GrantExec

Grants for Nonprofits - Infrastructure

Explore 1,590 grant opportunities

Avangrid Foundation Wildlife Rehabilitation Program 2024
Contact for amount
Avangrid Foundation
Private

Application Deadline

Not specified

Date Added

Nov 6, 2024

This funding opportunity provides financial support to wildlife rehabilitation organizations in Avangrid's service areas to enhance wildlife care, education, and community engagement.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
Recreational Trails Program
$150,000
Washington State Recreation and Conservation Office
State

Application Deadline

Oct 31, 2024

Date Added

Aug 28, 2024

This grant provides federal funding to local agencies, tribes, and nonprofits in Washington to rehabilitate and maintain recreational trails for various outdoor activities, ensuring a sustainable backcountry experience.

Recreation
City or township governments
Transit Oriented Development in Washington
$350,000
Washington State Department of Commerce
Private

Application Deadline

Sep 23, 2025

Date Added

Aug 20, 2025

This grant provides funding to qualified firms for creating guidance documents and resources that assist cities and counties in developing effective transit-oriented projects to promote housing growth and community resilience in Washington.

Transportation
For profit organizations other than small businesses
Fiesta Bowl Charities Grant Program 2024
Contact for amount
Fiesta Bowl Charities
Private

Application Deadline

May 17, 2024

Date Added

May 3, 2024

Fiesta Bowl Charities is dedicated to strengthening communities by supporting organizations focused on youth, sports, and education. This grant program aligns directly with their mission to enhance the success of these key community pillars. The grants, ranging from $15,000 (Kickoff Grant) to $50,000 (Touchdown Grant), are designed to support a variety of initiatives that build organizational capacity, fund direct services and program projects, and cover associated direct costs like project management, marketing, and equipment. The target beneficiaries are residents within Arizona's geographic boundaries, served by 501(c)(3) organizations or organizations using a qualified fiscal agent. The impact goal is to foster thriving communities through strategic investments in youth development, athletic programs, and educational initiatives. Fiesta Bowl Charities particularly encourages proposals that demonstrate matching funds, engage in mission-driven collaborations, and contribute to the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of the applying organizations. The program prioritizes proposals that support direct services and program projects, as well as those that build the capacity of organizations. This includes funding for administrative support, legal, or accounting functions directly attributable to the project. The expected outcomes include stronger community programs, increased opportunities for youth in sports and education, and enhanced organizational effectiveness among Arizona non-profits. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the types of projects supported, the emphasis on fiscal accountability and the encouragement of capacity-building suggest a focus on sustainable and impactful initiatives. The foundation's strategic priorities are to invest in direct services and programs, foster partnerships, and leverage additional funds to maximize the reach and effectiveness of their grants, embodying a theory of change that by strengthening these core areas, they contribute to a healthier, more educated, and engaged community.

Recreation
Nonprofits
Contra Costa County Community Development Block Grant
Contact for amount
Contra Costa County
Local

Application Deadline

Not specified

Date Added

Nov 14, 2024

This funding program provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and public agencies for projects that improve housing, infrastructure, economic opportunities, and public services for low- and very low-income residents in Contra Costa County.

Community Development
Nonprofits
Land and Climate Catalyst Planning Grants
$15,000
Open Space Institute
Local

Application Deadline

May 17, 2024

Date Added

May 3, 2024

The 2024 Land and Climate Grant Program, a collaborative effort by the Open Space Institute and the Land Trust Alliance, is designed to integrate climate change considerations into land protection and management. This initiative aligns with both organizations' missions to conserve and steward land by building the capacity of land trusts and other groups. The program's core objective is to foster climate-informed land conservation, stewardship, policy, and communications, directly supporting the broader strategic priorities of enhancing environmental resilience and mitigating climate impacts. The program targets land trusts, other land-conserving groups, 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations, and state or federally recognized Tribes. The primary impact goal is to develop and implement plans that address critical climate-related issues such as habitat resilience, carbon mitigation, renewable energy siting, and community adaptation to climate impacts like storms, flooding, drought, fire, or extreme heat. This focus aims to create a tangible difference in how land is protected and managed in the face of a changing climate. The program prioritizes several key areas, including the development of land protection plans that incorporate climate science into strategic conservation, management plans that integrate climate adaptation and mitigation strategies, comprehensive climate communication strategies, and renewable energy siting plans. Preference is given to accredited land trusts and organizations committed to pursuing accreditation, particularly for Land Trust Alliance grants. For Open Space Institute grants, applications from Northern New England (Vermont, New Hampshire, Maine) and the Delaware River Watershed (portions of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware) are favored, with a focus on projects that integrate forest carbon and/or mitigation of flood hazards. Expected outcomes include the creation of new or revised strategic conservation plans, updated land stewardship and management plans, robust climate communication strategies, and well-defined policies for renewable energy siting on conservation lands. The grants, ranging from $100,000 to $500,000, will support projects with a duration of one year, with all projects expected to commence in 2024 and conclude by December 1, 2025. The funding can cover various costs, including staff time, travel, graphic design, printing, mailing, indirect costs, and project consultants, ensuring comprehensive support for the development and implementation of these vital climate-resilient initiatives.

