Missouri Grants

The Republic Community Foundation's grant program is designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals in Republic through thoughtful grantmaking and community leadership. As a community foundation, its unique role is to operate a flexible grantmaking program that consistently addresses the most critical needs of the community. This adaptability is fueled by charitable donors who establish unrestricted or field-of-interest funds, entrusting decision-making to community leaders on the Board of Directors, as well as by funds raised directly by the Foundation. This approach aligns directly with the Foundation's mission to improve community well-being by empowering local initiatives. The grant program targets 501(c)3 organizations and other IRS-approved entities, such as government bodies, school districts, and churches, that serve the Republic area. The primary impact goal is to address priority needs within Republic, which includes supporting the expansion of existing programs and the creation of new services. The Republic Philanthropic Society (The RepMO PHIL) is responsible for making grant decisions, demonstrating a commitment to local leadership and needs-based funding. The program prioritizes initiatives that tackle current community needs, with an emphasis on flexibility and responsiveness. While collaboration among applicants is encouraged to foster broader community impact, it is not a mandatory requirement, allowing for diverse approaches to problem-solving. Grant proposals are reviewed according to an announced timetable, and funding is disbursed as it becomes available, ensuring a consistent and transparent process for applicants. Expected outcomes include the successful expansion of vital community programs and the establishment of innovative new services that directly address identified priority needs in Republic. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the focus on "priority needs" and the encouragement of program expansion and creation imply a commitment to tangible improvements in community services and overall quality of life. The maximum request amount of $20,000.00 guides the scale of the projects, suggesting an emphasis on impactful, yet manageable, initiatives.

The 2024 Small Arts Grant Fund, supported by the Francis Family Foundation, is currently accepting applications. This grant program is designed to support arts and culture within the greater Kansas City area, defined as a 60-mile radius. The foundation's continued investment in this fund, despite a transition from a community to a family board in 2022, demonstrates its ongoing commitment to fostering artistic endeavors and ensuring access to arts and culture opportunities. This aligns with a broader mission to enrich the community through the arts, supporting both established arts organizations and non-arts organizations with community-based arts programs. Target beneficiaries for the Small Arts Grant include tax-exempt 501(c)(3) public charities with an EIN, or organizations partnering with a fiscal sponsor. Specifically, arts organizations with annual revenues under $300,000 in their last fiscal year are eligible. Additionally, non-arts organizations, regardless of their budget size or mission, are encouraged to apply if they offer community-based arts programs that provide access to arts and culture in various traditional and non-traditional sites across the greater Kansas City area. The impact goal is to broaden participation in and exposure to arts and culture, ensuring these opportunities are accessible to a wider community. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly on community-based arts initiatives. This means the grant prioritizes organizations that are deeply embedded in their local communities and actively work to bring arts and culture directly to residents. The emphasis on "traditional and non-traditional sites" highlights a flexible and inclusive approach, aiming to reach diverse audiences where they live, work, and gather. The foundation seeks to maintain a consistent investment in these types of programs, suggesting a long-term strategic priority of sustaining a vibrant arts ecosystem in the Kansas City region. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number and variety of accessible arts and culture opportunities available to residents. Measurable results would likely involve the number of people reached by these programs, the diversity of locations where arts activities are offered, and the engagement levels within the community. While the explicit "theory of change" is not detailed, the strategy appears to be rooted in the belief that direct funding to local organizations will empower them to create and sustain impactful arts programs, thereby enhancing the overall cultural landscape and well-being of the greater Kansas City area. The foundation’s consistent support for this fund, despite internal changes, reinforces this strategic priority.

