The Community Grants program, established through generous endowments since 1950, supports diverse causes in southeastern Virginia. These grants provide competitive funding in two key areas: Seed and Program Funding and Vibrant Places Funding. Seed and Program Funding supports the launch of promising new programs or the expansion of existing services, focusing on Cultural Vitality, Economic Stability, Educational Success, Environmental Stewardship, and Health and Wellness. This funding is reserved for established organizations, not start-ups. Vibrant Places Funding supports major capital projects and campaigns aimed at improving nonprofit facilities.

The next application deadline is January 15 for both Vibrant Places and Environmental Stewardship funding categories. Applicants must provide recent financial statements, either independently audited or in the form of a complete IRS 990 or 990EZ filing. These documents demonstrate organizational fiscal responsibility and support the application review process.

Organizations seeking funding should align proposals with the program’s priorities and provide clear plans to measure outcomes and ensure sustainability. Applications can be submitted through the community foundation’s designated portal.