Local Grants

The Tustin Cares program, offered by the City of Tustin in partnership with the Orange County-Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC), presents the Main Street Digital Training & Grant Program. This initiative aims to provide vital training and funding to retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits within Tustin, specifically targeting an increase in their social media presence and overall revenue. While not explicitly stating a "foundation mission alignment," the program's focus on local business development and recovery suggests an alignment with broader community economic well-being and resilience, particularly in the wake of financial hardships. The target beneficiaries of the Main Street Digital Program are for-profit commercially-zoned brick-and-mortar retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits physically located in Tustin. Eligibility criteria specify that businesses must have had an active Tustin business license since the first quarter of 2023, possess a minimum of 2 employees and no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees as of December 31, 2023, and be in good standing with the City. Businesses that have participated in previous Main Street Digital Programs are ineligible, but those that received alternative COVID-19 related funding, such as EIDL or PPP loans, are eligible. The program's priorities and focuses are squarely on digital presence and revenue generation for small businesses and nonprofits. The SBDC has developed a virtual training program specifically designed to assist businesses with "Creating a Digital Presence." This emphasis highlights the City of Tustin's strategic priority to empower local enterprises with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace, thereby fostering economic growth and stability within the community. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an enhanced social media presence and increased revenue for participating businesses and nonprofits. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted digital marketing training and financial assistance, local businesses will be better equipped to reach customers, expand their operations, and ultimately contribute to the economic revitalization of Tustin. The requirement for businesses to certify financial hardship due to COVID-19 and the $500 grant amount, which cannot exceed the amount of lost revenue, also suggest an immediate goal of alleviating pandemic-related economic strain.

The Clayton County Tourism Authority (CCTA) FY24 Tourism Grant Program is designed to bolster visitor and tourism promotional efforts and enhance tourism product development within Clayton County, Georgia. This grant program is administered by the CCTA, utilizing funds derived from a portion of the local hotel/motel tax. The core mission alignment is to foster local economic impact by increasing tourism, specifically through heightened visitation from outside the Clayton County area and by elevating the county's appeal as a destination. The program targets entities such as not-for-profits, governmental, or quasi-governmental organizations that have demonstrated at least one year of fiscal operation and represent ongoing, sustainable operations. Beneficiaries must be located in Clayton County, or if a festival/event, it must take place within the county. The primary impact goal is to increase the number of overnight visitors to Clayton County from outside the area, thereby generating economic benefits and enhancing the county's destination appeal. The grant program prioritizes initiatives that support Clayton County's key tourism drivers, which include African American History and Culture, Diversity and Inclusion, the local and international Culinary Scene, and Film Festivals. Special consideration is given to projects that align with these drivers and the CCTA's strategic priorities and target audiences. Allowable expenses cover the development of new events or major exhibits, out-of-market tourism advertising and marketing (considered 50+ miles outside Clayton County), production costs for media advertising, photography, videography, website and social media development, and professional marketing services, with a cap of 10% on postage expenses. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in tourism and visitor engagement, leading to enhanced local economic impact. The CCTA's strategic approach is to fund marketing, product development, and other qualified expenses that directly contribute to attracting more external visitors. This theory of change posits that by investing in targeted promotional activities and tourism product enhancements, the county will become a more attractive destination, resulting in greater visitation and sustained economic growth. Applicants are expected to demonstrate the ability to execute their projects and provide a sponsorship benefits package equivalent to the grant funds received, ensuring a reciprocal benefit for the CCTA.

