Private Community Development Grants

The Walter Cerf Community Fund (WCCF), administered by The Vermont Community Foundation, offers grants to address various charitable needs throughout Vermont. Its mission aligns with the Foundation's goal of supporting communities by focusing on key areas like the arts, education, historic preservation, and social services. A significant aspect of the WCCF's strategic priority is to support initiatives that address the needs of underserved populations within these focus areas. The fund also prioritizes proposals that foster cooperation, collaboration, and community building, reflecting a theory of change that emphasizes collective impact for broader community benefit. The WCCF aims to benefit organizations serving either a statewide constituency with a unique contribution to Vermont, or those located in or serving the populations of Addison County or Brandon. Approximately 70% of available funds are allocated to programs and projects in/or serving the Addison County/Brandon area, with the remaining 30% supporting statewide initiatives. This targeted approach seeks to achieve impact goals of strengthening local communities while also addressing broader state-level needs. Expected outcomes include enhanced access to arts, improved educational opportunities, preserved historical sites, and strengthened social services, particularly for underserved groups. The fund offers both small ($500-$5,000) and large (up to $25,000) grant requests. Small grants can be used for program/project support or general operating support, while large grants are strictly for program/project-specific initiatives and are reserved for organizations serving Addison County or Brandon. This structured approach to grant sizing and scope allows for both flexible support for smaller, local needs and more substantial, focused investments in specific projects with measurable results in the designated areas. The WCCF typically will not fund an entire project, preferring projects that demonstrate support from a variety of sources, which encourages broader community investment and sustainability. Eligibility for WCCF grants requires organizations to be located in or serve the people of Vermont, and to be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or be a public agency or municipality in Vermont. Nonprofit organizations without 501(c)(3) status may apply with a fiscal sponsor. The foundation maintains a strict non-discrimination policy based on actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital or parental status, political affiliation, military service, and physical or mental ability, ensuring that its funding initiatives are inclusive and equitable. This commitment to non-discrimination reflects a core strategic priority to foster an inclusive Vermont where all individuals have the opportunity to participate in and benefit from community programs.

The Veterans grant program, funded by El Dorado County and administered by the El Dorado Community Foundation, aims to support the veteran community at large. This aligns with the foundation's mission to facilitate impactful local initiatives, by providing financial assistance for operations, programs, or property improvements/repairs specifically benefiting veterans. The foundation acts as a conduit for county funds, ensuring they reach eligible organizations dedicated to supporting this vital demographic. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are organizations or groups that serve individual veterans within El Dorado County, California. While individuals are not directly eligible for grants, the program is designed to ultimately benefit veterans by supporting the organizations that provide them with essential services and resources. The impact goals include enhancing the quality of life for veterans through various support mechanisms, such as program funding and infrastructure improvements, ensuring their needs are met within the community. Key priorities for the program include funding nonprofits and ensuring accountability in the use of funds. Preference is given to organizations with established programs and a track record of consistently applying for other grants or engaging in separate fundraising efforts, indicating sustainability and commitment. A significant focus is also placed on compliance, requiring organizations to be recognized charitable concerns by the IRS (including 501(c) corporations, churches, government agencies, and schools) and to be in compliance with the IRS, CA SOS, FTB, and CA DOJ. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of veteran-supportive programs, improved facilities, and enhanced operational capabilities for organizations serving veterans. Measurable results could be tracked through final impact reports, which are a mandatory requirement for previous grants before new funding is released. The grant amounts, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, are intended to provide meaningful support that can lead to tangible improvements for the veteran community. The foundation's strategic priorities, as demonstrated by this program, revolve around community investment and targeted support for specific demographics. The theory of change appears to be that by strategically funding established and compliant organizations, the foundation can effectively leverage resources to address critical community needs, in this case, those of veterans. The emphasis on sustained engagement (organizations must sit out 1.5 years between requests) and financial prudence (funds do not need to be used in the year requested but long-term use must be specified) further underscores a commitment to long-term, impactful change rather than short-term fixes.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Louisiana that are focused on improving community health and education through evidence-based projects.