The James S. McDonnell Foundation (JSMF) is offering a grant program designed to foster economic mobility in its priority communities and among specific groups. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission by supporting collaborative efforts that bring together individuals from diverse zip codes, races, and income levels. The program emphasizes the importance of cross-cultural and cross-socioeconomic engagement to achieve its economic objectives. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are low and moderate-income individuals and families, as well as Black and historically marginalized groups, including immigrants, residing in the City of St. Louis and North St. Louis County, Missouri. The program aims to strengthen the collaborative capacity of these diverse groups to work together effectively and, in doing so, improve their economic well-being. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on the belief that fostering collaboration across differences can lead to tangible economic improvements. JSMF encourages proposals that implement approaches to strengthen collaborative capacity and create positive, long-term, and tangible impacts on the economic well-being of their priority populations. Examples of focus areas include youth mentorship across class divisions, networking support for first jobs, community investment clubs, business-to-business mentorship, and peer-to-peer lending. Expected outcomes include enhanced collaborative capacity among participants and improved economic well-being for JSMF priority populations. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond these objectives, the foundation seeks proposals that will demonstrate a clear alignment with its mission and guiding principles, and that can achieve a positive and lasting impact. Grants range from $20,000 to $40,000, with awards totaling $200,000, and most grants will be for one to three years. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)3 organizations or have a fiscal sponsor, and proposals must bring people together across diverse backgrounds to partner for the first time.

The James S. McDonnell Foundation (JSMF) is offering grants to support innovative, sustainable, and scalable approaches to wealth building and preservation within specific priority communities and groups. This initiative aligns with JSMF's broader mission to foster human well-being by addressing systemic economic disparities and promoting long-term financial stability. The foundation's strategic framework emphasizes helping individuals and communities build and protect wealth, demonstrating a clear theory of change that by increasing access to financial resources and strengthening community capacity, economic resilience can be significantly improved. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are low and moderate-income individuals and families, as well as Black and historically marginalized groups, including immigrants, residing in the City of St. Louis and North St. Louis County. The impact goals are centered on increasing the number of individuals and families served by financial products, services, or practices, and ultimately increasing and preserving wealth for these target populations. This focus is directly tied to the foundation's strategic priority of addressing wealth disparities in disinvested communities. Successful proposals are expected to align with one or more of three core tactics. Tactic A focuses on increasing access to low-cost, low-barrier financial products and services that drive asset attainment, growth, and preservation. Tactic B aims to build the capacity of community-based organizations and financial institutions to support wealth building and preservation efforts. Tactic C prioritizes attracting new investment capital to disinvested communities within the designated geographic areas. These tactics serve as the foundational elements of JSMF's theory of change, postulating that a multi-pronged approach encompassing access, capacity, and investment is essential for sustainable wealth creation. The program anticipates several expected outcomes and measurable results. These include the development of new loan products for homeownership, providing private equity access for companies owned by people of color, adjusting financial products to support small and diverse-owned businesses, creating investment products that increase ownership in financial markets, supporting employee ownership business models, and implementing systemic changes to credit building. The grants, ranging from $450,000 to $900,000, will be awarded for one to three years, with awards totaling $1.8 million. Proposals will be evaluated based on the innovation, scalability, and sustainability of the proposed approach, and their alignment with JSMF’s mission and guiding principles, ensuring that funded projects have the potential for significant and lasting impact.

The City of Wentzville's Facade Improvement Grant Program aims to preserve historic structures and prevent neighborhood deterioration through renovation and restoration efforts. This initiative is a 50-50 matching grant, with individual projects eligible for up to $10,000. While the description does not explicitly state a foundation mission, the program's focus on historic preservation and community revitalization aligns with broader municipal goals of maintaining aesthetic integrity and fostering economic stability within its districts. The program acts as a strategic tool to achieve these city-wide development and preservation objectives. The target beneficiaries of this program are businesses and mixed-use buildings over 30 years old located within the HD-1, HD-2, or HD-3 zoning districts. The impact goals are multifaceted, seeking to boost property development, strengthen both new and existing businesses, and facilitate the rehabilitation and modernization of downtown buildings. By supporting these specific entities, the program intends to create a ripple effect that benefits the entire community through improved infrastructure and a more vibrant commercial landscape. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly articulated: encouraging the preservation of historic structures, preventing general neighborhood deterioration, and promoting renovation and restoration. These priorities are addressed through the specific design of the grants, which require a 50-50 match, indicating a shared investment and commitment to the success of the projects. The emphasis on properties within designated historic and downtown zoning districts underscores the program's strategic focus on areas critical for community identity and economic activity. Expected outcomes include a visible improvement in the physical appearance of buildings within the targeted districts, increased property values, and a more robust local economy driven by strengthened businesses. Measurable results could include the number of facade renovations completed, the total amount of private investment leveraged by the matching grants, and potentially an increase in new business openings or retention rates within the program areas. While a formal "theory of change" is not explicitly stated for the City of Wentzville, the program implicitly operates on the principle that investing in the physical attractiveness and structural integrity of its commercial and historic properties will lead to enhanced community pride, increased economic activity, and sustained neighborhood vitality.

