New York Local Grants

Creative Engagement is a program designed to assist Manhattan-based artists, arts groups, and community-focused organizations in securing public and private funding to present arts activities to the public. It is overseen by the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council (LMCC) and is funded through a combination of City funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs’ Greater New York Arts Development Fund, State funds from the New York State Council on the Arts’ (NYSCA) Statewide Community Regrants program, and additional funds from the Howard Gilman Foundation. This program specifically targets artists and organizations that may not be able to directly apply to these larger agencies for arts funding, thereby acting as a crucial entry point for many applicants, often providing their first grant and helping to leverage further support. The program's mission aligns with supporting the arts at a grassroots level, fostering public access to a diverse range of artistic expressions, and building capacity within the arts community, particularly for those who might otherwise face barriers to funding. By offering technical assistance, networking opportunities, and promotional support, Creative Engagement not only provides financial aid but also helps develop the professional capabilities and visibility of its grantees. The underlying theory of change suggests that by empowering individual artists and smaller organizations, the program contributes to a more vibrant and accessible arts landscape within Manhattan. Creative Engagement primarily targets individual artists and collectives, as well as nonprofit organizations, all based in Manhattan. For nonprofit organizations, eligibility requires a core artistic mission or history of arts programming, proof of nonprofit status, and a commitment to not directly apply to DCLA (GNYADF) or NYSCA (Statewide Community Regrants) funds in another county/borough for the same fiscal year. Individual artists must also be Manhattan-based and cannot apply on behalf of an organization. Collectives must designate a lead artist who meets these individual artist criteria. First-time applicants are required to attend an information session webinar, ensuring they are well-prepared for the application process. The program prioritizes projects across various artistic disciplines, including performing, literary, media, and visual arts. This encompasses a broad spectrum from folk/traditional forms to contemporary and socially-engaged artistic practices. Supported activities are diverse, ranging from concerts, performances, public art, exhibitions, and screenings to festivals, workshops, and readings. The expected outcomes include an increase in publicly accessible arts activities across Manhattan, enhanced capacity and sustainability for individual artists and small arts organizations, and the fostering of new and diverse artistic voices. Measurable results could include the number of grants awarded, the number of public events supported, and feedback from participants and audiences on the impact of the funded projects. Grants are awarded in specific amounts of $4,000, $8,000, and $12,000, depending on the number of funding sources an applicant is eligible for, indicating a structured approach to resource allocation.

The Genesee Valley Council on the Arts is offering the Individual Projects Grant of $1,000 to $3,500 to artists residing in Livingston or Monroe Counties, New York, to create a new body of work within the year 2025, with the application deadline set for October 21, 2024.

The Community Impact Grant (CIG) Program for Fiscal Year 2024, offered by the Redevelopment Authority of Prince George’s County (RDA), is designed to support community-based 501(c)(3) organizations in Prince George’s County. This program aligns with the RDA's broader mission to revitalize and enhance communities and the quality of life within the county. By providing grants for small innovative capital projects, the RDA aims to foster significant, tangible improvements at the neighborhood level, thereby directly contributing to its strategic priorities of community development and well-being. The target beneficiaries of the CIG Program are civic/neighborhood associations and community-based 501(c)(3) organizations located within Prince George’s County and in good standing with the State of Maryland. The program's impact goals are centered on revitalizing and enhancing communities through specific capital projects. These projects are expected to lead to measurable improvements in the local environment, public spaces, and commercial areas, ultimately benefiting the residents by creating more vibrant, sustainable, and aesthetically pleasing surroundings. The program prioritizes projects within two main categories: Neighborhood Beautification and Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability. Under Neighborhood Beautification, the focus areas include streetscape improvements, street furniture, pedestrian enhancements, recreational improvements, signage, banners, way-finding systems, commercial façade improvements, internal/external improvements to public-use commercial buildings, and permanent public art installations. For Environment, Natural Resources and Sustainability, the focus is on the restoration of parks, streams, and open space, urban agriculture, replenishment of tree canopy, green roofs, low impact development, storm water management, and the preservation of historic landmarks, structures, and sites. Expected outcomes include visible improvements in neighborhood aesthetics, increased accessibility and usability of public spaces, enhanced environmental quality, and the preservation of historical assets. Measurable results could include the number of new public art installations, miles of enhanced streetscapes, acres of restored green space, or the number of commercial facades improved. The RDA's theory of change posits that by investing in these specific capital projects through community organizations, they can empower local groups to directly address community needs, leading to sustainable improvements in infrastructure, environment, and overall quality of life, which in turn reinforces the strategic goal of comprehensive community redevelopment. The grant performance period is one year from the date of execution of a CIG Grant Agreement.

