Local Science and Technology Grants

The Montgomery County FY 2024 Place-Based Management Grants Program, offered by the Community Engagement Cluster and the Office of Grants Management, seeks to foster economic growth and revitalization in the County's commercial corridors. This program is aligned with the broader mission of supporting local economies through "bottom-up" economic development, emphasizing community-driven strategies. The focus on Place-Based Management, particularly through the Main Street Approach, underscores a commitment to holistic and integrated community development that leverages existing assets and local engagement. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are businesses and residents within identified commercial corridors. The program aims to achieve several impact goals, including retaining, expanding, and attracting neighborhood-serving retail and small businesses, as well as unifying and strengthening commercial corridors through events, promotion, marketing, maintenance, and diverse stakeholder engagements. All funded activities are required to actively involve residents, businesses, and the Montgomery County Government, ensuring a collaborative and community-centric approach to revitalization. Funding priorities are given to projects that address at least three of the four points of the Main Street Approach: Economic Vitality, Design, Promotion, and Organization. Economic Vitality focuses on financial tools, property development, and supporting entrepreneurs. Design enhances the physical and visual appeal of commercial districts. Promotion positions the district as a community and economic hub, creating a positive image. Organization builds a strong foundation through partnerships, community involvement, and resource cultivation. These priorities reflect the County's strategic emphasis on comprehensive revitalization, moving beyond simple economic aid to encompass broader community and aesthetic improvements. Montgomery County Government anticipates awarding $400,000 through approximately two to five awards, with each grant ranging from $25,000 to $200,000. The grant duration is 12 months, with the possibility of renewal for up to three total years based on satisfactory performance and fund availability. Expected outcomes include enhanced economic activity, improved commercial corridor vitality, and increased stakeholder engagement, contributing to a more vibrant and sustainable local economy. Eligible expenses primarily cover operating costs such as administrative expenses, community outreach, implementation of economic development activities, and neighborhood placemaking and management, all geared towards supporting the ongoing efforts of the projects.

The Meigs County Foundation, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is currently accepting grant applications. These grants are designed to support nonprofits, schools, and public organizations working on projects and programs that benefit Meigs County residents and communities. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to advance opportunities and unleash the potential within Meigs County, focusing on local leadership and community-driven solutions. Grants will be awarded for projects and programs that address five core areas, known as the Pillars of Prosperity: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. The primary focus is on supporting individuals of all ages who are leading efforts to create opportunities and meet pressing needs within the county. The foundation's strategic priorities are centered on fostering growth and well-being across these critical sectors. The target beneficiaries for these grants are the residents and communities of Meigs County. The expected outcomes include a measurable improvement in the quality of life, increased access to resources, and enhanced community development across the five pillars. The foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in locally-led initiatives within these key areas, it can drive sustainable positive change and empower the community. Funding requests are generally between $500 and $5,000, though larger requests may be considered if they demonstrate a significant potential for impact. Eligibility criteria include 501(c) nonprofit organizations, public school districts, higher education institutions, and government subdivisions. Groups without formal status may apply with a fiscal sponsor, emphasizing the foundation's commitment to inclusivity and supporting a wide range of community-driven efforts to achieve measurable results.

The Charlevoix County Community Foundation (C3F) is offering Housing Solutions Grants to increase the supply of housing units across various price points in Charlevoix County, Michigan. This initiative directly aligns with C3F's mission to address critical community needs, specifically focusing on housing choice and supporting mixed-income neighborhoods. The grants aim to remove barriers at the predevelopment stage of housing projects and leverage partnerships to maximize impact. The target beneficiaries for these grants are year-round residential occupants in Charlevoix County, with a particular focus on maintaining affordability for a portion or all of the housing units. The impact goal is to increase the overall supply of diverse housing options, ensuring that development is compatible with local goals and objectives. The program prioritizes projects that contribute to the long-term affordability and availability of housing in the area. The C3F's Housing Solutions Fund focuses its resources on pre-development activities and capacity-building efforts for housing organizations. This strategic focus is designed to address fundamental challenges that hinder housing development. By supporting these early stages, the foundation aims to create a stronger pipeline of viable housing projects, reflecting a theory of change that early intervention and foundational support lead to greater housing availability. Expected outcomes include a measurable increase in the number of housing units available in Charlevoix County, catering to a range of price points. Successful projects will demonstrate sustained affordability for residents and contribute to the creation of inclusive, mixed-income communities. The grant program seeks to foster collaboration among housing stakeholders and streamline the development process, ultimately leading to a more robust and equitable housing market.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Placer County that focus on preventing domestic violence and human trafficking or assisting survivors with essential services.

