Local Law Justice and Legal Services Grants

The Main Street Micro Business Startup Grant Program, funded by Main Street Oakland County and Genisys Credit Union, offers grants between $1000 to $10,000 to support the creation, relocation, or expansion of small businesses in specific Main Street Districts, covering costs such as location renovations, rent assistance, equipment purchases, and other relevant expenses.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations and groups in Philadelphia that engage in a variety of artistic and cultural activities, including arts education, community art, and historic preservation.

This funding opportunity supports community and faith-based organizations in Maryland to implement programs focused on preventing opioid misuse, promoting harm reduction, and aiding recovery efforts.

The Delaware County Foundation is currenlty accepting applications for its Community Grant Program to support numerous non-profit organizations that work to improve community. Donor Name: Delaware County Foundation State: Ohio County: Delaware County (OH) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 07/31/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: Focus Areas Consideration will be given to nonprofit organizations that are specifically addressing these areas:  Animal Welfare: Promoting the proper care of animals and the many ways they bring quality to their lives.  Arts & Culture: Support for arts and cultural activities that enrich the lives of individuals, promote interactions among residents, and build community.  Basic Needs: Investment in approaches that combat food insecurity, provide affordable housing, and remove barriers to transportation, childcare, and education for low-income residents.  Education: Support for innovative programs for all students, preschool through adult.  Economic Opportunity: Investment in the workforce of tomorrow by funding programs that build prosperity, create jobs, and enhance the quality of life in their communities.  Environment: Funding solutions that contribute to healthier, cleaner, and more sustainable Ohio. Funding Information Grants are expected to range between $2,500 to $20,000. Grant Period  Grant projects are typically completed by the applicant within 12 months. Grant Requirements Nonprofit organizations and government entities with projects that benefit Delaware County Ohio residents are eligible to apply. Grants are not made to individuals. Eligibility Criteria Organizations that either (a) have established their tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and are not “private foundations” as defined under section 509(a) of the Code; or (b) have tax exemption as a governmental or other publicly-funded entity; or (c) have a qualified, tax-exempt fiscal sponsor. All organizations and programs aligned with the Foundation’s areas of funding are invited to apply. Preference will be given to programs addressing recovery, housing, mental health, basic needs (i.e. food insecurity, utilities), ESL, and workforce development. For more information, visit Delaware County Foundation.

This funding opportunity is designed to support community organizations in Cecil County, Maryland, in their efforts to improve health equity and address social needs related to substance use, mental health, childhood trauma, and access to health services.

Applications are now being accepted for the Lake County Community Foundation Fall Grant. Donor Name: The Lake County Community Foundation State: Illinois County: Lake County (IL) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/06/2024 Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: Priority Areas Leadership Development Through this priority area, the Foundation funds projects that provide quality leadership development opportunities for cohorts of nonprofit leaders throughout the sector. LCCF values coalition building and collaboration and will fund projects and opportunities that benefit Lake County’s greater nonprofit sector, rather than individual nonprofit organizations solely. Grant funds for Leadership Development are prioritized for work that:  Provides leadership development opportunities that help build a pipeline of competent, emerging leaders for the county’s nonprofit sector  Increases access for leaders of color and other underrepresented groups to quality programming  Helps leaders better serve their non-profit organization, clients and communities Animal Welfare Organizations that attend to the needs of animals in Lake County are invited to apply for grants made through the Lake County Humane Society Fund. 16% of this restricted fund’s spending allocation is designated for this purpose annually. Grant funds are prioritized for work that:  Cultivates new and innovative approaches to support animal welfare in Lake County  Addresses otherwise unmet needs as the only service provider in the area Funding Information Available funds: $20,000 Grant requests of $1,000 – $5,000 will be considered. Eligibility Criteria The Foundation considers applications from organizations that demonstrate success and sustainability with program goals and outcomes. Eligible organizations are:  Nonprofit agencies with evidence of tax exempt status under Section 501 (c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or those using a 501 (c)(3) fiscal agent  Eligible applicants MUST be in good standing with the IRS  Located within and/or primarily serving residents of Lake County, except for regional, statewide or national projects or research that may benefit a substantial portion of Lake County residents Non-discriminatory in the hiring of staff or in providing services on the basis of race, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin or ability Evaluation Criteria Applications will be evaluated using the following criteria:  Request aligns with the Foundation’s mission and values and with its strategic pillars of Economic Justice, Community Ownership and Rapid Community Response.  Request responds to a high priority need based on current Lake County specific data  The applicant’s staff, leadership and board are reflective of the community it serves. If not, the organization is taking meaningful steps to prioritize and support diversity and equity.  Applicants either have their own diversity statement or will adopt the Foundation’s Diversity Statement if there is not one in place.  Strong, documented partnerships currently in place  Request has potential to leverage other resources or donor support  High probability of affecting significant change over the next 3 years  Cost-effective delivery of direct services or advocacy  Likelihood of success and a track record of provider(s)/partners in achieving outcomes  Strong methods for tracking outcomes For more information, visit LCCF.