Grant Opportunity: Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) Program Description: The HOPWA program provides housing assistance and supportive services for low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS. The County of Rockland, funded by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, offers tenant-based rental assistance (TBRA) and support services to eligible individuals diagnosed with HIV infection or AIDS. The goal is to help these households secure and maintain appropriate housing in Rockland County. Funder: NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Award Details: HOPWA rental subsidies (TBRA) will be combined with shelter allowance subsidies from the Rockland County Department of Social Services to maximize funding utilization. TBRA subsidies will be provided along with legal and counseling services, similar to the Section 8 Housing Voucher Choice program. Eligible households must meet the definition of "low-income" set by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Medically appropriate and documented cases may qualify for a greater number of bedrooms than in the Section 8 program. Eligibility: Low-income individuals and families living with HIV/AIDS in Rockland County are eligible for this grant opportunity. Contact Information: For more information on this program, please contact Lizzette Regina at 845-364-3708 or email ReginaLi@co.rockland.ny.us.

The FY2025 LGBTQIA+ Community Development Grant, offered by the Executive Office of Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Mayor’s Office on Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Questioning Affairs (MOLGBTQA), aims to support Community-Based Organizations (CBOs) serving the District of Columbia’s LGBTQIA+ community. This grant aligns with the Mayor's broader mission to foster a vibrant, safe, and equitable city for all residents, including those within the LGBTQIA+ community. The grant's focus on community development reflects a strategic priority to empower local organizations to address specific needs and improve the quality of life for a key demographic within the District. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are LGBTQIA+ residents and/or business owners in the District of Columbia. The impact goals are to support services that contribute to a "Downtown Comeback," enhance "Public Safety," and improve "Education" within the community. These goals are designed to create significant, lasting change, protect the middle class, reduce violence, and ensure every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential. The grant seeks to strengthen communities by providing access to job opportunities, affordable living, and quality educational and recreational activities. The grant prioritizes services in three key areas: Downtown Comeback, Public Safety, and Education. "Downtown Comeback" envisions a reimagined downtown where residents, workers, and visitors can live, work, and play in vibrant centers, positioning DC as a global leader in serving its residents. "Public Safety" aims to reverse rising trends in violence, including gun violence, through investments in education, housing, and economic development to improve residents' quality of life. "Education" focuses on strengthening schools as community heartbeats, ensuring every child can pursue their dreams through basic education, sports, arts, and civic engagement. Eligible organizations can be awarded up to $50,000 for projects running from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and inclusive downtown, a reduction in violence and improved public safety, and enhanced educational and recreational opportunities for LGBTQIA+ youth and residents. Measurable results will likely be tied to the specific programs implemented by CBOs within the funding priorities, such as increased engagement in downtown activities, decreases in crime rates, and improvements in academic performance or participation in youth programs. This grant embodies MOLGBTQA’s theory of change, which posits that investing in community-based initiatives across these critical areas will lead to a stronger, safer, and more prosperous District of Columbia for its LGBTQIA+ population.

The Tompkins County Community Celebrations Grants program is designed to enhance the quality of life within the county by supporting events that promote community understanding, strengthen identity, and offer informative, educational, and enjoyable experiences. This initiative directly aligns with the county's mission to foster a vibrant and cohesive community by empowering local groups and municipalities to celebrate their cultural heritage and diverse interests. The program seeks to create a more engaged and connected populace through shared experiences, contributing to the overall well-being and civic pride of Tompkins County residents. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are nonprofit organizations with 501(c)3 status and municipalities located within Tompkins County. The impact goals include fostering community cohesion, celebrating cultural heritage, and providing accessible, enriching events for all residents. The program prioritizes events that are endorsed by a municipality or community group, commemorate the cultural heritage of Tompkins County, and take the form of festivals, fairs, or events recognizing specific communities, neighborhoods, or cultural interests. Examples of supported events include International Mud Day, the Brooktondale Apple Festival, GIAC Festival of Nations, and the Latino Civic Association Annual Picnic, demonstrating a commitment to a broad range of cultural and community celebrations. The grants range from $500 to $2,500, with a larger "Size of the Grant" indicated as $1,000 to $10,000, suggesting flexibility in funding depending on the scope and impact of the proposed event. The grant activity period typically runs from November 2024 to April 2025, ensuring that funded events occur within a defined timeframe. Eligible funding uses include supporting local artists, performers, or cultural programmers, promotion and marketing efforts, professional services necessary for a successful event, educational materials, and reusable banners or promotional items. This comprehensive approach to funding ensures that events are well-resourced and can achieve their objectives effectively. The expected outcomes of the Community Celebrations Grants program are increased community engagement, a stronger sense of local identity, and enhanced cultural understanding among residents. Measurable results could include attendance figures at funded events, participant feedback on event quality and impact, and the number of diverse cultural groups represented. The foundation's strategic priority is to invest in initiatives that directly contribute to the social and cultural vitality of Tompkins County, operating on the theory of change that by supporting inclusive and celebratory events, the county can cultivate a more harmonious, knowledgeable, and enjoyable environment for all its citizens.

