Local Food and Nutrition Grants

The Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) provides grants to rural-serving nonprofit organizations, as well as rural community colleges, that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education. The core mission of this program is to increase the overall capacity of these organizations and community colleges to address a wide array of rural development challenges. A key aspect of the fund's strategy is to help these entities establish new public/private partnerships, which are crucial for leveraging non-state sources of funding and ensuring long-term sustainability. The Rural Maryland Council (RMC) serves as the administrative agency for this grant, managing applications and disbursing funds. The target beneficiaries of MAERDAF are rural-serving nonprofit organizations and rural community colleges. These entities work with communities across Maryland's state-determined rural counties, including Allegany, Calvert, Caroline, Carroll, Cecil, Charles, Dorchester, Frederick, Garrett, Harford, Kent, Queen Anne’s, St. Mary’s, Somerset, Talbot, Washington, Wicomico, and Worcester. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen rural Maryland through enhanced education, economic opportunities, and community development. By supporting organizations that directly serve these areas, MAERDAF aims to foster a more resilient and prosperous rural landscape. For Fiscal Year 2025, the RMC has outlined several key priority areas for applications. These include Agriculture & Forestry (Agricultural Education, Regional Food System Development, Forest Industry Development), Energy (Combined Heat Power, Energy Efficiency, Biomass), Rural Broadband (Rural Broadband Expansion Efforts, Digital Inclusion Programs), Youth Engagement & Leadership Development (Career Technology Centers, Youth Enrichment Programs), Economic Development (Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development, Education & Workforce Development, Regional Marketing Efforts & Tourism Projects), and Community Development (Rural Transportation, Housing repairs, Housing counseling, Poverty Alleviation Efforts). These focus areas reflect the most pressing needs and strategic opportunities for rural growth and improvement in Maryland. The expected outcomes and measurable results from MAERDAF grants are multifaceted, aiming for tangible improvements in rural areas. Projects are expected to contribute to the growth of agricultural and forestry sectors, increase energy efficiency, expand rural broadband access, and enhance youth engagement and leadership. In economic development, anticipated outcomes include the creation of entrepreneurship ecosystems, improved workforce development, and increased regional tourism. Community development efforts are designed to result in better rural transportation, improved housing conditions, and a reduction in poverty. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided information, the focus on these clear outcome areas indicates an expectation of measurable progress in each. MAERDAF's strategic priorities are deeply aligned with a theory of change that posits that by empowering and funding rural-serving organizations and community colleges, a ripple effect of positive development will occur. The funding, budgeted at $878,964 for Fiscal Year 2025 with a maximum grant amount of $45,000, is intended to build the capacity of these local entities. The encouragement of new public/private partnerships further demonstrates a belief that diversified funding and collaborative efforts are essential for long-term impact. The emphasis on a broad range of development areas reflects a holistic approach to rural well-being, recognizing the interconnectedness of agriculture, education, economy, and community health.

The County of Somerset Cultural & Heritage Commission's History Partnership Grant Program aims to bolster both established and nascent local history organizations in Somerset County, New Jersey. This program, administered by the Somerset County Cultural & Heritage Commission (SCC&HC) and supported by the New Jersey Historical Commission (NJHC), is designed to provide financial backing to non-profit organizations and municipalities that deliver history programming, services, and development within the county. The grants are competitive and emphasize fostering excellence in local history initiatives, aligning with a broader mission to preserve and promote New Jersey's rich historical narrative at the community level. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Somerset County-based organizations, including non-profit 501(c)3 or 501(c)4 entities, units of local government, institutions of higher education, and faith-based organizations. The program's impact goals are centered on increasing access to New Jersey history, expanding knowledge of the state's historical context, and improving the management and operational capabilities of local history organizations. By supporting these entities, the program seeks to ensure that historical resources and educational opportunities are readily available to the public throughout Somerset County. The grant program prioritizes and focuses on activities that directly enhance local history programming and services. Eligible expenses span a wide range, from salaries and wages, contracted services, and marketing, to lease expenses, equipment purchases, and maintenance of collections and structures. Crucially, the program also supports staff training, capacity building, and strategic planning, including planning for Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance. This comprehensive approach ensures that organizations can not only deliver compelling programs but also operate sustainably and adapt to contemporary needs. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a greater number of high-quality history programs, improved access to historical information and resources for Somerset County residents, and stronger, more resilient local history organizations. The competitive nature of the awards encourages applicants to strive for excellence, and the independent peer panel evaluation process helps ensure that funding is directed towards projects with the greatest potential for impact. While specific metrics are not detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on increasing access, expanding knowledge, and improving management suggests an expectation of tangible improvements in historical engagement and organizational health within the county.

