FY2023-2024 Community Support Grant Request

The City of St. Cloud is seeking applications from not-for-profit 501(c)3 social and human service agencies for the FY2023-2024 Community Support Grant Request, targeting organizations that provide support to residents of St. Cloud and Osceola County. The grant opportunity focuses on funding projects within seven specific categories: Arts and Culture, Animals, Civic, Conservation, Education, Health and Human Service, and Recreation. Eligible applicants must submit comprehensive documentation electronically through a public portal by August 31, 2023, at 5:00 pm, including 501(c)3 certification, financial statements, board information, and detailed project proposals. Applicants may be required to provide an in-person presentation to the City Council or undergo an on-site visit to review agency activities. The evaluation process involves Council Members making individual funding recommendations, with final award amounts determined by averaging their recommendations and subsequently approved by resolution in October.

The grant opportunity is specifically restricted to 501(c)3 non-profit organizations serving the local community, with no apparent set-aside designations for disadvantaged enterprises. Funding is derived from the Utility Tax Fund, with a consistent annual allocation of $150,000, and individual grant requests cannot exceed 20% of an agency's fiscal year budget. Awarded agencies must submit a final summary report by June 30, 2024, detailing the use of funds to maintain eligibility for future grant cycles. The grant aims to partner with community organizations to efficiently support local needs while aligning with the City of St. Cloud's Vision, Mission, and Strategic Plan Goals. Successful applicants will be expected to demonstrate the project's impact, including the number of individuals served, and provide comprehensive documentation of their proposed initiatives.