...Catalyzing New Resources

Purpose

The Grinnell College Community Mini-Grant Program provides catalyst funding for small- to mid-scale off-campus projects to help Grinnell become a more attractive place to live, work and play. Grants enhance the quality of life in our community by addressing issues of importance to the campus community and the community at large.   

Grant Guidelines

Support Areas Support focuses on cultural, recreational, and educational initiatives, including those benefitting the social needs of the community, as well as programs that enhance the safety, beauty, and economic vitality of our surroundings. In addition to projects that reflect these goals, preference will be given to projects that will have a meaningful impact on the community, those requesting matching or challenge funds, and those which demonstrate collaborative partnerships in the community. Grant Amounts The Grinnell College Mini-Grant Program supports requests ranging from $1,000-$7,500.  Smaller requests for support are considered throughout the year on a case-by-case basis. Exclusions Generally, the mini-grant program does not support the following:

  • Individuals
  • Business ventures
  • Non-governmental organizations without IRS 501(c)(3) tax exempt status
  • Organizations that limit membership or services based on race, religion, color, creed, sex, sexual orientation, age, or national origin
  • Requests for loans or debt retirements
  • Operating expenses for organizations
  • Civic/labor/fraternal groups
  • Political organizations
  • High school athletic programs that, due to NCAA regulations, Grinnell College is prohibited from funding -- directly or through paid advertisements
  • Projects or organizations with no connection to the community of Grinnell
  • Projects that already have financial backing from Grinnell College
  • Projects or organizations that might in any way pose a conflict with the mission, goals, or programs of Grinnell College

Review Committee Applications will be reviewed by the director of the Office of Community Enhancement & Engagement in conjunction with an advisory committee composed of faculty, staff, local Grinnell area students, and members of the broader Grinnell community.

Past Awards

To Apply

1.    Download or request an application.

The application is available as a fillable-pdf: 2013 Mini-Grant Application. 

To request a paper application, contact: Office of Community Enhancement & Engagement, Grinnell College, Old Glove Factory, 733 Broad Street, Grinnell, IA 50112, 641-269-3900

2.    Complete and sign your application.

Applications need not be submitted on the application form itself, but if typed separately, you must answer all application questions and should not exceed one page (front and back). In addition to the written application, applications must include a project budget (not to exceed one page).

3.    Return completed application to:

Mini-Grant Review Committee, Office of Community Enhancement & Engagement, Grinnell College, Old Glove Factory, 733 Broad Street, Grinnell, IA 50112

Application Timing

Applications must be received by January 25, 2013. Requests will be reviewed and awards announced by March 15, 2013.

Reporting

Each successful grantee is required to submit a short report on their project's outcome:

This report should be submitted by December 1, 2013.

For more information, please contact the Office of Community Enhancement & Engagement at (641)269-3900. Updated 03/21/2013