Environment
Nonprofits
Philip L. Graham Fund Grant Program
Contact for amount
Philip L. Graham Fund
Private

Application Deadline

Jul 1, 2024

Date Added

Jun 14, 2024

The Philip L. Graham Fund is offering grants to organizations that provide direct services to individuals and families. The Fund's mission is aligned with supporting innovative and efficient organizations, and over several decades, it has invested significantly in the physical infrastructure, information technology, and transportation needs of local nonprofit organizations. This program seeks to continue that tradition by supporting organizations that fit within its giving priorities and focus areas. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of Washington, D.C., and specific counties in Maryland (Charles, Montgomery, Prince George's) and Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park). The impact goals are to support direct services that address community needs within the Fund's focus areas, ultimately improving the lives of individuals and families in these regions. The Fund's priorities and focus areas include Health & Human Services, Education, Arts & Humanities, and Community Endeavors. Organizations seeking funding must align with these priorities and provide services that fall into one or more of these categories. The Fund's strategic priorities appear to be centered on strengthening the capacity of local nonprofits to deliver essential services and foster community well-being. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the Fund's long-standing investment in infrastructure and technology suggests an expected outcome of enhanced operational capacity and improved service delivery for grantee organizations. The theory of change seems to be that by supporting eligible 501(c)(3) public charities that provide direct services in key areas, the Fund can contribute to the overall health, education, cultural enrichment, and community development of the designated geographic areas. Eligibility criteria further underscore the Fund's strategic approach. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, serve residents within the specified footprint, and align with the Fund's priorities. Additionally, there are specific requirements for past applicants and grantees, ensuring a rotation of funding and accountability for previous grants. The Fund explicitly excludes requests from individuals, government agencies, certain educational institutions, and organizations involved primarily in advocacy or policy change, reinforcing its focus on direct service provision.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
Food Security Infrastructure Grant
$500,000
Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources
State

Application Deadline

May 2, 2024

Date Added

Mar 13, 2024

The Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources administers the Food Security Infrastructure Grant Program to strengthen the local food system, enhance equitable access to locally produced food, and improve resilience to supply and distribution disruptions. The program connects farmers, fishermen, and local producers to markets and builds the infrastructure required to produce and distribute healthy food efficiently and safely. Eligible projects are capital in nature and may include equipment purchases, contracted labor for implementation, and planning and design costs directly tied to capital improvements. Projects must address systemic inequities and expand access to fresh local food while improving the resiliency of the Commonwealths food system. Maximum funding per applicant is 500,000 dollars in both agriculture and local food system tracks. Applicants may be individuals, for profit entities, nonprofit organizations, municipalities, or other governmental entities that can meet application requirements and enter into contracts with the department. The grant period runs from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, and projects must be located within Massachusetts with benefits to residents statewide. Applications are due May 2, 2024. Additional information is available from the Massachusetts Department of Agricultural Resources.

Food and Nutrition
City or township governments
Bay Mini-Grants 2025
$10,000
Tampa Bay Estuary Program
Private

