environmental, cultural & historic interpretive center funding guide

Environmental, Cultural & Historic Interpretive Center Funding Guide

November 2012

Prepared byLaura Higashi-Poynter

Western Washington University

Supported byMaul Foster & Alongi, Inc.

ENVIRONMENTAL, CULTURAL, & HISTORIC INTERPRETIVE CENTER FUNDING GUIDE This guide was produced through an internship at Huxley College of the Environment, Western Washington University and sponsored by Maul Foster & Alongi, Inc. (MFA). It is intended to serve as a portal to the wide range of potential funding sources for Environmental, Cultural, and Historic Interpretive Centers throughout the Pacific Northwest. The guide is a living document that will be regularly updated to follow the constant changes in funding programs. Please support this effort by informing us of any funding sources that should be included in the guide or changes in programs that are not captured in this edition.

Western Washington University’s Huxley College of the Environment is a premier institution for the education of future environmental experts and leaders. With the Cascade Mountains to the east, the shores of Puget Sound to the west, Seattle to the south and Vancouver, British Columbia to the north, it presents a unique environment in which to study. By addressing today's environmental issues and preparing tomorrow's interdisciplinary problem solvers, Huxley College produces properly trained environmental professionals capable of addressing the challenges we face in achieving a sustainable society. 1

MFA is an integrated engineering, environmental science, planning, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), and environmental data management consulting firm with offices in Portland, Oregon; Vancouver, Seattle, and Bellingham, Washington; and Kellogg, Idaho. MFA offers creative and award-winning professional services to clients representing diverse industry sectors throughout the Pacific Northwest, the western U.S., and the nation.

1 www.wwu.edu/Huxley

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION 3 What Is Environmental, Cultural, and Historic Education? 3

GENERAL SOURCES OF FUNDING 4 CHARACTERISTICS OF FUNDING SOURCES 5

PUBLIC FUNDING 6 FEDERAL FUNDING 6

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 6 National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) 8 National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) 10 U.S. Forest Service 12 U.S. Department of the Interior—National Park Service 13 U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service 14 U.S. Department of Health and Human Services 15 U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development 16 U.S. Department of Energy 18

STATE FUNDING 19 Washington State Department of Ecology 19 Washington State Department of Commerce 20 Washington State Arts Commission 27 Washington Recreation and Conservation Office 29 Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation 31 Oregon Business Development Department—Oregon Arts Commission 32 Oregon Cultural Trust 34 Oregon Metro 35 Idaho Commission on the Arts 37 Arts Education Grants 38 Idaho Department of Commerce 39

PRIVATE SECTOR FUNDING 41 National Fish and Wildlife Foundation 41 Oregon Community Foundation 43 Oregon Humanities 44 Humanities Washington 45

Environmental, Cultural, & Historic Interpretive Center Funding Guide PAGE 2

Bullitt Foundation 46 Captain Planet Foundation 46 Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation 47 Washington Foundation for the Environment (WFFE) 47 National Audubon Society 48 The Kinsman Foundation 49 Meyer Memorial Trust 49 M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust 51 The Seattle Foundation 51 Inland Northwest Community Foundation 53 Whatcom County Foundation 55 The Norcliffe Foundation 55 The Satterberg Foundation 56 The Burning Foundation 57 The Collins Foundation 57 The National Forest Foundation 58 The Pacific Power Foundation 60 The Bill Healy Foundation 60 The Brainerd Foundation 61 Wells Fargo 61 Alcoa Foundation 62 Georgia-Pacific (GP) Foundation 62 Boeing 63 Alaskan Brewing Company 63 Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) 64 Shell 64


INTRODUCTION Across the nation, increasing awareness of environmental issues such as forestry and wildlife protection has led to a considerable need for places and programs that focus on future preservation of the history, culture, and environment. Interpretive centers are devoted to the conservation, exhibition, study, and educational interpretation of objects having scientific, historical, or artistic value and often include multi-media presentations, living history demonstrations, exhibits, and interpretive trails.

What Is Environmental, Cultural, and Historic Education? Environmental education is the study of the relationships and interactions between dynamic natural and human systems.2

The ultimate goal of environmental as well as cultural, and historic education through interpretive centers and programs is to strengthen our commitment to the stewardship of the environment and awareness of our history and culture, along with providing strategies and solutions to address future challenges and threats.

Environmental, Cultural, and Historic Interpretive Centers offer:

Learning and teaching methods that extend beyond the classroom and help to promote education on topics and issues such as wetland and water quality management, resource preservation, and understanding the important role the environment has played in historical events. Often summer programs and after school programs are also offered at interpretive centers.

Assemblage of various media sources such as video displays and films, exhibitions of material, statues, historical signage, interactive investigations and computer programs, and imaginative play spaces.

Economic growth and community integration through promotion of schools, community partnerships, heritage tourism, and historical education.

Hands-on, interdisciplinary and inquiry-driven educational experiences through activities such as exploration of material, trails, art, teaching curriculums, guided activities through various mediums. Ultimately, these centers act as a gateway between a community and its historical background and the preservation of its culture and environment.

Interpretive centers in the Pacific Northwest provide key insight to the unique history, wildlife, and development of this region. The Pacific Northwest is not only home to a distinctive array of wildlife and scenery, but also to widely celebrated figures and icons such as Lewis and Clark who traveled the Oregon Trail, Robert Gray who discovered the mouth of the Columbia River, George Vancouver who created a

2 Campaign for Environmental Literacy, Environmental Education, 2007


detailed map of the Northwest Coast, and the Native Americans who originally inhabited the area. Centers such as the North Cascades National Park Complex offer guided trail tours, junior ranger programs, multimedia presentations, and celebration of special events such as the Bald Eagle Festival.3 Interpretive centers offer a unique way of educating the public about the history and preservation of the Pacific Northwest.

Economic value and gain from Eco and Historic/Heritage Tourism can be measured by both the activity and employment generated along with net community economic benefits (economic gain minus costs to society). The cultural heritage tourism industry in the United States makes up 14% of the top tourism activities, with a 10% increase from 1996 to 2000.4 The heritage and cultural traveler is generally more affluent, has higher expectations for travel experiences, and is willing to spend more per trip versus other travelers.5 A growing number of tourists and travelers seek these cultural and historic/heritage experiences which enhance their enjoyment of a place, and are an important factor in and motivator for their travel decisions and expectations.

GENERAL SOURCES OF FUNDING This guide is a resource tool to help eligible organizations to consider and explore external funding to fill the financial gaps in “righting” projects that are financially upside down.

Public Funding—There are many public sources for both comprehensive and component funding of interpretive center projects. These sources are found in federal and state programs (Washington, Oregon, Idaho), and each comes with differing applicability to and requirements of the grantee. Funding sources are either grants with a match requirement or support for a loan. Loan support comes in the form of interest rate buy downs or guarantees that are essential for traditional commercial financing.

Private Sector Funding—Private charitable foundations and many corporations have established grant programs to fund environmental and cultural programs. These private funders typically support non-profit organizations, but may also provide support to projects lead by local governments. Private foundations and corporations generally focus their grant programs on a mission statement and several core issue areas, such as education, youth, or natural resource protection. Many of these funders require applicants to pursue matching funds from private and/or public sector to leverage their funding to promote larger projects with greater impact.

3 National Park Service U.S. Department of the Interior, North Cascades National Park Complex, 2011 4 Heritage Tourism and the Federal Government, Advisory Council on Historic Preservation 5 Office of Travel & Tourism Industries, International Trade Administration, U.S. Department of Commerce


CHARACTERISTICS OF FUNDING SOURCES Eligibility—Describes the types of organizations eligible by grant guidelines or statutory limitations to receive grants and/or loan subsidies.

Applicability—Grants have certain allowable uses for the funds; “applicability” describes those restrictions.

Match/Equity—Most grants require a local match, or in the case of loans, a debt to equity requirement; “match/equity” describes those thresholds.

Difficulty—This is an evaluation of the difficulty of securing a source of funding, based on practitioner experience. Difficulty is ranked hard, moderate, or easy.

Limits—This is the maximum allocated in a single grant.

