Community Grant Program
Annual grants for nonprofits in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties support innovative projects and operations advancing arts, education, environment, human services, and community well-being.
Funder: Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes
Due Dates: June 1, 2027 (Letter of Intent) | July 1, 2026 (Full application)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from $2,000 to $20,000 for both Project Support and General Operating Support; one-year grants with possible renewal for GOS.
Summary: Competitive grants for nonprofits in Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties to support projects or general operations advancing community well-being, equity, and innovation.
Description
The Community Grant Program, administered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, provides annual, competitive funding to nonprofit organizations located in and serving Chemung and Southeastern Steuben counties. The program supports both Project Support Grants—targeting initiatives in arts and culture, education and youth, environment, animals, human services, and capacity building—and Unrestricted General Operating Support Grants, which offer flexible funding for ongoing organizational needs. Applications are evaluated by a community panel for their impact, innovation, collaboration, equity, and sustainability, with a strong emphasis on strengthening the region’s nonprofit sector and addressing current and future community challenges.