Application Deadline

Sep 13, 2024

Date Added

Sep 3, 2024

The Bay Mini-Grants, offered by the Tampa Bay Estuary Program, are competitive awards designed to fund environmental restoration and education projects within the Tampa Bay watershed, with a strong emphasis on community-led initiatives. This program is rooted in the broader mission of stimulating environmental stewardship and science literacy among the residents, workers, and visitors of Tampa Bay. The funding directly aligns with the foundation's strategic priorities by focusing on local action to address critical environmental challenges and fostering a more engaged and informed public concerning the health of the bay. The program targets a diverse range of beneficiaries, including nonprofit organizations, businesses, educational institutions, and government agencies, particularly those with strong volunteer or community involvement. Past award recipients have included neighborhood associations, artists, and researchers, highlighting a broad reach. Projects that are led by, empower, benefit, or engage underserved and/or overburdened communities are specifically encouraged, indicating a commitment to equitable impact. The primary impact goal is to enhance the environmental health of the Tampa Bay watershed through tangible restoration efforts and increased public awareness and participation. The grant prioritizes projects that address one or more of the objectives outlined in the Tampa Bay Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan (CCMP). These priorities include improving water quality and reducing contaminants, increasing and preserving healthy bay habitats, protecting and enhancing fisheries and wildlife, improving spill prevention and response, reducing invasive species, increasing public education and involvement, improving responsible public use of the bay, improving the resiliency of bay habitats to climate change, and incorporating CCMP goals into local land use plans. These focus areas reflect a holistic approach to environmental management and community engagement. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in water quality, expanded healthy habitats, and a more robust and protected ecosystem. Measurable results could involve specific reductions in pollutants, acres of restored habitat, increased biodiversity, and a higher level of community participation in environmental initiatives. The program's theory of change posits that by providing financial support to community-led initiatives focused on these key priorities, it will empower local stakeholders, drive direct environmental improvements, and ultimately cultivate a more environmentally conscious and active citizenry, leading to a more resilient and healthy Tampa Bay. The grant period for projects is January 1 to December 31, 2025, with a maximum award of $5,000 per project.

Environment
Nonprofits
Dekalb County Community Foundation Promise Grant
$5,000
DeKalb County Community Foundation
Local

Application Deadline

Oct 1, 2024

Date Added

Sep 4, 2024

The DeKalb County Community Foundation Promise Grants, ranging from $1000 to $10,000, aim to support charitable organizations in DeKalb County, Illinois, that empower underserved populations, with a focus on projects related to healthcare, affordable housing, and enhancing quality of life.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
2025 Water Quality Grant Program
$10,000
City of Ellensburg
Local

Application Deadline

Aug 30, 2024

Date Added

Jun 25, 2024

The Ellensburg Community Grant Program offers a water quality-focused grant to support community-based projects aimed at improving or protecting surface water quality. Funded by the Stormwater Utility, this grant aligns with the broader mission of fostering a healthy environment where water quality sustains diverse organisms and safeguards public health. The program provides funding for community groups to engage in outreach, education, assessments, planning, implementation, prevention, and control initiatives specifically targeting the city's surface water. The grant targets eligible volunteer groups, including youth, seniors, non-profit organizations, and educational organizations. While business and governmental partners are encouraged to participate, they cannot be the primary applicants. The overarching impact goal is to improve stormwater quality within Ellensburg city limits. Projects are expected to demonstrate tangible improvements in surface water quality, educate a significant and diverse portion of Ellensburg's population about water quality and protective actions, and promote best practices to reduce or eliminate adverse impacts on water quality. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrably improve surface water quality, educate residents on water quality and actions to protect it, and teach best practices to minimize water quality impacts. Examples of eligible projects include public outreach and education, yard care initiatives, and litter pickup, all aimed at benefiting stormwater quality within the city. Projects must be situated within city limits, and if on publicly owned property, an agreement addressing various terms, including the use of minors as volunteers and hold harmless clauses, will be required. A total of $10,000 is available for this grant cycle. Expected outcomes include a more informed community regarding water quality issues, a reduction in pollutants impacting surface waters, and a greater adoption of environmentally sound practices. The programโ€™s theory of change is that by empowering and funding community groups to engage in direct action and education, Ellensburg can achieve measurable improvements in its surface water quality, thereby enhancing ecological health and public well-being. Grant funds explicitly prohibit projects that involve or promote the use of alcohol.

