Local Science and Technology Grants

The City of Flint has launched a new Youth Climate Action Fund, a microgrant program designed to empower youth-led climate initiatives. This program aims to support projects that advance critical community goals related to climate resilience, environmental sustainability, and community engagement. The fund's mission aligns with the broader objective of fostering a more sustainable and resilient Flint by investing in its younger generation as agents of change. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are youth aged 15-24 residing in Flint, who will collaborate with local groups, organizations, nonprofits, and schools to implement their projects. The impact goals are far-reaching, intending to cultivate youth leadership, increase community participation in climate action, and produce tangible environmental improvements within the city. This approach recognizes that youth are not only vulnerable to climate change impacts but also possess unique perspectives and innovative solutions. The fund prioritizes a diverse range of youth-led projects, including awareness, education, research, and development initiatives such as climate education programs, hackathons, surveys, and public art campaigns. It also supports youth-driven climate mitigation and adaptation projects like community gardening, tree planting, reforestation, urban farming, recycling, waste reduction, and disaster preparedness programs. Additionally, the fund encourages co-governed youth climate action plans, fostering partnerships between city leaders and youth groups to inform climate-related policy and the formation of youth climate ambassadors or advisory boards. Expected outcomes include a more informed and engaged youth population, a reduction in environmental waste and an increase in green spaces, improved community resilience to climate-related challenges, and the development of new climate-related policies influenced by youth perspectives. Measurable results will likely involve the number of youth engaged, the types and scale of projects implemented, the amount of waste diverted, the number of trees planted, and the development of new community programs or policies. The City of Flint's strategic priority through this fund is to build a foundation for long-term climate action by investing directly in its youth, thereby creating a sustainable future rooted in community-led solutions and a strong theory of change that empowers the next generation to tackle pressing environmental issues.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for projects that conserve and improve natural resources, targeting municipalities, nonprofits, schools, and private property owners in Hennepin County.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that assist small businesses, particularly those with five or fewer employees, focusing on underserved communities across Washington.

This program provides funding to nonprofit organizations in Turlock to support services that assist low- to moderate-income individuals, such as food assistance, homeless services, and youth programs.

This program provides funding for events and projects that promote tourism in Mauldin, helping to attract visitors and boost the local economy.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and government entities that enhance the welfare of residents in Fayette County, Iowa, through projects in areas such as arts, education, health, and community development.

This program provides financial support to commercial property owners and business tenants in Boyd to improve the exterior appearance and accessibility of their properties through renovations and enhancements.

The Ellensburg Arts Commission (EAC) invites artists and organizations to submit funding requests for art projects FOR 2025 within the City of Ellensburg. This grant program, with funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, aligns with the EAC's mission to enhance projects that involve community members or organizations in the design, concept, or creation of artwork. The EAC's support aims to foster a vibrant arts community and provide public benefit through artistic endeavors, as grants are part of their annual budget and approved by the City Council. The primary target beneficiaries are individual artists, groups of artists, and arts organizations in the performing or visual arts fields, who are 18 years of age or older. The impact goals include supporting the development of new artwork, facilitating arts-related events, promoting the interpretation of existing artwork, and encouraging the presentation of new artworks or collections. Through these initiatives, the EAC seeks to enrich the cultural landscape of Ellensburg and make art accessible to its residents. The program prioritizes projects based on budget feasibility, the candidate's experience, artistic merit, and public benefit. Funds must be expended for a legitimate municipal purpose, demonstrating a tangible benefit to the community. This includes commissioning or purchasing artwork for public benefit or sponsoring public performances. The EAC places a high priority on programs that best reflect its mission and core values, and directly serve the residents of Ellensburg. Expected outcomes include an increase in community engagement with the arts, the creation of diverse new artworks, and the presentation of various arts-related events. Measurable results could involve the number of projects funded, the reach of public art initiatives, and the number of community members participating in or benefiting from these projects. The EAC also requires acknowledgement of their funding through the inclusion of their logo in publicity and event-related collateral for sponsored projects. The EAC's strategic priorities are rooted in supporting arts programs and projects that merit public funding, recognizing that these grants are supported by public tax dollars. Their theory of change is that by investing in local artists and arts organizations, they can stimulate cultural growth, provide educational opportunities, and enhance the overall quality of life for Ellensburg residents. Eligible expenses for individual artists are between $1,000 and $2,500 and for arts organizations, they are between $1,000 and $2,500. These expenses include professional development, rental/purchase of materials, and promotional/marketing materials. The program encourages annual applications and emphasizes transparency and accountability, with guidelines such as not considering incomplete forms and potentially requesting a project explanation at an Arts Commission meeting. This structured approach ensures that public funds are utilized effectively to foster artistic expression and community enrichment in Ellensburg.

