Inclusion & Belonging Grant Program

The Inclusion & Belonging Grant Program FY26 is administered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO), a regional philanthropic organization serving communities across southern Missouri. The CFO is known for its commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the Ozarks through community-based philanthropy, and this grant program is part of its continued investment in equity, inclusion, and community engagement initiatives. As part of its fiscal year 2026 offerings, this program aims to foster belonging and inclusive participation in leadership and civic life throughout its service area. The grant is specifically designed to support small-scale projects that enhance representation and inclusiveness in local communities. Funding can be used for a variety of activities, such as ensuring that students have equitable access to leadership opportunities or that community events visibly and meaningfully reflect diverse identities and perspectives. This may include expenses related to programming, staffing, outreach, and events designed to elevate underrepresented voices or create a culture of belonging in community settings across the Ozarks. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations as well as other approved entities such as government organizations, school districts, and churches. All applicants must serve the CFO’s service region, and entities may only submit one request per fiscal year. A total of $50,000 has been allocated for this grant cycle, with a maximum of $3,000 awarded per agency annually. This ensures a broader distribution of support across multiple communities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through May 4, 2026, or until the funds are fully expended. Reviews are conducted within eight to ten weeks of submission, providing applicants with timely feedback and funding decisions. While there are no pre-application requirements such as letters of intent or concept papers, applicants are encouraged to prepare thoughtful proposals that align with the program’s emphasis on inclusion and leadership development. The application process is managed via the GLM grant portal by Foundant Technologies. Applicants must create an account and use the search function to locate the relevant grant. Application components include details on the organization’s purpose, recent successes, proposed project goals and geographic scope, and a project-specific budget. Applicants must also upload their EIN letter and annual agency budget. The system enforces character limits for all answers, including spaces and punctuation. For program-specific questions, applicants are encouraged to reach out to Rachel Tripp at [email protected]. Technical assistance for portal issues is available from Latesa Carter. The grant program explicitly prohibits discrimination in all forms and expects grantees to uphold the same standards in their operations and use of CFO funds. The grant is not recurring annually but may be reconsidered in future cycles depending on funder priorities and community needs.