Infrastructure Grants

The City of South Bend's IGNITE Grant Program is designed to enhance South Bend neighborhoods through innovative, resident-led projects that foster community engagement and development. This program aligns directly with the city's mission to empower its residents and cultivate vibrant, self-sustaining communities by offering financial support and encouraging active participation from within the neighborhoods themselves. The grants, ranging from $10,000 to $100,000, are specifically structured to ignite grassroots efforts and address localized needs, reinforcing the city's commitment to community-driven progress. The target beneficiaries of the IGNITE Grant Program are exclusively neighborhood associations and the residents residing within those neighborhoods in South Bend. The program's core impact goal is to facilitate tangible improvements in the quality of life and community spirit in these areas. By requiring neighborhood associations to identify boundaries and form a committee of at least five residents, the program ensures that initiatives are truly representative of and directly beneficial to the local population, promoting a sense of ownership and collective responsibility for neighborhood betterment. The IGNITE Grant Program prioritizes projects falling into several key categories, reflecting a holistic approach to neighborhood development. These include Beautification (e.g., wildflower gardens, tree planting), Public Art (e.g., murals, sculptures), Food Security/Access (e.g., community gardens), Public Safety (e.g., sidewalk connections, lighting), Health & Wellness (e.g., walking paths, outdoor exercise equipment), Public Space Enhancement (e.g., picnic areas, shared spaces), Neighborhood Signage, and Capacity Building and Training (e.g., Neighbor Works training, strategic plans). The program also welcomes other creative, neighborhood-generated project ideas, demonstrating flexibility and a commitment to fostering innovation at the local level. Expected outcomes and measurable results include visible improvements in public spaces, increased access to resources, enhanced safety, and a stronger sense of community identity and cohesion. For example, beautification projects could lead to more aesthetically pleasing and inviting environments, while public safety initiatives could result in a reduction of incidents and a greater feeling of security among residents. The focus on capacity building and training suggests an emphasis on developing sustainable leadership and organizational skills within neighborhood associations, leading to long-term community resilience and continued development efforts beyond the grant period. While the document does not explicitly outline the "foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change," the program's structure strongly implies that the City of South Bend's strategic priority is to invest directly in its neighborhoods as the primary agents of change. The theory of change appears to be that by empowering and funding resident-led initiatives, the city can achieve more effective, relevant, and sustainable improvements than through top-down approaches alone. This fosters a collaborative environment where residents are both the beneficiaries and the drivers of positive transformation in their communities.

The Connecticut Land Conservation Council (CLCC) is offering Climate Smart Land Stewardship Grants to increase the number of acres in Connecticut managed with climate smart practices. This initiative directly aligns with the CLCC's mission, which is dedicated to land conservation and stewardship of conserved lands within Connecticut. The grant program seeks to encourage land trusts to adopt practices that enhance the land's ability to sequester carbon, provide ecosystem services, and adapt to changing environmental conditions, thereby contributing to broader environmental resilience goals. The primary target beneficiaries for these grants are tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)3 whose mission is dedicated to land conservation and/or stewardship of conserved lands, operating within or including the State of Connecticut, and are current members of CLCC. The impact goals are to significantly expand the use of climate smart land stewardship practices across Connecticut, fostering a more resilient and sustainable landscape. The program prioritizes projects that develop climate smart land stewardship plans, establish pollinator habitats, manage invasive species followed by native plantings, manage forests for improved wildlife habitat and oak regeneration, establish wildlife corridors, increase riparian forest buffers, and implement agricultural practices that enhance water quality and soil health. These focuses are designed to achieve tangible environmental improvements and promote long-term ecological health. Expected outcomes include an increase in the number of acres managed using climate smart practices, improved carbon sequestration and storage, enhanced ecosystem services, and greater resilience of land to environmental disturbances. Measurable results will be tracked through the successful completion of planning grants within 12 months and the implementation of funded projects. The program's theory of change posits that by providing financial support and encouraging best practices, CLCC can significantly accelerate the adoption of climate-smart strategies, leading to a healthier and more sustainable Connecticut landscape. Funding is available for two types of grants: Planning Grants with a maximum award of $8,000, and Implementation Grants with a maximum award of $50,000. Planning Grants must be completed within 12 months, emphasizing a timely progression from planning to action. This structured approach ensures that the grants translate into concrete, on-the-ground changes that align with the CLCC's strategic priorities for land conservation and climate resilience.

