Gateway Grants

The Gateway Grant program is an initiative of the Alabama Power Foundation, a philanthropic organization committed to enhancing the quality of life for communities across Alabama. Known for its diverse portfolio of support programs, the Foundation emphasizes economic development, education, and community enrichment. Through the Gateway Grant, the Foundation aims to celebrate and unlock the cultural and economic value inherent in Alabama's many towns, empowering municipalities to share their stories and attract new opportunities. This initiative reflects Alabama Power Foundation's broader commitment to fostering pride, resilience, and progress throughout the state. The Gateway Grant specifically focuses on projects that promote civic pride, enhance economic development, and improve community aesthetics. Grants of up to $2,500 are awarded to municipalities in Alabama to support initiatives that create or improve signage, promote local events or tourism, and increase the visibility and appeal of the community. By funding these types of projects, the program aims to help towns attract new visitors, industries, and residents, ultimately contributing to local economic growth and a stronger sense of place. Eligible applicants include cities, towns, and communities within the state of Alabama. Importantly, the grant is paid directly to the municipality, and all recipients must have tax-exempt status under the IRS Code. Municipalities must also adhere to non-discrimination policies, both in their own practices and in the proposed use of grant funds. These guidelines reinforce the Foundation's commitment to inclusion and equitable access to resources and opportunities. Allowable uses of grant funds include the purchase or renovation of community signage, development or upgrades of municipal websites, and the creation of marketing materials for town branding or event promotion. These investments are intended to boost visibility and appeal, creating a welcoming environment that attracts economic and cultural engagement. The program does not mention restrictions on specific types of projects beyond the general categories listed, nor does it indicate any matching fund requirements. The application cycle for the Gateway Grant is clearly defined, with the 2026 cycle opening on April 6 and closing on May 1. There is no mention of a multi-phase submission process, such as a Letter of Intent or Concept Paper, indicating a straightforward application submission. While the application components themselves are not detailed in the source material, the program's focus on specific project types implies that applicants should be prepared to clearly describe the intended use of funds, expected community impact, and the municipality's capacity to implement the project. Evaluation criteria are aligned with the grant’s stated goals: projects should maintain civic pride, encourage physical improvements, and support local promotion efforts with the potential for economic benefit. There is no information provided on notification timelines, award disbursement schedules, or performance periods. Similarly, no direct contact information or downloadable application PDFs are referenced in the available materials. Applicants are likely expected to apply through the Foundation's official online portal during the open application period. As the grant appears to recur annually, municipalities that miss the 2026 deadline may anticipate the next opportunity in spring 2027.