The Creative Howard grant program is offered by the Howard County Arts Council (HCAC) to support small nonprofit arts organizations and arts businesses in Howard County, Maryland. The program aims to strengthen the vitality of the arts community and provide funding for eligible activities. Grants of up to $2,500 are available, and there is no matching fund requirement. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit arts organizations or arts businesses located and operating in Howard County for at least one year with an operating revenue of $100,000 or less. The program supports a wide range of arts activities, including dance, design, folk and traditional arts, history exhibits, literature, media arts, music, theater, visual arts, and workshops. Applications can be submitted on a rolling basis with a deadline of the first day of each month at 11:59 PM. The grant period for FY24 is from September 1, 2023 to June 30, 2024. Applicants may receive funding for only one application per fiscal year. The application process must be completed online using the Submittable platform. A final report is required within 15 business days after the funded project occurs.

This funding opportunity supports agricultural programs, educational initiatives, and community projects in Miami County, Ohio, aimed at strengthening local agricultural and leadership organizations.

This funding opportunity supports Baltimore-based nonprofits in implementing community-driven programs that improve digital literacy and access to technology for vulnerable populations, including older adults and minorities.

The Simmons Family Foundation, established in 1986 by Roy W. and Elizabeth E. Simmons in Salt Lake City, is dedicated to enhancing the virtues of good citizenship through support for religious, medical, community, art, and educational initiatives. With a focus on serving the people of Utah, the Foundation prioritizes projects and organizations that align with its mission. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) or 170(c) non-profit organizations. The Foundation emphasizes a preference for direct project funding over organizations that grant funds to others.

The Colorado Gives Foundation is offering the Early Care and Education Grant Program, aimed at improving access to quality child care and education for children aged 8 and younger in Jefferson County, Colorado. This initiative directly aligns with the foundation's mission to support the thriving of Jefferson County residents by investing in early childhood development, which is a critical foundation for lifelong success and community well-being. The program's focus on quality child care and education underscores the foundation's strategic priority of fostering a supportive environment for children and families within the county. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are community partners, specifically 501(c)(3) nonprofits or fiscally sponsored organizations, who are committed to serving Jefferson County residents. The ultimate beneficiaries are children aged 8 and younger in Jefferson County, who will gain improved access to quality early care and education. The impact goals are centered around increasing the availability and affordability of quality programs, supporting age-appropriate social-emotional development, and coordinating systems that provide support to children and families in the region. The program prioritizes several key areas. These include supporting organizations that are implementing the Jeffco Bright Futures Roadmap, convening partners and stakeholders to advance policies aligned with strategic frameworks, and supporting evidence-based pilot programs to increase child care options. Another focus is to bring together stakeholders to develop a comprehensive Policy Blueprint aligned with the Jeffco Bright Futures Roadmap, aiming to improve access to quality early care and education programs, enhance social-emotional development, and coordinate supportive systems for children and families. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increased number of Jeffco residents served by quality early care and education programs, demonstrated impact within the county through budget application percentages, and concrete program successes specific to Jeffco populations. The grant, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 for a one-year duration, with funding information of $5,000-$25,000 per year for a project period from October 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, reflects the foundation's theory of change: that by investing in and supporting community partners, particularly those focused on strategic initiatives like the Jeffco Bright Futures Roadmap, they can foster a stronger, more equitable environment for early childhood development and ultimately contribute to the long-term prosperity of Jefferson County.

This program provides financial support to LGBTQ+-owned and allied restaurants, cafes, and bars to help them thrive and recover.

This funding opportunity supports local nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in Culpeper, Madison, and Orange counties to implement health and wellness initiatives that benefit the community.

The GPOA Foundation is committed to enhancing the lives of children and youth within Orleans Parish, Louisiana, through substantial financial support to nonprofit organizations. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, the foundation focuses on operational costs of programs that directly benefit this demographic, including staff salaries and materials. Notably, the foundation is open to considering multi-year requests for three years of declining support, contingent on the organizations' impact objectives and evaluation plans. Moreover, collaborative grant requests involving up to three organizations are encouraged, aiming to foster a cooperative approach towards achieving common outcomes. Eligibility is restricted to nonprofits serving children and youth in Orleans Parish, and the foundation does not fund building or renovation expenses, equipment, event sponsorships, individual scholarships, or out-of-state programs. The GPOA Foundation prioritizes early childhood education, grade-level reading proficiency by the third grade, enrichment programs, special education, and vocational training for at-risk youth, with a vision to level the playing field for the most vulnerable segments of the community. Grant renewed every year. Annual Spring opening/closing concept paper deadline: April 1st to May 1st. Full application ONLY by invitation.