The Northern Monterey County Foundation (NMCF), an affiliate of the Community Foundation for Monterey County, is seeking applications to support nonprofit organizations. The foundation's mission is to strengthen community resources and services in Northern Monterey County. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's goal of supporting organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and capacity to provide essential services to the communities of Aromas, Bolsa Knolls, Boronda, Castroville, Elkhorn, Las Lomas, Moss Landing, Oak Hills, Pajaro, Prunedale, Royal Oaks, and Santa Rita. The grant targets 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, public programs (including school activities not part of normal curricula, parks, and public health initiatives), and church-sponsored activities that benefit the entire community (e.g., food pantries). Organizations and collaboratives that are not legally incorporated may also apply with a fiscal sponsor. The goal is to make a significant impact by supporting vital community resources and services, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient communities within Northern Monterey County. The program prioritizes several key areas. Funding will be considered for program support, which includes the expansion or refinement of existing programs and new programs with promise of impact and sustainability. Operating support is also available as unrestricted grants to organizations. Capital support is provided for costs associated with buildings and/or facilities. Additionally, organizational development is a focus, aiming to strengthen the internal capacity and infrastructure of organizations with a proven track record of community benefit in Northern Monterey County. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the expected outcomes are centered on enhancing the capacity of local nonprofits and public programs to serve their communities effectively. The foundation's strategic priority is clearly to invest in organizations that are directly improving the lives of residents in Northern Monterey County through various forms of support. The underlying theory of change is that by strengthening the infrastructure and programs of these community-focused organizations, the overall well-being and resources available to the target communities will be significantly improved and sustained.

The Catholic Foundation of Michigan's grant program is designed to inspire charitable giving and support Catholic parishes, schools, and nonprofit organizations. The Foundation's core mission is to assist donors in investing in the future of these entities by providing grants that align with Catholic teachings and serve communities primarily in Michigan. The program seeks to empower organizations whose values and behaviors are consistent with Catholic principles, ensuring that funded projects contribute to the broader goals of the Catholic faith community. The grant program targets a wide range of beneficiaries within the Catholic sphere, including Archdiocesan, religious, or parish-sponsored nonprofit organizations, local nonprofit organizations adhering to Catholic Social Teaching, and various Catholic educational and formation initiatives. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the Catholic community in Michigan by addressing vital social service needs, fostering vibrant parish life, and enhancing Catholic education and spiritual development across all ages. The program aims to create a strong, welcoming, and supportive environment for individuals to encounter Christ and grow in their faith. The Foundation focuses its grants on three major areas: Empowering Social Outreach, Building Vibrant Parish Life, and Fostering Catholic Education and Formation. In social outreach, the priority is to respond to essential social service needs such as food, shelter, and medicine, leveraging both internal and external organizations aligned with Catholic Social Teaching. For vibrant parish life, the focus is on creating welcoming Catholic parishes, supporting resource development for community outreach, and encouraging training and new staff positions. In Catholic education and formation, priorities include supporting innovative faith formation, fostering high-quality ministries for various age groups, improving access to parochial schools, and promoting leadership development. The expected outcomes of the grant program are multifaceted, aiming for tangible improvements in the communities served. Measurable results could include increased access to social services for vulnerable populations, enhanced participation and engagement in parish activities, and improved quality and accessibility of Catholic educational and spiritual development programs. The Foundation's strategic priorities are rooted in the Gospel call to serve others, the importance of the parish as a faith community's home, and the value of lifelong Catholic education and formation. This theory of change suggests that by investing in these key areas, the Foundation can contribute to a more robust, compassionate, and spiritually enriched Catholic presence throughout Michigan.

This program provides funding to local governments in New York State for community development projects that improve housing, infrastructure, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income residents.

This initiative provides funding to municipalities and Indian Nations in New York State to build or improve swimming facilities in underserved communities, promoting safe access to swimming.

This program provides funding to local governments and non-profit organizations for projects that improve water quality, enhance flood resilience, and protect drinking water sources across the state.