Strength—As with all funding, the actual allocation of funds to a particular program varies with budget cycles and economic conditions; in this guide “strength” provides an assessment of the financial strength or availability of funds of each grant source. Strength is ranked “scarce,” “reasonable,” or “well-funded.”

Conditions—Most grant sources have specific conditions and terms for reimbursement, distribution of funds, or other requirements. Conditions are included in “Notes” when applicable.

Programmatic vs. Legislated—Most grant funds are programmatic in nature in that they have fixed administrative application cycles and are granted in a structured and temporal consideration; however, there are funds that may be available through legislative action to target a particular project. This information is included in “Notes” when applicable.

Contact—The best available contact information as of this guide’s issue date is listed. Contact information is fluid and changes frequently.


PUBLIC FUNDING Public funding, for specific purposes and uses, is generally available only to state and local governments and to Native American tribes. The source of most government funding is from environment-related fees or tax dollars. Public funding typically has restrictions for applicability and eligibility, as well as special reporting, match, procurement, and accounting requirements. These grants are available from federal and state agencies and are either programmatic or allocated by acts of the appropriate legislative body. Programmatic grants typically are developed through a routine budget cycle with annual application periods. Allocated funds are obtained through project-specific actions by Congress or state legislatures.

FEDERAL FUNDING Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) Grant The Community Action for a Renewed Environment (CARE) program is a competitive grant program that offers communities an innovative way to address the risks from multiple sources of toxic pollution in their environment. Applications are typically due March 22.

Eligibility Applicability Match/Equity Difficulty Limits Strength

Non-profit organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, tribal groups

The CARE program must help communities to understand potential sources of pollutants, set priorities for risk-reduction activities, and create community-based partnerships.

Minimum 1:1 Moderate Level 1: $75k to $100k

Level 2: $150k to $300k

Well-funded

Notes: Level 1: Community-based collaborative partnerships; identifying and developing an understanding of the many local sources of risk from toxic pollutants and environmental concerns; and setting priorities for the reduction of the identified risks and concerns of the community. Level 2: Support activities to identify and implement actual “on the ground,” community-based projects for the reduction of the prioritized risks and concerns in their community. Level 2 agreements are for communities that have already completed the actions typically taken in a Level 1 agreement. Level 1 grantees may apply for Level 2 funding during the second year of their project.

Contact: CARE Program 1.877.CARE909


Environmental Education (EE) Regional Grant Program The purpose of the EE regional grant program is to increase public awareness and knowledge about environmental issues and provide the skills that participants in its funded projects need to make informed environmental decisions and take responsible actions toward the environment. Applications are typically due May 2.


Any local education agency, college/ university, state education or environmental agency, or nonprofit organization

This grant program funds EE projects that promote environmental stewardship. Projects must address at least one of the EPA educational priorities.

Minimum 25% match Moderate $15k to $100k Well-funded

Notes: Each of EPA’s 10 regions anticipates a minimum of 2 grants.

Contact: U.S. EPA, Region 10: Sally Hanft; [email protected]

Environmental Education (EE) Sub-Grants Program The EE sub-grants program supports EPA’s efforts to increase public awareness and knowledge about environmental issues and promote stewardship within a community.


Any local education agency, college/ university, state education or environmental agency, or nonprofit organization

Must implement EE projects and activities that improve behavior through non-regulatory means and raise public awareness of actions that can be taken to promote environmental stewardship.

Minimum 25% match Moderate $150k to regional prime recipient.

$5k for each sub-award

Reasonable

Notes: Recipients must manage and award sub-grants to sub-awardees who will conduct EE activities. Each regional prime recipient will be required to use $92,273.50 towards a minimum of 19 sub-awards of the two year period. Each sub-award must be in the amount of up to $5,000 to an organization other than their own.

Contact: U.S. EPA, Region 10: Sally Hanft; [email protected]


National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Arts Education: Art Works Grant The Art Works Grant program supports the creation of a project that encourages and supports project outcomes that promote creation, engagement, learning, and livability.


Any local, state, or nonprofit agency, except in-school programs or individual elementary and secondary schools.

Must be a community-based project that is based on a curriculum that is concurrent with either national or state arts education standards, and must be a “learning” project type.

N/A Moderate $10k to $100k Reasonable

Notes: Grantees may be contacted to provide evidence of project accomplishments including, but not limited to, work samples, community action plans, cultural asset studies, programs, reviews, relevant news clippings, and playbills. Grantees are required to maintain project documentation for three years following submission of final reports.

Contact: NEA Folk & Tradition Arts, Local Arts Agencies, Multidisciplinary, Presenting: Terry Liu: [email protected] NEA Design, Media Arts, Museums, Visual Arts,: Latika Edwards: [email protected]


Our Town Grant Organizations may apply for creative place making projects that contribute to the livability of communities and place the arts at their core.


Must have a partnership that involves a nonprofit organization and a local government entity.

The anticipated long-term results for Livability projects are measurable community benefits, such as growth in overall levels of social and civic engagement; arts- or design-focused changes in policies, laws, and/or regulations; job and/or revenue growth for the community; and changes in in-and-out migration patterns.

Nonfederal Match of at least 1:1

Moderate $25k to $150k Reasonable

Notes: Each local government is limited to one application, and only one application per geographically represented area will be accepted. A grant period of up to two years is allowed.

Contact: CCR Assistance Center: Call 1-866-606-8220 Grants.gov Contact Center: Call 1-800-518-4726, e-mail: [email protected]

National Arts and Humanities Youth Program The President’s Committee in partnership with NEA awards grants to twelve award-winning programs that enrich the lives of youth through teaching new skills, nurturing creativity, and building self-confidence.


Be a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization, unit of state or local government, or federally recognized tribal community or tribe.

Must concentrate and operate as a program for youth with limited opportunities, and integrate arts and humanities education with youth development goals.

N/A Difficult 12 grants $10k each Well-funded

Notes: Organizations wishing to apply need to have been operational since January 2008.

Contact: NAH [email protected]


Challenge America Fast Track The Challenge America Fast Track offers support for small to mid-size organizations for projects that promote engagement and livability through the arts.


Any local, state, or nonprofit agency, except in-school programs or individual elementary and secondary schools.

Must concentrate and operate as a program for youth with limited opportunities, and integrate arts and humanities education with youth development goals.

Min. 1:1 Match Moderate $10k fixed amount Well-funded

Notes: Organizations applying to the Challenge America Fast-Track category may not submit another application to the Art Works category. Not available for the same organization (parent or component) for more than three consecutive years, even if for different projects.

Contact: Challenge America Fast-Track Specialists: [email protected] or 202.682.5700

National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Challenge Grants Challenge grants are capacity-building grants intended to help institutions and organizations secure long-term improvements and support for their humanities programs and resources.


Any educational institution, local, state, or nonprofit agency.

Must provide long-term benefits to the humanities.

Recipients must raise three times the federal award amount.

Difficult Max $500k Reasonable

Notes: Historically Black Colleges, Tribal Colleges, and two year colleges are especially encouraged to apply.

Contact: Office of Challenge Grants: [email protected]


Planning Grants Planning grants support the early stages of project development, including consultation with scholars, refinement of humanities themes, preliminary design, and audience evaluation.




N/A Difficult- funding ratio 9%

Max $75k Reasonable

Notes: Application deadline is generally in August for projects beginning in April of the following year.

Contact: NEH Division of Public Programs: 202.606.8269 or [email protected]

Implementation Grants Implementation grants support final scholarly research and consultation, design development, production, and installation of a project for presentation to the public.





Max $400k Reasonable

Notes: NEH requires a final report that assesses how well the finished project met its goals to educate and engage the public.

Contact: NEH Division of Public Programs: 202.606.8269 or [email protected]


Digital Humanities Start-Up Grants This program is designed to encourage innovations in the digital humanities. By awarding relatively small grants to support the planning stages, NEH aims to encourage the development of innovative projects that promise to benefit the humanities.


Any local, state, or nonprofit agency.

Must provide long-term benefits to the humanities through digital initiatives.