Education
Nonprofits
CFLL Historic Preservation Fund 2024
$6,000
Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln
Private

Application Deadline

Jul 12, 2024

Date Added

Jun 6, 2024

The CFLL Historic Preservation Fund, established by the Community Foundation for the Land of Lincoln, is dedicated to supporting the physical improvement of structures and promoting historic preservation within Springfield, IL. This grant program aligns directly with the foundation's mission by investing in the cultural and economic vitality of the community through the preservation of its historical assets. By focusing on historic properties, the fund aims to maintain the unique character and heritage of Springfield, contributing to a sense of place and community pride. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, faith-based organizations (provided proposals benefit all regardless of religion and are non-religious in nature), public or private schools with projects exceeding their budget funding, and certain government entities or municipalities. The impact goals include the successful rehabilitation, renovation, and upkeep of historic properties, as well as those with significant historic, economic development, or community value. The fund seeks to empower these organizations to undertake projects that might otherwise be financially unfeasible, thereby ensuring the long-term preservation of important community structures. The grant prioritizes historic preservation projects specifically within Springfield, IL. The focus is on tangible improvements to structures and initiatives that raise awareness and support for historic preservation efforts. While not explicitly detailed as a "theory of change," the foundation's strategic priority is evident in its commitment to local community development through preserving its historical infrastructure. This implicitly assumes that by investing in historic preservation, they contribute to economic development, tourism, and community well-being. Expected outcomes include improved conditions of historic buildings, increased public engagement with historic preservation issues, and enhanced community value derived from well-maintained historical sites. The grant awards, typically ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, with one or more grants up to $6,000, serve as measurable results of the fund's direct financial impact on these projects. The success of the program can be measured by the number of properties restored, the scope of the improvements, and the broader community benefits realized through these preservation efforts.

Infrastructure
City or township governments
Community Action Awards 2024
$5,000
Greater Washington Community Foundation
Private

Application Deadline

Jun 24, 2024

Date Added

Jun 7, 2024

The Richmond Health Equity Fund, an initiative of the Virginia Department of Health, aims to address disparities in health outcomes within the Richmond City community. This grant program is designed to provide crucial funding and resources to innovative and impactful initiatives that serve local residents. The foundation's mission aligns with the fund's objective to fill existing gaps in funding for vital health services and support programs, thereby promoting a more equitable health landscape in Richmond. The primary beneficiaries of this fund are Richmond-based single organizations, collaboratives, and individual leaders who are actively providing services in various health disparity focus areas. The ultimate impact goal is to reduce the burden of disparate health outcomes among Richmond's populations. This is achieved by supporting initiatives that directly tackle prevalent health challenges and foster improved community well-being. The program prioritizes several key health disparity focus areas, including access to care and health education, food access and security, maternal and child health, mental and behavioral health, substance use, treatment, and recovery, and underlying health conditions. Additionally, the fund is open to supporting emergent health outcomes where Richmond's populations face disproportionate burdens, demonstrating a flexible and responsive approach to evolving community needs. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the broad goal of filling funding gaps and supporting impactful initiatives, the implicit expected outcomes involve improved access to essential health services, enhanced health literacy, better nutrition, stronger maternal and child health outcomes, increased mental health support, reduced substance abuse, and better management of chronic health conditions for Richmond residents. The Virginia Department of Health's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on these specific health areas, aiming to foster a healthier and more equitable community through targeted interventions and support for local leadership and organizations.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
Cleveland Neighborhood Safety Fund
$1,000,000
Cleveland Foundation
Local

Application Deadline

May 10, 2024

Date Added

May 3, 2024

The Cleveland Foundation is accepting applications for the second round of grants from the Cleveland Neighborhood Safety Fund (CNSF). This fund aims to enhance the safety of all Clevelanders through community-centered violence intervention and prevention strategies, aligning with the Foundation's mission to establish, manage, and implement the NSF. The CNSF is guided by a nine-person advisory committee, including representatives from Cleveland City Council, Cleveland Administration, community leaders, and community members impacted by violence, ensuring a community-driven approach. The Request for Proposals (RFP) seeks to appropriate up to $1 million to community violence intervention and prevention partners (CVIP) for programs focused on the summer months of June, July, and August 2024, leading into the school year. Target beneficiaries include individuals involved in or at high risk of violence, youth within the justice system, and individuals experiencing violence. The impact goals are to reduce gun violence, divert youth from the justice system, and disrupt the cycle of violence in Cleveland's most affected neighborhoods. Proposals should support organizational capacity building through additional staff, program expansion, and increased outreach. The CNSF prioritizes a data-driven approach to creating safe and healthy neighborhoods, starting with people at the center of serious violence and extending outwards. The fund's strategic priorities include building the capacity of organizations and fostering a network of community providers and system partners. This network relies on skilled workers with a personal understanding of trauma who meet people where they are and form strong relationships. The theory of change involves a mutual commitment from partners of all sizes to engage in a violence prevention ecosystem that honors the interdependency of interventions and organizations to reduce violence. Expected outcomes include a reduction in gun violence through proactive strategies and meaningful relationships, successful diversion of youth from deeper involvement in violence and the juvenile justice system, and a disruption of the cycle of violence through direct interventions. Successful applicants are expected to participate in coordinated efforts with other funded agencies, engage in training and technical assistance for capacity building and fidelity to best practice service models, and participate in evaluation activities to inform continuous improvement and learning within the network. This comprehensive approach aims to achieve measurable results in community safety and well-being.

