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ILLINOIS MISSOURI

Community Foundation (Community Grants)

Millennial Music Teacher |

The Community Foundation's mission is to empower nonprofits and government entities by providing grants that enhance education, workforce development, community betterment, arts, and human services. Focusing on veterans, youth, and regional advancement, the Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen community resources, improve quality of life, and promote educational and vocational opportunities across its 12-county service area. Through targeted funding, the Foundation seeks to create lasting impact and foster positive growth wihin local The Community Foundation's mission is to empower nonprofits and government entities by providing grants that enhance education, workforce development, community betterment, arts, and human services. Focusing on veterans, youth, and regional advancement, the Foundation supports initiatives that strengthen community resources, improve quality of life, and promote educational and vocational opportunities across its 12-county service area. Through targeted funding, the Foundation seeks to create lasting impact and foster positive growth within local communities.

More information about this grant and the application form are both available on the foundation website here

ELIGIBILITY

Eligible organizations for this grant include registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits, government units, and faith-based organizations offering non-religious, community-accessible programs. Nonprofits lacking 501(c)(3) status must apply with a 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor.
 
Location: Applicant organizations must serve one or more of the following counties: Adams, Brown, Hancock, Pike (IL), and Clark, Knox, Lewis, Marion, Monroe, Pike, Ralls, or Shelby (MO).

Project Scope: The project scope for the Community Foundation’s 2024 Community Grant includes funding for program-specific, project-based, or general operational support within the Foundation’s 12-county service area.

FUNDING RESTRICTIONS

The Community Grant provides funding between $1,000 and $7,500 per award. The funding can support both specific programs or projects and general operational needs of eligible organizations.

APPLICATION COMPONENTS

Organization Information: Basic details about the applicant organization, including proof of 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship documentation if applicable.

Project or Program Description: A clear outline of the project, program, or general support request, including objectives, target audience, and anticipated community impact.

Budget: A detailed budget specifying the grant amount requested, total project costs, and a breakdown of expenses.

Geographic Scope: Documentation or explanation of how the project will serve at least one of the 12 eligible counties.

Timeline: Proposed project or program timeline, showing key milestones and anticipated completion dates.

Impact Metrics: Expected outcomes or measures of success, demonstrating how the project will benefit the community.

Supporting Documentation: Additional documents, such as letters of support, previous success stories, or other relevant materials, to strengthen the application.

DEADLINE

The 2024 cycle has closed for this grant opportunity. 

Application Opens: March 1, 2024

Application Closes: May 1, 2024, at 11:59 PM

Grants Awarded: August 2024

Check the foundation's website for updated cycle dates. MMT updates these listings when new information is available. 

REPORTING REQUIREMENTS

Interim Progress Report: A report outlining the project's progress, including milestones achieved, any challenges faced, and adjustments made to the timeline or objectives. This is usually due mid-way through the grant period, though it may not apply to all grants.

Final Report: A comprehensive report at the end of the grant period, detailing:

  • A summary of project activities and accomplishments
  • Financial accounting of how grant funds were spent
  • Outcome measurements and impact, including any data or metrics demonstrating the success of the project
  • Any lessons learned and recommendations for future projects

Financial Documentation: Grantees are typically required to provide receipts or other evidence showing how grant funds were used.

Specific reporting guidelines, timelines, and forms are provided by the Community Foundation to grantees after the award is made, so applicants should review the Foundation’s Grant Policy or contact the Foundation directly for full reporting expectations.

EVALUATION CRITERIA

Alignment with Foundation Priorities: The extent to which the proposed project aligns with the Foundation’s mission and funding priorities, such as community betterment, education, arts, workforce development, or human services.

Community Impact: The potential for the project to address identified needs within the community and benefit a significant number of individuals or organizations within the Foundation’s 12-county service area.

Project Feasibility: The likelihood of successful project implementation, including a realistic timeline, clear objectives, and appropriate resources or partnerships.

Clear and Measurable Outcomes: The project’s ability to demonstrate measurable outcomes or success indicators, showing how the community will be impacted and how success will be assessed.

Organizational Capacity: The applicant organization’s ability to manage and execute the proposed project, including its experience, track record, and the qualifications of key staff or leadership.

Budget and Financial Stewardship: A detailed and reasonable budget, ensuring that funds will be used effectively and appropriately to achieve the project’s goals.

Sustainability: The ability of the project or program to have a lasting impact or to continue beyond the grant period, whether through future funding or ongoing community support.

Collaboration and Partnerships: Preference may be given to projects that involve collaboration with other organizations or community stakeholders, leveraging additional resources or expertise.

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