Science and Technology Grants

The Travel Oregon City grant program invites applications from non-profit and for-profit organizations to fund public events that attract tourists, support local businesses, and enhance the community's tourism brand, with a focus on transparency, financial stability, visitor attendance estimation, vendor involvement, and annual application for funding.

The City of Mishawaka's 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program aims to ensure decent affordable housing, provide services to vulnerable community members, and create jobs through business expansion and retention. This program is a vital tool for local governments to address community challenges, aligning with the broader mission of community development and support for low and moderate-income individuals and areas. The program targets several key beneficiaries and impact goals. It focuses on homeless individuals by improving and increasing public services. It also addresses the needs of special populations, including youth, the elderly, disabled, and low-income individuals, through public service programs like feeding and social welfare initiatives. Housing is another critical area, with goals to promote homeownership, develop new affordable housing, preserve existing owner-occupied housing, and make accessibility improvements. The Mishawaka Consolidated Plan, covering 2025-2030, outlines specific priorities and focuses. These include Homeless Priority-Public Services, Special Needs Priority-1 Public Services, and various Housing initiatives such as Homeownership Assistance, Affordable Housing, and housing preservation and rehabilitation. Community Development Priority focuses on improving public and community facilities, infrastructure (streets, walks, curbs, ADA ramps), and eliminating slum conditions through demolition. Administration, Planning and Management, and Fair Housing are also key priorities, ensuring sound program oversight and promoting fair housing choices. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in decent affordable housing, enhanced public services for vulnerable populations, job creation, and improved community infrastructure. The program seeks to assist low and moderate-income persons and families in achieving homeownership, provide accessible housing, and revitalize blighted areas. Through these initiatives, the City of Mishawaka is implementing a strategic approach to community development, guided by a theory of change that posits that by addressing fundamental needs in housing, public services, and infrastructure, the overall quality of life for all residents will significantly improve. Eligible activities for CDBG funding are diverse and designed to help low and moderate-income individuals, households, or areas. These activities encompass Public Facilities and Improvements, Code Enforcement, Architectural Barrier Removal, and a wide array of Public Services (including youth, senior, childcare, homeless shelter operations, services for persons with HIV/AIDS, and crime prevention). Other eligible activities include Planning, Housing Services (down payment assistance, renovation), Microenterprise Assistance, Economic Development Assistance, and Façade Improvements for Private Businesses. This comprehensive approach ensures that various community needs can be addressed effectively.