The City of Wentzville's Business Development Grant Program aims to stimulate economic growth and revitalization within its Historic Downtown zoning districts (HD-1, HD-2, or HD-3). This initiative aligns with the city's broader mission to boost property development, strengthen both new and existing businesses, and facilitate the rehabilitation and modernization of downtown buildings. By offering financial assistance for start-up and business development costs, the program directly supports the strategic objective of creating a more vibrant and economically robust downtown core. The target beneficiaries of this grant are new businesses, open for less than 12 months, and significantly expanding businesses within the designated historic downtown areas. The program's impact goals are centered on easing financial burdens associated with business development and improvement, thereby fostering a conducive environment for commercial activity and urban renewal. The grant is specifically designed to alleviate costs for interior building improvements, enabling businesses to enhance their physical spaces and operational capabilities. The program's priorities and focuses include a range of interior building improvements such as paint, finish carpentry, flooring, and countertops. These specific areas of focus are intended to directly contribute to the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and overall value of commercial properties in the historic downtown. By supporting these types of improvements, the City of Wentzville seeks to encourage high-quality business development and attract further investment in the area. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an increase in the number of new businesses opening and existing businesses expanding within the specified districts, a reduction in the financial barriers for these businesses, and an overall improvement in the condition and modernization of downtown buildings. While specific quantitative metrics are not detailed, the program's success can be indirectly measured by increased commercial activity, improved property values, and enhanced community engagement within the historic downtown. The City of Wentzville's strategic priorities are rooted in a theory of change that posits that by directly investing in the physical and operational improvements of downtown businesses, it can catalyze broader economic development and create a more attractive and sustainable urban environment.

The Republic Community Foundation's grant program is designed to enhance the quality of life for individuals within the Republic area through considered grantmaking and active community leadership. This mission aligns directly with the foundation's fundamental purpose to conduct a flexible community grantmaking program. This program addresses the most critical needs of the community at any given time, enabled by charitable donors who establish unrestricted or field-of-interest funds, entrusting decision-making to community leaders on the Board of Directors, and through funds raised by the Republic Community Foundation itself. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are 501(c)(3) organizations or other IRS-approved entities, including government entities, school districts, and churches, that serve the Republic area. The overarching impact goal is to improve the quality of life for residents, achieved through strategic funding that responds to evolving community needs. The foundation prioritizes a flexible approach to grantmaking, ensuring that funds are directed to areas of greatest need as identified by community leaders. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on community leadership and flexible grantmaking. This approach reflects a theory of change where local community leaders, serving on the Board of Directors, are best positioned to identify and address the most pressing issues. By empowering these leaders and maintaining funding flexibility, the foundation aims to create a responsive and effective mechanism for community improvement. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in various aspects of community life, supported by the grant recipients. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the program's success is inherently tied to its ability to address "the most important needs of the community." The funding cap of up to $3,500 per grant cycle for applicants suggests an emphasis on supporting a range of smaller-scale, impactful projects that collectively contribute to the overall enhancement of the Republic area.

