Community Impact Grants

The South Mountain Partnership Community Impact Grant is a competitive, project-based funding opportunity aimed at strengthening the sense of place and ecological integrity of the South Mountain region in south-central Pennsylvania. This initiative is managed by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy on behalf of the South Mountain Partnership (SMP) and receives funding through the Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR), specifically via the Community Conservation Partnerships Program and the Environmental Stewardship Fund. The program, previously known as the Mini-Grant Program, has been rebranded in 2026 to better communicate its purpose and impact. The grant supports on-the-ground projects that advance the conservation, enhancement, and sustainable use of four key resource types: natural (such as forests and streams), cultural (historic buildings and cultural history), agricultural (working farms and orchards), and recreational (public trails and parks). In addition, projects that demonstrate positive economic impacts stemming from these resources are welcomed. SMP strongly encourages “nexus projects” that intersect multiple resource categories and foster interdisciplinary solutions. The initiative is tightly aligned with the Partnership’s mission of conserving landscape resources to improve quality of life and support community well-being. This grant offers single-year funding for projects taking place from September 2026 through December 2027. Awards typically range from $2,500 to $15,000, although larger requests up to $25,000 may be considered under special circumstances. Total project costs may not exceed $50,000. A key change in 2026 is the introduction of a 25% minimum match requirement, which may be fulfilled through cash or eligible in-kind contributions such as volunteer time or donated services. The grant is not intended for general operations or organizational capacity-building but may cover direct costs and staff time associated with a specific project scope. Eligible applicants include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, municipalities, counties, authorities, and educational institutions. Projects must be based within Adams, Cumberland, Franklin, or York Counties in Pennsylvania, and preference is given to proposals operating in the core South Mountain region. All applications must reflect how the proposed project ties into the findings of the SMP’s “State of the Region” initiative, which examines public and environmental health metrics to guide regional action. Applicants are expected to demonstrate how their project addresses at least one of several regional challenges such as sustainable development, water quality, public health, or loss of cultural/natural assets. The application process consists of two steps: an initial pre-application due by April 30, 2026, followed by a final application (if invited) due by June 26, 2026. Final award decisions are expected in August 2026, with grant announcements made on October 2, 2026. All funded projects must be completed and formally closed out by December 31, 2027. Throughout the grant period, awardees must provide updates, submit proper invoicing, and maintain clear records. Grantees are also required to publicly acknowledge the assistance received, using prescribed language and branding guidelines in all materials and signage.

Priority is given to “nexus projects” that address multiple resource types and align with State of the Region metrics.