The Lewis County Youth Development Program is seeking applications for grants to fund a wide variety of youth development initiatives. While the specific foundation mission is not explicitly stated, the program aligns with a broad mission of fostering positive youth development and providing community-level services, opportunities, and supports for young people in Lewis County, New York. The program aims to encourage municipalities to invest in a diverse range of activities that contribute to the holistic growth of youth. The target beneficiaries of this program are youth under 21 years of age residing in Lewis County. The impact goals are to promote positive youth development across several key areas. These areas include Citizenship and Civic Engagement, fostering youth leadership and cultural competency; Community involvement through youth activism, mentoring, and community service; Economic Security, focusing on career development and life skills; Physical and Emotional Health, encompassing seasonal activities like summer camps and opportunities for creative expression; Education, specifically "out-of-school time" programming for educational engagement and drop-out prevention; and Family, offering conflict resolution supports. The program prioritizes a comprehensive approach to youth development, encouraging a wide variety of programs that address multiple facets of a young person's life. A strong focus is placed on inclusivity, requiring a non-discrimination policy that ensures no youth are denied services based on ethnicity/race, political affiliation, religion, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, physical or other disability, national origin, or any protected characteristic. Data collection, including participant demographic information, is also a key focus, emphasizing accurate reporting of anonymized aggregate data to OCFS. Expected outcomes include enhanced youth leadership, increased community engagement, improved economic readiness, better physical and emotional well-being, stronger educational attainment, and more resilient family units among the youth served. Measurable results will be derived from the collected participant demographic information and program-specific data as required by OCFS. The program's strategic priorities are to support community-level services that demonstrate competency in governance, monitoring and evaluation, partnership, and financial stewardship, aligning with a theory of change that posits comprehensive, well-managed, and inclusive youth programs lead to positive individual and community-wide developmental outcomes for young people. The project period for these grants is from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025.

The Food Safety Education Fund grants program, administered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture & Rural Development (MDARD), is designed to enhance food safety throughout Michigan. Funded by assessments on licensed food establishments, the program aligns with a mission to protect public health by providing critical food safety training and education. This initiative directly supports the broader goal of ensuring a safe food supply for all Michigan residents. The foundation's strategic priority is to prevent foodborne illness through proactive education and the empowerment of various stakeholders within the food system. The program primarily targets two key beneficiary groups: Michigan consumers and food service establishment employees, as well as agents of the director who enforce food regulations (e.g., local health department sanitarians and MDARD food safety inspectors). The impact goal is to improve food safety knowledge and practices among these groups, ultimately reducing the incidence of foodborne illnesses. Eligibility is restricted to Michigan governmental and non-profit organizations and entities, ensuring that the grants support organizations deeply embedded in community health and public service. Producers, marketers, processors, and growers are explicitly excluded to maintain the program's focus on education and training. For the 2024-2025 grant cycle, up to $365,600 is available, with a specific allocation of $242,500 for consumer food safety education and $114,100 for food service establishment employees and regulatory agents. This demonstrates a clear prioritization of widespread public education while also fortifying the knowledge base of those directly involved in food handling and enforcement. The grant duration is typically one year, though multi-year proposals are considered on an individual basis, contingent on future funding availability. Proposals should specifically avoid requesting funding for routine or required training, such as HACCP or ServSafe certification, emphasizing a focus on innovative and supplementary educational initiatives. Proposals are evaluated based on several key criteria, including goals and objectives to improve food safety, assessment of statewide need and audience, measurable outcomes, potential for partnering with other organizations, inclusion of matching funds, and opportunities to build upon previously funded projects. These selection criteria reflect the program's theory of change, which posits that strategic partnerships, evidence-based interventions, and quantifiable results are essential for achieving sustainable improvements in food safety. The expected outcomes include a more informed public, better-trained food service professionals, and more effective enforcement of food safety regulations, all contributing to a safer food environment across Michigan.