Level 1 Max: $30k

Level 2 Max: $60k

Reasonable

Notes: Level 1: Smaller grants intended for brainstorming sessions and initial planning. Level 2: Larger grants intended for more fully formed projects.

Contact: NEH Office of Digital Humanities: [email protected]

U.S. Forest Service Community Forest and Open Space Program The Community Forest Program authorizes the Forest Service to provide financial assistance to local governments, Tribal governments, and qualified nonprofit entities to establish community forests that provide continuing and accessible community benefits.


State and local government, nonprofit corporations, Indian tribes, other than institutions of higher education.

Community involvement and public access is required to establish a community forest.

Cost Sharing: program pays up to 50%, and requires a 50% nonfederal match.

Moderate Max $400k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Program Coordinator: Maya Solomon; 202.205.1376; [email protected]


U.S. Department of the Interior—National Park Service Federal Lands to Parks Program Allows local governments and communities to acquire, at no cost, surplus lands and facilities for public parks and recreation purposes.


State or local government

Acquisition of surplus federal lands to be used for parks or recreation. Protect and preserve lands.

Surplus, usually given at no charge.

Easy N/A Reasonable

Notes: Land must be open to public

Contact: National: Wendy Ormont; [email protected] Regional: David Siegenthaler; [email protected]

Land and Water Conservation Fund Provides assistance to acquire, develop, and preserve state and local outdoor recreational facilities.


State or local government

Must be used for outdoor recreation 50% match Moderate $25k to $500k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Director Recreation and Conservation Office: 360.902.3000


Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance Program Provides river, trail, and greenway planning, resources, assessment, and conservation workshops targeted toward urban areas.


Local government Resource and conservation assessment, urban areas, trails, and greenway projects; rails-trails projects, river projects.

Cost share Moderate Max Two Years Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Sue Abbit; 206.220.4116; [email protected] Bryan Bowden; 360.569.2211 x2306; [email protected] Susan Resenbrough; 206.220.4121; [email protected] Alex Stone; 206.220.4108; [email protected]

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Cooperative Endangered Species Conservation Fund Assist in the development of programs for the conservation of endangered and threatened species.


State Agencies The assistance provided to the State Fish and Wildlife Agency can include animal, plant, and habitat surveys; research; planning; monitoring; habitat protection, restoration, management, and acquisition; and public education.

Minimum 25% non-federal cost share

Moderate N/A Reasonable

Notes: State Agencies must have a cooperative agreement with the Secretary of the Interior.

Contact: Chief, Endangered Species Division of Consultation, HCPs, Recovery and State Grants, 4401 N. Fairfax Dr. Room 420 Arlington, Virginia 22203 Phone: 703.358.2171


U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Youth Empowerment Program The purpose of the YEP is to address unhealthy behaviors in minority at-risk youth and provide them opportunities to learn skills and gain experiences that contribute to more positive lifestyles and enhance their capacity to make healthier life choices.


State, local, and tribal governments, nonprofit agency, or institution of education.

Program must provide innovative approaches in promoting healthy behaviors among minority youth at-risk for poor health/life outcomes.

No Moderate Max $300k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Office of Minority Health: Project Officer: Monica Daley; 240.453.8444; [email protected]


U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Community Block Grant Entitlement Communities Grant This program provides grants to entitled communities to assist in carrying out a wide range of community development activities directed toward revitalizing neighborhoods, economic development, and providing improved community facilities and services.


Principal cities of Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs); other metropolitan cities with populations of at least 50,000; and qualified urban counties with populations of at least 200,000 (excluding the population of entitled cities) are entitled to receive annual grants.

Acquisition of real property, relocation and demolition, rehabilitation of residential and non-residential structures, construction of public facilities and improvements, public services, energy conservation, and provision of assistance to profit-motivated businesses to carry out economic development and job creation/retention activities.

N/A Easy Varies Reasonable

Notes: Grantees must develop and submit to HUD its Consolidated Plan

Contact: Community Planning and Development Region 10: Office Director: Jack Peters; 206.22.5268; [email protected]


Section 108 Loan Guarantee Program Section 108 is the loan guarantee provision of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. Section 108 provides communities with a source of financing for economic development, housing rehabilitation, public facilities, and large-scale physical development projects.


Metropolitan cities and urban counties (i.e. CDBG entitlement recipients); non-entitlement communities that are assisted in the submission of applications by States that administer the CDBG program; and non-entitlement communities eligible to receive CDBG funds under the HUD-Administered Small Cities CDBG program (Hawaii). The public entity may be the borrower or it may designate a public agency as the borrower.

Economic development, acquisition of real property, rehabilitation of publicly owned real property, housing rehabilitation, construction, reconstruction, or installation of public facilities, relocation, clearance, and site improvements, payment of interest on the guaranteed loan and issuance costs of public offerings, debt service reserves, public works and site improvements, and in limited circumstances, housing construction as part of community economic development, Housing Development Grant, or Nehemiah Housing Opportunity Grant programs.

N/A Easy Varies Reasonable

Notes: Maximum repayment period of 20 years

Contact: Community Planning and Development Region 10: Office Director: Jack Peters; 206.22.5268; [email protected]


U.S. Department of Energy Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy (EERE) Technical assistance, in the provision of a resource center, on sustainable development and other relevant issues such as land use planning, green building, and sustainable businesses.


Anyone is eligible. Technical assistance/resource center; sustainable development

Technical Assistance Easy N/A Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: www.eere.energy.gov


STATE FUNDING State funding is typically made to local political subdivisions of the state through programmatic or allocated budgeting.

Washington State Department of Ecology Terry Husseman Account Grants from the Terry Husseman Account are issued to eligible entities to support locally sponsored projects to restore or enhance the natural environment. Typical projects address water quality issues and fish and wildlife habitat protection or enhancement related needs.


Washington counties, cities, municipalities and other state agencies. Other state-recognized local governments (Ports, PUDs, special purpose districts). Federally recognized tribal nations or entities in Washington State

Restore or enhance environmental, recreational, archaeological, or aesthetic resources for the benefit of Washington’s citizens. Investigate the long-term effects of oil spills. Develop and implement aquatic land geographic information systems

No Moderate $50k Max Reasonable

Notes: Private entities and non-for profit organizations are not eligible. However, they may partner with eligible entities to leverage other funding or add to a project’s total resource needs.

Due to state budget constraints, this program is not currently accepting grant applications

Contact: Northwest Regional Office: Dave Garland; 425.649.7031


Washington State Department of Commerce Building for the Arts (BFA) Grant Building for the Arts (BFA) awards state grants to nonprofit organizations to defray up to 20 percent of eligible capital costs for the acquisition and major new construction or renovation of performing arts, art museums, and cultural facilities.


Must be a 501c registered nonprofit organizations

Grants are intended to fund bricks and mortar (capital costs) including acquisition of bare land.

Up to 20% state match

Moderate $2 million Max Reasonable

Notes: Most projects required to apply for LEED silver certification. Historical museums are ineligible.

Contact: Project Manager; Beth Prihoda; 360-725-5001; [email protected]

Building Communities Fund (BCF) This program awards state grants to cover capital costs to acquire, construct, or rehabilitate nonresidential community service centers.


Nonresidential facility. Be located in a “distressed community” or serve a low-income population, must be registered as a 501c non-profit organization, agree to enter the LEED certification process.

Must demonstrate that a proposed project will offer three or more activities that meet a single community service objective.

25% match Moderate No Max Well-Funded

Notes: New projects under 5,000 sq. ft. are exempt from LEED certification requirement

Contact: Capital Program Staff: 360.725.3075


Youth Recreation Facilities (YRF) Program This program awards state grants to cover capital costs to acquire, construct, or rehabilitate facilities that will provide a major recreational activity for youth within the K-12 range.


Must be registered as a 501c non-profit organization, be considered a non-profit youth organization, and agree to enter the LEED certification program.

Funds must be used to cover construction, renovation, or acquisition of a facility that will have an educational or social service program that will be primarily available to youth.

25% match Moderate $800k Max Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: Capital Programs: Sheryl Reed; 360.725.3074; [email protected]

Community Investment Fund Grant The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Community Investment Fund (CIF) Grants provide communities with access to funds for housing, infrastructure, community facilities, and economic development projects.


