2008-2009 Program Information Brochure [pdf]

Mini Grant Application ('08-'09) [pdf]
Mini Grant Application Instructions ('08-'09) [pdf]

Mini Grant Project Report [pdf]

Mini Grant Award History [pdf]

What Are Community Mini-Grants?
Background
In 1998, Grinnell College instituted the Fund for Excellence, a special allocation from the College's endowment that granted funds to projects on and off campus to strengthen the College and the community. The Fund for Excellence was discontinued in 2001, but the desire to encourage initiatives for the community's betterment continues. The Grinnell College Community Mini-Grant Program designates annual funding for the purpose of supporting mid-size community enhancement initiatives. Separately, the College continues to be a partner in large-scale community capital improvements and to support community non-profits through smaller-scale charitable donations.

Purpose
The Community Mini Grant Program provides modest catalyst funding for small- to mid-scale projects designed 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 our students, faculty and staff.

Grant Guidelines
Support Areas
Support focuses on cultural, recreational, and educational opportunities in 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
No application will be rejected based solely on the amount requested. However, the program typically supports requests ranging from $500-$5,000.

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
• Political organizations
• 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
Review Committee Applications will be reviewed by the director of the Office of Community Enhancement in conjunction with an advisory committee composed of faculty, staff, and local Grinnell area students. Advisory committee members for this year (2008-09) are:

Kate Baumgartner '11
Chris Hunter, Professor of Sociology
Cecilia Knight, Assistant Professor, Library
Cheryl Neubert, Library Assistant
Emma O'Polka '12
Vicki Wade, College Services Quality Manager

How to Apply
Applications are available as a PDF document at the top of this page.

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

Applications need not be submitted on the application form itself, but if typed separately, 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).

Application Address
Applications should be submitted to:
Mini-Grant Review
Office of Community Enhancement
Grinnell College Old Glove Factory
733 Broad Street
Grinnell, IA 50112

Application Timing
Applications must be received by Feb. 6, 2009. Requests will be reviewed and awards announced by April 1.

For more information, please contact the Office of Community Enhancement at (641)269-3900.

Updated 1/6/2009