A Thriving Communities Grantmaker Program

The Flourishing in Community (FIC) Grantmaker Program is administered by Fordham University and funded by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This initiative is part of a regional effort to bolster environmental and public health work within underserved and under-resourced communities located in Region 2, encompassing New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and eight federally recognized Indian Nations. The mission centers on fostering transformation in these communities, equipping them to meet environmental challenges past, present, and future. The FIC Grantmaker provides financial support, technical assistance, capacity development, and research opportunities to community-driven initiatives and nonprofit organizations spearheading environmental projects in the designated region. The grant program operates over a three-year period and uses a quarterly evaluation process to assess incoming proposals. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis while funding lasts, with extended application deadlines to ensure broader access and participation. Applicants can apply for competitive grants or submit nominations for noncompetitive $75,000 subawards designed specifically for capacity-constrained communities and community-based organizations. These noncompetitive awards feature a simplified application process and reduced reporting requirements. Selections are made through a participatory, community-influenced voting process. Any individual or organization based in Region 2 is eligible to nominate themselves or others. The program's second application cycle deadline has been extended to June 30, 2025, and public voting for noncompetitive awards will take place from July 7 to July 14. While public input influences the selection, it is not the sole deciding factor. Those interested in applying or nominating must do so through the online portal, and paper applications can be requested by contacting the program team at InfoFIC@Fordham.edu. Resources such as a sample Request for Proposals (RFP) form and guidance for the voting process are available on the program's website. Updates regarding submitted applications and the review process are communicated via email. The grant encourages ongoing participation and community voice throughout the lifecycle of the initiative.