The Mayor’s Office of Cultural Economy is offering a 2024 Grant Funding Program designed to support and promote the cultural economy of New Orleans. This program aligns with the office's mission to foster economic growth through cultural activities. For the FY24 cycle, twenty-five grants of $2,000 each will be awarded. The grants target individuals and organizations that are actively engaged in promoting the cultural economy. This includes educating youth, training cultural producers, providing networking opportunities, and creating cultural events. Eligible applicants include State and federal 501(c)3 nonprofits, for-profit businesses licensed with the City and State (for community/cultural activities only), and individuals such as artists who have secured a fiscal agent. The program aims to strengthen the cultural sector by supporting initiatives that build capacity and generate economic activity. The program prioritizes workshops, training, and conferences that enhance the capacity of cultural non-profits, neighborhood organizations, and cultural businesses. This capacity building encompasses networking, skill development (such as fundraising and grant writing), programming improvement, education on sustainability, and learning new concepts like place-based planning. Additionally, the grants support workshops, training, and conferences within specific Cultural Economy segments including Entertainment, Design, Preservation, Culinary Arts, Literary Arts and Humanities, and Visual Arts and Crafts. Expected outcomes include the creation of cultural events, increased employment for cultural workers (e.g., musicians), and increased sales for art and cultural vendors, thereby attracting tourists. The program's theory of change is that by investing in cultural education, training, networking, and events, the Office of Cultural Economy can stimulate economic growth and enhance the vibrancy of New Orleans' cultural landscape. All funded programs, events, and activities are required to acknowledge support from the Office of Cultural Economy, ensuring visibility and accountability.

This grant provides financial support to charitable organizations, projects, and activities that benefit the Eagle community in Idaho.

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama's Community Needs Grants program aligns directly with the foundation's mission to support individuals and families in Alabama by addressing basic needs and fostering self-sufficiency. The program focuses on providing access to essentials like food, clothing, and adequate housing, while also emphasizing initiatives that help individuals manage their circumstances, improve job opportunities, and enhance overall life outcomes. This approach reflects the foundation's strategic priority to invest in programs that not only offer immediate relief but also create sustainable pathways to an improved quality of life for the state's residents. The target beneficiaries for this grant program are individuals and families throughout Alabama, particularly those in rural communities. The foundation aims to make a significant impact by connecting with non-profit organizations to support and revitalize these richly diverse rural areas. Impact goals include improving access to basic necessities, enhancing employment prospects, and fostering community development. The foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in basic needs, life skills, and leadership development, it can empower individuals and strengthen communities across the state. The grant program has several key priorities and focuses. These include supporting programs that provide access to food, clothing, and adequate housing, as well as initiatives offering effective job training and life skills. Rural community revitalization is a significant focus, demonstrating the foundation's commitment to equitable development across Alabama. Additionally, the program prioritizes projects that meet the specific needs of Alabama's veterans and leadership programs that show success in developing leaders for the non-profit, government, and business sectors, underscoring a holistic approach to community upliftment. Expected outcomes and measurable results include a reduction in food insecurity, improved access to stable housing, and increased employment rates among program participants. The foundation anticipates enhanced job opportunities and better life outcomes for individuals and families who engage with supported programs. For rural communities, expected outcomes involve increased vitality and stronger local non-profit infrastructures. Ultimately, the foundation aims to see a tangible improvement in the quality of life for Alabamians, facilitated by the development of capable leaders and resilient communities. The foundation does not fund individuals, scholarships, sponsorships for fundraising events, or organizations outside of Alabama.

This funding opportunity is designed to support events and marketing initiatives that promote tourism and increase hotel stays in Liberty Lake, benefiting local businesses and the economy.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and government entities that aim to improve the quality of life in Howard County, Iowa, through projects in areas such as arts, education, health, and community betterment.

The Grant County Community Foundation in North Dakota is offering grants ranging from $10,000 to $100,000 to projects or nonprofit organizations in Grant County, with a focus on enhancing the quality of life for residents, and excluding projects substantially supported by government, national organizations, day-to-day expenses, and sectarian activities of religious organizations.