The Philip L. Graham Fund is offering grants to organizations that provide direct services to individuals and families. The Fund's mission is aligned with supporting innovative and efficient organizations, and over several decades, it has invested significantly in the physical infrastructure, information technology, and transportation needs of local nonprofit organizations. This program seeks to continue that tradition by supporting organizations that fit within its giving priorities and focus areas. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are residents of Washington, D.C., and specific counties in Maryland (Charles, Montgomery, Prince George's) and Virginia (Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, Prince William, and the cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Manassas, and Manassas Park). The impact goals are to support direct services that address community needs within the Fund's focus areas, ultimately improving the lives of individuals and families in these regions. The Fund's priorities and focus areas include Health & Human Services, Education, Arts & Humanities, and Community Endeavors. Organizations seeking funding must align with these priorities and provide services that fall into one or more of these categories. The Fund's strategic priorities appear to be centered on strengthening the capacity of local nonprofits to deliver essential services and foster community well-being. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the Fund's long-standing investment in infrastructure and technology suggests an expected outcome of enhanced operational capacity and improved service delivery for grantee organizations. The theory of change seems to be that by supporting eligible 501(c)(3) public charities that provide direct services in key areas, the Fund can contribute to the overall health, education, cultural enrichment, and community development of the designated geographic areas. Eligibility criteria further underscore the Fund's strategic approach. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, serve residents within the specified footprint, and align with the Fund's priorities. Additionally, there are specific requirements for past applicants and grantees, ensuring a rotation of funding and accountability for previous grants. The Fund explicitly excludes requests from individuals, government agencies, certain educational institutions, and organizations involved primarily in advocacy or policy change, reinforcing its focus on direct service provision.

The Washington State Department of Commerce's Blended Capital Enhancement Grants are part of the Community Reinvestment Project (CRP), a new initiative aimed at reducing wealth disparities within Black, Latine, and tribal communities through asset building. The program seeks to support by-and-for lending agencies, businesses, and organizations that serve these specific communities. The overarching mission is to make it easier for these communities to access financial support from local organizations and businesses, fostering economic empowerment and equity. The grant program targets Black, Latine, and tribal communities across Washington state, as well as the lending agencies, businesses, and organizations that are either led by and for these communities, or are partnered with such entities. The impact goals are centered on facilitating homeownership, supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, providing money management and business training, assisting with the acquisition of commercial property and business assets, and helping individuals reduce debt and increase savings through matching funds. These goals directly address key areas of wealth accumulation and financial stability. The program prioritizes funding for a variety of initiatives including new construction loans ($5 million), home expansion loans (including Accessory Dwelling Units or ADUs) ($6 million), business startups and expansions ($5 million), and consumer loans (such as credit consolidation, car refinancing, or emergency expenses) ($1 million). The total funding available is $42 million. The focus is on creating accessible financial pathways and resources that have historically been less available to the targeted communities. Expected outcomes include an increase in homeownership rates within Black, Latine, and tribal communities, the growth and sustainability of small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures, improved financial literacy and money management skills among individuals, and a reduction in personal debt coupled with increased savings. These measurable results align with the broader strategic priorities of the Washington State Department of Commerce to foster economic development and reduce disparities. The theory of change suggests that by empowering local, by-and-for organizations with capital, they can more effectively deliver essential financial services and support, thereby directly addressing systemic inequalities and building lasting wealth within these communities.

The Toxics Use Reduction Institute (TURI) is offering a grant program to academic faculty focused on identifying, evaluating, and developing safer alternatives to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). This initiative aligns with TURI's mission to reduce the use of toxic chemicals and promote safer practices. The program seeks to foster research that directly addresses the environmental and health concerns associated with PFAS by finding viable replacements in various manufacturing and product applications. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are academic faculty and their graduate students located at institutions within Massachusetts. The program aims to support these researchers in conducting innovative studies that contribute to a cleaner environment and safer products for the general public. The impact goals are to reduce reliance on PFAS, mitigate their toxic effects, and encourage the adoption of less harmful alternatives across industries. The grant prioritizes research that focuses on specific applications where PFAS are commonly used, such as water and stain-resistant coated fabrics, textiles, apparel, footwear, surfactant applications (including fume suppressants), refrigerants and coolants, fire suppressants, fluoropolymers, manufacturing processing aids, coated food packaging, and other non-stick coated materials and products. Proposals should directly address these areas to develop practical and implementable solutions. Expected outcomes include the identification of novel, safer alternatives to PFAS, comprehensive evaluations of existing alternatives, and the development of new processes or materials that eliminate the need for PFAS. Measurable results would involve the number of alternatives identified and evaluated, the success rate of developed alternatives in specific applications, and the potential for widespread adoption by industries. TURI's strategic priority is to drive toxics use reduction through research and education, and this grant program embodies a key part of their theory of change by funding scientific inquiry into tangible solutions for harmful chemicals.

