Grant to Strengthen Community Programs and Address Local Needs
GrantID: 43271
Grant Funding Amount Low: Open
Deadline: Ongoing
Grant Amount High: Open
Summary
This grant opportunity supports nonprofit organizations in a multi-county region of upstate New York, offering resources to strengthen community programs and address local needs. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt charities, publicly supported institutions (like schools and municipalities), or nonprofits that work through a fiscal sponsor—in other words, not for-profit businesses or individuals applying on their own.
The funding is intended to support a broad range of project types: program development, organizational capacity building (for example, strategic planning or board development), and capital investments such as repairs, equipment, or technology upgrades. The idea is to help nonprofits address pressing community issues and build long-term sustainability, rather than simply fund annual operating budgets.
There are two grant cycles each year, each with a slightly different priority focus. In one round, the emphasis is on areas like arts and culture, environmental protection, civic engagement, education, and animals. In the other round, the focus shifts toward health services, human services, and economic development. These priorities help organizations align their project proposals to the most relevant funding opportunities.
A particularly noteworthy opportunity within this grant portfolio is a special fund dedicated to outdoor parks and recreational projects. Through this fund, eligible nonprofits in a defined geographic area can request sizable awards for capital or programmatic work in parks and conservation, especially those that support youth programming, nature access, and habitat restoration.
In past years, the foundation has awarded over a million dollars in grants during a single grant cycle, supporting projects across arts, public benefit, education, and development. Award sizes vary widely depending on the scope of the work and the fund being used: some grants are modest and program-focused, while others – especially for capital or outdoor projects – can be much larger.
Applicants are expected to submit progress reports if funded; there may be midterm check-ins and final evaluations once the project concludes. The grant opportunity is designed to be accessible and collaborative, encouraging nonprofits to reach out and have early conversations about fit before applying.
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Eligible Regions
Interests
Eligible Requirements