Safety
Nonprofits
Madison Area Sports Commission announces Youth Grant Program
Contact for amount
Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC)
Local

Application Deadline

Not specified

Date Added

Jun 7, 2024

The Madison Area Sports Commission (MASC) Youth Grant Program provides financial assistance to connect underserved youth in Dane County, Wisconsin, aged 17 and under, to sports activities. The program aims to foster lifelong enjoyment and health benefits through sports, aligning with MASC's broader mission to promote healthy lifestyles and combat childhood obesity. Established with contributions from the Ironman Community Foundation, individuals, corporations, and annual fundraisers, the grant program is a key initiative of MASC to serve its community. The primary target beneficiaries are Dane County youth, aged 17 and under, who are from populations underserved by existing sports programs. The program's impact goals are to assist children in developing healthy lifestyles by introducing them to sports that match their interests and abilities. This includes combating childhood obesity, creating positive emotional connections, and instilling commitment and daily structure in their lives. Key priorities and focuses for grant consideration include ensuring the child or children served are Dane County residents, aged 17 and under, and from underserved populations. MASC also prioritizes a mutual commitment between the sports program and individuals, and considers a broad scope of sports, including "minor" and individual sports. The quality of the sports program and the alignment of individuals with a suitable sport are crucial. Consideration is also given to the number of people impacted, the non-duplication of efforts, and the potential for program growth and quality maintenance. Transportation requests and capital construction (under specific conditions) are also considered. Expected outcomes include increased participation of underserved youth in sports, leading to the development of healthy lifestyles, improved physical and emotional well-being, and enhanced commitment and daily structure. The program's success is measured by the reach of the grant application, the growth and quality of participating sports programs, and the ability of the programs to meet the interests and abilities of the youth. MASC's strategic priority is to create sustainable opportunities for youth development through sports, with a theory of change centered on the idea that access to appropriate sports activities directly contributes to healthier, more engaged youth in the community.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
2025 Community Grant
Contact for amount
Hampton Roads Community Foundation
Private

Application Deadline

Not specified

Date Added

Nov 22, 2024

This grant provides funding to established organizations in southeastern Virginia for new programs or facility improvements that promote cultural, economic, educational, environmental, and health initiatives.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
Community Leaders
$250,000
Growing Justice Fund
Private

Application Deadline

Not specified

Date Added

Oct 28, 2024

This grant provides funding to support BIPOC+ communities in the U.S. working to improve food systems and secure contracts with large institutions for sustainable food procurement.

Law Justice and Legal Services
County governments
Developmental Disabilities in Missouri Program
Contact for amount
Greater Kansas City Community Foundation
Local

Application Deadline

Sep 25, 2024

Date Added

Aug 1, 2024

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is offering EITAS Grants to support services for Jackson County citizens with developmental disabilities. This program aligns with the foundation's mission to provide funding for the services, supports, and capital resources necessary for individuals with developmental disabilities to reside in and belong to their community. For over 35 years, EITAS has consistently funded essential services, demonstrating a long-term commitment to ensuring eligible individuals receive necessary support and care for their satisfaction and well-being. The target beneficiaries for these grants are individuals with developmental disabilities and their families residing within Jackson County, Missouri. The primary impact goal is to enable these individuals to live in and be integrated into their community, with an overarching aim of enhancing their satisfaction and well-being. The program seeks to achieve this by addressing critical needs that promote independence and community participation. The funding priorities for the EITAS Grants are focused on several key areas. These include transportation, inclusion with the community, crisis prevention and support, transition services, and safe, equitable access to housing. These priorities reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities, aiming to provide a supportive and inclusive environment. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided description, the expected outcomes are centered on improving the quality of life, fostering community integration, and ensuring access to essential support for individuals with developmental disabilities. The foundation's strategic priority is to continue funding programs that deliver these vital services, operating under the theory of change that by providing targeted financial support, they can directly enhance the well-being and community participation of this vulnerable population in Jackson County.

