Applications are currently being accepted for the Community Foundation Tampa Bay Competitive Grant for 2025. This grant is designed to support various programs that align with specific focus areas aimed at enhancing the quality of life in the communities of Hillsborough, Pinellas, Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus counties in Florida. The Community Foundation Tampa Bay is the donor for this grant, which is categorized as a private funding opportunity. The deadline for submitting applications is October 17, 2024.

The purpose of the Community Foundation Tampa Bay Competitive Grant is to provide funding for initiatives that promote economic opportunity, environmental resiliency and sustainability, physical health and mental wellbeing, quality child and youth education, and vibrant and engaged communities. Each of these focus areas encompasses a range of eligible programs. For instance, economic opportunity may include career readiness, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy, while environmental resiliency may cover conservation efforts and disaster recovery. The grant aims to foster personal and community growth through these diverse initiatives.

Funding from this grant can be utilized for a variety of purposes within the outlined focus areas. Eligible programs may include high-quality adult education and training, environmental education, mental health services, community-based medical clinics, and arts and culture projects. The grant does not specify a size or duration, allowing organizations flexibility in how they structure their proposals. Importantly, there is no matching requirement for the funds, making it accessible for organizations with limited resources.

To be eligible for this grant, organizations must meet specific criteria. They must be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code and must have filed their Internal Revenue Service 990 tax forms for at least one fiscal year. Additionally, applicants must serve one of the specified counties and apply using their own tax-exempt Employer Identification Number. Organizations must also be in compliance with any previous funding requirements from the Community Foundation Tampa Bay.

The application process requires organizations to provide detailed responses to specific questions related to their proposed programs. Evaluation criteria will focus on the alignment of the proposed initiatives with the foundation's focus areas, the potential impact on the community, and the organization's capacity to deliver the proposed services.

The timeline for this grant opportunity includes a submission deadline of October 17, 2024. Organizations interested in applying should prepare their applications in advance to ensure they meet this deadline. For further information, potential applicants can reach out to the Community Foundation Tampa Bay via email or phone.

In summary, the Community Foundation Tampa Bay Competitive Grant offers a valuable opportunity for eligible organizations to secure funding for impactful community programs. By focusing on key areas such as economic opportunity and environmental sustainability, the grant aims to foster positive change in the targeted Florida counties. Organizations that meet the eligibility criteria are encouraged to apply before the deadline to take advantage of this funding opportunity.