The Historic Preservation Board’s Building Restoration Grant, offered by the City of Lafayette, Colorado, provides crucial financial support for the repair and restoration of buildings aged 50 years or older. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to preserve and celebrate Lafayette's historical architectural heritage, ensuring the longevity and aesthetic appeal of its older structures. The grant program directly supports the strategic priority of maintaining the city's unique historical character and promoting community pride in its past. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are owners of commercial buildings, houses, churches, and outbuildings within Lafayette city limits that are at least 50 years old. The program aims to encourage the preservation of these structures, with impact goals centered on preventing deterioration, enhancing historical aesthetics, and extending the lifespan of these significant buildings. By supporting both structural and cosmetic projects, the grant ensures a comprehensive approach to historical preservation. The grant prioritizes projects that demonstrate longevity, focusing on repairs that will significantly extend the building's lifespan. It also emphasizes appearance, encouraging the use of historic materials where applicable to maintain architectural integrity. Furthermore, the program encourages the use of Lafayette-based contractors or DIY efforts, fostering local economic activity and community engagement. Urgency of need is also a key consideration, along with thorough research on the property's history, which aligns with a broader theory of change that sees informed preservation efforts leading to more impactful and sustainable outcomes. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the condition and historical accuracy of older buildings throughout Lafayette. Measurable results will be assessed through the number of successful restoration projects completed, the extent of structural and cosmetic improvements, and the documented use of historical materials. The grant, offering between $1,000 and $10,000, with grants up to $3,000 to support preservation, aims to contribute to a vibrant historical landscape, reinforcing the city's strategic priority of cultural preservation and enriching the lives of its residents.

This grant provides financial support to residents, Home Owner Associations, and community organizations in Centennial to host inclusive neighborhood events that foster community engagement and social cohesion.

The Workplace Safety Grants for Health Care Entities program, authorized by 2023 Session Law Chapter 70, Article 4, Section 109, is designed to enhance safety measures in health care settings. This includes establishing or expanding programs that train staff in de-escalation and positive support services. The program's core mission is to prevent workplace violence and foster long-term improvements in safety and stability for both staff and patients within health care environments. This aligns with broader strategic goals of creating secure and supportive health care systems. The program primarily targets various health care entities within Minnesota. Eligible applicants include long-term care facilities, acute care hospitals with 49 or fewer beds located in rural areas, critical access hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, and community health clinics. The impact goal is to significantly reduce incidents of workplace violence and improve the overall safety culture within these institutions, leading to better patient care and staff well-being. The program's key priorities are centered on implementing effective safety measures and providing comprehensive training. This includes de-escalation techniques and positive support services to equip staff with the necessary skills to manage challenging situations. The focus is on proactive prevention and creating environments where staff feel secure and empowered to deliver quality care. Expected outcomes include a measurable decrease in workplace violence incidents, improved staff morale, and enhanced patient safety. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) anticipates awarding approximately $1,500,000 through 30 grants in this funding cycle, with a maximum award of $50,000 per grant. Grant agreements are estimated to begin on October 1, 2024, and conclude on September 30, 2025, demonstrating a clear timeline for the expected results and program impact.

The Wyoming Arts Council’s Creative Fellowships program, established in 1986, honors Wyoming's literary artists whose body of work demonstrates exceptional writing. This program is rooted in supporting artistic excellence within the state, aligning with a mission to foster and recognize literary talent. The program is designed to provide financial support and recognition to deserving writers, thereby contributing to the cultural richness of Wyoming. The primary beneficiaries of this fellowship are Wyoming literary artists who are at least 18 years old, not full-time students, US citizens or legal residents, and have been domiciled in Wyoming for at least 20 months in the past two years. The program specifically targets writers in the categories of Poetry, Creative Nonfiction, and Fiction. The impact goal is to empower these artists, enabling them to continue their craft and contribute to the literary landscape, while also elevating Wyoming's artistic profile. The program prioritizes exceptional writing and artistic merit, as applications are juried by noted authors, literary agents, or writing professionals from outside the state. It focuses on identifying and rewarding literary excellence across three distinct categories. A key focus is also on promoting a sense of community among Wyoming writers, as recipients are expected to share their work at one of the three Wyoming literary conferences. Expected outcomes include the continued production of high-quality literary work by Wyoming artists, increased recognition for these artists, and a more vibrant literary community within the state. Measurable results include the awarding of up to three fellowships annually, with each recipient receiving $5,000 upfront. The program also ensures a spread of awards by stipulating that artists cannot receive the fellowship within a four-year period and are limited to two lifetime awards, promoting wider participation and impact.