This funding opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in the Toledo area to collaborate effectively, improve service delivery, and achieve cost savings through shared resources and strategic partnerships.

The Baraga County Chamber is offering the Dynamo Young Business Grants, a program designed to attract new businesses and support young ventures within Baraga County, Michigan. This initiative aims to foster economic development by providing non-repayable grants to eligible businesses. While the program description does not explicitly detail the "foundation's strategic priorities" or "theory of change," it is clear that the underlying mission aligns with local economic growth and community betterment through business creation and support. The Chamber's role in this program suggests a strategic focus on empowering local entrepreneurship as a key driver for the region's prosperity. The primary beneficiaries of the Dynamo Young Business Grants are start-up businesses or those operating for less than twelve months, as well as businesses not yet opened but preparing to do so. The program targets both for-profit and non-profit entities. The impact goals are to create jobs, have a positive influence on the community, and provide in-demand products and services. By supporting these young businesses, the program seeks to invigorate the local economy and address community needs. The grant program prioritizes businesses that demonstrate the potential to generate employment and contribute positively to Baraga County. Key focuses for selection include the viability and sustainability of the business model, as assessed through a review of the business and marketing plan. Factors such as the demand for products/services, funding, the experience of owners, the number of potential employees, and the business location are all considered. Applicants are also encouraged to seek business planning assistance, indicating a focus on long-term success and strategic development. The expected outcomes of the Dynamo Young Business Grants include the successful launch and growth of new businesses in Baraga County, leading to job creation and an increase in available products and services that meet community demand. While specific measurable results are not explicitly stated as KPIs, the program implies success through the number of businesses supported, the jobs created, and the positive community impact. The funding cap of up to $5,000 per business further suggests a focus on providing initial crucial support to help these young enterprises establish a strong foundation, thereby contributing to the Chamber's broader objective of a thriving local economy.

This funding opportunity supports schools, nonprofits, and community groups in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to provide hands-on environmental education for youth and enhance educator training.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to child care providers in Indianapolis to improve services, increase capacity, and enhance early childhood education for infants and toddlers.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for nonprofit and for-profit developers to create or improve affordable rental housing for low-income families in Tucson and Pima County.

The City of Germantown's Neighborhood Grants Program aims to empower neighborhood leaders by supporting projects that foster community engagement, beautify surroundings, improve resident communications, and enhance well-being. This program directly aligns with a broader mission to strengthen local communities by providing resources to homeowner and neighborhood associations. It serves as a strategic initiative to cultivate active, connected, and well-maintained neighborhoods, reflecting a theory of change where targeted financial support for community-led projects leads to tangible improvements in quality of life and a heightened sense of belonging among residents. The primary beneficiaries of this program are Germantown homeowner and neighborhood associations, along with their constituents. The impact goals are multi-faceted, focusing on increasing neighborly interaction, improving the aesthetics and functionality of public spaces, enhancing communication channels within neighborhoods, and promoting a greater sense of safety and collective well-being. The program's strategic priority is to empower these local organizations to take ownership of community development, leveraging their intimate understanding of neighborhood needs to drive meaningful change. The program prioritizes projects falling into four key categories: Engagement, Communications, Beautification, and Safety. Engagement projects aim to bring neighbors together for social and recreational activities, such as block parties and movie nights. Communications projects focus on strengthening neighborhood organizations through initiatives like website development and newsletters. Beautification projects seek to enhance public areas with holiday decorations, landscaping, and art. Safety projects are designed to increase well-being through events like Germantown Night Out, seminars, and safety awareness campaigns. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant and connected community life, more effective neighborhood organizations, visually appealing and well-maintained public spaces, and a measurable increase in residents' sense of safety and well-being. The program anticipates awarding two maximum grants of $5,000 each per period, with additional microgrants ranging from $500 to $1,000, totaling $25,000 per fiscal year. Measurable results will be gauged through the documentation of events with photos and sign-in sheets, the provision of receipts for all expenditures, and the overall completion of approved projects by the June 30, 2025, deadline.