The City of Boulder Health Equity Fund (HEF) Request for Proposals (RFP) is designed to support community-based health equity programs for Boulder residents experiencing health disparities. The fund aims to reduce systemic socio-economic and health barriers, aligning with the city's mission to achieve health equity—defined as the absence of systematic health disparities and the ability of all residents to reach their full health potential regardless of life circumstances. This initiative directly supports health and wellness programs that address these disparities. The target beneficiaries of the HEF include residents disproportionately impacted by diseases linked to sugar-sweetened beverage consumption or targeted by SSB marketing, those lacking access to healthy food, safe water, quality health care, wellness information, and health care services, and populations systemically disenfranchised due to race, ethnicity, income, age, ability, sexual orientation, or gender identification. The primary impact goal is to improve health equity and reduce health disparities within these vulnerable communities. The HEF prioritizes programs that benefit individuals most affected by or at increased risk from chronic diseases linked to sugary drink consumption, or who generally experience health disparities. Key focuses include health services for prevention of obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and oral diseases, increased access to healthy food and clean water, wellness programs, and physical fitness. The program also emphasizes leadership diversity reflective of client demographics, alignment with program priorities, evidence-based practices, and valuing lived experience and cultural knowledge. Expected outcomes and measurable results include long-term evaluation of outcomes, meaningful engagement of community members in program design and implementation, strong collaborations, cost-effectiveness, and demonstrated financial stability and diverse funding sources for applying agencies. The City of Boulder's strategic priority is to fund programs that directly address health inequities and contribute to a community where all residents can achieve their full health potential. The underlying theory of change is that by investing in targeted, community-based health and wellness programs, the city can systematically dismantle health barriers and create a more equitable health landscape for its residents.

The Bernalillo County Neighborhood Grant Program aims to strengthen neighborhoods and enhance the quality of life within Bernalillo County by supporting neighborhood associations and other community groups. This program is rooted in the belief that strong neighborhoods and active residents are vital to the county's uniqueness and well-being. The grant is designed to assist these groups in their ongoing participation and outreach efforts to their members and all residents of Bernalillo County. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are individual, recognized Neighborhood Associations within Bernalillo County or the City of Albuquerque. The program seeks to empower these associations to initiate, plan, and implement projects that directly impact their neighbors and community members. The overarching impact goal is to foster self-help initiatives that provide positive, public benefits to all residents, thereby strengthening community bonds and enhancing local quality of life. Key priorities and focuses for this grant include projects performed within Bernalillo County, including areas within city limits, and initiatives that offer a positive, public benefit to all residents. Projects must be free and open to all residents within neighborhood association boundaries. A strong emphasis is placed on self-help, encouraging projects that are conceived, planned, and executed by the community members who will ultimately benefit. Furthermore, successful applications are expected to include community match resources, demonstrating a commitment from the neighborhood itself. Expected outcomes include a more engaged and active citizenry, an increase in community-led projects that address local needs, and a general enhancement of the quality of life across Bernalillo County. While specific measurable results like the number of participants or projects are implied by the nature of the grant (up to $5,000 per association per grant period), the program fundamentally seeks to foster community resilience and collective action. The grant’s theory of change posits that by investing in neighborhood-led initiatives, Bernalillo County can cultivate a more vibrant, connected, and self-reliant community.