The Buncombe County Tourism Development Authority’s Tourism Product Development Fund (TPDF) aims to provide financial assistance for major tourism capital projects. Its core mission is to increase patronage of lodging properties and further economic development within Buncombe County. The fund aligns with the broader goal of fostering sustainable growth and enhancing the region as a desirable destination. The target beneficiaries of the TPDF are non-profit organizations and government entities that develop major tourism capital projects. The impact goals are to create jobs, foster entrepreneurial opportunities, provide amenities for both residents and visitors, and ultimately increase overnight lodging stays in Buncombe County. Projects that directly increase lodging stays or support larger initiatives to do so are evaluated equally. The TPDF prioritizes capital investments, focusing on "brick and mortar" projects. Operational expenses are not considered for funding, though design fees already expended can count towards the required 1-to-1 funding match. Projects must be principally located in Buncombe County, demonstrate the ability to increase lodging patronage, and not solely benefit a single lodging owner or property. Applicants must also have legal control of the property and show how they will achieve a minimum 1-to-1 funding match. Expected outcomes include enhanced financial stability for requesting organizations, successful and sustainable project operations, and effective sales and marketing plans that draw visitation. The TPDF also seeks projects that differentiate the destination through brand alignment, uniqueness, and innovation, and those that promote the local creative sector. Measurable results are assessed by the ratio of overnight lodging generated to funding requested, and the project's ability to create new and incremental room nights, not just pull from existing visitors. Furthermore, the TPDF aligns with BCTDA’s strategic imperatives to deliver balanced recovery and sustainable growth by distributing visitors geographically and seasonally. Projects that encourage safe and responsible travel, and those that support engagement with and appeal to more diverse audiences, receive greater consideration. The overarching theory of change is that strategic capital investments in tourism infrastructure will lead to increased visitor numbers, economic benefits, and a more vibrant community, all while ensuring sustainable and equitable development.

The City of Shelby offers a grant program designed to enhance the visual appeal of commercial storefronts. This initiative aims to support property and business owners by offsetting a portion of eligible improvement costs, thereby contributing to the overall aesthetic and economic vitality of the city. The program operates on a 50% matching basis, requiring applicants to contribute an equal share to their project costs, with grants typically capped at $5,000 per individual project. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis for work approved by the City of Shelby. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are commercial property and business owners within the City of Shelby. The program's core objective is to improve the appearance of their storefronts, which in turn is expected to foster a more attractive and welcoming business environment. While not explicitly stated as a foundation, the City of Shelby's mission alignment for this grant likely centers on community development, local business support, and urban beautification, contributing to a thriving local economy and improved quality of life for its residents. The program prioritizes improvements that directly impact the exterior aesthetics and functionality of commercial properties. Eligible enhancements include exterior painting, signage, awnings, storefront/facade cleaning and restoration, sidewalks, lighting, storefront security devices, new roofs, permanent flower boxes and planters, and other related exterior upgrades. Applications will not be accepted for work already completed, and grants are limited to one per business or storefront per year. This focus ensures that the grants directly contribute to visible and tangible improvements within the city. The expected outcomes of this grant program are enhanced curb appeal for commercial properties, increased attractiveness of business districts, and a potential boost in local commerce due to improved visual environments. While specific measurable results such as increased foot traffic or business revenue are not detailed, the program's success will likely be gauged by the number of completed projects, the visible transformation of storefronts, and positive feedback from both business owners and the community. The strategic priority of the City of Shelby, through this program, is to invest in its commercial infrastructure, demonstrating a theory of change where targeted financial assistance leads to tangible improvements, ultimately benefiting the entire community.

The Community Foundation for the Twin Tiers is offering a grant of $4300 in 2024 to non-profit organizations, including 501(c)(3) agencies, that serve the Borough of Knoxville, Tioga County, Pennsylvania for charitable, scientific, or educational purposes.