Cities and towns with less than 50k population, or counties with less than 200k population that are non-entitlement jurisdictions or are not participants in a HUD Urban County Entitlement Consortium.

Must be used for housing, infrastructure community facilities, and economic development projects and demonstrate at least 51% low and moderate income benefit.

N/A Moderate $1 million Max Moderate

Notes: Non-Profit organizations are not eligible but eligible jurisdictions may choose to involve other organizations.

Contact: CDBG Program Manager; David Riebli; 360.725.3017; [email protected]


(CDBG) Float-Funded Activity Grant Float-funded activities are fully secured loans made in support of CDBG eligible economic and community development projects. The capital that is made available for Float-funded Activities comes from unexpended CDBG awards to local governments.



Activities can support any CDBG community development projects including job creation, housing, and infrastructure acquisition.

Loan Moderate $1 million Max Moderate

Notes:

Contact: CDBG Program Manager; David Riebli; 360.725.3017; [email protected] Economic Development; Steve Saylor; 360.725.4046; [email protected]


(CDBG) General Purpose Grant General Purpose Grants can be used for local housing, public facilities, community facilities, or economic development projects principally benefiting low- and moderate-income persons.



Must be used for housing, infrastructure community facilities, and economic development projects and demonstrate low-and moderate-income benefit.

N/A Moderate $1 million Max Moderate

Notes: Non-Profit organizations are not eligible but eligible jurisdictions may choose to involve other organizations.

Contact: CDBG Program Manager; David Riebli; 360.725.3017; [email protected]

(CDBG) Public Services Grants Public Services Grants are funds used to support partnerships with local community action agencies in conjunction with CSBG funds.


The 12 non-entitlement counties that have established a sub recipient agreement with their local community action agency are included in the formula allocation.

Must be a public service activity. N/A Moderate N/A

Moderate

Notes:

Contact: CDBG Project Manager; Kaaren Roe; 360.725.3018; [email protected]


(CDBG) Planning Only Grant Planning-Only Grants support in carrying out planning activities that lead to the implementation of priority projects that improve and/or maintain the economic and physical environment of principally benefit low-and moderate-income persons.



Projects must meet one of the following program priorities: address public health and safety issues, improve essential services to low- and moderate-income persons, complete a necessary step within a broader community development strategy, or assist a community in meeting the planning requirements.

N/A Moderate $24k Max Single Applicant

$40k Max Joint Applicant

Moderate

Notes: Non-Profit organizations are not eligible but eligible jurisdictions may choose to involve other organizations. A joint application involves two or more eligible jurisdictions that share a common planning need.

Contact: CDBG Project Manager; Sheila Lee-Johnson; 360.725.3009; [email protected]


(CDBG) Section 108 Loan Guarantee Section 108 is the loan guarantee provision of the CDBG program, and provides communities with a source of financing for economic development, housing rehabilitation, public facilities, and large-scale physical development projects.



Activities include economic development activities under CDBG, acquisition or rehab of real property, installation of public facilities and infrastructure, related relocation or site improvements, payment of interest on public offerings, and debt service reserves.

Loan Moderate $700k Min

$7 million Max

Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: Economic Development; Steve Saylor; 360.725.4046; [email protected]

Public Works Pre-Construction Loan This loan program is intended to fund pre-construction activities for domestic water, sewer, solid waste, storm water, roads and bridges.


Local Governments, Special Purpose Districts.

Activities include but are not limited to pre-design, final design, feasibility studies, purchase of land/right-of-way/easements, environmental, cultural resources review, permits, and bid documents.

Loan Moderate $300k Max Well-Funded

Notes: Two year window to complete project

Contact: Public Works Board; Terry Dale; 360.725.3155; [email protected]


Public Works Construction Loan The Public Works Board (PWB) provides construction loans to local governments to finance critical public infrastructure systems.


Local Governments, Special Purpose Districts.

Local governments may use the funding to upgrade infrastructure, improve public health and safety, respond to environmental issues, promote economic development, or upgrade the performance of their systems.

Loan Moderate $15 million per Jurisdiction

Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: Public Works Board; Terry Dale; 360.725.3155; [email protected]


Washington State Arts Commission Project Support Grant One of the primary goals of the Washington State Arts Commission (WSAC) is to support the cultural vitality of communities throughout the state. To accomplish this, WSAC directs funding and services to strengthen communities and to provide arts opportunities for the public, with a particular interest in reaching diverse populations.


A minimum one-year history of arts programming; and for nonprofit organizations, a state nonprofit incorporation status with a current state nonprofit annual report filing. For governmental agencies, a minimum of one year, as established by ordinance or legislation, as an agency, department or unit of city, county, tribal or state government. For nonprofit organizations (first time applicants), a nonprofit, tax-exempt determination under Section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1954 (as amended).

The project event must be accessible to the public and the proposal must have specific dates and confirmed venues. Requests to revise public event dates after a Project Support grant has been awarded may cause cancellation of the grant. If the original project for which funds were awarded is cancelled, the grant award will be cancelled.

1:1 Match Moderate LEVEL A: $1,000 to $3,000 LEVEL B: $3,000 to $6,000 LEVEL C: $6,000 to $10,000

Reasonable

Notes: LEVEL A - For small arts organizations (under $200,000 annual budget OR non-arts organizations) LEVEL B - For midsized arts organizations (from $200,000 to $1 million annual budget OR Local Arts Agencies) LEVEL C - For large arts institutions (over $1 million annual budget)

Contact: Program Manager: Mayumi Tsutakawa; [email protected] ; 360-586-0424 Program Coordinator: Christel Ratliff; [email protected] ; 360-586-0026


First Step Grant The First Step Grant provides funding to arts organizations, schools, nonprofits, and government agencies that are building community partnerships to improve the quality and quantity of arts education for K-12 students in public schools in Washington state.


Any Washington state public school, school district, government agency, or non-profit organization is eligible to submit a First Step Grant application and serve as the fiscal agent for the grant. Washington state law prohibits funding of parochial schools.

The proposed program plan must focus on one or more specific strategies to improve teaching and learning in the arts. Arts learning programs supported by WSAC must align with the Essential Academic Learning Requirements (EALRs) in the arts, developed by the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI).

N/A Moderate $5k Max Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Program Manager: Lisa Jaret; [email protected] ; 360-586-2418 Program Coordinator: Christel Ratliff; [email protected] ; 360-586-0026


Washington Recreation and Conservation Office Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account (ALEA) The ALEA program is targeted at re-establishing the natural, self-sustaining ecological functions of the waterfront, providing or restoring public access to the water, and increasing public awareness of aquatic lands as a finite natural resource and irreplaceable public heritage.


Local Agencies, State Agencies, Native American Tribes that are authorized legally to acquire and develop public open space.

May be used for acquisition, improvement, or protection of aquatic lands for public purposes, or to provide or improve public access to the waterfront.

50% Moderate $500k to 1 million max depending on project type

Reasonable

Notes: This program is intended for outdoor facilities and does not include indoor interpretive centers. ALEA projects must also be associated with navigable waters.

Contact: Grants Manager; Scott Robinson; 360.902.0207; [email protected]

Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) The Land and Water Conservation Fund provides funding to preserve and develop outdoor recreation resources, including parks, trails, and wildlife lands.


Local Agencies, State Agencies, Native American Tribes, special purpose districts such as parks or port districts

Land acquisition, development or renovation of community parks, trails, wildlife habitats, or athletic facilities

50% Moderate $500k Good

Notes: All property acquired or developed with Land and Water Conservation Fund grants must be kept forever exclusively for public outdoor recreation use.



Non-highway and Off-road Vehicle Activities (NOVA) Program The Non-highway and Off-road Vehicle Activities program provides funding to develop and manage recreation opportunities including education and enforcement programs.


Local Agencies, State Agencies, Native American Tribes, special purpose districts, and federal agencies

Projects include planning, land acquisition, development, maintenance and operation, and education and enforcement

None Moderate $100k to $200k depending on project type

Good

Notes: Except for off-road vehicle facilities, activities supported by this program must be accessed via a non-highway road.


