The 2024-25 Impact Grant cycle by Impact100 Essex offers a significant funding opportunity for nonprofit organizations operating within Essex County, with a focus on projects that drive transformative community impact. The Impact Grant is a $100,000 project-based grant awarded annually to one organization for a project expected to deliver measurable, sustainable change in Essex County. Additionally, there are smaller Equity Grants, ranging from $10,000 to $20,000, available to three nonprofits led by Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color (BIPOC). These grants are mission-based and unrestricted. Organizations can apply for both grants, though winning an Equity Grant disqualifies them from receiving the Impact Grant within the same cycle.

To be eligible, organizations must provide services within Essex County (even if headquartered elsewhere), be registered as a 501(c)(3), and have been operating for at least three years. Applicants must demonstrate an annual revenue of at least $100,000 and be prepared to provide financial documentation, including IRS Form 990s or certified financial statements, for two or three consecutive years. Projects that are not funded include lobbying, religious or partisan initiatives, debt reduction, re-granting, and general operational expenses beyond 20% overhead for project-related activities.

The Impact Grant specifically looks for innovative projects that expand current work or address unmet needs in the community. These projects should empower underserved populations and offer a strategic, timely response to pressing local challenges. Proposals must demonstrate a clear plan for using the $100,000 grant within two years, including securing any additional funding required for project completion.

Key dates for the grant cycle include the release of the Letter of Intent (LOI) on October 4, 2024, with submissions due by November 5, 2024. Applicants advancing to the next stage will be notified by December 11, 2024, and must submit full applications by January 22, 2025. Semi-finalists and finalists will be announced in February and March, respectively, with final presentations and award decisions set for April 2025.

The application process begins with submitting the LOI via Submittable, the grant platform used by Impact100 Essex. Successful applicants will be invited to submit a full application, and semi-finalists will participate in a site visit either virtually or in person. Finalists will prepare a video presentation to be reviewed by the membership before the final vote. The grant winner will be announced at the Annual Meeting in late April 2025.

Impact100 Essex looks for strong project proposals that clearly articulate objectives, have measurable goals, and provide confidence in the organization’s ability to implement the project. Projects that advance successfully to the later stages typically offer a compelling case for need, well-defined budgets, and a thorough evaluation plan. Applicants are encouraged to emphasize their readiness to begin work once funding is received and to highlight any collaborations that will enhance project success.