U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE U.S. Embassy Morocco Notice of Funding Opportunity Funding Opportunity Title: Space and Climate Camp Funding Opportunity Number: PAS-MOROCCO-FY24-10 Deadline for Applications: September 4, 2024 Assistance Listing Number: 19.040 Total Amount Available: $35,000 A. PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The U.S. Embassy in Morocco is pleased to announce an open competition for organizations to submit applications to carry out a Space Climate Camp for students ages 18-25. This camp will offer hands-on learning opportunities for 30 Moroccan participants to explore and discover the role of the space industry in climate adaptation. The camp's curriculum will include activities such as satellite data analysis for environmental monitoring, workshops on designing sustainable space missions, and the use of space technology in addressing climate challenges. Additionally, the camp will provide lectures and workshops led by scientists, engineers, and other experts in the field to help participants understand the science behind space exploration and its applications in climate adaptation. Participants will also work on projects related to space and climate, applying the knowledge and skills gained during the camp to develop innovative solutions and strategies. The camp will also provide opportunities for participants to interact and socialize with other space and climate enthusiasts, and to develop teamwork and leadership skills. It will have a strong participation of trainers with a connection to the United States, application of U.S. models, or approaches typically applied in the United States. The overall goal of this camp is to inspire, educate, and empower young Moroccans to pursue their interests in space exploration and technology, and to support their development as future leaders in STEM fields, particularly in the context of climate adaptation. Please follow all instructions below. Priority Region: Morocco Program Objectives: 1. Inspiring Interest in Space Science and Climate Adaptation: The camp aims to foster a love of space exploration and learning about climate adaptation among the participants, encouraging them to pursue further education and careers in these interconnected fields. 2. Fostering Personal Growth and Development: The camp will create an environment that is safe, inclusive, and supportive, where participants can develop new skills, build confidence, and broaden their professional networks. This setting will allow them to explore their interests deeply and develop a sense of responsibility and initiative. 4. Encouraging Environmental Awareness: The camp will promote an awareness of the importance of protecting the planet and its natural resources, encouraging participants to think critically about environmental issues and solutions. By integrating space technology and climate adaptation topics, the camp will highlight the role of innovative technologies in addressing environmental challenges. Applicants are encouraged to submit proposals that use a mix of interactive activities and learning experiences to help participants develop their skills. All proposals should contain a proposed syllabus covering the title and content of sessions and how each relates to the overall program objectives. Proposals should also include a detailed explanation of how applicants will be recruited and a description of how program activities will bring about the intended results. All program activities should have a strong American focus. Curriculum modules should include U.S. models, examples, and precepts. Participants and Audiences: 30 to 40 participants ages 18 to 25 years old B. FEDERAL AWARD INFORMATION Length of performance period: 3 to 6 months Number of awards anticipated: 1 award. Award amounts: awards may range from a minimum of $30,000 to a maximum of $35,000. Total available funding: $35,000 (successful proposals may be expanded pending availability of funding) Type of Funding: FY24 Smith Mundt Public Diplomacy Funds Anticipated programs start date: Grant will be signed in September 2024, but camp date will be set for 2025. This notice is subject to availability of funding. Funding Instrument Type: Cooperative agreement. The Public Affairs Office will be actively involved in the award implementation. U.S. Embassy staff will: 1) Provide standardized logos/branding guidelines for promotional materials. 2) Approve marketing materials and participate in promotional activities of the program, utilizing the U.S. Missions social media platforms and media contacts. 3) Approve proposed venues. 4) Approve participant and trainer recruitment and selection plans. 5) Assist in identifying and contacting alumni of U.S. government exchange programs, representatives of U.S. companies, and enlisting U.S. Mission personnel as potential speakers or trainers. 6) Review and approve proposed program speaker and trainer rosters and activity/workshop/site visit content and formats. Program Performance Period: Proposed programs should be completed in 6 months or less. The Department of State will entertain applications for continuation grants funded under these awards beyond the initial budget period on a non-competitive basis subject to availability of funds, satisfactory progress of the program, and a determination that continued funding would be in the best interest of the U.S. Department of State. C. ELIGILIBITY INFORMATION 1. Eligible Applicants The following organizations are eligible to apply: - Only Moroccan Non-Profit, committed, and organized NGOs and CSOs with full SAM.gov registration will be eligible to receive funds for this funding opportunity. - Individual applicants and U.S. organizations and NGOs are not eligible. 2. Cost Sharing or Matching There is no minimum or maximum percentage required for this competition. 3. Other Eligibility Requirements To be eligible to receive an award, all organizations must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) number issued via www.SAM.gov as well as a valid registration on www.SAM.gov. Please see Section D.3 for more information. Individuals are not required to have a UEI or be registered in SAM.gov. D. APPLICATION AND SUBMISSION INFORMATION 1. Address to Request Application Package Application forms required below are available at U.S. Embassy Morocco website. Applications should be sent to Rabatgrants@state.gov no later than Wednesday, September 4, 2024, at midnight. All questions about this NOFO should be addressed to: Rabatgrants@state.gov (Subject: Space and Climate Camp) 2. Content and Form of Application Submission: Please follow all instructions below carefully. Proposals that do not meet the requirements of this announcement or fail to comply with the stated requirements will be ineligible. Content of Application Please ensure: The proposal clearly addresses the goals and objectives of this funding opportunity All documents are in English All budgets are in U.S. dollars All pages are numbered All documents are formatted to 8 x 11 paper, and All Microsoft Word documents are single-spaced, 12-point Calibri font, with a minimum of 1-inch margins. The following documents are required: 1. Mandatory application forms SF-424 (Application for Federal Assistance organizations) SF-424A (Budget Information for Non-Construction programs) SF-424B (Assurances for Non-Construction programs) Applicant Organizational Information Form Project Narrative form (Must use the provided template) Detailed proposed program (No template provided) Budget Proposal (in USD) (please use $1 = 10 MAD as exchange rate) CVs for Director and key project personnel (you should provide in English) Final registration papers for the organization ( ) (you can provide in Arabic) 2. Unique Entity Identifier and System for Award Management (SAM.gov) Required Registrations: All organizations, whether based in the United States or in another country, must have a Unique Entity Identifier (UEI) and an active registration with the SAM.gov. A UEI is one of the data elements mandated by Public Law 109-282, the Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act (FFATA), for all Federal awards. Submission Dates and Times Applications are due no later than Wednesday, September 4, 2024 3. Funding Restrictions N/A 4. Other Submission Requirements All application materials must be submitted by email to Rabatgrants@state.gov