The City of Mount Rainier's Recreation Activities Grants program aims to bolster community activities that enrich the overall well-being of the community. Established by the City Council for Fiscal Year 2024, this grant provides reimbursement for eligible expenses to organizations. The program's core mission is to foster community engagement and provide residents with opportunities for recreation and connection, aligning directly with the City's broader goal of enhancing community life. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are organizations that can offer programs, activities, and events open to residents within the corporate boundaries of the City of Mount Rainier. The impact goals are centered on promoting enhanced community engagement and providing accessible recreational opportunities. By supporting these local initiatives, the City anticipates a more vibrant and connected community where residents have various avenues for participation and enjoyment. The program prioritizes activities that are open to all City of Mount Rainier residents and actively promote community engagement. While the grant duration is not explicitly mentioned as a restriction, the focus is on supporting events and programs within Fiscal Year 2024. Restrictions include prohibitions on using City funds for alcoholic beverages, and ineligible organizations include those receiving other direct grants from the City or any for-profit businesses. Expected outcomes include an increase in community-wide participation in various recreational activities and events, leading to a stronger sense of community and improved resident well-being. Measurable results could include the number of programs offered, the number of residents participating, and feedback on community engagement levels. The City's strategic priority is to create a more cohesive and engaged community, with the theory of change being that by funding local recreational activities, they will directly foster greater social connection and community spirit among its residents. The program also emphasizes responsible use of funds and local economic support, encouraging purchases from businesses within City limits if feasible. All funded events must comply with applicable laws and regulations, including those from Prince George’s County Health Department, City noise ordinances, and Fire Prevention Code regulations. This ensures that supported activities are not only beneficial but also safe and well-regulated for the community.

The Cortez City Council in Colorado is offering a Community Support Grant Program, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, for community organizations that enhance health, education, and welfare, prioritizing nonprofits, unique needs, broad community service, non-overlapping services, and established providers, with applications due by October 18, 2024.

The Rapides Foundation's Workforce Opportunity Grant Program aims to address the critical need for increased household income levels in Central Louisiana, aligning directly with the foundation's overarching mission to improve the health status of the region. The program operates under the belief that economic prosperity, characterized by low unemployment and higher-wage jobs, directly correlates with improved healthcare access, better health choices, and healthier lifestyles for all income levels. This grant initiative is a strategic effort to uplift the standard of living by fostering economic opportunity and family income, which are core tenets of the foundation's "Healthy Communities" strategic area. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are potential and existing employees within The Rapides Foundation's nine-parish service area, which includes Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn parishes. Additionally, businesses and industry partners located within these parishes will benefit from the increased skill and knowledge of their workforce. The impact goals are two-fold: to enhance the skills and knowledge of the workforce, leading to higher wages for employees, and to simultaneously boost the production capacity of participating businesses and industries. This directly supports the foundation's "Education" strategic area by increasing educational attainment and achievement as a path to improved economic and social status. The program prioritizes accredited, nonprofit, postsecondary institutions as eligible grant recipients, ensuring that the training provided is of high quality and meets recognized educational standards. The focus is on trainings that directly benefit the local workforce and businesses, addressing specific skill gaps or enhancing existing capabilities to meet industry demands. The grant provides up to $75,000 for a period of up to 12 months, indicating a commitment to substantial and sustained impact. The expected outcomes of the Workforce Opportunity Grant Program include a more highly skilled and better-compensated workforce, leading to an increase in household income levels across the targeted parishes. This, in turn, is expected to result in improved health outcomes due to greater financial stability and access to healthcare. By increasing the production capacity of businesses, the program also aims to strengthen the local economy, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth and improved community well-being. This comprehensive approach reflects The Rapides Foundation's "Healthy People" strategic area by indirectly promoting healthy behaviors and improving access to healthcare through economic empowerment.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in Marshall County, Iowa, to support initiatives focused on mental health, substance abuse services, or capital projects that improve the community's quality of life.

This funding provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations in San Leandro that offer food services and assistance to low-income residents.

