The Community Foundation’s Special Project Grants are designed to support nonprofit organizations serving St. Joseph County in various areas, including community development, health and human services, parks and recreation, the environment, youth, and education. These grants provide funding for projects that can significantly benefit the local community and improve the quality of life for its residents. The program seeks to encourage initiatives that address important community needs and contribute to the county's overall development.

Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations that directly serve the citizens of St. Joseph County. The grants are open to a wide range of project types within the specified focus areas, making them suitable for nonprofits looking to fund new initiatives, enhance existing services, or develop infrastructure projects such as renovations or park improvements.

Applications for Special Project Grants are due twice a year, with deadlines on March 1 and October 1. If these dates fall on a weekend or holiday, the application deadline is extended to 9:00 a.m. the next business day. The Foundation’s online grant system opens for applications six weeks before each deadline, providing a window for applicants to prepare and submit their proposals. The use of the Foundation's budget template is encouraged to help present financial details clearly, although it is not mandatory.

Applicants are required to acknowledge the Community Foundation’s support in all related communications if their projects are funded, in accordance with the Grant Recognition Guidelines. This recognition is important for maintaining the visibility of the Foundation’s role in supporting community initiatives and for fostering greater community awareness and engagement with the funded projects.

To assist applicants in submitting strong proposals, the Foundation provides a list of tips and best practices. This includes advice on how to align project goals with grant criteria, effectively present project budgets, and demonstrate potential community impact. Additionally, reviewing past funded projects can give applicants a better understanding of the types of initiatives that have been successful in receiving grants.

Overall, Special Project Grants offer a valuable opportunity for nonprofits in St. Joseph County to secure funding for projects that can lead to meaningful improvements in community infrastructure, health, education, and recreational facilities. By supporting diverse projects across multiple sectors, the grants help address critical local needs and promote sustainable community growth.