The Nevada/Vernon County Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for individuals within Vernon County through diligent grantmaking and strong community leadership. Governed by a Board of Directors with deep local knowledge, the foundation's core mission is to manage a flexible community grantmaking program. This program is designed to address the community's most pressing needs at any given time, a flexibility made possible by the generosity of charitable donors who establish unrestricted or field-of-interest funds, entrusting decision-making to local leaders on the Board, alongside funds raised by the foundation itself. The grant program is specifically funded by the Nevada/Vernon County Philanthropic Society. This society operates with a mission to gather annual membership gifts from up to 100 individuals, couples, and businesses residing in Nevada/Vernon County. These pooled resources are then distributed to support local projects that aim to improve both the services available and the overall quality of life within the community. The strategic priority here is to empower local initiatives that have a direct, positive impact on the well-being of Vernon County residents. The target beneficiaries of these grants are individuals within Vernon County, with the overarching impact goal of improving their quality of life. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the focus is clearly on supporting projects that demonstrably enhance community services and living conditions. The foundation operates on a theory of change that by investing in local projects identified by community leaders, significant and meaningful improvements can be made across various facets of community life. This approach ensures that funding is directed towards areas where it can have the most substantial benefit. Eligibility for these grants extends to 501(c)3 organizations and other IRS-approved entities, including government bodies, school districts, and churches, all of which must serve the Nevada/Vernon County area. The maximum grant request amount is $25,000, ensuring that a diverse range of projects can be supported. Grant proposals are reviewed according to an announced timetable, with recommendations made as funds become available, reflecting a thoughtful and structured approach to community investment.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, government entities, school districts, and faith-based groups in Greene County, Missouri, to collaboratively address significant community challenges and create a positive impact in the Springfield area.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and schools in the Mount Vernon area to enhance community well-being and address local needs.

The Benton County Community Foundation seeks applications to enhance the quality of life for individuals within Benton County, Missouri, through a flexible community grantmaking program. This initiative aligns directly with the foundation's mission to address the most critical and evolving needs of the community at any given time. The foundation's strategic priority is to empower community leaders, specifically the Benton County Philanthropic Society (Benton County PHIL), to make informed grant decisions that reflect local priorities. The grant program targets 501(c)3 organizations, government entities, school districts, and churches that serve Benton County. The primary impact goal is to fund programs that expand current services or create new ones to address identified priority needs within the county. The Benton County PHIL will determine these priority needs, ensuring that funding directly benefits the local population and improves their overall quality of life. For 2024, the program has a total grant budget of $50,000, bolstered by a $25,000 matching grant from the Patterson Family Foundation. The maximum individual request amount is $25,000, with additional awards of $15,000 and $10,000 for the second and third highly-ranked agencies, respectively. While collaboration among applicants is encouraged, it is not a mandatory eligibility criterion. The expected outcome is to allocate these funds strategically to organizations that can demonstrate a clear plan for positive community impact. Measurable results will stem from the funded projects' ability to expand existing programs or establish new services that address specific community needs. The foundation's theory of change posits that by placing grantmaking decisions in the hands of knowledgeable community leaders and leveraging philanthropic contributions, they can effectively foster sustainable improvements in Benton County. Grant proposals are accepted according to an announced timetable, and recommendations are made as funds become available, ensuring a responsive and impactful grantmaking process.

The Northwest Missouri Coalition for Roadway Safety (NWMCRS), supported by the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT), is offering grants to enhance highway and traffic safety programs and resources across selected counties in Northwest Missouri. This initiative directly aligns with MoDOT's mission to reduce injuries and fatalities on roadways, addressing a critical need highlighted by 49 fatalities within 16 of the region's 20 counties in 2023. The grants aim to empower local agencies and organizations to implement effective safety measures and awareness campaigns. The target beneficiaries for these grants include a broad spectrum of community entities such as schools, community groups, law enforcement, and health departments. These organizations are uniquely positioned to address local safety challenges and implement programs that resonate with their specific communities. The primary impact goal is a tangible reduction in roadway injuries and fatalities, contributing to safer travel for all residents within the designated Northwest Missouri region. The program prioritizes initiatives that directly contribute to roadway safety. While specific programmatic focuses are not exhaustively detailed, the overall emphasis is on "highway and traffic safety programs and resources." This broad mandate allows for a variety of approaches, from educational campaigns in schools to enforcement initiatives by law enforcement, and health-focused interventions by health departments, all working towards the common goal of safer roads. The expected outcomes of these grants are manifold. Successful applicants will be able to develop and implement programs that educate the public on safe driving practices, enforce traffic laws, and provide resources to prevent accidents. Measurable results will likely include a decrease in accident rates, a reduction in the number of serious injuries, and, most importantly, a decline in traffic-related fatalities within the targeted counties. The grant amounts, ranging from $1,000 to a maximum of $5,000 per request, are designed to support impactful, community-level interventions. MoDOT's strategic priority, as evidenced by this grant program, is to foster a proactive approach to roadway safety through community engagement and support. The underlying theory of change is that by empowering local organizations with funding and resources, tailored and effective safety programs can be implemented at the grassroots level, leading to a significant and measurable improvement in overall road safety. This localized approach is critical in addressing the diverse safety needs across the various counties of Northwest Missouri.