Grant Opportunity: West Bend Event and Tourism Development Grant Eligibility Criteria: To be eligible for consideration, event or tourism development projects must meet the following criteria: The event must take place in the City of West Bend between October 1, 2024, and March 31, 2025. The event must be open to the public, with the option to charge admission. Preference will be given to nonprofit organizations. Priority will be given to new and expanding events that direct marketing efforts outside of West Bend and Washington County. Application Process: Application Deadline: May 22, 2024, at noon Review and Award Date: Tuesday, May 28, at noon (City Hall Council Chambers) Grant Details: The West Bend Tourism Commission reserves the right to: Reject applications Award partial or total grant requests Not award grants up to $10,000 each grant period Contact Information: For inquiries regarding the grant program and application, please contact: Jessica Wildes, Assistant City Administrator Phone: 262-335-5170 Email: wildesj@ci.west-bend.wi.us

The Neighborhood STAR program, administered by the City of Saint Paul’s Department of Planning and Economic Development (PED), is a grant initiative established in 1993. It allocates revenue from the city’s half-cent sales tax to fund capital improvement projects that enhance the vitality of Saint Paul neighborhoods. This program offers reimbursement grants of $5,000 or more, aiming to strengthen the community through various physical improvements. The program's mission aligns with fostering neighborhood growth and economic development within Saint Paul. The target beneficiaries of the Neighborhood STAR program include public, private, non-profit, or for-profit entities located in or doing business within Saint Paul. Additionally, city departments, quasi-governmental entities, churches, and religious organizations can apply when in partnership with a neighborhood and/or community group, provided their projects are non-sectarian, open to the public, and for non-religious functions. The program specifically excludes political groups, federal/state/county agencies, and individual homeowners/condominium/townhome owners. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the vitality of the city's neighborhoods through tangible capital improvements. The program prioritizes a diverse range of capital improvement activities. These include renovation, rehabilitation, and construction of commercial, residential, or industrial properties; fixed interior and exterior improvements such as walls, ceilings, floors, lighting, and HVAC; minor public improvements; and beautification of public or private open spaces with elements like trees, rain gardens, and play equipment with a life expectancy of 7+ years. Creative placemaking/placekeeping activities, including public art, are also encouraged, especially those that promote cultural diversity. Non-profit neighborhood organizations providing funding programs for local businesses and homeowners are also eligible. Expected outcomes of the Neighborhood STAR program include revitalized commercial, residential, and industrial properties, improved public and private spaces, enhanced community aesthetics, and increased accessibility. Measurable results could include the number of properties renovated, the square footage of improved public spaces, the installation of new public art or infrastructure, and the successful completion of projects within the anticipated September 1, 2024 – August 31, 2026 timeframe. Grant requests up to $50,000 do not require matching funds, simplifying access for smaller projects and further demonstrating the city's strategic priority to support neighborhood-level improvements directly.

The Adams County Community Foundation's Adams County Grants program is designed to foster innovative solutions for strengthening vulnerable populations by addressing systemic issues. The foundation's mission is aligned with this program through its commitment to creating a meaningful and sustained difference in people’s lives, particularly low-income residents, by helping them move toward self-sufficiency. This overarching goal guides the program's focus on supporting initiatives that build capacity, implement effective programs, and foster collaboration within the community. The program primarily targets vulnerable residents of Adams County, Pennsylvania. The impact goals are to help nonprofits become more effective in addressing resident needs, enable low-income residents to achieve self-sufficiency, and advance critical areas such as affordable housing, transportation, and economic development through collaborative efforts. By focusing on these areas, the foundation aims to create a ripple effect that improves the overall well-being and stability of the community. The Adams County Grants program has three primary focus areas: Capacity Building Grants, Program Grants, and Collaboration Grants. Capacity Building Grants, up to $25,000, are intended to strengthen nonprofits' ability to effectively serve vulnerable residents. Program Grants, also up to $25,000, support initiatives that help low-income residents move towards self-sufficiency. Collaboration Grants, up to $30,000, are specifically for significant collaborative projects that advance affordable housing, transportation, and economic development. These defined priorities ensure that funding is directed towards projects with the greatest potential for systemic impact. Expected outcomes include increased effectiveness of nonprofits, a measurable increase in self-sufficiency among low-income residents, and tangible progress in affordable housing, transportation, and economic development initiatives. The foundation's strategic priorities are evident in the emphasis on systemic change and collaboration, with a clear theory of change that by investing in capacity building, impactful programs, and collaborative projects, they can achieve lasting positive change for vulnerable individuals and the wider community.

