Innovation/ Pilot Grants
To encourage new ideas, test creative solutions, or support small pilot projects that may lead to future community impact.
Innovation/ Pilot Grants are intended for organizations that want to try something new, test a solution, or launch a small project that has potential for growth. These grants should support ideas that may not yet be fully proven but are thoughtful, realistic, and connected to a community need.
Examples of Eligible Requests: A new pilot program, a small test project, a creative solution to a community issue, a new partnership or service model, Technology or tools to test a new approach, research, planning, or early-stage project development, a first-year program that could grow if successful
Eligible Applicants: Nonprofits, schools, churches, government entities, or organizations with an approved fiscal sponsor serving Dickinson County seniors. If you have any questions about eligibility or fiscal agents, please contact the Community Foundation of Dickinson County (785-263-1863). We are happy to help.
Funding Limitations: In general, the Community foundation does not support:
• General operating expenses (salaries, supplies, administrative overhead)
• Capital campaigns (support of construction or renovation of a facility; also known as bricks and mortar)
• Endowment campaigns; annual campaigns; fundraiser events (including but not limited to, the purchase of tables at dinners, ads in program booklets, and raffle tickets)
• Travel grants: Fees for field trips or other travel-related expenditures
• Sponsorship of sports teams
• Previously incurred debt or retroactive funding for current projects
• Other grant making organizations
• Individuals (except designated scholarship funds) & independent scholarly research projects
• Religious or sectarian programs, political parties or campaigns
• Organizations operating fewer than 2 years
• Organizations that have delinquent reports from previous Community Foundation grants
• Children’s projects that provide traditional medical care; carry on propaganda or otherwise attempt to influence legislation within
Applications will be reviewed based on the following criteria:
1. New Idea Approach- The project/program tests something new or creative for the organization or community
2. Connection to Community Need- The idea responds to a real issue or opportunity in Dickinson County
3. Feasibility- The project/program can reasonably be tested with funding requested
4. Learning Value- The organization can explain what it hopes to learn from the pilot
5. Potential for Growth- The project/program could lead to a larger or more permanent solution if successful
Procedures for Submitting Grant Applications:
- Complete the online grant application.
- Certify your application by digitally signing it
- Upload your documents
- Submit your application
- You may be asked to attend a grant panel meeting with our committee. Save the grant panel dates listed at www.communityfoundation.us/grants. If you are required to attend a grant panel, the Community Foundation staff will notify you of your scheduled meeting date and time once your grant has been submitted and reviewed.
Note to Applicants: The Community Foundation of Dickinson County is committed to supporting local businesses and suppliers and encourages its grantees to source their supplies and materials from Dickinson County businesses whenever possible.
Verification of Receipt: Verification of receipt will be sent to the e-mail address of the contact person provided on the application cover page. You will also be notified via email by October 9 if your grant has been awarded or declined.