The Advocates for Springfield Fund, established in partnership with the Community Foundation of Otsego County, is dedicated to supporting the health and well-being of the Springfield community in New York. This fund emerged from a local grassroots group, also called Advocates for Springfield, which initially focused on promoting good land uses within the town. Having successfully influenced the adoption of a comprehensive plan, zoning ordinance, and other land use laws since its inception in the early 2000s, the group sought to repurpose its remaining financial resources for broader community benefit. The Community Foundation's mission to support local communities aligns directly with this initiative, ensuring the longevity and effective deployment of these funds for the residents of Springfield. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are local nonprofit organizations that enhance the community's fabric, such as volunteer fire departments and libraries. Additionally, the fund supports initiatives that supplement summer jobs benefiting the community, with a particular focus on childhood education. Groups fiscally sponsored by a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization are also eligible, provided they submit evidence of sponsorship. The program explicitly excludes direct grants to individuals or businesses, focusing instead on organizational support that fosters collective well-being and community development. The grant program prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrably contribute to the health and well-being of Springfield residents. This includes supporting essential community services provided by local nonprofits and investing in programs that offer educational and developmental opportunities for children through summer jobs. The focus on childhood education reflects a strategic priority to cultivate a strong future for the community by nurturing its youngest members. The overarching goal is to strengthen the community infrastructure and improve the quality of life for its residents through targeted, community-centric investments. Expected outcomes of this grant program include enhanced support for vital community services, increased opportunities for youth development and education, and a stronger, more resilient Springfield community. Measurable results will be tied to the impact of the funded projects, such as the number of individuals served by supported nonprofits, the number of summer jobs created or supplemented, and the educational outcomes for participating children. The Community Foundation’s strategic priority, as evidenced by allocating up to $1,500 for awards in 2024 with individual awards up to $500, is to distribute resources efficiently to generate meaningful, localized impact. This approach reflects a theory of change where targeted financial support for community-based initiatives leads to tangible improvements in the overall health and well-being of the community.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations in St. Lawrence County, New York, to support initiatives that enhance arts, culture, conservation, education, and overall health and well-being in the community.

This funding opportunity supports local nonprofit organizations in the greater Rochester area to address environmental health disparities and build community capacity through practical projects.

The CNY Arts is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for the year 2025 to individual artists and small nonprofit organizations in six counties of New York, aiming to support the development of arts projects and programming that engage diverse segments of the community, with applications open until October 25, 2024.

This program provides financial assistance to property owners in Lewis County to renovate vacant or blighted commercial buildings, transforming them into active business spaces and boosting local economic growth.

The Northeast Dutchess Fund's NEDCorps initiative offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to nonprofits, municipalities, and community organizations in northeast Dutchess County, New York, to develop or expand services for the immigrant community, with a total of $35,000 available for distribution.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to public and private primary and secondary schools in New York City to promote hands-on gardening and farming education for students.

The Town of East Hampton is offering a Water Quality Improvement Grant program aimed at enhancing the water quality within its jurisdiction. This initiative aligns with the town's mission to protect its precious lakes, harbors, and ponds by funding projects that address various water quality concerns. The program encourages applications from diverse entities, including East Hampton Town Departments, Incorporated Villages, and nonprofit or commercial organizations, all with the overarching goal of achieving tangible water quality improvements in the region. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are primarily eligible property owners interested in implementing water quality improvement projects. This specifically includes those looking to upgrade their existing sanitary systems to low-nitrogen treatment systems, which directly contributes to mitigating pollution. The broader impact goal is to safeguard the local aquatic ecosystems, ensuring their health and sustainability for the community and environment. The grant program prioritizes funding for projects that fall into one of four key categories: Wastewater Treatment Improvement Projects, Nonpoint Source Abatement and Control Projects, Aquatic Habitat Restoration Projects, and Pollution Prevention Projects. These focuses represent the town's strategic priorities for addressing a comprehensive range of water quality challenges. The underlying theory of change is that by supporting targeted interventions in these areas, a significant and measurable positive impact on the overall water quality in East Hampton can be achieved. Expected outcomes include a reduction in water pollution, particularly from nitrogen, and the restoration of aquatic habitats. Measurable results will be demonstrated through the successful implementation of projects that show a clear water quality improvement in East Hampton. While the grant size is not specified, the emphasis is on funding projects that contribute directly to the program's objectives, thereby ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to achieve the town's strategic environmental goals.

