Applications for 2016 Grinnell College Community Mini-Grants Available Now

Grinnell College is now accepting applications for the Community Mini-Grants Program, which provides catalyst funding for small- to mid-scale projects. Support focuses on promising initiatives that address issues of importance to the campus community and the community at large including cultural, recreational and educational projects, those addressing human needs, and those enhancing the safety and beauty of our surroundings.

Based on feedback from the community and nonprofit organizations, two cycles of mini-grants will be offered in the 2016-17 academic year. In the first cycle, applications will be due Friday, Sept. 30, with awards being announced by Friday, Nov. 18. The second cycle will have applications due Monday, April 3, 2017, with awards being announced by Friday, May 19, 2017.

"By offering two grant cycles, the hope is to allow grant applicants more opportunities for the development and funding of projects throughout the year that will enhance the quality of life in our community and help make Grinnell a more attractive place to live, work and study," said Sarah Smith, program manager with the office of community enhancement and engagement.

Since its inception in 2002, the Community Mini-Grants program has directed more than $348,000 toward 158 community initiatives and range from $1,000 to $7,500. They are intended to support promising initiatives that enhance the social and economic vitality of the Grinnell area. These include cultural, recreational and educational projects, as well as projects addressing human needs and enhancing the safety and beauty of the community.

Preference will be given to proposals that:

• Leverage additional funds
• Demonstrate collaborative partnerships in the community
• Build organizational and financial capacity
• Improve over what has been done in the past
• Show commitment that the desired result will be achieved and
• Have promise of making long-term impact

Applications for 2016-17 mini-grants, cycle one, are due by Friday, Sept. 30. You may download an application or obtain one from the College's Community Enhancement and Engagement office at 641-269-3900