Elk County Development Fund Grants

The Elk County Community Foundation (ECCF), located in Saint Marys, Pennsylvania, administers a competitive grant program made possible through the generosity of individuals, families, and organizations that have established funds aimed at making a difference in their local communities. As part of the Community Foundation of the Northern Alleghenies, ECCF is committed to fostering regional development through strategic philanthropy, stewardship, and grantmaking services that help donors achieve their charitable goals. The grants awarded by ECCF are designed to support projects and programs that improve the overall wellbeing and economic vitality of Elk County, Pennsylvania. Grants offered through ECCF target community development efforts with a special emphasis on initiatives that provide broad-based benefits to residents. Projects that address a particular need in the community, demonstrate potential for lasting impact, and include innovative and sustainable elements are encouraged. The grants may be used to support special project or program needs rather than routine operations. Past recipients include The Guardian Angel Center, which received a Women Who Care grant to purchase essential items like cribs, car seats, and strollers, and FSG Elementary School, which obtained support for experiential learning programs. The application process is structured to ensure alignment between the applicant’s goals and the Foundation’s funding priorities. Interested applicants must first initiate contact with ECCF staff by phone or email to discuss their project idea. This step helps applicants determine which fund is most appropriate for their project. Once initial contact is made, applicants may proceed with the formal application process. The grant application includes both electronic and paper components, and both must be completed and submitted in accordance with Foundation guidelines. The program operates on a biannual review cycle, with two key deadlines each year: January 15 and July 15. The review period following each deadline spans approximately four to six weeks. This recurring grant cycle allows organizations to plan ahead and prepare applications in accordance with the Foundation’s timeline. As of the current date, the July 15 cycle is open for submissions. The application must be completed using the current version of Adobe Reader and accessed through the Foundation’s designated portal. On average, individual awards range between $2,000 and $3,000, with some grants reaching as high as $10,000 depending on the fund and project scope. There is no publicly stated total program funding or number of awards; these factors may vary by cycle. The Foundation does not explicitly require matching funds for eligibility, and no matching amounts are specified in available documentation. Eligibility is open to nonprofit organizations that serve the people of Elk County. The grant does not appear to be available to individuals, businesses, or governmental agencies. Priority is given to projects that impact many rather than few, are innovative, and have potential for self-sustainability. Additional eligibility questions or application clarifications can be directed to ECCF via email at eccf@elkcountyfoundation.org or by calling 814-834-2125. The Foundation’s office is located at 32 South Saint Marys Street, Suite 4, PO Box 934, Saint Marys, PA 15857.

Applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation first to ensure alignment with a suitable fund.