The Outreach and Restoration Grant Program is a collaborative effort between the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various partners including BGE, Charles County, the City of Baltimore Department of Public Works, and others. This program is designed to foster community engagement, raise awareness, and facilitate on-the-ground restoration projects. Its core mission aligns with increasing knowledge, changing behaviors, and accelerating the stewardship of natural resources within Maryland. The Trust encourages projects that recognize the interconnectedness of environmental and human health, aiming for co-benefits such as improved air quality, access to green spaces, and reduced flooding, alongside direct natural resource improvements. The program targets a diverse range of organizations, encompassing both community-related and environmental-focused missions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 private nonprofits, faith-based organizations, community and homeowners associations, public agencies, and educational institutions. The overarching impact goals are to increase public understanding of environmental challenges and solutions, address community environmental health disparities, implement demonstration-scale community-inspired restoration projects, and expand the base of public support for the restoration and protection of Maryland's natural resources. Projects funded through this grant program must meet one or both of two primary goals: engaging specific audiences in community sustainability and environmental health issues through knowledge-building or behavior-change efforts, and accomplishing on-the-ground restoration that enhances the health of Maryland's natural resources, specifically through water quality improvement or habitat enhancement. These priorities are further broken down into four distinct funding tracks: Outreach/Knowledge Building (up to $50,000), Behavior Change (up to $75,000), Restoration (up to $100,000), and Outreach and Restoration (up to $125,000), allowing applicants to focus on their specific expertise and project scope. Expected outcomes and measurable results include increased knowledge and altered behaviors among community members regarding environmental stewardship. On-the-ground restoration projects are expected to yield tangible improvements in water quality and habitat health. The program seeks to demonstrate the effectiveness of community-led stewardship efforts and address local environmental health disparities. By engaging a broad spectrum of organizations and communities, the Chesapeake Bay Trust and its partners aim to build a stronger, more informed base of support for long-term environmental protection and restoration across the state of Maryland.

The Colorado Media Project and Local Media Association have partnered to bring the LMA Lab for Journalism Funding to Colorado newsrooms. This program is designed to provide in-depth training and coaching to help local news organizations develop journalism projects that address community priorities and can be funded through philanthropy. The initiative aligns with a broader goal of strengthening local journalism and supporting news organizations in their fundraising efforts, building on the success of the LMA Lab for Journalism Funding which has helped over 100 U.S. news organizations raise more than $22 million since 2020. This collaborative effort, supported by the Google News Initiative, underscores a strategic priority to foster sustainable local news ecosystems through philanthropic support. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are community-based, locally controlled Colorado news organizations that produce original, local news at least weekly. Priority is given to newsrooms with philanthropic giving programs less than five years old, or those with new staff who could benefit from this training. Local news partnerships or coalitions are also encouraged to apply, especially if they have a joint initiative seeking philanthropic funding. The impact goal is to equip these newsrooms with the skills and resources to secure philanthropic funding for local journalism projects that are responsive to community needs, thereby enhancing the quality and sustainability of local news in Colorado. The program's priorities and focuses include setting fundraising goals aligned with market size, developing prospect lists, creating pitch decks and campaign materials, and facilitating meetings with funders. Participants will also engage in the end-of-year #newsCOneeds fundraising campaign. Preference will be given to organizations with strong local leadership and community ties, a focus on high-quality local journalism, leadership-level buy-in, an organizational commitment of staff time and resources, and a value for staff and leadership diversity. These criteria highlight a strategic focus on building capacity within newsrooms that are deeply embedded in their communities and committed to journalistic excellence. Expected outcomes include newsrooms setting and working towards specific fundraising goals, developing robust fundraising strategies and materials, and actively engaging with funders. Measurable results will likely include the amount of philanthropic funding raised by participating newsrooms, the number of new donor relationships established, and the successful execution of fundraising campaigns. The program also aims to contribute best practices and lessons learned through case studies and an industry playbook, fostering a collective learning environment and promoting a theory of change where targeted training and support lead to increased philanthropic investment in local journalism, ultimately strengthening civic engagement and informed communities.

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation is offering a grant ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 to municipalities in New York for the adoption of zero-emission vehicles and installation of electric vehicle charging and hydrogen fuel filling stations, with a total of $750,000 available in the seventh round of the Municipal ZEV Rebate Program.

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) is offering Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants (AFIG) with approximately $5 million in funding. This program aims to support school districts, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in Pennsylvania in their transition to cleaner fuel transportation. The grant's mission aligns with environmental protection efforts by promoting the adoption of alternative fuels such as electricity, compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane, hydrogen, hythane, biodiesel, ethanol, methanol, and other advanced biofuels, ultimately working towards reducing emissions and improving air quality. The AFIG program targets a broad range of beneficiaries across Pennsylvania, including public and private entities. Specific eligible organizations include counties, townships, municipalities, municipal authorities, public school districts (including charter schools), 501(c)3 organizations providing services to vulnerable populations (seniors, low-income individuals and families, individuals with disabilities, veterans, or medical services), businesses registered as Small Diverse Businesses with the Commonwealth, and county/local government-supported or contracted organizations providing similar services. The program intends to impact environmental health and economic development by fostering a cleaner transportation infrastructure and supporting diverse businesses. The program prioritizes businesses headquartered or with principal operations in Pennsylvania, zero-emission vehicle projects, medium-duty and light-duty fleet refueling infrastructure projects, renewable natural gas vehicle and infrastructure projects, and projects located in or predominantly serving environmental justice areas. Additionally, minority-, veteran-, or woman-owned businesses are also prioritized. These priorities reflect a strategic approach to maximize environmental benefits, support local economies, and promote equity in the transition to alternative fuels. Expected outcomes of the AFIG program include a significant increase in the adoption of alternative fuel vehicles and associated refueling infrastructure across Pennsylvania. Measurable results will include the number of vehicles retrofitted or purchased to operate on alternative fuels, the installation of new fleet- or home-refueling equipment, and the advancement of research and development in alternative fuel technology. The program's strategic priorities and theory of change are centered on catalyzing a widespread shift towards cleaner transportation options, driven by financial incentives and targeted support for innovative projects and underserved communities, ultimately contributing to a more sustainable and healthier Pennsylvania.