The City of Naperville has received National Multistate Opioid Settlement funds from the State of Illinois. The City Council has approved $100,000 of these funds to be awarded in grants specifically for opioid remediation programs and services this calendar year. Settlement restrictions apply. Please review the guidelines below before beginning your application: 1) Organizations applying are not required to be a non-profit 501(c)(3) or recognized by the State of Illinois as a non-profit organization. School districts, medical providers, coalitions and faith communities are welcome to apply, as are non-profit organizations and providers. Entities that have already received 2024 City of Naperville grant funding are eligible to apply for additional funding. 2) Programs and services must qualify as an Approved Abatement Program and impact Naperville residents. Approved Abatement Programs include the following: 4) Grants are reimbursement-based. Grantees must accrue costs prior to requesting reimbursement from the City of Naperville. 5) Applications are available May 1, 2024 and due May 31, 2024. 6) Grant funds will be awarded in June 2024 and must be expended, with reimbursements processed, by December 31, 2024. Please tailor your request to ensure that you can expend your funds within this timeframe. A Final Program & Financial Report must be filed by January 31, 2025. By submission of this application you are certifying that to the best of your knowledge and belief, data in this application is true and correct, the document has been duly authorized by the governing body of the applicant, and the applicant will comply with all regulations applicable to City of Naperville grant programs and settlement restrictions. Submit completed grant applications with attachments (Zip file recommended) to: Miranda Barfuss Community Grants Coordinator 630-305-5315 barfussm@naperville.il.us

The King County Flood Control District is offering Flood Reduction Grants to address flood risks and enhance community resilience within King County, Washington. This program aligns with the District's mission to protect residents and infrastructure from flooding, demonstrating a commitment to proactive environmental management and public safety. The grants are designed to support a variety of projects that contribute to flood reduction and related environmental benefits. The target beneficiaries for these grants include a broad spectrum of entities such as non-profit organizations, special purpose districts, Tribes, cities and towns within King County, and King County agencies. Homeowner associations and schools are also eligible for the "Original Flood Reduction Grant" category. The impact goal is to significantly reduce potential or existing flood risks to property and public infrastructure, while also promoting ecological improvements such as fish passage restoration and shoreline stabilization. The program prioritizes projects across four distinct categories: Original Flood Reduction, Urban Streams, Coastal Erosion/Coastal Flooding, and Culvert Replacement/Fish Passage. Each category has specific focuses, from general flood reduction projects and stormwater retrofits in the Original Flood Reduction category, to green infrastructure and stream restoration in Urban Streams. Coastal Erosion/Coastal Flooding projects emphasize increasing resiliency to sea level rise and restoring shorelines without increasing hard armored shorelines. Culvert Replacement/Fish Passage projects focus on restoring fish passage while also demonstrating flood risk reduction. Expected outcomes include tangible reductions in flood frequency and severity, improved water quality, enhanced habitat for fish and wildlife, and increased community resilience to climate change impacts, particularly sea level rise. Measurable results will be tied to the successful implementation of projects, such as the number of culverts replaced, acres of shoreline restored, or properties protected from flooding. The District's strategic priority is to invest in solutions that offer both immediate flood protection and long-term environmental sustainability, reflecting a theory of change that integrates ecological restoration with hazard mitigation to create more resilient communities. The total amount available for 2024 is at least $12 million, with matching funds encouraged but not required, demonstrating a robust commitment to these outcomes over a grant duration of three years.