The Arizona Water Protection Fund (AWPF) is a competitive state grant program that provides funding to interested parties for the development and implementation of measures to protect water of sufficient quality and quantity to maintain, enhance, and restore river and riparian resources throughout Arizona (including projects that benefit fish and wildlife that are dependent on these important resources), and measures to increase water availability and supply. Financial Notes: Matching funds are not required to be eligible for AWPF funding; however, projects that do include matching funds typically receive higher consideration.   Administrative costs must be limited to a maximum of 5% of the total AWPF project funds requested.  Subcontractors or consultants working on your project must also conform to the 5% administrative cost limit if you are paying them out of AWPF funds.   Payments are made on a cost reimbursement basis.  Appropriate documentation (e.g., receipts, invoices, reports, data, and photographs) will be required in order to receive reimbursement.   Adequate accounting practices and record keeping will be required.

The Island Foundation is accepting applications for a grant program, with a deadline of 10/23/2024, aimed at supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island that focus on environmental conservation, social change in New Bedford, alternative education, and addressing inequality for womxn and girls.

The Roanoke County Economic Development Authority’s Business Equipment Acquisition Program (BEAP) Grant is designed to support eligible for-profit businesses within Roanoke County by providing funding for the acquisition of new capital. This program aligns with the Authority's mission to foster economic growth and strengthen local businesses by enabling them to bolster their operations. The grant directly addresses the need for capital investment, which is crucial for business expansion and modernization. The primary target beneficiaries of the BEAP Grant are for-profit businesses located in Roanoke County that meet specific eligibility criteria. To qualify, businesses must employ more than three full-time employees at a physical location in the county, have operated for at least one year, hold a current County or town business license, and be in good standing with all local ordinances and tax requirements. The program's impact goal is to stimulate economic activity by encouraging businesses to invest in new equipment, thereby enhancing productivity, creating jobs, and contributing to the overall economic vitality of Roanoke County. The program prioritizes the acquisition of new capital that falls under taxable business personal property or business machinery and tools, as defined by the Roanoke County Code. Examples of eligible acquisitions include tangible personal property such as furniture, fixtures, office and business machines, tools, and equipment used in various professions. Computer equipment (excluding software) and machinery and tools used in manufacturing, mining, processing, broadcasting, dry cleaners, commercial laundry, and dairy businesses are also specifically eligible. This focus ensures that funding supports tangible assets that directly contribute to operational improvements and business growth. The expected outcomes of the BEAP Grant include increased capital investment by local businesses, enhanced operational capabilities, and ultimately, job retention and creation within Roanoke County. Measurable results will be tied to the number of grants awarded, the total value of capital acquisitions facilitated, and the subsequent economic impact, such as growth in business personal property tax rolls. By providing financial incentives, the program aims to accelerate the modernization and expansion of local enterprises, reinforcing the Authority's strategic priority of nurturing a robust and competitive business environment through direct support and strategic investment.