The City of Kirkland’s Tourism Program is offering the 2025 Event Grant Funding Program, aiming to attract visitors from 50 miles or more to Kirkland. This initiative is designed to bolster Kirkland's tourism environment and sustain the Tourism Program budget through revenues generated from overnight stays. Funds will be allocated for the marketing and operations of special events and festivals specifically crafted to draw tourists to the city, with distribution occurring on a reimbursement basis. The Kirkland Tourism Development Committee (TDC) has earmarked at least $60,000 for 2025, continuing a program that has awarded over $700,000 to tourism events and programs in the past. While new events are looked upon supportively, events with a proven track record of attracting visitors to Kirkland will also receive serious consideration. This strategy ensures both innovation and proven success are factored into the funding decisions. The target beneficiaries are organizations planning special events and festivals in Kirkland that can attract tourists. The impact goal is to increase the number of visitors traveling for business or pleasure who stay overnight in Kirkland, thereby enhancing the local tourism economy. The program prioritizes events that demonstrate a clear potential to draw visitors from outside a 50-mile radius. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism-related activities and revenue in Kirkland. Applicants are required to provide estimates of how the received funds will lead to an increase in the number of visitors. Post-award, organizations are legislatively mandated to report on their success in attracting these visitors. All funds are disbursed on a reimbursement basis, contingent upon the submission of a Tourism Funding Expenditure Report Worksheet and a Tourism Funding Reimbursement Form, ensuring accountability and measurable results for the program.

The City of Arlington is offering grants to public and non-profit agencies for projects that foster economic development and tourism within the city. This grant program aims to enhance the local economy and promote Arlington as a desirable destination. The funding available for these grants is $175,000, and awards will be allocated proportionally based on application scores, with higher-scoring projects receiving a larger share of the total funding. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are public and non-profit agencies that can demonstrate projects promoting economic growth and tourism. The impact goals are centered around increasing tourism, supporting local events, and improving tourism-related facilities. This will ultimately benefit the City of Arlington by boosting its economy and improving the quality of life for its residents through enhanced amenities and attractions. The program prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include tourism marketing initiatives, the marketing and operations of special events and festivals, the operation of tourism-related facilities owned by non-profit organizations, and the operations and capital expenditures of tourism-related facilities owned by municipalities. These focus areas are designed to directly contribute to the program's overarching goals of economic development and tourism promotion. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism activity, successful execution of special events and festivals, and the improved operation or development of tourism-related infrastructure. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the proportional funding allocation based on points, the requirement for a 25% project cost match indicates a commitment to projects with significant investment and potential for impact. Applicants are expected to provide details that will allow for the evaluation of the proposed project's benefits.

The City of Norfolk is launching a third round of its Notice of Funding Availability (NoFA) to support housing development and provide services to homeless and at-risk residents. This initiative is managed by the Norfolk Department of Housing and Community Development (NDHCD) and utilizes $4,517,686 in HOME Investment Partnerships American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funding. The core mission of this grant program aligns with addressing critical housing needs and supporting vulnerable populations within the city, reflecting a broader commitment to community welfare and stability. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are homeless and at-risk residents in Norfolk, as well as those in need of affordable rental housing. The impact goals are centered on increasing the availability of affordable housing options and enhancing supportive services for these populations. By doing so, the program aims to improve living conditions, reduce homelessness, and provide a pathway to stability for individuals and families facing housing insecurity. The program prioritizes the development of affordable rental housing and the provision of supportive services. These activities are outlined in Norfolk’s HOME-ARP Allocation Plan, which received approval from the US Housing and Urban Development in April 2023. Eligible applicants include local nonprofit organizations, quasi-governmental agencies, for-profit developers, and supportive service providers who demonstrate interest and capacity to administer activities to qualifying populations. The emphasis is on complete applications that adhere to NOFA directions. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of affordable rental units available and a broader reach of supportive services for the designated populations. While specific quantitative results are not detailed in the provided information, the allocation of over $4.5 million suggests a significant anticipated impact. The city's strategic priority, as evidenced by this third round of funding, is to continuously address housing challenges and support its most vulnerable residents, aligning with a theory of change that posits increased housing and services will directly lead to improved community well-being and reduced homelessness.