Infrastructure
Nonprofits
Career Readiness and Educational Access Grant Program
$10,000
Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts
Private

Application Deadline

May 17, 2024

Date Added

May 9, 2024

The Career Readiness and Educational Access Grant Program, spearheaded by the Community Foundation of North Central Massachusetts, aims to bolster the economic well-being of residents within its 33-community region. This initiative aligns directly with the Foundation's broader mission to advance economic wellness by enhancing access to education and effective career development. The program's core objective is to prepare local residents for family-supporting jobs through targeted career-related training, post-secondary education, and other educational initiatives, thereby fostering a stronger, more skilled workforce in North Central Massachusetts. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of North Central Massachusetts who seek to improve their career prospects and access higher education. The program's impact goals are centered on increasing educational attainment and career readiness, ultimately leading to greater economic stability for individuals and families. By focusing on critical areas such as scholarship programs, career exploration, and work-based learning, the Foundation seeks to create clear pathways to career advancement and ensure that residents are equipped with the necessary skills for in-demand jobs. The program prioritizes several key areas to achieve its objectives. These include funding scholarship programs that directly foster career pathways, initiatives that promote career exploration, and robust career navigation support systems. Additionally, the grant supports work-based learning programs that provide practical experience and intermediaries that connect stakeholders to essential career advancement resources and services. These priorities collectively form a comprehensive strategy to address various facets of career development and educational access. Proposals for competitive grants under this program are expected to adhere to specific principles that underscore the Foundation's strategic approach. Applicants must demonstrate a clear capacity for achieving and sustaining long-term impact, ensuring that investments yield lasting benefits. A detailed plan of action with evidence of its likelihood to achieve intended outcomes is also required. Furthermore, proposals must include measurable objectives and outcomes, alongside a robust plan for monitoring progress, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to accountability and data-driven results. This framework ensures that funded initiatives are not only impactful but also contribute to the Foundation's overall theory of change, which posits that increased access to education and career development opportunities will directly lead to improved economic wellness for the community.

Education
City or township governments
Municipal Open Space Grant Program
$500,000
County of Monmouth
Local

Application Deadline

Jul 11, 2024

Date Added

Jun 10, 2024

The Monmouth County Municipal Park Improvement Grant Program is designed to assist municipalities by providing additional funding for park improvements in municipal parks and open spaces. This program aligns with the broader mission of enhancing community well-being and access to recreational opportunities. Previously, the Municipal Open Space Grant Program was limited to $2 million annually and up to $250,000 per project. The new and expanded grant program is now funded at $6 million a year, with up to $500,000 available per project, significantly increasing its reach and potential impact. The program's scope has also expanded to include dredging projects for parks and recreation purposes, and the application process has been simplified and streamlined to encourage broader participation. The target beneficiaries of this program are Monmouth County municipalities, which are the only eligible applicants. While municipalities are the direct recipients, the ultimate beneficiaries are the residents and communities who will gain access to improved park facilities and recreational areas. The impact goals are centered around improving land for parks and recreation purposes. This includes the development of new recreational facilities, the expansion or enhancement of existing recreational opportunities, the preservation of historic resources within parks, and the implementation of new or innovative approaches to provide local access to open spaces and recreational activities. The program prioritizes projects that focus on these key areas. Additional priority is given to State-designated Urban Aid Communities and Overburdened Communities, ensuring that resources are directed to areas with the greatest need. The programโ€™s strategic approach includes setting limits on the number of applications and the dollars awarded to ensure that funding can support a larger number of municipalities rather than a few large projects. This also encourages a cooperative project model, with a required local contribution and local funding of ineligible expenses serving as a tangible demonstration of local commitment. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the number and quality of recreational facilities, expanded access to open spaces, and better preservation of historic resources within parks. The allowance for dredging projects directly contributes to improving and expanding access to recreational bodies of water. All projects must be for park, recreation, open space, and historic preservation purposes, with a deed of open space easement or other covenant restricting the use of the project site to these purposes required as a condition of the award. This ensures the long-term dedication of these sites to public benefit, reflecting a theory of change that by investing in local park infrastructure, communities will see improved quality of life, increased public health through active recreation, and enhanced environmental and cultural stewardship.

Recreation
City or township governments