Community Grants Program
The Community Grants Program funds innovative nonprofit projects in Central New York, supporting capital, programmatic, and organizational initiatives in rotating priority areas to advance measurable community impact.
Funder: Central New York Community Foundation
Due Dates: February 27, 2026 (Spring Round) | August 28, 2026 (Fall Round)
Funding Amounts: Typical awards range from $10,000–$150,000 (Vitkus Fund); most project grants are for a one-year period; capital campaign grants capped at 10% of goal, up to $150,000.
Summary: Supports nonprofit projects in Onondaga, Madison, and Cortland counties that advance community impact, capacity building, and diversity, with rotating priority areas each round.
Key Information: All applicants must consult with Foundation staff before applying and register in the grants portal.
Description
The Community Grants Program from the Central New York Community Foundation is the region’s largest competitive grant opportunity for nonprofits serving Onondaga, Madison, and (starting Fall 2026) Cortland counties. The program funds innovative capital projects, new or expanded programs, and organizational development initiatives that promote measurable community benefit. Priority areas shift each grant round to align with the most available funding:
- Spring Round: Arts & culture, environment, animals, civic engagement, education
- Fall Round: Health, human services, economic development
Projects may include capital improvements, technology upgrades, equipment purchases, program launches/expansions, and capacity-building efforts. The program encourages collaboration, fiscal responsibility, and proposals that foster diversity and sustainable impact.
