The Community Organization Grant (COG) program in Virginia Beach provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that deliver measurable services to Virginia Beach residents. The program is designed to enhance community well-being and prioritize local impact. Grants are awarded by the City Council-appointed COG Review and Allocation Committee, which evaluates applications based on eligibility, service delivery, and financial accountability.

Eligible applicants must be independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations legally operating under the laws of Virginia and the IRS. They must provide significant, measurable services directly benefiting Virginia Beach residents, including maintaining an unduplicated count of residents served. Organizations funded through other City resources, such as the Virginia Beach Arts and Humanities Commission, are not eligible. Additionally, COG funding cannot be used for pass-through grants to other nonprofits or for national organizations.

Applications must disclose any contractual services provided to the City, although these do not automatically disqualify the applicant. Funded programs must comply with legal nondiscrimination requirements and cannot advocate political or religious viewpoints. Organizations with permanent City employees or officials involved in the application process are not eligible, nor are those that have unresolved service, reporting, or auditing obligations from prior City grants.

Award recipients must ensure that all funds are used locally within Virginia Beach and maintain financial records for at least three years following the grant agreement. These records are subject to audit by the City. Regular financial and service delivery reports are a condition of grant funding.

Applications are evaluated by the COG Review and Allocation Committee, with decisions based on alignment with program objectives, accountability, and impact. For assistance, applicants can contact Joseph Brown at (757) 385-8230 or Kaitlyn James at (757) 385-8389. Further details and application materials are available at the City’s budget website, or by visiting the Municipal Center at 2401 Courthouse Drive, Virginia Beach.