Community Grantmaking
The Central New York Community Foundation's Community Grantmaking program funds innovative nonprofit projects in arts, education, health, human services, and environment to improve quality of life in Onondaga, Madison, and Cortland counties.
Funder: Central New York Community Foundation
Due Dates: February 27, 2026 (Spring, Onondaga & Madison) | August 28, 2026 (Fall, Onondaga, Madison & Cortland)
Funding Amounts: Typical grants range from $10,000 to $150,000; most project budgets cover one year.
Summary: Supports innovative nonprofit projects in arts, education, health, human services, environment, and more for Onondaga, Cortland, and Madison counties.
Key Information: All applicants must consult with foundation staff before applying; Cortland County nonprofits may apply in the Fall round only.
Description
The Community Grantmaking program from the Central New York Community Foundation is the region’s largest grant opportunity for tax-exempt nonprofits, public entities, and those with fiscal sponsors. It is designed to support innovative projects that enhance the quality of life for residents of Onondaga, Madison, and (beginning Fall 2026) Cortland counties. Funding areas include arts and culture, civic affairs, education, health, human services, and the environment. Each grant round has priority focus areas to help applicants align their proposals with current funding interests, though all eligible projects are considered. The program seeks to foster positive community impact, capacity building, and diversity.
