The 2024 Town of Cave Creek Community Grant Program supports local 501(c)(3) organizations with financial grants totaling $40,000, with individual grants available for up to $10,000 each. These grants aim to enhance the health, safety, welfare, culture, and overall quality of life for residents within the Cave Creek and Desert Foothills communities. Eligible projects must focus on activities that preserve, protect, educate, and improve the local community, aligning with the objectives outlined in Cave Creek's General and Strategic Plans.

To qualify, applicants must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code or an equivalent designation. Programs must be active for at least one year, demonstrate a well-defined community impact, have measurable goals, and possess sustainable financial support beyond the grant funding. Importantly, funds are allocated specifically to program activities, excluding indirect costs, salary, or administrative expenses. Grants are not awarded to individuals, political or religious activities, scholarships, or organizations not aligned with charitable purposes as per IRS guidelines.

Applications must be submitted by December 2, 2024, either by email or hand-delivered to the Cave Creek Town Clerk’s office. The application includes a cover page with certification of tax-exempt status, a program narrative detailing organizational background, service benefits, and collaboration with other organizations, a comprehensive budget section, and an optional section for additional relevant information. Incomplete or late applications are not eligible for review.

The review process involves a five-member Community Grants Committee, comprising a Town Council member, two residents, a business leader, and a senior town staff member. Their funding recommendations are sent to the Town Council for final approval. Notifications of grant awards are expected in mid-December, and funds will be distributed in late January. Recipients are required to submit a final report documenting program outcomes. For further assistance, applicants can contact Teresa Riza, the Grants Manager, at 480-488-6621 or via email at townclerk@cavecreekaz.gov.