Citizen Academy Grant

The Citizen Academy Small Grant Program, administered by the MD Two Fifty Commission, will begin accepting applications on Monday, September 16, 2024. The program offers up to 50 grants, each valued at $500, to county and municipal governments throughout Maryland. These grants are designed to support the launch of citizen academies, which are programs that educate and engage local residents in the workings of government and civic participation. The grant funds are specifically intended to cover implementation expenses related to launching these academies. Eligible expenses include, but are not limited to, supplies, printing, transportation, and refreshments. Importantly, no matching funds are required for this grant, making it accessible to a broad range of municipalities and counties. The application process opens on September 16, 2024, and applications will be reviewed monthly starting in October 2024. Applicants can expect to be notified of their status within 60 days of submission. The application will remain open until all funds are distributed. A preview of the application and evaluation process will be available online a week prior to the official opening. All applications must be submitted through the MD Two Fifty Commission’s website. Eligible applicants for this grant include any county or municipal government within Maryland. The program prioritizes funding for diverse communities, including those with significant low-income or immigrant populations, as well as rural areas. Additionally, the citizen academy programs must be accessible to the general public to qualify for funding. For those seeking more information, virtual informational sessions will be held, with details available on the MD Two Fifty Commission’s website and social media platforms. Applicants with further questions can also contact Erin Bode, Assistant Administrator for the Maryland Two Fifty Commission, via email. For more information, including application materials and important dates, applicants are encouraged to visit the official grant webpage at [https://mdtwofifty.maryland.gov/grants-applications/](https://mdtwofifty.maryland.gov/grants-applications/).