The MD Two Fifty Commission is launching the Citizen Academy small grant program to support the establishment of citizen academies by county and municipal governments across Maryland. The program provides up to 50 grants of $500 each to cover costs associated with starting these academies, such as supplies, printing, transportation, and refreshments. There is no requirement for matching funds.

The application period opens on September 16, 2024, and applications will be reviewed monthly starting in October. Applicants will receive notification of their status within 60 days. The program will continue to accept applications until all available funds are allocated.

Eligible applicants include county and municipal governments in Maryland. Priority will be given to programs serving ethnically and racially diverse communities, low-income or immigrant populations, and rural areas. The citizen academies funded by the grants should be accessible to the general public.

Applications must be submitted online via the MD Two Fifty Commission's website. A preview of the application and evaluation criteria will be available a week before the application period begins. Additional support is available through virtual informational sessions and by contacting Erin Bode, Assistant Administrator, at Erin.Bode@Maryland.gov.