Groundwork Grants, developed in partnership with Myriad Consulting & Training and funded by the California State Library, aims to provide essential financial support to institutions that document the experiences of individuals, groups, and communities whose contributions to California's history and culture have been historically underrepresented. This program directly aligns with a broader mission to safeguard California's cultural heritage in its most inclusive form for future generations. By focusing on underrepresented narratives, the grant supports a more complete and equitable understanding of the state's diverse past and present. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are organizations that document historically underserved and underrepresented communities. This includes, but is not limited to, African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latinx, Native American groups, persons with disabilities, those experiencing poverty or homelessness, veterans, farmworkers, LGBTQ+ individuals, senior residents, immigrants, refugees, and rural communities. The program's impact goals are to address identified needs related to emergency readiness within these institutions, reduce response and recovery costs in the event of a disaster, and ultimately ensure the long-term preservation of invaluable cultural heritage assets. The grant prioritizes institutions that represent or document these historically underserved communities. Additionally, priority is given to organizations that have recently undergone preservation assessments, particularly those incorporating disaster readiness, through a Ready or Not consultation or other qualified preservation consultants. This focus on both inclusive representation and proactive disaster preparedness ensures that the most vulnerable and vital cultural heritage assets are protected. Expected outcomes include improved emergency readiness among cultural institutions, a reduction in the economic burden of disaster response and recovery, and the enhanced safeguarding of California's cultural heritage. Measurable results will stem from the allocation of over $1 million in competitive funding for the first round, with maximum individual awards of $15,000. Support options include assistance in disaster plan development, disaster recovery and spill kits, preservation supplies, environmental monitoring equipment, staff training, consultations with facilities specialists, and supplies for minor building maintenance or security needs. The emphasis on practical support aims to directly address and mitigate risks to cultural heritage.

The Louisiana Main Street Restoration Grants program, overseen by the Louisiana Office of Cultural Development, is designed to stimulate community revitalization and economic growth within designated Louisiana Main Street districts. This initiative aligns with a broader mission of enriching cultural tourism and improving community economic health through the thoughtful reinvestment in and preservation of historic downtown commercial properties. By fostering renewed interest in shopping, working, and living downtown, the program seeks to leverage historic preservation practices as a catalyst for local economic vitality. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are property owners or tenants of commercially-zoned properties within designated Louisiana Main Street districts. The program specifically targets buildings that are at least 50 years old and contribute to the significance of the local Main Street district, with some exceptions for newer buildings meeting National Register criteria for exceptional significance. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the physical and economic health of these historic districts, ensuring the preservation of their architectural heritage while simultaneously promoting a vibrant commercial environment. The grant prioritizes exterior improvements that visually and economically contribute to revitalization, such as restoring or replicating original interior architectural features. It also supports the installation or repair of fire suppression systems for commercial ground-floor spaces or new upper-story income-producing residential developments in historic commercial buildings. A unique focus includes parapet lighting, utilizing commercial-grade white or color LED lights to create a festive atmosphere across adjoining buildings for at least one block, and the restoration of historically significant signage or theater marquees. New commercial signage is explicitly not supported. Expected outcomes include enhanced aesthetic appeal and functionality of historic commercial properties, increased community engagement and interest in downtown areas, and ultimately, a stronger local economy. Measurable results could include the number of properties restored, the amount of private investment leveraged by grant funds, an increase in foot traffic or commercial activity, and the sustained use of historic buildings. The program’s strategic approach centers on utilizing historic preservation as a core economic development tool, reflecting a theory of change that posits by investing in the physical fabric of historic downtowns, communities can unlock broader economic and cultural benefits, making these areas more attractive for residents and visitors alike.

The Robert A. Mills Foundation provides grants to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations that support charitable, religious, scientific, literary, humanitarian, scholarship, or educational purposes. The foundation's mission is broadly aligned with these areas, aiming to foster positive societal impact across a diverse range of initiatives. This grant program is designed to be inclusive, encouraging a wide array of non-profit efforts that contribute to community well-being and advancement. The target beneficiaries for these grants are individuals and communities served by organizations dedicated to the aforementioned purposes. The foundation's impact goals are centered on supporting programs that demonstrate clear need, practicability, and usefulness. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the encouragement for specificity in grant proposals implies a desire for grantees to outline anticipated outcomes and the methods for achieving them. The foundation prioritizes a broad spectrum of program areas, including arts, culture, and humanities; education; environment and animals; health; human services; public/society benefit; and religion. This comprehensive approach reflects a strategic priority to address various facets of societal needs. Although there are no geographic restrictions, the foundation historically supports organizations within the New Jersey area, indicating a regional focus within its broader philanthropic strategy. The Robert A. Mills Foundation's strategic priorities are to empower eligible organizations to implement impactful programs. Its theory of change appears to be rooted in the belief that by funding diverse charitable, religious, scientific, literary, humanitarian, scholarship, and educational endeavors, it can contribute to a stronger, healthier, and more knowledgeable society. The application process, requiring submission through an online form and adherence to 501(c)(3) eligibility, ensures that resources are directed towards credible and well-structured initiatives.

