[Erie Community Foundation](https://www.eriecommunityfoundation.org)

May 1, 2026 | July 30, 2026 | October 15, 2026 | January 29, 2027

$50,000–$250,000 per project, typically for 12–18 months; multi-year projects may be considered.

Supports Erie County nonprofits for collaborative projects advancing inclusion, equity, and collective impact in health, education, economic growth, and community development.

--- ## Description The Shaping Tomorrow Grants program, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, is designed to support nonprofit organizations in Erie County, Pennsylvania through projects that embrace inclusive, equitable, and collaborative approaches. The program targets initiatives that address systemic challenges and disparities, foster cross-sector partnerships, and drive data-driven change in the community. Funded projects must align with the Foundation’s Community Impact focus areas: health, education, economic growth, neighborhood and community development, and regional vitality. The program prioritizes efforts that demonstrate measurable, long-term impact and community engagement. --- ## Due Dates - May 1, 2026 - July 30, 2026 - October 15, 2026 - January 29, 2027 These deadlines recur annually. Applications are due by 11:59 pm ET on the listed date. --- ## Funding Amount - Award range: $50,000 to $250,000 per project - Typical project duration: 12–18 months; multi-year projects may be considered - Number of awards varies by cycle and available funding --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code or have a qualified fiscal sponsor. - Organizations must be located in or serve residents of Erie County, Pennsylvania. - Organizations cannot have received a Shaping Tomorrow grant within the past 12 months. - Applicants must be current on all post-grant reporting requirements for any previous Erie Community Foundation grants. - Individuals, for-profit businesses, and organizations not serving Erie County are not eligible. - Projects must not request support for: - Organizational start-up/seed funding - Fundraising events or campaigns - Religious activities - Deficit reduction - Property/real estate acquisition - Reimbursement for expenses already incurred --- ## Application Process 1. **Letter of Intent (LOI):** Submit a brief LOI outlining the project’s goals and intended outcomes to the Community Impact team. 2. **Pre-Application Meeting:** Meet with Foundation staff to discuss project alignment and community needs. 3. **Full Proposal:** If invited, submit a detailed proposal including objectives, budget, timeline, evaluation methods, and community engagement strategies. 4. **Review & Decision:** Applications are reviewed by Foundation staff and an advisory committee, with final decisions made by the Board of Trustees. 5. **Notification:** Applicants are notified of funding decisions and, if awarded, enter into a grant agreement. Applicants are encouraged to consult the [application process flow chart](https://eriecommunityfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ECF_website_charts_FLOW_CHART-updated.png) for an overview of steps. --- ## Additional Information - Projects should demonstrate collaboration with multiple organizations and sectors. - Emphasis is placed on measurable outcomes, data-driven approaches, and sustainable community impact. - Grantees are required to submit periodic progress and financial reports, as well as participate in a post-grant review. - Receiving a Shaping Tomorrow grant does not preclude organizations from applying for other Erie Community Foundation grant programs. --- ## External Links - [Shaping Tomorrow Grants Program Page](https://eriecommunityfoundation.org/grant-opportunities/shaping-tomorrow-grants/) - [Grant Opportunities Overview](https://eriecommunityfoundation.org/grant-opportunities#login) - [Community Impact Focus Areas](https://eriecommunityfoundation.org/community-impact/) - [Application Process Flow Chart](https://eriecommunityfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/ECF_website_charts_FLOW_CHART-updated.png) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Title | Email | Phone | |------------------------|--------------------------------------|----------------------------------------------------|------------------| | Patrick Herr | Vice President of Community Impact | PHerr@eriecommunityfoundation.org | (814) 454-0843 | | Kelly Patterson | Community Impact Associate | KPatterson@ErieCommunityFoundation.org | (814) 454-0843 | | Community Impact Team | General Inquiries | CI@ErieCommunityFoundation.org | (814) 454-0843 | | General Contact | | [Contact Form](https://www.eriecommunityfoundation.org/contact) | |

Shaping Tomorrow Grants

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