The Rock Charitable Fund, administered by the Northern New York Community Foundation, is currently accepting applications for grants ranging from $100,000 to $500,000. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission to support the well-being and historical preservation within St. Lawrence County, New York. The fund emphasizes projects that address existing structures and elements, as well as providing technical assistance and planning support, indicating a strategic priority on sustainable development and preservation rather than new construction or significant alterations to historic properties. The primary beneficiaries of the Rock Charitable Fund include 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, churches, houses of worship, cemeteries, and government entities. The fund targets projects that contribute to the maintenance and preservation of these institutions and places of historical significance within St. Lawrence County. Additionally, the fund aims to benefit and/or assist Veterans of the United States Military residing in St. Lawrence County by addressing their medical and recreational needs through qualified organizations. The impact goals are centered on enhancing community resources, preserving local heritage, and improving the quality of life for Veterans. The program's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined. For historical and religious properties, there's a strong preference for exterior projects that are publicly visible and accessible, though interior improvements may be considered. Peripheral or incidental projects are not desired. For cemeteries, support covers the property as a whole or aesthetically significant portions, explicitly excluding individual burial plots or monuments without special justification. For Veterans, grants are awarded to qualified organizations serving them, not directly to individuals, and can support programs for medical and recreational needs. This structured approach highlights a theory of change that leverages established organizations to create broader community benefit and long-term impact. Expected outcomes include the successful preservation and maintenance of historically significant sites and religious institutions, ensuring their continued benefit to the public. For Veterans, the anticipated result is improved access to medical and recreational support, contributing to their overall well-being. Measurable results could include the number of structures preserved, the extent of public access improved, and the number of Veterans served by supported programs. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its commitment to tangible, community-focused projects that have a lasting positive effect on St. Lawrence County's heritage and its Veteran population.

This grant supports public schools, youth organizations, and nonprofits in Wyoming to engage young people in wildlife conservation and natural resource projects through hands-on learning and community involvement.

The Tennessee Department of Economic and Community Development (TNECD) is offering the Site Development Grant Program, aimed at enhancing Tennessee's nationally recognized Select Tennessee certified sites and preparing other locations for certification. This initiative aligns with TNECD's mission to foster economic growth and community development across the state by improving site readiness and attracting new businesses. The program primarily targets governmental entities such as cities, counties, and Industrial Development Boards. The key beneficiaries are communities across all Tennessee counties that will see improved infrastructure and increased potential for economic investment. The impact goals are to strengthen the state's industrial site inventory, stimulate job creation, and encourage capital investment by making sites more attractive for development. The grant prioritizes several key areas, including construction activities (access roadways, utilities, rail lines), property-related activities (purchase of property, right-of-way, due diligence studies), rehabilitation of publicly-owned industrial buildings, brownfield remediation, and speculative building construction. Specific focuses include ensuring sites are at least 20 acres (10 acres in Tier 3 and 4 counties) and have undergone specific site evaluations for the Select TN certification program, PEP, or Invest Prep. Due diligence grants are limited to $100,000, while the maximum for other site development grants is $5,000,000. Expected outcomes include a significant increase in the number of certified, development-ready sites across Tennessee, leading to enhanced competitiveness for attracting businesses. Measurable results will include the number of sites improved, the square footage of speculative buildings constructed, the amount of brownfield acreage remediated, and ultimately, the number of new businesses attracted and jobs created. The program implicitly operates on a theory of change that improved infrastructure and development-ready sites directly lead to increased economic activity and a stronger statewide economy.

