[POISE Foundation](https://poisefoundation.org)

October 2026 (application opens, projected) | November 2026 (deadline, projected)

Typical grants up to $10,000 per project; some larger grants/loans possible for select projects (historically up to $200,000+).

Supports projects and organizations that enhance quality of life and promote neighborhood vitality in Pittsburgh’s Hill District.

--- ## Description The Greater Hill District Development Growth Fund, managed by the POISE Foundation, is dedicated to supporting charitable organizations and projects that address critical needs and foster the vitality of the Hill District neighborhood in Pittsburgh. Established through a partnership with Rivers Casino, the fund invests in a wide range of community development initiatives, including housing, commercial revitalization, business support, and building stabilization. The goal is to empower local residents, promote economic opportunity, and advance the Greater Hill District Master Plan through strategic, community-driven investments. --- ## Due Dates - October 2026: Application period opens (anticipated/projected) - November 2026: Application deadline / final submission deadline (anticipated/projected) *All dates are projected based on the annual cycle; check the program page for updates.* --- ## Funding Amount - Typical grant awards are up to $10,000 per project. - Select projects may receive larger grants or loans; past awards for major initiatives have reached $100,000–$200,000+. - The fund may also provide recoverable grants, debt financing, and business support loans for qualifying projects (see Additional Information). --- ## Eligibility - Eligible applicants include: - 501(c)(3) tax-exempt public charities - Organizations or groups with an eligible 501(c)(3) fiscal sponsor - Churches (for non-religious, community-focused activities) - Nonprofits and businesses located within or serving the Greater Hill District - Ineligible: Individuals and for-profit organizations not serving community purposes; projects outside the Pittsburgh region; religious activities; capital campaigns; endowments; debt reduction; political causes; multi-year grants. - Preference is given to Black-led organizations meeting at least two of the following: - Black/African American Executive Director - 50% of Board is Black/African American - 75% of community served is Black/African American - Organizations must have at least one year of operation and provide one year of financial history. - Only one application per organization per cycle; organizations funded three consecutive years must take a one-year break before reapplying. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted online via the [POISE Foundation grant portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=pfgrants). - Required materials include a completed application, POISE budget workbook, and all supporting documentation (including fiscal sponsor agreement if applicable). - Only online submissions are accepted; faxed or emailed proposals will not be considered. - A final report for any previous POISE grant is required before a new request will be considered. - For technical or eligibility questions, contact [grants@poisefdn.org](mailto:grants@poisefdn.org). --- ## Additional Information - Funding priorities include projects aligned with the Hill District Master Plan, especially those addressing community needs, promoting economic opportunity, and fostering collaboration. - Business support grants are available for start-ups and expanding businesses located in the Hill District, with preference for projects creating local jobs. - Some funding streams (recoverable grants, loans) may be available for larger or catalytic projects, subject to resource availability and advisory committee recommendation. - Grants generally do not exceed 50% of an organization’s annual budget. - See the [2016 Grant Criteria PDF](http://poisefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Greater-Hill-Growth-Fund.pdf) for detailed funding priorities and restrictions. --- ## External Links - [Program Information & Application Portal](https://poisefoundation.org/greater-hill-district-development-growth-fund/) - [Eligibility & Guidelines](https://poise-foundation.squarespace.com/eligibility-and-guidelines) - [2016 Grant Criteria (PDF)](http://poisefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Greater-Hill-Growth-Fund.pdf) - [List of Past Grants/Loans (PDF)](http://poisefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/GrowthFundListofGrants2017.pdf) - [Six-Year Impact Report (PDF)](http://poisefoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/Growth-Fund-Report-2.pdf) - [Grant Application Portal](https://www.grantinterface.com/Home/Logon?urlkey=pfgrants) --- ## Contact Information | Name/Office | Email | Phone | Address | |------------------------------|--------------------------------------|----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------| | POISE Foundation (General) | [info@poisefdn.org](mailto:info@poisefdn.org) | 412-281-4967 | Two Gateway Center, Suite 1700, 603 Stanwix Street, Pittsburgh, PA 15222 | | Grants Support | [grants@poisefdn.org](mailto:grants@poisefdn.org) | | | | Contact Form | [Contact Us](https://poisefoundation.org/contact-us/) | | |

Greater Hill District Development Growth Fund

Sign in to see full grant listing