The City of Augusta allocates funding to the Greater Augusta Arts Council (GAAC) to distribute to the non-profit arts community through the FY25 Annual City Arts Grant Program. This program aligns with the city's mission to sustain a wide variety of artistic disciplines and expressions, recognizing the importance of public financial support for the arts. The GAAC acts as the primary donor, ensuring that funds reach eligible non-profit arts organizations within Richmond County, Georgia. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are non-profit organizations dedicated to the performance, exhibition, and/or presentation of arts and cultural programming within the Augusta-Richmond County community. These organizations must have a mission statement reflecting their focus on arts and culture, be a 501(c)3 non-profit for at least one year, and have a physical headquarters in Richmond County. The program's impact goals are multifaceted: to provide programming and educational opportunities, promote Metro Augusta as a cultural destination, build the capacity and stability of Augusta's arts organizations, and enhance the city's economic development through the arts. For fiscal year 2025, the program prioritizes funding for General Operating Expenses, with up to $7,000 available, and specific Art Projects, with up to $5,000 available. This dual approach allows for both the sustained operation of arts organizations and the execution of distinct artistic endeavors. Organizations are expected to demonstrate excellence in programming, provide accessible programs to the general public, consider the community's diversity, and articulate strategies for inclusiveness in their operations and programming. Expected outcomes include a more vibrant arts and cultural scene in Augusta-Richmond County, increased engagement from diverse community members, and a stronger economic impact derived from the arts. Measurable results would likely involve tracking the number of programs offered, audience attendance, the reach of educational opportunities, and the economic contributions of funded projects. The GAAC's strategic priority, in alignment with the City of Augusta, is to foster a thriving arts community that enriches the lives of its citizens and enhances the city's overall cultural and economic landscape. The theory of change suggests that by providing financial support to qualified arts organizations, the city can achieve these broad community and economic development objectives.

This program provides financial and technical assistance to property and business owners in Downtown Orangeburg for improving the exteriors of their buildings, including signage and historic details.

Grant Opportunity: City of Lewiston Community Development Block Grant (Maine) The City of Lewiston is offering the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program to assist in developing viable urban communities by providing decent housing, a suitable living environment, and expanded economic opportunities for low-moderate income individuals. The grant funds are specifically designated for activities associated with preparing for, responding to, or recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible activities include public services, public facilities and infrastructure improvements such as building rehabilitation, acquisition, construction, reconstruction, installation of public works and facilities. Additionally, eligible expenses covered by the CDBG-CV funds include labor, supplies, materials and operation/maintenance of the facility where a public service is located. Applicants are required to provide detailed documentation including activity descriptions, client demographics and project budgets. For more information on eligibility and application process, visit City of Lewiston's website.

This funding opportunity provides financial support for community-based projects in Goodhue County that aim to prevent opioid misuse and promote healthy lifestyles.

This grant aims to assist businesses in Goshen County to diversify and enhance their online presence, a critical factor due to the growing importance of e-commerce post-COVID-19. Funding covers website creation, e-commerce platform set-up, app creation, POS system upgrades necessary for e-commerce integration, and other related online business development tools. Projects require multiple bids and give preference to local contractors. Deadlines: Applications due first Friday of November, February, May, August

The Small Grant Initiative (SGI) by the Alachua County Commission aims to foster the development and growth of non-governmental, grassroots organizations and emerging small businesses within Alachua County. This program aligns with the commission's mission to support its residents, particularly those living at or below 150% of the federal poverty level. The initiative is designed to strengthen the capacity and infrastructure of these organizations, thereby enhancing their ability to serve the community effectively. The primary beneficiaries of the SGI are Alachua County residents who are economically disadvantaged. The program seeks to achieve significant impact by addressing critical community needs in areas such as safe, affordable housing, adequate food, quality healthcare, and quality childcare and education. By supporting organizations focused on these areas, the initiative intends to improve the overall quality of life and well-being for vulnerable populations within the county. The SGI prioritizes one-time capacity building or infrastructure improvements. This focus ensures that the funded projects create lasting changes that enhance the organizational effectiveness and service delivery of the grant recipients. The program is specifically interested in proposals that demonstrate a clear strategy for addressing one or more of the identified priority areas, with a maximum award limit of $15,000 for individual proposals. Expected outcomes include strengthened local organizations, improved access to essential services for low-income residents, and tangible advancements in housing, food security, healthcare, and education within Alachua County. Measurable results could include an increase in the number of individuals served by recipient organizations, improved quality or accessibility of services, and the successful completion of capacity-building projects or infrastructure upgrades. The grant period, running from October 1, 2024, through September 30, 2025, provides a clear timeframe for the implementation and evaluation of these projects.