The Systems Change grants from the Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina are designed for organizations committed to influencing and guiding change in structural factors and systemic policy issues that have caused, reinforced, or worsened poverty in South Carolina. This grant program directly aligns with the foundation's mission to address the root causes of poverty by supporting initiatives that aim for long-term, systemic solutions rather than just addressing symptoms. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in its focus on understanding and disrupting the underlying issues that perpetuate poverty, emphasizing a comprehensive and collaborative approach. The target beneficiaries of these grants are people experiencing poverty in South Carolina, and the impact goals are to disrupt, reduce, or eliminate specific barriers and issues within the structural factors associated with poverty. Organizations seeking funding must be addressing one or more of these structural factors and have identified clear issues they intend to tackle. The foundation's theory of change appears to be centered on the belief that by addressing systemic problems through research, policy reform, advocacy, and collaborative solutions, lasting improvements in health, safety, and economic mobility can be achieved for vulnerable populations. The program prioritizes organizations that bring diverse people together to understand the entire system, coordinate various interventions, and work collaboratively across multiple sectors, including government, faith-based groups, social service agencies, funders, and the business community. This focus underscores the foundation's commitment to holistic and integrated solutions. Furthermore, organizations are expected to demonstrate long-term goals and strategies, grounded in extensive research, planning, evaluation, continuous learning, and the integration of diverse perspectives. Expected outcomes and measurable results include fostering systems-level change, informing government policy for more effective and equitable practices, and creating innovative solutions through advocacy and collaboration. Examples of funded nonprofits include those conducting research to undergird systems-level change, informing government policy for more equitable practices, and engaging in advocacy to address structural issues affecting the health, safety, and economic mobility of people experiencing poverty. The grant size ranges from $10,000 to $100,000, with a typical median of $15,000-$20,000, suggesting a focus on impactful, yet often specific, interventions.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations in Texas, particularly in Dallas County, for initiatives in education, health, human services, and scientific research aimed at improving community well-being.

The Sisters of Charity Foundation of South Carolina is offering the Breaking the Cycle Grant Program, which aligns with its mission to create and sustain pathways to economic mobility and self-sufficiency. This program targets organizations that deliver proven initiatives aimed at disrupting the cycle of poverty and fostering long-term, sustainable economic change. The grants are designed to support individuals, families, and communities in achieving greater economic stability and independence. The program's priorities and focus areas include supporting comprehensive, multi-layered programming that addresses poverty through integrated services and two-generation approaches. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a deep understanding of the complex issues surrounding poverty in their communities, reflecting this understanding in their values, practices, and programming. The foundation emphasizes supporting initiatives that are informed by research, utilizing both internal long-term data and emerging best practice models. Expected outcomes and measurable results for grant recipients include clear short-term and long-term goals, distinct indicators for success, and the ability to demonstrate participants' progression out of poverty. Organizations are expected to carry out effective, ongoing program evaluation and adapt their strategies based on lessons learned and participant feedback. This commitment to continuous improvement ensures that programs remain effective and responsive to the needs of those they serve. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on fostering economic mobility through collaborative and evidence-based approaches. They seek organizations that not only implement effective programs but also demonstrate effective formal and informal partnerships with other organizations. While the grant duration is not explicitly mentioned, the funding information indicates grants typically range from $15,000 to $20,000 within a broader possible range of $10,000 to $100,000, underscoring a commitment to significant, impactful investments in breaking the cycle of poverty across all counties in South Carolina.

This funding provides financial support to build free broadband networks for low-income communities, including public housing and mobile home parks, ensuring residents have access to high-quality internet service.

The Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia's Summer Grant Program is designed to address a diverse range of community needs through several distinct funds, each with its own focus but all aligned with the foundation's overarching mission of improving the quality of life in Western Virginia. While the specific mission statement of the foundation is not explicitly detailed, the various fund objectives clearly demonstrate a commitment to supporting vulnerable populations, promoting animal welfare, and enhancing health services and general well-being within the communities it serves. The program seeks to foster positive change by strategically allocating resources to qualified nonprofit organizations that can deliver impactful services. The program targets a broad spectrum of beneficiaries, from individuals and families facing catastrophic circumstances to victims of cancer, the elderly, children, families, and handicapped/disabled persons. Animal welfare organizations and programs promoting positive human-animal relationships are also key beneficiaries. The impact goals are multifaceted, aiming to alleviate suffering, provide essential care and assistance, prevent cruelty, advance medical research, and improve overall health and quality of life. Each fund has specific impact objectives, such as preventing cruelty to animals, supporting battered women, providing cancer care, assisting with end-of-life medical needs, and generally improving community well-being. The program prioritizes several focus areas through its various funds. The Larry Woodrow Vest Fund supports general varying needs within Floyd County. The Phalia M. and Guy M. Kinder Fund focuses on preventing animal cruelty, promoting animal welfare, and advancing research for animal diseases. The Earl D. and Carrie Leigh Doran Fund is dedicated to assisting individuals and families in catastrophic situations and supporting organizations that aid battered women. The Cancer Center Fund targets organizations providing health services, education, diagnostics, and treatment for cancer victims in the Martinsville community. The Hospice Fund offers assistance and services to needy residents in the Martinsville area with end-of-life medical needs and expenses. Additionally, the Special Interest Funds broadly support services for children and families, handicapped/disabled persons, the elderly, and initiatives promoting health and quality of life, including breast health services. The expected outcomes and measurable results, while not explicitly defined with numerical targets in the provided text, can be inferred from the stated objectives of each fund. For instance, for the Phalia M. and Guy M. Kinder Fund, outcomes would include a reduction in animal cruelty cases and advancements in animal disease research. The Earl D. and Carrie Leigh Doran Fund would aim for improved support for individuals in crisis and increased assistance for battered women. The Cancer Center Fund would expect enhanced health services and educational resources for cancer patients, leading to better diagnostic and treatment outcomes. Similarly, the Hospice Fund would contribute to improved end-of-life care and reduced financial burden for needy residents. The Special Interest Funds would see improved services for various vulnerable groups and an overall enhancement in community health and quality of life indicators. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on identifying critical community needs and channeling resources through established, effective nonprofit organizations. The approach is to provide grants that address specific challenges, with the belief that by supporting these targeted initiatives, a positive and lasting impact can be made on the lives of individuals, families, and the broader community. The geographic focus on Western Virginia, with specific counties and cities identified for each fund, demonstrates a strategic effort to address localized needs and maximize the effectiveness of grant funding within those areas. The eligibility criteria, which emphasize supporting qualified nonprofit organizations, further underscore the foundation's commitment to strategic and impactful philanthropy.

This funding opportunity provides classroom teachers in Dutchess, Putnam, and Ulster Counties, New York, with financial support for innovative classroom projects and professional development initiatives to enhance student learning and teacher skills.

The Jean P. Fitton Grant Program, funded by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, is accepting applications from 501(c)3 nonprofits, public schools, and public-school foundations in Monterey County, California, offering $1,000 to $10,000 for programs benefiting K-12 teachers, nonathletic scholastic and arts programs, and necessary equipment and facility improvements, with a deadline of October 4, 2024.

The grant titled "ROSES 2024: C.27 Lucy in the L4 Trojans Participating Scientist Program" is a funding opportunity by NASA's Science Mission Directorate for research and technology in space and Earth sciences, with a specific focus on the Lucy in the L4 Trojans project, and it invites proposals from various types of organizations, both domestic and foreign.