The Special Project grants, offered by the City of Saint Paul through its Cultural STAR fund, aim to support quality arts activities across all disciplines within the city's geographic boundaries. This initiative is deeply aligned with the fund's overarching mission to promote cultural vitality and economic growth, particularly within the downtown Cultural District, by strengthening the arts and culture community. The grants are designed to support projects that contribute to a vibrant cultural landscape, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for residents and attracting visitors, thereby fostering economic development. Target beneficiaries for these grants include nonprofit arts and cultural organizations located within the City of Saint Paul, as well as informal arts-focused groups, individuals, and one-time arts projects that partner with eligible nonprofits. Businesses in the Cultural District are also eligible for projects that enhance visitor enjoyment. The impact goals are centered on building and diversifying audiences, promoting a broad range of cultural offerings, producing long-term cultural impact, and leveraging additional financial support for the arts. The Cultural STAR Program prioritizes projects and programs that attract audiences, develop and improve cultural facilities, and build the capacity of artists and cultural organizations. A significant focus is placed on the Cultural District of downtown Saint Paul, with at least 80% of funds allocated to nonprofit organizations within this targeted area. The remaining 20% can support businesses in the Cultural District or nonprofit organizations located elsewhere in Saint Paul. This geographic focus underscores the strategic priority of revitalizing and enriching the downtown cultural hub. Expected outcomes include increased audience engagement with diverse cultural offerings, enhanced and accessible cultural facilities, and strengthened organizational capacity within the arts and culture sector. Measurable results could include metrics related to audience attendance, the number and variety of cultural events, improvements in cultural infrastructure, and the ability of organizations to secure additional funding. The Cultural STAR fund's theory of change is that by investing in these areas, it will lead to sustained cultural vitality and economic growth, creating a dynamic and engaging environment for both residents and tourists.

The Community Foundation of Pulaski County in Indiana is offering a grant for charitable programs and projects in areas such as adult education, agriculture, disability, disadvantaged education, environmental wellness, and wildlife conservation, prioritizing proposals that impact a substantial number of people, offer practical solutions to current problems, encourage cooperation, and come from established non-profit organizations, with a deadline of October 1, 2024.

The Four County Community Foundation (4CCF) is launching its Spark Grant Program, designed to offer a more accessible and interactive grant application experience than traditional processes. This program aligns with the 4CCF's mission by focusing on funding innovative projects that address unmet community needs within its service area. The foundation aims to foster community development and empower local initiatives through this streamlined grant format, ensuring that vital projects receive the support they require to make a tangible difference. The Spark Grant Program targets a broad range of beneficiaries, including both individuals and nonprofit groups, who are actively working to meet community needs. The program's impact goal is to support truly innovative projects that can demonstrate a clear benefit to the local community. An example of a past successful project includes a partnership between a Shelby Township-based business and the Hispanic Service Center, offering reduced-cost Spanish-language food safety training, which met a critical need for local entrepreneurs. This illustrates the foundation's commitment to supporting diverse and impactful initiatives. The program prioritizes proposals that are innovative and seek to address an unmet community need within 4CCF’s service area. The selection process involves applicants presenting an in-person proposal to a panel of 4CCF committee members, followed by a five-minute question and answer session. This interactive approach emphasizes transparency and direct engagement, allowing the foundation to better understand the proposed projects and their potential impact. With a pool of $50,000 to award, the Spark Grant Program expects measurable outcomes in community development and the support of local entrepreneurs, particularly those from underrepresented groups. The example of the Spanish-language food safety training highlights the potential for projects to address specific demographic needs and foster economic empowerment. The foundation's strategic priority is to identify and invest in initiatives that demonstrate creativity and a direct, positive impact on the well-being and growth of the four-county community, reflecting a theory of change that values accessible support for innovative local solutions.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to neighborhoods, community groups, and local businesses in Marysville, Washington, for projects aimed at beautifying their local areas.

The Neighborhood Beautification Grant (NBG) initiative, a component of the City's Community Partnerships & Engagement Division (CPED), is designed to engage and encourage residents to work with their neighbors on enhancement and improvement projects. The core mission of NBG is to promote healthier, safer, and cleaner neighborhoods, while simultaneously strengthening community connections and the social fabric within them. The City Council has approved an allocation of $42,000 for these beautification projects, distributed equally at $6,000 to each Council District and the Mayor's office. The NBG targets a broad range of beneficiaries including any resident, group, and/or organization with a new or established community project in Salinas. Specifically, residents, community-led groups, advocacy groups, art organizations, apartment or community associations, and neighborhood watch groups are encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered around cultivating healthy and resilient neighborhoods, supporting engaged and informed residents, stimulating a thriving community, and properly managing shared assets and spaces. The ultimate aim is to achieve a collective impact in the development of neighborhood communities and service delivery strategies to improve the overall quality of life in Salinas. The program prioritizes projects that can be completed within the established timeline, promote neighborhood self-help efforts, and foster neighborhood improvement and beautification. Furthermore, projects must provide health and safety benefits, have confirmed neighborhood support, be visible and accessible to all city residents, and address a specific neighborhood need. Eligibility also requires that group projects focus on beautification, restoration, neighborhood improvements, fostering neighborhood leadership, or addressing neighborhood problems, with each group including at least five volunteers or members. The expected outcomes and measurable results of the NBG initiative include tangible improvements in neighborhood aesthetics, safety, and community engagement. By supporting projects that are visible and accessible to all city residents, the program aims to create a widespread positive impact. The emphasis on confirmed neighborhood support and self-help efforts suggests a theory of change that empowers communities to drive their own improvements, leading to more sustainable and impactful results. While the document does not explicitly detail the foundation's strategic priorities or theory of change beyond the NBG's objectives, the program's design implicitly aligns with strategies that foster civic participation, local ownership, and community-led development for urban betterment.