Recreation Trails Program (RTP) The Recreational Trails Program provides funds to rehabilitate and maintain recreational trails and facilities that provide a backcountry experience.


Local Agencies, State Agencies, Native American Tribes, special purpose districts, federal agencies, and trail-related non-profit organizations.

Projects include development and renovation of trails, maintenance, and educational projects

5-20% depending on agency type

Difficult $150k max general projects

$200k max education projects

Scarce

Notes: Grant recipients must provide the facilities developed with RTP funds for 25 years after the date of the last grant payment. Sites and trails that are maintained with RTP funding only need be open and available during the active period of the project agreement.



Washington Wildlife Recreation Program (WWRP) The Washington Wildlife and Recreation Program provides funding for a broad range of land protection and outdoor recreation, including park acquisition and development, habitat conservation, farmland preservation, and construction of outdoor recreation facilities.


Local Agencies, State Agencies, Native American Tribes, special purpose districts, salmon recovery lead entities, nonprofit agencies

Projects Include land acquisition, development of critical habitats, farmland preservation, local and state parks, natural areas, riparian protection, state lands development and renovation, state lands restoration and enhancement, trails, urban wildlife habitat, water access, and upland stewardship

50% Moderate Varies depending on project type

Reasonable

Notes:


Oregon Department of Parks and Recreation Local Governments Grants Grant for planning, land acquisition, development, and major rehabilitation projects for local governments on publicly owned land.


Local governmental agencies, cities, counties, metropolitan service districts, park and recreation districts, port districts

Eligible projects include those that involve land acquisition, development, and major rehabilitation projects

20-50% match depending on population size

Moderate N/A Reasonable

Notes: Eligibility is limited to public outdoor park and recreation areas and facilities. These areas and facilities must be open and accessible to the public-at-large.

Contact: Michele Scalise; 503.986.0708; [email protected]


Recreational Trails Grant Grants for building new recreation trails, restoring existing trails, developing and rehabilitating trailhead facilities, acquiring land and permanent easements.


Local, regional, and other government agencies, and nonprofits

Building new recreation trails, restoring existing trails, developing and rehabilitating trailhead facilities, acquiring land and permanent easements, water trails.

20% Moderate N/A Reasonable

Notes: Publicly accessible trails.

Contact: Mark Cowan; 503.986.0591; [email protected]

Oregon Business Development Department—Oregon Arts Commission Access Reimbursement Grants Access Reimbursement Grants will help offset the expenditures of specific access expenses incurred by Oregon’s nonprofit arts organizations, to ensure public access to all individuals who want to participate in an activity of the organization.


Nonprofit agencies that operate within a mission that describes “the arts as the primary purpose of the organization” and have incurred cash expense for an access service

Must be used to ease access to audiences and individuals who wish to participate in an activity of the organization

Varies Difficult $1k Limited

Notes:

Contact: Shannon Planchon; 503.229.6062; [email protected]


Art Acquisition Funding Program The Ford Family Foundation’s Art Acquisition Program, managed by the Oregon Arts Commission, provides resources to Oregon visual art institutions and public visual arts collections for the purpose of acquiring seminal works by Oregon visual artists to preserve public access to them and to provide support for the artists and to the visual arts institutions that support their work through acquisition and exhibition.


Oregon visual arts institutions, nonprofit agency, local government, federally recognized tribes

Must provide and demonstrate a commitment to the exhibition, provide public access to the collection

N/A Difficult N/A Limited

Notes:

Contact: Meagan Atiyeh; 503.986.0084; [email protected]

Arts Build Communities Grants The program recognizes the expanding role arts organizations are taking in the broader cultural, social, educational, and economic areas of community life. Support will be provided to arts and other community-based organizations to form alliances and partnerships to strengthen communities through projects that connect the arts with local issues and opportunities.


Local governments and nonprofit agencies

Projects must reflect local partnerships, local impact, along with providing access to the arts

1:1 Difficult N/A Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Brian Wagner; 503.986.0083; [email protected]


Cultural Tourism Grants Cultural tourism grants are offered in order to support those projects and partnerships, which advance arts-based cultural tourism efforts.


Local governments and nonprofit agencies that have been in existence for a minimum of two years

Projects must increase culture tourism and/or enhance on existing cultural tourism

1:1 Moderate $10k Limited

Notes: Cannot be used for capital construction

Contact: Shannon Planchon; 503.229.6062; [email protected]

Oregon Cultural Trust Cultural Development Grants Cultural development grants are intended to support significant cultural programs and projects for heritage, humanities, and arts.


Nonprofit cultural organizations in Oregon

Projects must make culture broadly available to Oregonians, preserve cultural heritage, present an artist’s scholarly work, and strengthen the culture within a community

Varies Moderate $50k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: [email protected]


Cultural Participation Grants The cultural trust coalition program offers grants within each county in Oregon in order to support local cultural development.


Specific by County Projects must increase public participation and appreciation local resources

N/A Moderate Varies Reasonable

Notes:


Oregon Metro Community Enhancement Grants Community enhancement grants are intended to benefit areas directly affected by Metro’s garbage disposal facilities and are used to create improvements in neighborhood images.


Nonprofit agencies Eligible projects must either increase economic opportunities, enhance neighborhood appearances, or improve vitality and training for youth and elderly

N/A Moderate N/A Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Karen Blauer; 503.797.1506; [email protected]


Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grants Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grants support capital investments that support communities and the natural resources within those communities.


Governmental agencies, nonprofit agencies, and public education institutions

Projects must be part of a capital investment and projects must either purchase land or make improvements to public property that result in a capital asset with a life of at least 20 years and a total value of at least 50k

Two times the grant request amount

Moderate None Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Mary Rose Navarro; 503. 797.1781; [email protected]

Nature in Neighborhoods Restoration and Enhancement Grants Nature in Neighborhoods restoration and enhancement grants supports hands-on activities and environmental education programs that protect and contribute to watershed health in the region.


Governmental agencies, nonprofit agencies, and public education institutions

Grant projects include providing underserved students ecology lessons and training in habitat restoration, improving water quality and managing storm water

N/A Hard N/A Scarce

Notes:

Contact: Kristen Blyler; 503.797.1834; [email protected]


Idaho Commission on the Arts Public Art & Cultural Facilities Grants Public Art & Cultural Facilities grants encourage local, public, and private support for feasibility studies, renovation, or construction of performance, exhibition, or artist spaces, for capital purchases for those facilities, and for public art projects. These grants fund single-phase and multi-phase projects.


Private organizations not including educational institutions and nonprofit agencies

Projects must support renovation or construction of a cultural facility, purchase of equipment, public art projects, and building and constructions plans or blueprints.

1:1 Moderate $10k Reasonable

Notes: Emphasis is placed on ADA codes



Arts Education Grants The Arts Education Program provides support for diverse and challenging arts learning in schools and communities by supporting organizations, and communities to foster the learning and artistic development of students. There are two main grant categories that are available to support the Arts Education initiatives: QuickFund$ and Arts Education Project Grants.

QuickFund$ Grants The QuickFund$ Grants are available quarterly and support professional development or short-term projects that enliven or improve arts learning as an integral part of the education of Idaho’s youth.


Schools, school districts, arts or community organizations, school-based educators, Idaho teaching artists, or arts education administrator.

Projects must fall into one of the following categories: quick projects, professional development, or teacher incentives.

1:1 Moderate Varies Reasonable

Notes:



Arts Education Project Grants The Arts Education Project Grants provides support for activities that unite effective practices in education and in the arts, and that involve schools, artists, and community organizations.


Schools, school districts, arts or community organizations, school-based educators, Idaho teaching artists, or arts education administrator.

Projects must fall into one of the following categories: quick projects, professional development, or teacher incentives.

1:1 Moderate $15k max Reasonable

Notes:


Idaho Department of Commerce Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) The Idaho Community Development Block Grant program (ICDBG) assists Idaho cities and counties with the development of needed public infrastructure.


Cities or Counties with populations under 50k or special district which is sponsored by a city or county.

Projects include public facilities construction and improvements, economic development projects, and senior citizen and community centers.