The South Dakota Housing Opportunity Fund (HOF) is a grant program designed to foster economic development in South Dakota by increasing the availability of decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable housing for families and individuals. This aligns with a foundational mission to support community well-being and economic stability through essential housing solutions. The HOF is administered by South Dakota Housing and the SD Housing Board of Commissioners, ensuring a strategic approach to addressing housing needs across the state. The target beneficiaries of the HOF include low to moderate-income households, with a maximum income at or below 115% of the county or state area median income (AMI), whichever is higher, as determined by HUD criteria. The impact goals are broad, aiming to expand housing options, prevent homelessness, and improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities. This comprehensive approach seeks to create a more equitable and supportive housing landscape for vulnerable populations. The HOF prioritizes various activities to achieve its goals. These include new construction or the purchase and rehabilitation of rental or homeownership housing, housing preservation (such as home repair grants and grants for accessibility modifications), homelessness prevention activities, and support for community land trusts. For development projects, there are application limits of $350,000 for rural development and $150,000 for urban development, ensuring a focused allocation of funds. Eligible projects encompass new construction, acquisition, and rehabilitation of rental housing, as well as the purchase and rehabilitation of homeownership housing, substantial or moderate rehabilitation, housing preservation, and rehabilitating homes for individuals with disabilities. The expected outcomes include an increased supply of affordable housing units, improved housing conditions, and reduced instances of homelessness. Measurable results would involve tracking the number of housing units created or preserved, the number of households served, and the number of homes made accessible. The underlying theory of change is that by investing in diverse housing solutions and supporting eligible entities, the HOF can directly address the housing crisis, stimulate economic growth, and enhance the quality of life for South Dakota residents.

The Anderson Water Council is currently accepting applications for grants focused on the protection and remediation of water resources within Anderson County, specifically within Georgia and South Carolina. This grant program is designed to align with the Anderson Water Council's mission to assist Savannah Riverkeeper and Upstate Forever in identifying, prioritizing, and funding projects that empower citizens to address existing and emerging threats to water resources. The core objective is to restore water quality in the impacted areas of the Savannah River watershed. The target beneficiaries for this grant funding include not-for-profit charitable corporations or trusts authorized to operate in South Carolina or Georgia with a mission aligned with the Water Council's goals. Additionally, the Georgia and South Carolina Department of Natural Resources, Forestry Commissions, and Departments of Parks, Recreation, and Tourism are eligible. Educators, municipalities, school systems, and any agency, commission, or instrumentality of such a municipality in the impacted areas are also encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered on empowering local communities to take action and collect and publicly share water quality data, ultimately leading to improved water quality. The program prioritizes projects that empower local communities to actively participate in water resource management, particularly those focused on data collection and public sharing of water quality information. Funding is also available for water restoration projects. The Water Council is particularly interested in initiatives that foster citizen engagement and education around water resource issues. The expected outcomes include a more engaged citizenry, increased awareness of water quality threats, and the implementation of effective water restoration efforts. Measurable results for citizen empowerment and education projects typically see average individual grant awards ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, while water restoration projects can receive up to $100,000. Grants may also include multi-year awards, not exceeding three years. The Anderson Water Council's strategic priority is to support initiatives that contribute directly to the restoration and protection of the Savannah River watershed, with a strong emphasis on community-led solutions and data-driven approaches. Their theory of change suggests that by empowering local communities with funding and support for data collection and restoration, significant improvements in water quality and resource protection can be achieved.