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is offering EITAS Grants to support individuals with developmental disabilities in Jackson County, Missouri. This grant program aligns with the foundation's mission to provide funding for services, supports, and capital resources that enable individuals with developmental disabilities to live in and belong to their community. For over 35 years, EITAS has focused on programs offering essential services, aiming to ensure that eligible individuals receive the necessary support for their satisfaction and well-being. The target beneficiaries are individuals with developmental disabilities and their families residing in Jackson County, Missouri. The impact goals are to provide comprehensive support and services that facilitate community inclusion, enhance well-being, and address critical needs. This initiative directly reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering an inclusive environment where individuals with developmental disabilities have equitable access to resources and opportunities. Funding priorities include transportation, inclusion with the community, crisis prevention and support, transition services, and safe, equitable access to housing. These priorities are strategically chosen to address key areas that significantly impact the quality of life and independence of individuals with developmental disabilities. The foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in these critical areas, they can create tangible improvements in the lives of their beneficiaries, leading to greater community participation and self-sufficiency. Expected outcomes include improved access to essential services, enhanced community integration for individuals with developmental disabilities, and a reduction in crises through proactive support. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the focus on these tangible areas suggests that successful grant recipients would demonstrate progress in increasing community engagement, improving safety, and ensuring stable housing for the individuals they serve. The foundation seeks to partner with nonprofits that share this vision and can effectively implement programs to achieve these outcomes.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and schools in the Ozarks to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion through community engagement and leadership initiatives.

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

The Impact KC Grant Program, administered by the Greater Kansas City Community Foundation, is designed to make a substantive impact on the well-being of the Kansas City metropolitan area. This program aligns with the foundation's mission by fostering volunteerism, fundraising, and education to address community needs. Impact KC is funded through general membership and aims to award one-time grants annually to one to four eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, with grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The program targets a wide range of beneficiaries across various areas of interest, including Aging, Arts and Culture, Community Development, Education/Youth services, Health and Life Sciences, and Social services/Families. The core impact goal is to provide funds that will have a substantive impact on a tangible project or defined purpose within these areas. This focus ensures that the grants contribute to concrete and measurable improvements in the well-being of the Kansas City community. Impact KC's priorities are broadly defined by the areas of interest, with an emphasis on projects that demonstrate a clear potential for significant positive change. While specific strategic priorities and a formal theory of change are not explicitly detailed, the program's structure implies a commitment to supporting local nonprofits that can effectively implement projects addressing critical community needs. The selection of organizations that can articulate a specific purpose for the funds reflects a results-oriented approach. Expected outcomes include the successful completion of tangible projects and the achievement of defined purposes within the grant recipient organizations. Although specific measurable results are not outlined in the provided text, the requirement for funds to be used for "specific purpose(s) as outlined in the original grant proposal" suggests an expectation of accountability and a focus on achieving the proposed objectives. The grant size, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, indicates support for projects with a defined scope, enabling recipients to address specific challenges effectively.

The Greater Kansas City Community Foundation is offering the Eastland Giving Circle Grant Program, focusing on supporting organizations that provide mental health resources to children and youth in Eastern Jackson County, Missouri. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to make a substantive impact in the eastern Jackson County area through yearly donations from its Eastland Giving Circle, a group of philanthropic and civic-minded individuals. The grant specifically targets children and youth in Eastern Jackson County who require mental health resources. The impact goal is to improve access to and the quality of mental health support for this vulnerable population within the specified geographic area. The program's priority is to fund nonprofits with current 501(c)(3) status that have a presence or mailing address in eastern Jackson County, Missouri. Organizations requesting general operating funds, individuals, political parties or activities, primary and secondary educational institutions, and religious organizations for denominational programs are ineligible. While explicit expected outcomes and measurable results are not detailed, the implicit outcome is improved mental health and well-being for children and youth in Eastern Jackson County through the funded programs. The grant amount of $30,000 indicates a commitment to substantial support for chosen initiatives. The foundation's strategic priority is to address community needs through targeted philanthropic efforts, guided by the collective decision-making of the Eastland Giving Circle.

The Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant Program offers eligible restaurants grants of up to $15,000 to improve their outdoor dining areas. This initiative is a direct reflection of the City of Kansas City's broader mission to cultivate a thriving local economy, provide substantial support to small businesses, and foster the development of vibrant, community-oriented neighborhoods. By enhancing outdoor dining spaces, the program aims to not only boost the economic vitality of local establishments but also create more inviting and dynamic public spaces that benefit the entire community. The alignment with the city's strategic priorities is clear, as it addresses both economic development and quality of life for its residents. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are private, for-profit, full-service restaurants located within Kansas City, Missouri. The program specifically targets those businesses that have been operational for at least one year, as evidenced by a KCMO business license acquired by July 1, 2023. The impact goals are centered on enabling these restaurants to increase their outdoor dining capacity and improve the overall experience for customers. This, in turn, is expected to lead to increased revenue for the businesses, job creation or retention, and a more vibrant street-level atmosphere for residents and visitors alike. The program's priorities and focuses are clearly defined. Grant funds must be used exclusively for outdoor dining enhancement, encompassing a wide range of improvements such as building structure construction, infrastructure, expanding walkways, purchasing furniture and coverings, and covering necessary permit costs. A crucial focus is on increasing the total number of available tables for outdoor dining, with the stipulation that these enhancements must be usable for at least six months out of a calendar year. Additionally, all projects must adhere to ADA requirements, ensuring a 5-foot clear path for accessibility in street or sidewalk cafes, demonstrating a commitment to inclusive urban design. The expected outcomes of the Kansas City Outdoor Dining Enhancement Grant Program are multifaceted and measurable. Restaurants receiving grants are anticipated to expand their customer capacity, leading to a direct increase in sales and operational stability. The broader community is expected to benefit from enhanced urban aesthetics and a more lively, pedestrian-friendly environment. Measurable results will include the number of outdoor dining tables added, the total amount of grant funds dispersed, and potentially, local economic indicators such as increased foot traffic in participating areas and business growth reported by grant recipients. The theory of change underpinning this program is that by directly investing in the physical infrastructure and operational capabilities of local restaurants, the city can stimulate economic growth, strengthen its small business sector, and create more engaging public spaces, thereby improving the overall quality of life for its citizens.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations, government entities, and schools in Missouri to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that improve the quality of life for underrepresented communities.

The L-A-D Foundation, in partnership with the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, is offering grants to nonprofit and public interest organizations. This program aligns with the L-A-D Foundation's mission to benefit the natural and cultural resources of the Missouri Ozarks within its 12-county service area. The foundation seeks innovative projects that support the conservation of these resources. The target beneficiaries are 501(c)3 organizations or other IRS-approved entities, including government entities, school districts, and churches. These organizations must be working in Carter, Crawford, Dent, Madison, Maries, Oregon, Perry, Reynolds, Ripley, Ste. Genevieve, Shannon, or Texas counties. The impact goal is to foster conservation efforts and enhance the natural and cultural resources of the Missouri Ozarks. The grant program prioritizes projects in areas such as environmental and conservation education, grassroots organizing, new program start-up costs, capital support, seed money, and workshops. It explicitly excludes requests for annual or operating support, social events, or benefits. This focus demonstrates the foundation's strategic priority on initiating and supporting specific, impactful conservation projects rather than ongoing operational expenses. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in conservation efforts, increased environmental awareness through education, and the successful establishment of new programs or initiatives that protect the Ozarks' unique heritage. While specific measurable results are not detailed, the emphasis on "innovative projects" suggests a desire for demonstrable progress and impact within the chosen project areas. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically funding targeted, innovative projects, they can catalyze significant positive change in the conservation landscape of the Missouri Ozarks.