands-on engagement with the environment among the younger generation in Wisconsin. The program's core objective is to facilitate access to outdoor activities for children, thereby promoting environmental literacy and a deeper connection to nature. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are pre-K through 12th-grade students in Wisconsin. Teachers and partner organizations can apply for funding to cover various costs that enable outdoor learning, such as field supplies, transportation, substitute teachers, or educator expenses. The impact goals are centered on increasing opportunities for children to learn in outdoor settings, fostering a sense of stewardship, and enriching their educational experiences through direct interaction with nature. The fund prioritizes grant applications that include a significant component of outdoor activity and directly engage children in outdoor, nature-based learning. While alignment with classroom learning and standards is encouraged, it is not a strict requirement, emphasizing the program's focus on experiential learning. Grants between $100 and $500 are available, supporting a wide range of smaller-scale, impactful projects that meet the eligibility criteria. Eligible applicants include public charities with approved 501(c)(3) status, governmental units, American Indian nations or tribal communities, and accredited schools, colleges, or universities. The program's theory of change posits that by removing financial barriers and supporting educators and organizations, more Wisconsin youth will have access to enriching outdoor experiences, leading to increased environmental awareness and appreciation. The expected outcome is a measurable increase in youth participation in nature-based learning, contributing to a more environmentally conscious and engaged generation. Projects must benefit Wisconsin students, and activities must take place six weeks or more after the application due date, ensuring planned and impactful engagement.

The Entertainment Business Interruption Fund (BIF), funded by the American Rescue Plan (ARP) and managed by the LA Small Business Development Center Network, aims to support small businesses in the entertainment industry within Los Angeles County. This program directly addresses the economic hardship faced by these businesses due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes. The fund's mission aligns with supporting the economic vitality of a key industry in Los Angeles, ensuring the continuity and recovery of small businesses that form its backbone. The target beneficiaries are for-profit small businesses in Los Angeles County's entertainment industry with $3 million or less in annual gross revenue. These businesses must have experienced at least a 70% loss of revenue due to the COVID-19 Pandemic (March 1, 2020, to present) and the 2023 double Hollywood Strikes (May 1, 2023 – November 30, 2023). A significant impact goal is to mitigate financial losses and facilitate recovery for these businesses, enabling them to sustain operations and contribute to the local economy. The program prioritizes businesses that demonstrate substantial revenue loss directly attributable to the specified crises. It focuses on providing financial relief for critical operational expenses, including the purchase of new certified equipment, restocking liquidated inventory, lease/rent/mortgage payments, business debt accrued due to the crises, COVID-19 related costs, employee payroll, working capital, and outstanding business expenses. A key focus is ensuring that funds are used to directly address and alleviate the negative economic impacts suffered. Expected outcomes include the stabilization of small businesses in the entertainment sector, preventing further closures, and preserving jobs. Measurable results will include the number of businesses receiving grants, the total amount of funds disbursed, and the extent to which these businesses are able to maintain or increase their operations post-grant. The grant amounts, either $10,000 for businesses with revenue less than or equal to $999,999 or $25,000 for those with revenue between $1,000,000 and $3,000,000, are directly tied to revenue size, indicating a structured approach to proportional relief. The foundation's strategic priority, through the LA Small Business Development Center Network, is to foster economic resilience within the entertainment industry. The theory of change posits that by providing targeted financial assistance to small businesses severely impacted by external economic shocks, the program can prevent widespread business failures, preserve the industry's ecosystem, and contribute to the broader economic recovery of Los Angeles County. This direct intervention aims to bridge financial gaps and allow businesses to regain stability and growth.

The Berkeley FILM Foundation (BFF) is offering a 2024 Student grant program designed to support emerging filmmakers in various stages of production, post-production, and distribution. This initiative aligns with BFF's mission to foster film talent and contribute to the vibrant film community within specific California counties. The foundation's strategic priority is to provide financial assistance to student filmmakers, ensuring the continuity and development of cinematic arts. The target beneficiaries of this program are student filmmakers over the age of 18, residing in Berkeley, Emeryville, Albany, El Cerrito, Richmond, or Oakland. Crucially, applicants must be currently enrolled full-time in a film studies program within Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, or Marin counties. The program specifically focuses on supporting individuals who are the primary creators of their submitted work. Former grant recipients are eligible to apply for a new film proposal only after their previously funded film has been completed, encouraging a commitment to seeing projects through to fruition. The grant program prioritizes short documentaries (40 minutes or less) and long documentaries (over 40 minutes). This focus on documentary filmmaking indicates an interest in projects that explore real-world subjects and narratives. The maximum request per project is $5,000, with overall grant sizes ranging from $1,000 to $10,000. This tiered funding aims to support a variety of project scales, from early development to final distribution. The expected outcomes of the BFF student grant program include the successful completion and distribution of student film projects, contributing to the cultural landscape of the Bay Area. Measurable results would involve the number of films funded, the completion rate of these projects, and any subsequent screenings or awards received by the grant recipients. By supporting student filmmakers, BFF aims to cultivate a new generation of cinematic voices, thereby contributing to the long-term health and innovation of the film industry.