This funding opportunity supports educational institutions, nonprofits, and government agencies in Hawaiʻi to develop projects that boost local business growth, job creation, and sustainability on the island.

This funding opportunity is designed to support organizations in Beltrami County that provide housing solutions, including construction, rehabilitation, and supportive services, to improve the availability and affordability of safe housing for low to moderate-income families and individuals.

The 2024 Parks, Fields, Trails Grant, funded by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, offers $10,000 to $100,000 for capital projects that improve public parks, athletic fields, and trails in Erie County, Pennsylvania, aiming to promote healthy lifestyles, enhance local tourism, and rejuvenate neighborhoods, with a focus on projects that provide social, educational, cultural, health, recreation, and/or economic benefits to residents.

The San Diego County Bar Foundation provides grants to improve public awareness of the legal system, the administration of justice and the delivery of legal services through distribution of its funds. Donor Name: San Diego County Bar Foundation State: California County: San Diego County (CA) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/01/2024 Size of the Grant: Not Available Grant Duration: 1 Year Details: By offering an effective means for the legal community to engage in law-related philanthropy, the San Diego County Bar Foundation strengthens the profession by providing lawyers the opportunity to contribute to the quality and benefit of San Diego County. Based on the belief that justice serves as the great equalizer in the society, they ensure access to justice by investing in legal aid and public interest organizations along with expertise, leadership and advocacy. They serve as a leader in the community and a model bar foundation nationwide. They maintain the highest level of commitment to the permanence of the Bar Foundation and its work by building law- related philanthropy. Core Values Access to Justice  Equal access to justice is central to the democratic society, integral to the efficient functioning of the justice system and a critical part of the safety net for the vulnerable in the society. They support the legal and non-legal community through the diligent grant making process and the on-going fundraising efforts in order to create a healthier and stronger community environment. Service – The focus always centers on providing equal access to justice, public awareness and advocacy to the underserved and vulnerable as well as increasing public awareness of these needs through on-going education.  Accountability – They are the conscientious stewards of the Foundation’s funds to ensure that they are put to the best use. The donors and the legal community have confidence in the due diligence process and know that their funds will benefit the designated community partners. The sustainability is guaranteed through the growing endowment.  Integrity – They maintain honesty in word and deed, civility in the interactions and communications, and demonstrate fairness to all. No conflict of interest.  Permanence – They preserve the longevity of the Foundation and ensure the legacy through the continual growth in the endowments. Grant Period Generally, grant awards will be for a period not to exceed one year. Eligibility Criteria  Legal aid and public interest non-profits providing services within the county of San Diego are eligible to apply. Limitations Grants will NOT be made in support of the following: Organizations which are not tax exempt as described in section 509 (a) (1) and 170B (1) (a) of the Internal Revenue Code Religious, Political or lobbying purposes Organizations whose primary function is to allocate funds to other charitable organizations or projects Projects outside of San Diego County Loans. For more information, visit SDCBF.

The Excellence in Education Fund (EIE Fund), managed by the CenDel Foundation, is currently accepting applications for its 2024 grant cycle. Established in 2019 through contributions from Statewide Workforce Development, the Kent Economic Partnership, Greater Kent Committee, Delaware State News, and the Kent County community, the EIE Fund's mission is to support programs that enhance workforce development and stimulate economic growth within Kent County, Delaware. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, the CenDel Foundation administers the fund with the guidance of the Excellence in Education Advisory Board, ensuring alignment with its core mission of fostering community prosperity through strategic investments in education and economic opportunity. The EIE Fund targets public institutions, nonprofits, and civic/community organizations that are focused on educating and training individuals to meet the demands of current and future businesses in Kent County. The primary impact goal is to create a more skilled workforce, broaden perspectives through educational components, and drive measurable economic and community development. This includes generating employment opportunities and potentially attracting new residents to Kent County. The program prioritizes initiatives that enhance the regional workforce, emphasizing the quality, impact, and duration of programs, as well as the number of individuals impacted. It also focuses on educating and broadening perspectives, requiring applicants to detail the educational component, the number of participants, and the knowledge gained. Furthermore, a key focus is on economic and community development, looking for programs that cultivate special skill sets, generate measurable economic impact, and promote employment. Applications are reviewed for clarity and strong evidence supporting the achievement of stated goals. The EIE Fund's strategic priorities align with a theory of change that posits that targeted investments in education and workforce training will directly lead to enhanced economic vitality and improved community well-being in Kent County. By supporting programs that build relevant skills and create opportunities, the fund aims to strengthen the local economy, increase employment rates, and foster a more knowledgeable and engaged citizenry. Eligible institutions and organizations can be awarded up to $50,000, with a requirement to submit proposals on the official 2024 application form and demonstrate their status as a public institution or 501(c)3 organization.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local organizations in Oregon and Washington to create and expand workforce programs for individuals referred from shelters, helping those who have experienced homelessness gain employment and essential skills.