The Creative Learning Grant Program, sponsored by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC), is designed to foster the growth and capacity of Manhattan-based teaching artists and small arts organizations. Its core mission aligns with promoting community-based arts education projects for youth, adults, and older adults. The program is funded through a combination of City funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Greater New York Arts Development Fund and State funds from the New York State Council on the Arts’ (NYSCA) Statewide Community Regrants program, indicating a strategic partnership to broaden arts access. The primary beneficiaries are Manhattan's teaching artists and small arts organizations that are unable to directly apply for City and/or State arts funding. The program targets the development of sequential, skill-building arts study and participatory arts projects. The impact goals are to enrich communities through accessible arts education, delivered in local settings such as senior centers, recreation centers, public libraries, and community centers, thereby strengthening the cultural fabric of Manhattan. The program prioritizes organizations and individual artists with a core artistic mission or a history of arts programming, and those based in Manhattan with proof of nonprofit status (for organizations). A key focus is on supporting entities that do not directly apply to LMCC’s Creative Engagement program or for DCLA (GNYADF) or NYSCA (Statewide Community Regrants) funds in another county/borough for the same fiscal year. First-time applicants are required to attend an information session webinar to ensure understanding of the program's guidelines and expectations. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of high-quality, community-based arts education projects and an increase in the capacity of teaching artists and small arts organizations. Measurable results are demonstrated through the awarding of grants in amounts of $4,000 and $8,000, with projects taking place between January 1 and December 31, 2025. This structured approach ensures a clear project period and defined funding tiers for evaluation. LMCC's strategic priorities, as evidenced by this program, revolve around fostering local arts initiatives and ensuring that arts funding reaches a diverse range of artists and organizations who might otherwise face barriers to direct funding. The theory of change suggests that by empowering these local artists and organizations through financial support and capacity building, there will be a direct positive impact on community engagement with the arts and the overall well-being of Manhattan residents of all ages.

The City of Tucson is offering a two-year grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to local organizations and businesses for programs in areas such as relief for families and workers, small business support, community reinvestment, workforce development, and affordable housing, with a focus on long-term, data-driven investments to address inequities and expand community services.

The Cultural STAR Capital Project program offers grants to acquire or upgrade physical assets like buildings and equipment. These activities must demonstrate the potential for significant or long-term impact, and the expenditures must be depreciable. The program's core mission aligns with promoting cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly within Saint Paul's downtown Cultural District, by strengthening its arts and culture community. The target beneficiaries of the Cultural STAR fund are primarily nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located within the City of Saint Paul. For-profit businesses located in the Cultural District are also eligible for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment. The program aims to build and diversify audiences, promote a broad range of cultural offerings, produce a long-term impact, and leverage additional financial support. The expected outcomes include attracting audiences, developing and improving cultural facilities, and building the capacity of artists and cultural organizations. The program's geographic focus prioritizes the Cultural District, with at least 80% of funds allocated to nonprofit organizations within this area. The remaining 20% can go to for-profit businesses in the Cultural District for visitor enhancement projects or nonprofit organizations in Saint Paul but outside the Cultural District. The Cultural District is specifically defined by Interstate 94 to the north, the Lafayette Bridge to the east, Harriet and Raspberry Islands to the south, and Chestnut Road to the west. The Cultural STAR program offers various funding types: Special Projects Grant, Organizational Development Grant, or Capital Project Grant. Applicants can apply for only one type per funding round, and grants can generally be received once per calendar year. However, Saint Paul-based nonprofit arts and cultural organizations outside the Cultural District may apply twice per round and receive funding up to two times per calendar year. The minimum grant request is $5,000, with estimated available funding in 2024 being $796,366 for the Cultural District and $199,091 for outside the Cultural District and for-profit businesses. The project period for successful applications is from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2026.

This funding provides up to $2,000 for specific projects that benefit women, children, and families in Licking County, focusing on tangible outcomes rather than broader programs.

JustReinvest is offering a grant of up to $75,000 for community-based organizations in Maricopa County, Arizona, to fund programs that address priority areas such as violence prevention, economic development, neighborhood beautification, and health and wellness improvement, particularly in historically under-resourced neighborhoods and marginalized populations, funded by the Justice Reinvestment Fund which is supported by state tax revenues from the sale of recreational marijuana.

This funding opportunity supports arts and culture projects in the Aurora Cultural Arts District to boost economic development and engage diverse audiences, welcoming applications from local organizations and individual artists.