Love Your Block is a City of Pittsburgh program designed to empower neighbors to enhance their communities by addressing blight, fostering community assets, and building resilience. The program's core mission aligns with promoting community development and civic engagement, focusing on tangible improvements at the neighborhood level. Through a grant or reimbursement model, Love Your Block supports local initiatives that directly contribute to a more vibrant and sustainable urban environment. The overarching goal is to cultivate stronger, more connected communities through resident-led action and collaborative efforts. The primary beneficiaries of this program are the residents and neighborhoods within the City of Pittsburgh. The program aims to create a positive impact by improving public spaces, increasing community safety, and fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents. Impact goals include revitalizing neglected areas, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of blocks, and promoting active participation in community upkeep. This program targets communities that are eager to undertake projects ranging from maintaining community gardens and organizing neighborhood clean-ups to planting trees and flowers, directly benefiting those who live and work in these areas. Key priorities for Love Your Block projects include building strong partnerships, leveraging donations, ensuring feasibility, and engaging neighbors. Successful projects are expected to demonstrate collaboration with local businesses, VFW posts, or youth service-learning components. They should also encourage residents to donate resources like plants, compost, or food for volunteer events. The program emphasizes that while creative ideas are encouraged, projects must be realistic and manageable, potentially serving as a first step for larger initiatives. Crucially, the most impactful projects involve volunteers residing within proximity to the project, fostering a sense of local ownership and long-term sustainability. Expected outcomes include a visible reduction in blight, the creation of new or improved community assets, and increased neighborhood resilience. Measurable results could include the number of community gardens maintained, the volume of waste collected during clean-ups, the number of trees and flowers planted, and the level of volunteer participation from within the project's vicinity. The program's strategic priorities are rooted in a theory of change that posits that by empowering residents with resources and support, communities will be better equipped to address their own needs, leading to sustainable improvements and a stronger social fabric. The maximum award of $2,500, provided through reimbursement after project implementation, underscores a focus on supporting grassroots, community-driven efforts that demonstrate initiative and commitment.

The City of Wichita's Operating Grants program aims to provide essential operational support for qualifying 501(c)(3) non-profit arts and cultural organizations that significantly serve the citizens of Wichita. This initiative aligns with the city's long-standing mission to recognize, preserve, and celebrate Wichita’s rich arts and cultural heritage, acknowledging its profound impact on residents' quality of life. The funding is intended to bolster the infrastructure and day-to-day functions of these vital organizations, ensuring the continued accessibility and vibrancy of cultural experiences within the community. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit arts and cultural organizations operating within the City of Wichita. The overarching impact goal is to sustain and enhance the city's cultural landscape, thereby enriching the lives of Wichita citizens through diverse artistic and cultural programming. By supporting these organizations, the city aims to foster a dynamic cultural environment that contributes to community well-being and civic pride. The program prioritizes organizations that have as their primary purpose the production, presentation, advancement, or preservation of arts or culture in Wichita, serving its residents for a minimum of two years. Key focuses include organizations with full-time professional management or cultural/artistic staff, those presenting a full season of programming, and those demonstrating ADA compliance and adherence to equal opportunity employment requirements. The grant specifically funds operational expenses such as salaries, office rent, utilities, and general website upkeep, recognizing that stable operations are fundamental to consistent program delivery. Expected outcomes include the sustained operation and growth of Wichita's arts and cultural organizations, leading to a broader array of cultural offerings for residents. Measurable results could include the number of performances or exhibitions presented, the number of citizens served, and the overall financial stability of recipient organizations. The city's strategic priority is to invest in its cultural assets to maintain a high quality of life and a strong community identity, with the theory of change positing that direct operational funding empowers cultural organizations to deliver their services more effectively, leading to a more culturally enriched and engaged populace. Funding limitations are based on an organization's actual expenses in its most recently completed fiscal year, categorizing them as "Small" (less than $250,000 in expenses, eligible for up to 15% of expenses), "Medium" (between $250,000 and $499,999 in expenses, eligible for up to 10% of expenses), or "Large" ($500,000 or more in expenses, eligible for up to 8% of expenses or $75,000, whichever is less). Organizations can submit only one application per cycle. This tiered approach ensures that funding is distributed equitably and proportionally to the operational scale of each applicant, maximizing the program's reach and impact across the diverse cultural ecosystem of Wichita.