Community Centers Grant Program

The Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority (ECGRA) administers the Community Assets Grant program, funded by local share gaming revenue from the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania under the Horse Race Gaming Act. Since its incorporation in 2008, ECGRA has served as an impact investor dedicated to revitalizing Erie County by channeling gaming funds into nonprofits, municipalities, and economic development agencies. Its mission is to elevate the county by promoting economic and community development through targeted grants. The Community Assets Grant for Community Centers provides financial support to enhance facilities that serve as neighborhood hubs. These centers offer a wide range of social, cultural, educational, and recreational services, often supporting children, seniors, and underserved populations. ECGRA recognizes the critical role of community centers in delivering job training, health services, mentoring, nutrition, and programs that contribute to the overall well-being and stability of Erie County residents. By investing in these assets, ECGRA strengthens both urban and rural communities while fostering civic pride and quality of life. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, municipalities, and municipal authorities based in Erie County. Applicants must be in good standing with the IRS, state, and local taxing bodies, as well as with ECGRA’s reporting requirements. They must own or lease the property to be improved, or, in the case of nonprofits, have an executed agreement with a government body to improve government-owned property. Ineligible organizations include state and federal parks, airports, public safety organizations, educational institutions primarily providing K-12 services, and those previously subject to settlement agreements with ECGRA. Funding is awarded for projects that support facility expenses, equipment, supplies, contracted services, construction, and program-related costs. Ineligible uses of funds include personnel costs, debt service, fundraising events, memberships, travel, and food or gifts. A 1:1 cash match is required, which may be met through organizational contributions, grants from other sources, or other direct financial support. In-kind contributions such as volunteer time or donated space are not accepted as match. Applications open October 1, 2025, and close December 31, 2025. Funding recommendations will be reviewed by ECGRA’s board, and awards will be announced January 15, 2026. The maximum award is $15,000 per application, with a total of $150,000 available for this cycle. Grant contracts are for 12 months, with one possible six-month extension upon approval. Recipients must submit a closeout report within 12 months documenting deliverables and financials. ECGRA may monitor compliance through site visits or audits. Applications must be submitted online through ECGRA’s grant portal. Once submitted, applications undergo eligibility screening, review by a board-appointed committee, and final approval by the ECGRA board. Successful applicants will receive a letter of agreement requiring electronic signature within 30 days. For assistance, applicants may contact Tom Maggio, ECGRA Grants Manager, at (814) 897-2694 or tmaggio@ecgra.org .