N/A Moderate $100k to $500k max depending on project type

Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Program Manager: Dennis Porter; 208.334.2470 ext. 2145


Rural Community Block Grants (RCBG) The mission of the Rural Community Block Grant program is to provide funds to distressed rural areas for building public infrastructure in support of economic expansion and job creation.


Cities with a population less than 10k, counties, and Indian tribal communities with a population less than 10k.

Activities considered eligible include extension of streets, water and sewer lines, and/or utilities to a site for a new business or industrial park; acquisition or construction of buildings for lease or purchase by a company; and provision of telecommunications, power, gas, and rail upgrades necessary for business expansions. City halls and schools are not eligible.

Local match is required but there is no set amount

Moderate $50k to $500k depending on activity

Limited

Notes:

Contact: Program Manager: Dennis Porter; 208.334.2470 ext. 2145


PRIVATE SECTOR FUNDING There are a number of private foundations and corporations with charitable grant programs that have provided support for environmental education and interpretive center projects. Restrictions and eligibility are determined by each individual organization.

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation Five Star Restoration Grant Program The Five Star Restoration Grant Program is a nationwide grant program to support on-the-ground restoration, environmental education, and community-based conservation. Some environmental education projects have used restoration funds like this in combination with trail improvements and signage to both enhance habitat and create an outdoor learning center


Any public or private entity

Project must address three key elements: on-the-ground restoration, environmental education, and measurable results. Project to be completed in 1-2 years.

Minimum 1:1 match of cash or in-kind goods and services is expected

Moderate Grant requests must be for $10k to $40k

Well-funded

Notes: Community-Based Partnership must exist to implement and sustain the project. Projects seeking larger awards should have a greater match, broader partnerships, and more significant objectives. Indirect costs are not allowed unless the applicant has a Federally-approved indirect rate, and the total amount of the indirect allowed is capped at 15% of the total grant amount.

Contact: National Association of Counties: Carrie Clingan; [email protected] Wildlife Habitat Council: Douglas Stephens; [email protected] National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (Mid-West and Western states): Claire Thorp; [email protected]


Connecting Youth to the Outdoors Grant The goal of Connecting Youth to the Outdoors is to provide financial support for innovative youth employment opportunities in conservation through a competitive grant program.


Non-profit organizations, government agencies, academic institutions, tribal groups

Development of innovative conservation job opportunities for youth, particularly urban and minority youth.

Minimum 1:1 match of non-federal cash and/or in kind contribution is required

Moderate Typical Grant Size of $50k to $100k

Well-funded

Notes: In 2012, approximately $1 million will be available for matching grants nationwide. This funding is provided by the Bureau of Land Management and USDA Forest Service and is restricted to projects on or directly benefiting BLM and/or FS lands. However, NFWF is seeking additional funding partners for this new initiative. As such, proposals for programs in other geographic locations are welcome.

Contact: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (Mid-West and Western states): Claire Thorp; [email protected]

National Wildlife Refuge Friends Grant Program The National Wildlife Refuge Friends Grant Program includes projects that assist organizations to be effective co-stewards of our Nation’s important natural resources within the National Wildlife Refuge System. Proposals are typically due April 30.


Refuge Friends organizations

Start-up grants for refuge Friends organizations, capacity building grants to strengthen the capacity of existing refuge Friends organizations.

N/A Moderate Seed Grants from $1500 to $5k

Well-funded

Notes: Applicants must either be tax exempt under section 501(c), OR be in the process of applying for 501(c) (3) status. The National Wildlife Refuge Friends Grant Program is a collaborative effort between the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Wildlife Refuge Association, and National Audubon Society.

Contact: National Fish and Wildlife Foundation: Teal Edelen; [email protected] U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service; [email protected] National Wildlife Refuge Association: Joan Patterson; [email protected] National Audubon Society: Connie Mahan; [email protected]


Oregon Community Foundation Community Grants Program The Community Grants Program aims to address evolving community needs and build civic leadership and engagement.


Nonprofit agencies with a 501(c) (3) status with a public entity classification.

Priorities of this program include nurturing families, enhancing education, increasing cultural opportunities, and preserving and improving Oregon’s livability through citizen involvement.

N/A Moderate General grant size is $20k

Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Program Officer for Community Grants and Funds: Megan Schumaker; 503.227.6846; [email protected]

Nike Employee Grant Fund (NEGF) of The Oregon Community Foundation The NEGF seeks to benefit communities in which Nike employees live and work. Projects, which address sustainability challenges, along with those that support community sports and activities, are the focus of this program. This program is intended to connect Nike employees with their communities.


Nonprofit agencies with a 501(c)(3) status, Indian tribes, or governmental entities such as schools

Projects must address one of the program’s four funding priorities: environment, education, inclusion, and health

N/A Moderate $5k min

$20k max

Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: www.oregoncf.org/nike


Oregon Humanities Community Grants Program The Community Grants Program seeks to make use of one of more of the humanities disciplines in order to connect Oregonians with relevant ideas, which shape our culture and daily lives. Focus is placed on programs that are accessible and interactive in format.


Nonprofit 501(c)(3) agencies in the state of Oregon

Projects must explore ideas directly related to one of more of the humanities disciplines. Emphasis is placed on the programs which bring together diverse groups of Oregonians.

1:1 Difficult $10k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Director of Programs: Jennifer Allen; 503.241.0543 ext. 118; [email protected]

Responsive Program Grants The Responsive Program Grants are awarded on a rolling basis to fund programs that are not part of an organization’s regular programming. These grants support programs created in response to pressing issues or events that the applicant is uniquely qualified to help the public explore.


Nonprofit 501(c)(3) agencies in the state of Oregon

Programs should be relevant, accessible and interactive to the community

N/A Difficult $1k Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Director of Programs: Jennifer Allen; 503.241.0543 ext. 118; [email protected]


Humanities Washington Opportunity Grants Opportunity Grants can be used for either project planning or humanities presentations that incorporate the humanities within a community.


Small, Nonprofit agencies in the state of Washington

Funds must be used towards project planning or humanities presentations.

None Reasonable $1k Reasonable

Notes: Offered Year-round.

Contact: Program Director: Ellen Terry; 206.682.1770 ext. 101; [email protected]

Spark Grants Spark grants are offered three times a year through a competitive grant process for projects based in dialogue and discussion.


Nonprofit agencies with a 501(c)(3) status

Funds must be used towards bringing together diverse groups of people through dialogue and discussion. Projects must be open to the general public and free or low-cost to attend.

Varies Reasonable $1,000 to $7,500 Reasonable

Notes: Offered Year-round.

Contact: Program Director: Ellen Terry; 206.682.1770 ext. 101; [email protected]


Bullitt Foundation Leadership and Civic Engagement Program The Leadership and Civic Engagement Program offers organizations funding for projects which involve environmental stewardship and leadership training.


Preference is given to nonprofit organizations

Priorities in the program include developing and sustaining leadership within a community, and inspiring civic engagement.

N/A Moderate N/A Well-Funded

Notes:

Contact: 206.343.0807; [email protected]

Captain Planet Foundation Captain Planet Foundation (CPF) Grants CPF awards grants to unique environmental organizations in order to serve as a catalyst for environmental activities in schools and communities, and inspire youth to participate in community service through environmental stewardship activities.


Schools, and Non-profit organizations with a 501(c)(3) status

Projects must offer environmental benefits such as promoting the understanding of environmental issues, educational value, and have the ability to add lasting value to a community. Ideal projects incorporate both environmental education and opportunities for children to help care for the environment.

Preference is given to applicants who have secured matching funds or in-kind contributions in excess of the grant request.

Moderate $2500 max Reasonable

Notes: CPF primarily funds organizations with an annual operating budget of less than $3 million.



Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation Environmental Grants The Melinda Gray Ardia Environmental Foundation is a private not-for-profit organization, which supports programs that empower and encourage students to become involved in solving environmental and social problems as informed decision makers through the emphasis and application of basic ecological principles.


Any organization, school, or parent (sponsoring) organization. Individuals are not eligible to apply unless they have a sponsoring organization.