This funding initiative provides financial assistance to licensed daycare centers and registered in-home childcare providers in Kossuth County, Iowa, to expand childcare capacity and improve service quality for local families.

The Community of Health Grants program seeks to partner with organizations that share the Foundation's mission and values, aiming to improve the health and dental health of Iowans. The Foundation focuses on strengthening and transforming health services through investments in projects that align with its core initiatives. These projects must fit within three strategic areas of focus, supporting the Foundation's goal of a healthier Iowa community. Grant renewed every year. Annual Fall deadline: September 1st

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in the San Antonio area that are collaborating on innovative programs or systemic initiatives to create measurable community impact.

The Highland Lakes Service League is inviting applications for its Community Grants program, aimed at enhancing the Highland Lakes area through various focus areas including the promotion of animal welfare, cultivation of arts and culture, improvement in education, provision of basic human services, and promotion of recreation and public spaces. The grants program is open to 501(c)(3) organizations serving Burnet or Llano counties in Texas. Applications are accepted annually from June 15th to August 31st. The grant amounts are not specified. Grant renewed every year. Grant Annual opening/ closing deadlines: June 15th to August 31st

This grant provides funding to established nonprofits in northwest Ohio and southeast Michigan for innovative programs that address community needs and empower families and youth.

This funding opportunity supports community organizations in Monroe and Ontario Counties to create engaging summer programs for youth aged 3-18, focusing on learning, skill-building, and social-emotional development.

The Community Fund for Carmel Valley is dedicated to supporting nonprofit organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and capacity to deliver essential community resources and services within the Carmel Valley and Cachagua regions. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's mission to foster community well-being and development by addressing local needs and enhancing the quality of life for residents. The fund prioritizes initiatives that build community, improve local infrastructure, expand youth and senior programming, and support educational, cultural, and historical programs for residents. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are the residents of Carmel Valley and Cachagua, with a particular focus on those requiring basic needs assistance such as food and housing security, and youth programs. The program also seeks to support organizations providing services directly located within these communities, ensuring ease of access for residents. The overall impact goal is to strengthen the social fabric of these communities, provide critical support for vulnerable populations, and enhance community resilience, particularly in areas of emergency prevention and response. Priorities for funding include community development initiatives that aim to build local capacity and address specific community needs. Youth and senior programs are a key focus, with the goal of expanding existing services and creating new opportunities for these demographic groups. Resident programs, encompassing education, culture, and history, are also given significant consideration to enrich the lives of community members. Special attention is given to organizations addressing basic needs and those involved in emergency preparedness and response, such as education for disaster preparedness and neighborhood organizing. Expected outcomes include improved community infrastructure, increased access to vital services for youth and seniors, enhanced educational and cultural opportunities, and a more prepared and resilient community in the face of emergencies like fires and other disasters. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the focus on tangible outcomes like expanded programming and improved infrastructure suggests that the foundation seeks to support initiatives with clear, positive impacts on the community. The foundation's strategic priorities are clearly centered on community empowerment and direct local impact. The eligibility criteria emphasize support for 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, public programs (e.g., schools, parks, public health), and church-sponsored activities that benefit beyond their membership. Organizations and collaboratives that are not legally incorporated may also apply with a fiscal sponsor. This demonstrates a strategic commitment to ensuring broad access to funding for a diverse range of community-serving entities. The foundation's theory of change appears to be rooted in the belief that by investing in local organizations with strong leadership and capacity, it can directly contribute to building stronger, more resilient, and self-sufficient communities in Carmel Valley and Cachagua.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Berks County that work to improve access to justice and legal services for low-income or marginalized individuals, with a special focus on initiatives benefiting local children and youth.

The Sitka Legacy Foundation is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to tax-exempt organizations in Sitka and on Baranof Island, prioritizing those serving children and youth, for projects in areas such as health, education, outdoors, arts, and community development, to be completed within a year.