The Harrison County Community Foundation, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is seeking grant applications for projects and programs that benefit Harrison County residents and communities. This initiative aligns with the foundation's mission to advance opportunities across five critical areas, known as the Pillars of Prosperity: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. The grant program is designed to support efforts that foster opportunity, address pressing needs, and unlock the potential within Harrison County. The target beneficiaries of this grant program are individuals of all ages within Harrison County. The program places a strong emphasis on empowering local leaders who are actively working to create positive change. The overarching impact goal is to strengthen the community by investing in projects that address key areas of need, thereby improving the quality of life for residents and promoting sustainable growth within the county. The program prioritizes initiatives that fall under the Pillars of Prosperity, ensuring a broad and impactful reach across various sectors. Funding requests are typically between $500 and $5,000, though larger requests may be considered based on their potential for significant impact. This flexible funding approach allows for support of both smaller, localized efforts and more ambitious projects that promise a greater return on investment for the community. Expected outcomes include tangible improvements in the areas of arts and culture, economic vitality, educational attainment, environmental health, and access to health and human services. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed in the provided text, the emphasis on "creating opportunities, meeting pressing needs and unleashing the potential" suggests that successful projects will demonstrate clear, positive changes in these areas. The foundation's strategic priority is to support community-led initiatives that directly address identified needs, operating under a theory of change that posits local investment and empowerment will lead to broad-based community development and resilience.

The Women Working Wonders Fund (WWWF), an endowed fund of the Greater Lowell Community Foundation (GLCF), is currently accepting proposals to empower women and girls to effect positive change in the community. The GLCF's mission, through the WWWF, is to advance the contributions of women and girls, fostering their development and impact within the Greater Lowell area. This grant program directly aligns with the foundation's broader goal of supporting community-led initiatives and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. The primary beneficiaries of the WWWF grants are women and girls within the community. The fund aims to achieve several impact goals, including assisting women in transition, providing leadership development opportunities for women and girls, and contributing to environmental beautification efforts that specifically benefit women and girls. These goals are designed to address key areas of need and opportunity for this demographic, fostering self-sufficiency, leadership skills, and an improved living environment. The WWWF focuses on programs and projects that directly empower women and girls. Specific priorities include initiatives that offer support during transitional periods, such as career changes or life events, and programs that cultivate leadership abilities from a young age. Additionally, the fund supports projects that enhance the local environment, with a particular emphasis on creating spaces that are beneficial and safe for women and girls. This strategic focus ensures that the grants create tangible and lasting positive changes. Expected outcomes for funded programs include measurable improvements in the lives of women and girls, such as increased access to resources for those in transition, enhanced leadership skills among participants, and visible improvements in community spaces benefiting women and girls. The WWWF will award five grants of up to $10,000 each, aiming to support diverse projects that align with its mission. The foundation's theory of change posits that by investing in programs that directly address the needs and potential of women and girls, a stronger, more equitable, and thriving community will emerge. Non-profit organizations are eligible to apply, and further information is available through the GLCF.

The Vinton County Community Fund, in partnership with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio, is accepting grant applications to support projects and programs that benefit Vinton County residents and communities. This initiative aligns with the Foundation for Appalachian Ohio's broader mission to advance opportunities across the region, particularly focusing on local community needs. The fund seeks to foster positive change and development within Vinton County by supporting various community-driven efforts. The grants are specifically targeted towards nonprofits, schools, and public organizations, as well as groups working under fiscal sponsorship. The primary beneficiaries are individuals of all ages residing in Vinton County. The program's impact goals are centered on creating opportunities, meeting pressing needs, and unleashing the potential within the county, aiming for tangible improvements in the quality of life for its residents. The program prioritizes projects and programs that advance opportunities across five key areas, known as the Pillars of Prosperity: arts and culture, community and economic development, education, environmental stewardship, and health and human services. This strategic focus ensures that funding addresses a diverse range of critical needs and supports holistic community development. Emphasis is placed on initiatives that are spearheaded by individuals committed to making a difference in their community. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed, the expected outcomes are implicitly tied to the advancement of opportunities within the five pillars. Projects are expected to demonstrate potential impact, with funding requests between $500 and $2,500 generally preferred, though larger requests may be considered based on the scale of their potential influence. This framework reflects the Foundation's theory of change, which posits that investing in these key areas, through local initiatives, will lead to sustainable community growth and improved well-being for Vinton County residents.

The CNY Arts is offering grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for the year 2025 to individual artists and small nonprofit organizations in six counties of New York, aiming to support the development of arts projects and programming that engage diverse segments of the community, with applications open until October 25, 2024.