The Albemarle Agribusiness Resiliency Grant, offered by Albemarle County, is designed to support direct-market agribusinesses within the county that are experiencing long-term financial impacts from the pandemic, including those caused by inflation and rising interest rates. The program aims to offset these increased costs of capital, which can hinder growth and reinvestment opportunities for local businesses. While a specific "foundation mission alignment" or "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change" is not explicitly stated as this is a county grant rather than a foundation, the county's implicit mission aligns with supporting local economic resilience and sustainable development within its agribusiness sector. The primary target beneficiaries are direct-market agribusinesses located in Albemarle County, Virginia. This includes businesses that sell products to restaurants, caterers, and local stores, as well as orchards, wineries, cideries, and those operating at farmers markets. The impact goals are centered on enhancing the financial stability and operational capacity of these agribusinesses, enabling them to navigate economic challenges and continue their contributions to the local economy. The grant prioritizes several key areas for funding. These include new capital investments such as machinery, tools, and other business equipment, which directly support operational improvements and expansion. Additionally, the grant focuses on expenses incurred since July 1, 2022, to advance sustainable agricultural practices, enhance public health, safety, and welfare for employees or visitors, and comply with state or local regulations. Up to 20% of awarded funds can also be allocated for advertising and marketing, recognizing the importance of market visibility for direct-market businesses. The expected outcomes include strengthened agribusinesses within Albemarle County, leading to sustained operations, improved competitiveness, and continued economic activity. Measurable results would involve the number of grants distributed (anticipated to be 3-8 grants in this round), the total budget utilized ($60,000 for this round), and the types of investments made by awardees. Although not explicitly detailed as a "theory of change," the county's approach suggests that by providing direct financial assistance for critical investments and operational needs, agribusinesses will be better positioned to adapt to economic pressures, fostering a more resilient and thriving local agricultural economy.

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

The Movember Indigenous Men’s Wellbeing Innovation Initiative is a grant funding and capacity building program aimed at empowering Indigenous-led organizations. This initiative supports the development, implementation, and evaluation of innovative programs and interventions to enhance Indigenous men's social and emotional wellbeing (SEWB). As one of four initiatives under Movember’s new Indigenous Social and Emotional Wellbeing Portfolio, it aligns with Movember's broader mission to build voice, capability, and power among Indigenous boys and men to design, lead, implement, and sustain SEWB in their communities, and to strengthen knowledge of effective SEWB strategies. The grant specifically targets Indigenous boys and men across all life stages in the United States. The program's core focus is on delivering innovative new programming or strengthening existing promising approaches that demonstrate improvements in SEWB. Movember aims to foster cultural connection and pride, embrace cultural knowledge, elevate overall social, emotional, spiritual, and physical wellbeing, strengthen resilience, enhance health literacy, and improve access to culturally appropriate spaces and services that support SEWB. These priorities are central to achieving the desired impact of improved holistic wellbeing within Indigenous communities. Eligible applicants must be Indigenous owned/managed/led organizations based in the United States, legally able to accept grant funds, and either implementing an existing SEWB program with promising evidence or proposing a new program aligned with the funding goals. This ensures that the initiatives are culturally relevant and community-driven. Movember’s strategic priorities reflect a commitment to supporting Indigenous self-determination and strengthening community-based solutions. The initiative provides annual funding of up to USD $250,000 per applicant for three years. The expected outcomes include a significant improvement in SEWB among Indigenous boys and men in the USA, measurable through indicators such as increased connection to culture and community, enhanced resilience, improved health literacy, and better access to culturally appropriate support services. This investment reflects Movember’s theory of change, which posits that by empowering Indigenous-led organizations and fostering innovative, culturally relevant programs, lasting positive impacts on Indigenous men's wellbeing can be achieved.