The Air Products Greater Massena Community Fund, administered by the Northern New York Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations and local governing bodies. Its primary mission is to enhance the quality of life for residents within the Greater Massena community. This aligns with the foundation's broader goal of supporting community needs, as evidenced by its commitment to programs that benefit areas such as health and wellness, arts and culture, human services, education, families, youth and/or elders, environment and conservation, community development, and recreation. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of the Greater Massena community, particularly those in disadvantaged communities within St. Lawrence and Franklin Counties. The impact goal is to improve various aspects of community life through diverse programs and initiatives. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed for each category, the evaluation process emphasizes the potential impact on the Massena community, especially its support for disadvantaged populations. The grant program's priorities and focuses are broad, encompassing a wide array of community needs. These include, but are not limited to, health and wellness, arts and culture, human services, education, families, youth and/or elders, environment and conservation, community development, and recreation. Each grant request undergoes an evaluation based on its potential impact, the amount of available funding, and the quality of the applicant's planning, leadership, and proposal support. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on fostering positive community development and improving the quality of life through targeted financial support. By providing grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, with an upper limit of $7,500 per application, the fund aims to empower local organizations and governing bodies to address pressing community needs. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024, indicating a structured approach to funding cycles. More information can be found by visiting the Northern New York Community Foundation.

The Open Space Lands Acquisition and Development (OSLAD) Program, managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources (IDNR), is a state-financed grant initiative designed to assist local government agencies in acquiring and/or developing land for public parks and open spaces. This program aligns with a mission to enhance community access to outdoor recreational opportunities and preserve natural resources throughout Illinois. The primary beneficiaries of the OSLAD grants are units of local government authorized to expend public funds for public outdoor park, recreation, or conservation purposes. This excludes school districts. The program aims to increase the availability of public parkland, improve existing recreational facilities, and protect natural areas. Expected outcomes include expanded park sites, renovated recreational facilities, and preserved natural resources, leading to improved quality of life and access to nature for Illinois residents. The program prioritizes both land acquisition and development/renovation projects. Acquisition projects focus on securing land for new park sites, park expansion, water frontage, nature study, and natural resource preservation. Development/renovation projects encompass a wide range of improvements, including picnic and playground facilities, outdoor nature interpretive facilities, sports courts and play fields, swimming pools, campgrounds, winter sports facilities, park roads, parking, utilities, and restrooms. Measurable results include the number of acres acquired for public use, the types and numbers of facilities developed or renovated, and the increase in public access points to natural areas. Funding is substantial, with up to $1,725,000.00 available for acquisition projects and a maximum of $600,000 for development/renovation projects, reflecting a strategic commitment to significant, impactful projects. While not explicitly detailed as a "theory of change," the program operates on the premise that investing in public outdoor spaces directly contributes to community well-being, environmental stewardship, and opportunities for recreation and education.

The Community Foundation of NCW's New Legacy Funds Grant Program represents a strategic shift towards place-based, community-centered grant distribution, replacing the Regional Impact Grant as the primary source of funding for nonprofits across North Central Washington. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to address community needs through a localized approach, leveraging the insights of local advisory boards (LABs) to guide the grant-making process. The program emphasizes direct community involvement, ensuring that funding decisions are informed by those who best understand their community's critical needs and enrichment opportunities. The target beneficiaries of the Legacy Fund Grants are nonprofits operating within specific geographic regions: Cashmere, Chelan Valley, Methow Valley, Okanogan Valley, Upper Valley, and Wenatchee Valley. The program aims to provide unrestricted funding, empowering these organizations to effectively meet community needs within their respective areas. The impact goal is to foster meaningful community development and address a diverse range of local challenges, reflecting the philanthropic legacies of individuals and families who established these funds. The program's priorities and focus areas are comprehensive, encompassing Arts, Culture, Humanities; Community Service/Social Benefit; Environmental/Animal Protection; Health and Human Services; and Youth Development. This broad scope allows the foundation to support a wide array of initiatives that contribute to the overall well-being and vitality of the communities in North Central Washington. The emphasis on unrestricted funding underscores the foundation's trust in local nonprofits to allocate resources where they are most needed and effective. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the program's structure suggests an expected outcome of strengthened local charitable organizations and enhanced capacity to address community needs. The foundation's strategic priority is to integrate more community members into the grant-making process, thereby creating a more responsive and effective funding mechanism. The underlying theory of change appears to be that by empowering local advisory boards and providing flexible funding to geographically targeted nonprofits, the foundation can achieve more impactful and sustainable community development outcomes.