FBA Community Organization Grant Program

The Florida Beverage Association (FBA), a leading voice for the non-alcoholic beverage industry in the state, has launched the eleventh year of its Community Organization Grant Program. This initiative underscores the FBA’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the health and sustainability of communities across Florida. Through this program, the FBA collaborates with community organizations to promote balanced nutrition, encourage physical activity, and foster environmental stewardship. The FBA's support reflects its belief that healthy, vibrant communities are essential to the overall success of local businesses and citizens alike. The 2026 grant cycle focuses on funding local programs that address community health or environmental needs. Grants are intended for projects that aim to improve physical well-being or promote sustainability at the community level. Eligible applicants include nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and state or local governmental entities that intend to use funds for charitable purposes. Notably, the program does not support individual applicants, discriminatory organizations, entertainment-based events, fundraising tables, local sports teams, schools, or any entity without proper tax-exempt status. All applicants must strictly align with these eligibility requirements to be considered. Applications for the 2026 cycle must be submitted via the online portal no later than Friday, February 13, 2026. Organizations are encouraged to prepare their responses in a separate document before starting the online form, as exiting the form mid-completion may result in data loss. A PDF version of the application is available for download to assist with preparation, although final submissions must be made through the designated digital form. The FBA’s Grant Subcommittee will conduct the initial review of submissions, evaluating how well proposals align with the program’s objectives. Recommendations will then be presented to the FBA Board of Directors, which holds final decision-making authority. Selection criteria include the initiative's scope, the number of individuals impacted, the presence of a documented community need, and the existence of a strong community communication plan. Successful applicants will be required to enter into a grant agreement with FBA and will receive formal notifications upon award decisions. Award amounts typically do not exceed $25,000, although exceptional proposals with unique circumstances may receive higher funding. Grant recipients must adhere to specific reporting requirements, including an initial report 6–9 months post-funding and a final impact assessment 12–15 months after receipt of funds. These reports are designed to measure outcomes and ensure transparency in how awarded funds are used. In some cases, the FBA may recommend qualified grant requests for additional matching support through the American Beverage Foundation for a Healthy America (ABFHA), although such decisions are solely at ABFHA’s discretion. Applicants should direct questions to Elizabeth DeWitt via email at [email protected] or by calling 407.385.2708. To complete the application, organizations must also submit specific documents via email, including their IRS determination letter, a board list, any relevant consultant contracts, and supporting budget documentation. All requirements must be fulfilled for the application to be reviewed.