The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) Cardiovascular Health Unit is requesting proposals to bridge community and clinical sectors among Minnesota adults. The primary goal is to improve heart health and reduce the impact of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes, especially within communities disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease. These communities include Black or African American, American Indian or Alaska Native, and Hmong/Asian American populations. The grant duration is 3 years, with an estimated start date of October 1, 2024, and a projected end date of June 30, 2027. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to address health disparities and promote equitable health outcomes across Minnesota. The grant prioritizes organizations that serve the identified disproportionately impacted communities. Project proposals should demonstrate how organizations will create or enhance existing community-clinical linkages to increase referrals to social needs, culturally relevant supports, and/or lifestyle change programs. The target beneficiaries are adults with hypertension, high cholesterol, or other risks of cardiovascular disease in these focus populations. The impact goals are to improve heart health and reduce the impacts of related chronic conditions. Projects must focus on increasing referrals to one or more of three categories of support. Category 1 involves social services and supports addressing areas where individuals live, learn, work, and play. Category 2 focuses on culturally responsive education and/or support for chronic condition prevention, screening, follow-up, and self-management. Category 3 emphasizes evidence-based lifestyle change programs that target hypertension or high cholesterol. These priorities reflect a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health, acknowledging both medical and social determinants of health. The expected outcomes include increased referrals to relevant support programs and improved heart health among the target population. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond "increase referrals," the emphasis on evidence-based programs and social determinants suggests a framework for tracking engagement and health indicators. The funding information indicates an estimated annual award range of $20,000-$60,000, with an estimated total of $60,000 annually awarded, suggesting a focus on impactful, community-level interventions. Eligible applicants are diverse and include clinics or healthcare organizations, community-based organizations, community health boards/local public health, nonprofit organizations, faith-based organizations, tribal governments, and social service organizations. This broad eligibility criteria indicates the MDH's strategic priority to leverage a wide array of community assets to achieve its public health goals. The program's theory of change appears to be that by strengthening community-clinical linkages and providing targeted, culturally relevant support, health disparities in cardiovascular disease can be reduced.

The City of Lawrence's Affordable Housing Trust Fund is accepting applications to provide and improve the quality, availability, and affordability of housing in Lawrence. This initiative aligns with the mission of the Affordable Housing Advisory Board (AHAB) to ensure everyone in Lawrence has access to safe, quality, affordable housing and supportive services for independent living with dignity. The fund is supported by a local sales tax, demonstrating a community-wide commitment to addressing housing needs. The primary target beneficiaries are low-to-moderate income households and residents within the City of Lawrence city limits. The impact goals include increasing the supply of affordable housing, preserving existing affordable housing stock, and enhancing accessibility. Additionally, the program aims to provide housing vouchers for low-income households, increase community awareness on affordable housing issues, and advance racial equity in housing. The program prioritizes several key areas, including affordable housing or land acquisition, new affordable housing development, and rehabilitation of existing affordable housing for preservation. It also focuses on accessibility modifications for households with specific needs to maintain affordable and accessible housing, as well as projects that specifically advance racial equity in housing. Investing in private/public partnerships for the provision of affordable housing is also a central focus. The City of Lawrence anticipates awarding up to $1.2 million in Affordable Housing Trust Funds. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of affordable housing units, improved quality of existing affordable housing, and greater accessibility for those with specific needs. The program also aims to reduce housing insecurity through vouchers and foster a more equitable housing landscape within Lawrence, with success measured by the number of projects funded and the households served.

The Ulster County Food Security and Resilience Grant Program, a collaborative effort between Ulster County and the Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley, aims to address food insecurity within Ulster County, New York. This program aligns with the findings of the Ulster County Food Security and Access Network (UCFSAN) Report, indicating a shared commitment to improving food access and resilience in the region. The Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley acts as the donor, facilitating the distribution of funds to eligible organizations. The grant program targets tax-exempt organizations, including faith-based organizations, that are either located in or provide services to Ulster County. These organizations must have operated as a nonprofit for at least one year with 501(c)(3) status or have an established fiscal sponsorship. The primary beneficiaries are individuals and communities within Ulster County experiencing food insecurity, particularly in critical geographic areas with limited provider access. The overarching impact goal is to enhance food security and resilience across the county. Funding priorities and focuses include proposals that effectively address food insecurity, leverage existing resources, expand emergency food services, and increase the capacity to collect, store, distribute, and provide food to those in need through equipment or personnel. A key focus is also on ensuring the sustainability of organizations working on food insecurity and supporting those operating in underserved areas. The grant program seeks to support "change-oriented" programs that address root causes rather than just immediate needs, aligning with a strategic approach to long-term community impact. Expected outcomes include a measurable reduction in food insecurity, improved access to emergency food services, increased capacity within food assistance organizations, and enhanced sustainability for these providers. The review criteria emphasize the quality of the program/project, the organization's capacity and stability, the clarity and realism of the budget, and the potential for significant impact and measurable results. Organizations are expected to have viable evaluation plans to demonstrate the likelihood of successfully measuring their impact, ensuring accountability and effective resource utilization.