The Animal Services Responsive Grant, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, aims to improve the quality of life for all animals, educate the community on responsible pet care, and enhance spay/neuter and adoption services. This aligns with the foundation's broader mission to support vital community needs, ensuring that organizations dedicated to animal welfare receive the necessary funding to operate and expand their reach. By focusing on these key areas, the grant seeks to create a more humane environment for animals and foster responsible pet ownership within the community. The primary beneficiaries of this grant are animals in need, as well as the communities and individuals who benefit from enhanced animal welfare services. The grant targets organizations working in specific Texas counties: Atascosa, Bandera, Bexar, Comal, Guadalupe, Kendall, Medina, and Wilson. The impact goals are centered on reducing animal suffering, increasing pet adoptions, promoting spay/neuter initiatives to control pet overpopulation, and educating the public on best practices for animal care. The grant prioritizes nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a clear commitment to these objectives and have a proven track record of serving their local animal populations. The program's priorities include supporting direct animal care services, public education campaigns, and programs that facilitate adoption and spay/neuter. The expected outcomes are a measurable reduction in the number of homeless and neglected animals, an increase in responsible pet ownership, and a more informed community regarding animal welfare issues. Measurable results are tied to the organizational budget and corresponding award amounts, indicating that larger, more established organizations with greater capacity are expected to achieve more significant outcomes. For instance, organizations with budgets over $1,000,000 are eligible for a $50,000 award, implying an expectation of broader impact. The San Antonio Area Foundation's strategic priorities, as demonstrated by this grant, include fostering community well-being through targeted support for critical services. Their theory of change appears to be that by providing financial resources to qualified animal welfare organizations, these organizations will be empowered to implement effective programs that directly address the root causes of animal neglect and overpopulation, ultimately leading to a healthier and more compassionate community for both humans and animals. The eligibility criteria, such as requiring 501(c)(3) status and local operation, ensure that funding is directed to legitimate and impactful entities. This grant does not support endowments, capital campaigns, religious purposes, scholarships, political activities, or lobbying efforts. This restriction further refines the foundation's strategic focus, ensuring that funds are directly applied to programmatic efforts that align with the core goals of animal services. The focus is strictly on responsive grants that address immediate and ongoing needs, rather than long-term institutional building or advocacy.

The Arts & Culture Capacity Building Grant Program, offered by the City of Dubuque, is designed to support initiatives that foster more sustainable and effective arts and culture organizations within the city. This program aligns with a mission to strengthen the operational capacity of local arts and culture entities, ensuring their long-term viability and ability to contribute to the community. Funding is available for fiscal year 2025, from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, with a total of $35,000 allocated for grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, although eligible organizations can apply for up to $8,000. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are arts and culture organizations that are nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, have at least two years of programming documentation and two Form 990s, and are officially located within the city limits of Dubuque. These organizations must serve residents of Dubuque and conduct programming within the city. The program aims to impact these organizations by enhancing their capacity in various key areas, ultimately leading to improved organizational health and effectiveness. The program prioritizes a range of capacity-building initiatives. These include strategic planning, creating development plans and/or fundraising strategies, improving donor experience, providing nonprofit 101 training for staff and board members, leadership development, project or program development, program management, volunteer management, and Diversity, Equity, Accessibility, and Inclusion (DEAI) training. These focus areas are intended to address common challenges faced by arts and culture organizations and equip them with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive. Expected outcomes include organizations with stronger strategic frameworks, enhanced fundraising capabilities, improved donor engagement, more skilled staff and board members, and more effectively managed projects and programs. Measurable results would involve the successful implementation of these capacity-building initiatives, which could be tracked through reports detailing new strategic plans, implemented fundraising strategies, attendance at training sessions, and improved operational metrics. The City of Dubuque's strategic priorities for this grant program appear to be rooted in a theory of change that by investing in the foundational and operational strength of its arts and culture sector, it will foster a more vibrant, resilient, and inclusive cultural landscape for its residents.