Projects must provide holistic environmental curricula that incorporate basic ecological principles and field environmental activities within a primary or secondary school setting.

N/A Moderate $1500 max Reasonable

Notes:


Washington Foundation for the Environment (WFFE) Environmental Education Grants WFFE funds environmental education projects within Washington State, which are not typically funded by larger environmental foundations.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations

Environmental education projects or environmental projects which have the goals of increasing public awareness of environmental issues.

N/A Moderate $2k max Reasonable

Notes:



National Audubon Society Together Green Program: Innovation Grant The innovation grants program funds creative and ambitious environmental projects that engage diverse communities to find innovative solutions to a variety of environmental issues.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations that are part of the National Audubon Society and have a commitment from at least one partner organization.

Projects include conserving and restoring habitats, engaging new and diverse audiences in conservation actions, and using innovative approaches and technologies to engage people and achieve conservation results.

N/A Moderate $80k max

Preference given to grants $25k or less

Reasonable

Notes: In 2012, 40 grants were awarded ranging $5,000 - $80,000


Together Green Program: Planning Grant The planning grants program funds preliminary work for future projects, which may include building relationships with prospective partners, or establishing credibility with prospective audiences.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations that are part of the National Audubon Society and have a commitment from at least one partner organization.

Projects must demonstrate innovation through achieving one or more of the conservation goals of Together Green. Together Green goals include water conservation, habitat conservation, and energy conservation.

N/A Hard $5k N/A

Notes:



The Kinsman Foundation Historical Preservation Grant The Historical Preservation Grant funds the preservation, rehabilitation, restoration and reconstruction of historic buildings, structures and related sites. Most of the projects funded involve buildings that are listed in the National Register of Historic Places.



Projects include preservation, rehabilitation, restoration and reconstruction of historic buildings, structures and related sites


Notes:

Contact: Grants Associate: Sara Baily; [email protected]

Meyer Memorial Trust Responsive Grants Responsive Grants are awarded for a wide array of activities in the areas of human services, health, affordable housing, community development, conservation and environment, public affairs, arts and culture and education.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organization, with no pending proposal to MMT, and request support for work in Oregon or Clark Country, Washington.

Projects include core operating support, strengthening organizations, building and renovating facilities, and should be substantial (typically multi-year projects).

N/A Moderate $300k max Well-Funded

Notes:



Grassroots Grants Grassroots Grants are awarded to smaller organizations, which often do not have a developmental department.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organization, with no pending proposal to MMT, and request support for work in Oregon or Clark Country, Washington. Operating budget must be less than $2 million.

Projects include core operating support, strengthening organizations, building and renovating facilities, and should be substantial (typically multi-year projects).

N/A

Total Project costs must not exceed $150k

Moderate $40k max Well-Funded

Notes: Historically, 70% of the Grassroots Grants have gone to organizations with operating budgets of less than $250k


Program Related Investments (PRI) Program Related Investments are different from grants. PRI’s take the form of low cost loans (on average 2-3% simple interest), loan guarantees and equity investments to support a charitable project or activity. Since PRI’s are paid back, the funds are recycled to further MMT’s charitable purpose.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organization, with no pending proposal to MMT, and request support for work in Oregon or Clark Country, Washington. Operating budget must be less than $2 million.

PRI’s have been used to bridge loans and loan guarantees to acquire property, construct facilities, reach scale, create jobs, develop products or services or approach self-sufficiency through earned income strategies.

Loan Moderate No Max loan amount but traditionally loans have ranged from $75k to $1 million

Well-Funded

Notes:



M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust General Grants Grants awarded through the M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust are intended to benefit the peoples of the Pacific Northwest by enriching lives through arts, humanities, and the sciences.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations (primarily) within the Pacific Northwest

Grants are intended for scientific research, health and human services, education, arts, and culture.

N/A Moderate No Limits, but grants less than $50k are discouraged

Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: 360.694.8415

The Seattle Foundation Environmental Grants Environmental Grants help to support organizations, which work to improve the health of Puget Sound, promote sustainable growth, and educate communities on environmental issues.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations located in or serving King County

Funds must be used towards these specific strategies: ensuring sustainability in the Puget Sound region, improve the health of Puget Sound, and/or engage everyone in the preservation of our environment.


Notes: Capital Campaigns are considered low-priority.



Arts and Culture Grants Arts and Culture Grants help to support organizations that make significant progress towards engaging communities in the arts.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations located in or serving King County

Funds must be used towards these specific strategies: broadening community engagement in the arts, supporting a continuum of arts education for students, and/or preserve and fully utilize an arts space.




Neighborhoods and Communities Annual Grants Program This annual grants program is intended for organizations that seek to increase civic engagement and community action, as well as build community connections.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations located in or serving King County with an annual operating budget of more than $100k

Funds must be used towards these specific strategies: increasing civic engagement and community action, and/or building community connections. Priority is given to programs which serve low-income communities.





Neighbor to Neighbor (N2N) Small Grants Program The N2N Small Grants Program makes technical assistance and small grants to organizations with a presence in South Seattle, White Center, or Kent, that seek to increase civic engagement and community action, as well as build community connections.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations located in or serving King County with an annual operating budget of less than $10k

Funds must be used towards these specific strategies: increasing civic engagement and community action, and/or building community connections. Priority is given to programs which serve low-income communities.

N/A Moderate $5k Well-Funded

Notes: Capital Campaigns are considered low-priority. Grants are awarded on a quarterly basis.

Contact: Judy de Barros; [email protected]

Inland Northwest Community Foundation Community Strategies Grants Program The Community Strategies Grant Program supports programs related to community/economic development, human services, education, arts and culture, and environmental preservation.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations located in or serving Eastern Washington or Northern Idaho, federally recognized Indian tribes, and under certain circumstances, schools and public districts.

Preference is given to projects which achieve one or more of the following goals: increase sustainable economic development, increase stewardship of natural and cultural resources, increase civic capacity and constructively engage in solving community problems.

N/A Moderate Grants generally range from $10k to $30k

Reasonable

Notes: Funds are intended for program support and low priority is given to applications for operating or capital expenses.

Contact: 509.624.2606 or 888.267.5606


Florence Wasmer Fund for Arts and Culture The Florence Wasmer Fund for Arts and Culture awards grants to organizations and programs whose mission is to further education, enjoyment and awareness of the arts and humanities in the Inland Northwest.



Funds are to be used towards operating support, capacity building support to improve on an organization’s programs, or minor equipment purchases.


Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: 509.624.2606 or 888.267.5606


Whatcom County Foundation Competitive Grants Program The Competitive Grants Program is intended for organizations within Whatcom County that are primarily interested in working to build community capacity.



Preference is given to projects which achieve one or more of the following goals: increase sustainable economic development, increase stewardship of natural and cultural resources, increase civic capacity and constructively engage in solving community problems.


Reasonable

Notes: Funds are intended for program support and low priority is given to applications for operating or capital expenses.

Contact: 509.624.2606 or 888.267.5606

The Norcliffe Foundation Common Grant The Common Grant provides funding in the areas of health, education, social services, civic improvement, religion, culture and the arts, the environment, historic preservation and youth programs.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations located in the Puget Sound area.

Funding areas include capital campaigns, certain operating budgets, and special projects.


Notes:

Contact: Foundation Manager: Arline Hefferline; 206.682.4820; [email protected]


The Satterberg Foundation Capacity Building Grants Capacity Building Grants help to fund capacities of many kinds that are needed to design, build, operate, and continually improve the programs or activities that ultimately produce the desired outcomes.



Funds may be used for training, consulting, collaboration, conferences, skill exchange, professional development or accessing other resources that help strengthen the organization

N/A Moderate $5k Reasonable

Notes: Awards are made to programs with budgets of $1 million or less.

Contact: 206.441.3045

Open Grants Open Grants are intended to fund organizations or programs working to promote a just society through advocacy, collaboration, and organization.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations that have not received Satterberg Foundation funding for the past three years.

Funds may be used for training, consulting, collaboration, conferences, skill exchange, professional development or accessing other resources that help strengthen the organization

N/A Moderate $20k to $40k Reasonable

Notes: Awards are made to programs with budgets of $1 million or less.

