New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund

The New Orleans Recreation and Culture Fund is a local initiative established by the New Orleans City Council to provide financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote community well-being through recreation and cultural engagement. The fund is intended to uplift community-based efforts that enrich the lives of residents across New Orleans, with a focus on organizations rooted in youth development, cultural preservation, and broader community support. Funding is intended to build on existing efforts that reflect strong leadership, fiscal responsibility, community trust, and a proven record of service. Grants are available for general operating support or for specific programs. However, organizations that received general operating support in the previous funding cycle may only apply for programmatic support in the current cycle. Awards are capped at the lesser of $100,000 or 50% of the applicant organization's annual operating budget. All funds awarded through the program must be expended during calendar year 2026. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations with a physical location or headquarters in Orleans Parish and at least three years of operational history. They must also be in good standing with the IRS and the Louisiana Secretary of State. If applying with a fiscal sponsor, a Memorandum of Understanding must be included. Only one application per organization will be accepted. Organizations are expected to demonstrate strong board and staff leadership, sound fiscal management, and meaningful engagement with the communities they serve. The application process requires submission of a full proposal through the foundation’s online portal, including narrative responses and multiple supporting documents. Required attachments include the organization’s current operating budget, year-to-date financial statements, most recent audit and IRS Form 990, board member list, list of other funders, proof of good standing, and a memorandum of understanding if applicable. Applications are due by 5:00 PM on August 1, 2025. Late submissions will not be accepted. Notifications for grant awards will follow a timeline to be determined. Payment will be disbursed in phases based on grant size: grants up to $25,000 will be paid in two installments, while grants above $25,000 will follow a three-part schedule with interim and final reporting requirements. Final reports must be submitted for all awards, and interim reports are required for awards over $25,000. If you have questions, you may contact the fund at grants@nocsf.org.

Organizations may only apply once per cycle. Prior general support recipients must switch to programmatic funding. Prepare KPI metrics in advance and review reporting expectations.