The Emerging Erie Fund, a field of interest fund of the Erie Community Foundation, aims to champion local initiatives that will significantly benefit the Erie community both now and in the future. This aligns with the Erie Community Foundation's broader mission to foster a thriving community by supporting innovative projects that "move the needle." The fund was formerly known as the Young Erie Philanthropists, indicating a legacy of engaging with and empowering community-focused efforts. The grant program targets Erie County 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, excluding for-profit entities, sectarian religious activities, fundraising solely, or hospitality projects. The primary beneficiaries are residents of Erie, Pennsylvania, through projects focused on talent development and retention (PEOPLE) and neighborhood public spaces (PLACES). The impact goal is to create sustainable improvements in these key areas, contributing to career development and enhanced public environments within the community. The Emerging Erie Fund prioritizes innovative and ambitious projects where the allocated funds, ranging from $10,000 to a maximum of $75,000, can make a substantial difference. The grantmaking areas, "PEOPLE: Talent Development and Retention" and "PLACES: Neighborhoods Public Spaces," clearly define the strategic focus. The fund seeks proposals that demonstrate a clear potential for significant positive change within an 18-month project period. Expected outcomes include the creation of new career development opportunities, the enhancement of existing talent retention initiatives, and the improvement of public spaces within Erie neighborhoods. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "moving the needle" suggests a desire for demonstrable impact. Organizations are expected to propose projects with clear objectives and a strong likelihood of achieving tangible improvements aligned with the fund's two core grantmaking areas.

This grant provides multi-year funding to nonprofit organizations that deliver gender-specific programs and services aimed at improving the lives of at-risk women and girls in Essex County, Massachusetts.

Howard County’s Youth Engagement Programming (YEP!) Grants promote youth activities and engagement in Howard County through free, accessible, and supportive programming developed by nonprofit and community organizations. Donor Name: Howard County Government State: Maryland County: Howard County (MD) Type of Grant: Grant Deadline: (mm/dd/yyyy) 09/10/2024 Size of the Grant: $10,000 to $100,000 Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned Details: The goal of these grants is to provide community organizations with the resources to develop programs for young people in Howard County that are offered outside of traditional school hours. Programs will focus on social-emotional learning, mental health and wellness, and activities for young people. Additionally, proposals will leverage partnerships with other community organizations in Howard County. These grants are intended to provide nonprofit community organizations with resources to establish programming and engagement opportunities for young people in Howard County. YEP! grants will provide community partners with the opportunity to enhance or develop programming during the times when young people need the engagement most.  Funding Information The minimum grant award is $5,000 and the maximum grant award is $50,000. Requirements In order to be considered for a YEP! grant, applicants must meet the following criteria: Applicants must demonstrate that the organization is a nonprofit organization, provide a copy of the organization’s charter and bylaws, and be in good standing with the State of Maryland. Applicants must provide direct services to the residents of Howard County, Maryland. Youth programming must occur at least monthly over the course of 12 months. Programming must engage youth in activities during times when they are not in school, including on weekends, after-school hours, and during the summertime. Programming must be either free or low-cost to youth participants. If low-cost, the proposal should demonstrate how programming minimizes cost barriers to access programs. Recipients may use YEP! funding to either create new programs or expand existing programs that are already offered. If grant funding is used to expand existing programming, the proposal should demonstrate how grant funding will contribute to increased youth engagement. Grant recipients must track performance data on programs and submit quarterly reports to the Office of the County Executive detailing program outcomes. Required performance measures will include but are not limited to: number of young people served, geographic impact of programs, and age of youth served. For more information, visit Howard County Government.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Vancouver, Washington, to deliver essential supportive services and rental assistance for individuals and families experiencing homelessness, particularly those in Safe Stay and Safe Park sites.

This grant provides financial support to artists in specific Minnesota counties to help them advance their careers through various artistic projects and professional development opportunities.

This grant provides over $125,000 in funding to support 30 Black artists in the Philadelphia area who create projects celebrating the city's rich Black music heritage through storytelling and creative expression.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that assist small businesses, particularly those with five or fewer employees, focusing on underserved communities across Washington.

This program provides funding for events and projects that promote tourism in Mauldin, helping to attract visitors and boost the local economy.