Contact: 206.441.3045


The Burning Foundation Environmental Grants The environmental grants program through The Burning Foundation is intended for organizations that are addressing environmental issues in Washington or Oregon. Protection, conservation, and recreation are primary areas of interest.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit environmental organizations in Washington or Oregon

Grants must be used for operational expenses or special projects.

N/A Moderate Average Grant sizes are $5k to $12k

Reasonable

Notes: Preference will be given to requests from local groups working to improve their immediate environment and from statewide groups addressing general conservation and protection issues, rather than national organizations with projects in the Pacific Northwest.

Contact: Grants Consultant: Therese Ogle; 206.781.3472; [email protected]

The Collins Foundation Environmental Grants The Collins Foundation funds projects that directly benefit the residents of Oregon.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations in Oregon that have current registration with the offices of Oregon State Attorney General and the Secretary of State.

Grants are intended for start-up costs, and are not made for fund-raising activities or operational debt.

Preference is given to projects, which seek support from other donors.

Hard N/A Reasonable

Notes:



The National Forest Foundation The National Forest Foundation (NFF) is the official nonprofit partner of the U.S. Forest Service. The NFF administers funds for projects that directly benefit the National Forests.

Matching Awards Program The Matching Awards Program (MAP) provides grants for organizations that aim to implement a broad range of hands-on, action-oriented conservation, restoration and citizen-based monitoring projects.


Non-governmental, nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and Native American tribes working on or adjacent to National Forests and Grasslands

Funds through the MAP program are intended for projects which incorporate conservation and on-the-ground work while directly engaging surrounding communities. Projects must fall into one of the following categories: wildlife habitat improvement, recreation, watershed health and restoration,

1:1 Match of non-federal funds

Moderate N/A Well-Funded

Notes: Projects must be completed within one year of the award date.

Contact: Seattle Office: Regional Director, Northwest Programs: Kathleen Dowd-Gailey; 206.832.8280; [email protected] Portland Office: Oregon Program Coordinator: Lisa Leonard; 503.241.0467; [email protected]


Wilderness Stewardship Challenge Program The Wilderness Stewardship Challenge Program offers funding for projects, which advance the Forest Service’s stewardship goals.


Non-federal partners, community-based organizations, Native American tribes and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations

Funds are intended to help conservation areas meet baseline stewardship management standards.

Two types of grants: (a) requiring a 1:1 nonfederal cash match, or (b) requiring a reduced match of 50% in nonfederal in-kind contributions. Only organizations with an operating budget under $200,000 are eligible to apply for a reduced-match grant.

Moderate $50k max Well-Funded

Notes: Reduced match grants are given to smaller organizations.

Contact: Seattle Office: Regional Director, Northwest Programs: Kathleen Dowd-Gailey; 206.832.8280; [email protected] Portland Office: Oregon Program Coordinator: Lisa Leonard; 503.241.0467; [email protected]


The Pacific Power Foundation Grants Program The Pacific Power Foundation acts as the philanthropic arm to Pacific Power and offers grants to organizations to support the growth and vitality of communities through education, civic engagement, and improved health and welfare.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organizations, educational organizations, youth organizations, cultural and enrichment organizations.

Funding should directly benefit areas that Pacific Power or Rocky Mountain Power reach. Projects must benefit communities through education and engagement.

N/A Moderate Grants are generally less than $10k with most grants ranging between $2k to $5k

Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Grants Administrator: Laurie Simmons; 503.813.7257; [email protected]

The Bill Healy Foundation Environmental Conservation Grants Environmental Conservation grants are available through The Bill Healy Foundation to organizations in Oregon and Hawaii. The foundation is committed to provide an environment of respect and appreciation for the history, beauty, and environmental value


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations in the state of Oregon or Hawaii

Grants must be used for projects that focus on environmental conservations and/or the well-being of children.

N/A Hard Small Grants Program: $1k to $25k

Large Grants Program: $26k to $75k

Reasonable

Notes:



The Brainerd Foundation Place-Based Conservation Program The Place-Based Conservation Program focuses on promoting the connection between critical landscapes within the Northwest and the people that live in these communities. Investments emphasize engagement of local and regional stakeholders.


501(c)(3) Non-Profit organizations in the Pacific Northwest

Funds through this program are intended to fund projects that protect key landscapes, and engage community stakeholders. Funds should not be used for capital investments.

N/A Moderate Typical grants range from $20k to $50k

Reasonable

Notes:


Wells Fargo Environmental Solutions for Communities Grant Program The Environmental Solutions for Communities Grant Program focuses on investing in high impact projects that address local environmental priorities and deliver long-term benefits to communities.


501(c) (3) Non-Profit organization, tribal agencies, and governmental agencies including public school systems.

Funding is intended for projects that focus on sustainable agriculture and forestry, water quality, land conservation and support for building healthy urban ecosystems. Priority is given to programs that incorporate Wells Fargo’s network of volunteers.

N/A Moderate $25k to $250k Well-Funded

Notes: In partnership with the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation.

Contact: Manager of Community-Based Conservation Programs: Carrie Clingan; [email protected]


Alcoa Foundation Environmental & Education Grants Program The foundation for Alcoa Inc. Aluminum helps fund projects in communities where its operations are located. It donates a large amount to projects that promote environmental sustainability and education.


501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations, public schools, or recognized governmental agencies. All organizations must serve communities where Alcoa has operating facilities.

Environmental and/or educational projects must show a capacity to work in one of the following theme areas: recycling, reducing waste, sustainable design, mass transportation, STEM, environmental education, safety, and/or workforce development.

N/A Moderate $15k Min Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Ferndale, Washington Location: 360.384.7061

Georgia-Pacific (GP) Foundation Grants Program The Georgia-Pacific Foundation funds projects that serve communities where GP has a manufacturing facility. Projects funded through the GP Foundation are aligned with the key areas for grant opportunities.


501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations, public schools, or recognized governmental agencies.

Projects must be aligned with the four key areas for grant opportunities: Education, Environment, Enrichment, and Entrepreneurship.


Notes:

Contact: http://www.gp.com/gpfoundation/grantprocess.html


Boeing Washington State Environmental Grants Program Through Boeing, the Environmental Grants Program funds projects that inspire environmental citizenship, promote reusing and recycling, and preserve and protect habitats.


501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations

Projects should promote hands-on education, environmental stewardship, and/or preservation of the Puget Sound Watershed,


Notes: The Local Community Investors determines if the program, project or organization aligns to Boeing's strategies. Successful candidates will be asked to submit an online letter of inquiry (LOI) prior to receiving an invitation code to complete an online application.

Contact: Environmental Community Investor: Shyla Miller; 206.851.1391; [email protected]

Alaskan Brewing Company Coastal CODE (Clean Oceans Depend on Everyone) Fund The Alaskan Brewing Company, in partnership with The Ocean Foundation, has committed 1% of all proceeds from the Alaskan IPA to go towards the Coastal CODE Fund. Grants are provided to organizations and activities that promote the health of the Pacific Coast.


501(c) (3) nonprofit organizations or organizations with a nonprofit sponsor, and in special cases, other organizations that demonstrate a charitable purpose.

Projects must promote: beach cleanup activities, water quality improvement, sustainable fisheries, ocean conservation education, and/or ocean and coastal preservation.

N/A Moderate $10k Max Reasonable

Notes:

Contact: Special Projects Director: Jeremy Linneman; [email protected]


Public Service Enterprise Group (PSEG) Grants Program PSEG funds programs that support education, the environment, and community and economic development.



Projects should support development in education, environmental stewardship, climate change initiatives, conservation, and community involvement.


Notes:

Contact: Marion Oneil; 973.430.7842; [email protected]

Shell Grants Program Shell funds programs that focus on civic and human needs within communities, educational outreach, and environmental initiatives.



Projects must be in the scope of one or more focus areas: Education, Community, and/or Environment.


Notes:

Contact: http://www.shell.us/home/content/usa/environment_society/grant/

environmental, cultural & historic interpretive center funding guide

Documents