The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services (DMHSS) is offering a grant program to support Youth Team Sports (YTS) programs for underserved youth under the age of 18. This initiative aims to foster the development and operation of organized physical activities that encourage competition among groups of two or more individuals. The program's mission aligns with the DMHSS's broader goal of promoting the well-being of the community's youth, recognizing the significant role that sports can play in their holistic development. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are underserved youth under 18 in Chautauqua County. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, extending beyond mere physical activity. It seeks to achieve educational connection and achievement, physical health and well-being, mental health and well-being, employment, and community cohesion. These goals highlight a comprehensive approach to youth development, acknowledging the interconnectedness of various aspects of a young person's life. The funding awards are guided by a set of core principles that serve as the program's priorities and focuses. These include educational connection and achievement, emphasizing the link between sports participation and academic success; physical health and well-being, promoting active lifestyles; mental health and well-being, recognizing the positive impact of sports on emotional and psychological health; employment, potentially through skill development and teamwork; and community cohesion, fostering a sense of belonging and collective effort. The expected outcomes and measurable results are tied to these guiding principles. By supporting YTS programs, the DMHSS anticipates improvements in the educational engagement and academic performance of participating youth, enhanced physical fitness and reduced health risks, improved mental resilience and emotional regulation, development of transferable skills that can aid in future employment, and a stronger sense of community and social responsibility among the youth. Each applicant can request up to $15,000 in funding to support programming for the program year of October 1, 2024 – September 30, 2025. The program, created under the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS), reflects a strategic priority to invest in community-based initiatives that directly address the needs of vulnerable youth. The underlying theory of change posits that by providing access to organized team sports, underserved youth will gain valuable life skills, improve their overall well-being, and become more engaged and productive members of their communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits or other community-based organizations operating in Chautauqua County that meet specific requirements, further underscoring the commitment to local, impactful interventions.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts and New York that enhance their capacity to serve young individuals affected by disabilities and mental health challenges, particularly in historically marginalized communities.

The Onondaga County Agritourism Grant Program, announced by the Onondaga County Department of Planning for 2024, aims to bolster the local agricultural community by enhancing the viability of farmland and protecting farms and operators for future generations. This initiative directly aligns with the broader mission of supporting agricultural sustainability and economic growth within Onondaga County. The program recognizes the critical role agritourism plays in farm viability, tourism, and overall quality of life, positioning itself as a strategic effort to integrate these elements for community benefit. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are local agricultural ventures in Onondaga County, including existing farms and new agritourism startups. The impact goals are centered on improving and expanding agritourism operations, which in turn supports farm viability and contributes to local tourism. By investing in these ventures, the program seeks to create a more robust agricultural economy and enhance the recreational and educational opportunities available to residents and visitors. The program prioritizes projects that fall into four general categories: Improve, Expand, Initiate, and Market. This broad focus allows for a diverse range of projects, from enhancing existing operations to launching entirely new ventures. Specific areas of focus include expanding or diversifying operations, improving safety and ease of access for visitors, and adding new educational programming. New agritourism ventures can also utilize funding to offset initial startup costs, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation and growth in the sector. Expected outcomes of the program include a more resilient and economically viable agricultural sector in Onondaga County, increased agritourism offerings, and improved quality of life for residents. Measurable results could include the number of agritourism ventures that receive funding, the types of projects implemented, the growth in revenue for participating farms, and an increase in tourist engagement with local agricultural sites. The strategic priority is to partner with the agricultural community to achieve these outcomes, with the underlying theory of change being that targeted investment in agritourism will lead to enhanced farm viability and broader community benefits.

Grant Opportunity: Cattaraugus County Microenterprise Assistance Program Grant (New York) This program provides funding for microenterprises with five or fewer employees, owned by individuals meeting low- or moderate-income criteria as defined by HUD. Not-for-profit corporations are not eligible. Both existing and startup micro-businesses can apply, with startups defined as businesses that have filed structure documentation within the last 6 months. Applicants must submit a completed application, business plan, and proof of income and family size. The assisted business activity must result in the creation of employment positions consistent with low- and moderate-income benefit provisions. Proof of job creation and employee income will be required before grant funds are disbursed.