Annual Community Grants Program

Annual Community Grants Program

Funder: Cranberry Community Chest / Cranberry Foundation (PA, US)

Geographic Scope: Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania

Mission: The Cranberry Foundation serves as the community's foundation, fostering a vibrant and resilient Cranberry through philanthropic and collaborative partnerships that promote growth, vitality, and sustainability.

Overview

The Cranberry Foundation invites applications for its Annual Community Grants Program. Applications are reviewed by the Cranberry Foundation's Community Impact Committee, with final approval by the Foundation Board of Directors. The grantmaking budget is established at the end of the prior fiscal year and is contingent upon fundraising outcomes.

Important Dates

• Applications Open: January 2
• Deadline: March 31
• Decisions Announced: by July 1
• Project Period: July 1 – June 30 (following year)
• Grantees Recognized: Four Pillars Reception

Who Can Apply

Eligible applicants must be:
• IRS-recognized 501(c) non-profit organization (e.g., 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6)) operating for more than one year, OR
• Civic organization located in Cranberry Township that has:
- Operated for more than 3 years - An elected governing body & bylaws - A consistent record of community service

Additional Requirements:

Be in good standing with all federal, state, and local regulations

Demonstrate that Cranberry Township is part of core service footprint

Comply with applicable nondiscrimination laws

Note: General service to "Western PA" or "Butler County" alone is not sufficient

What We Fund

• Projects and events that directly benefit Cranberry Township residents
• New or expanded programs with measurable community outcomes
• Grant Range: $500–$5,000
• Match Requirement: The Foundation does not fund 100% of a project. Applicants must demonstrate additional support, either monetary or in-kind.

Exceptions & Special Requests

The Foundation may consider off-cycle grants for:
• Urgent or unforeseen community needs
• Initiatives directly supporting Township priorities

What We Do Not Fund

• General operating expenses or salaries unrelated to the project
• Partisan political activities, lobbying, or religious proselytizing
• Completed projects, debt reduction, or retroactive expenses
• Fundraising events, endowments, vehicles, real estate, alcohol, prizes/gift cards
• Individuals, including scholarships or student projects

Selection Criteria

Priority is given to proposals that:
• Demonstrate measurable resident impact
• Align with the Foundation pillars of growth, vitality, and sustainability
• Show strong partnerships and financial feasibility

Reporting & Accountability

• Final Report Due: Within 12 months of disbursement or 30 days after project completion (whichever is sooner)
• Report Contents: How funds were used, outcomes achieved, and Cranberry Foundation recognition materials (photos, press, social posts)
• Consequences: Late or missing reports may affect future eligibility
• Unused Funds: Must be returned; project scope changes require prior approval

Contact Information

Amy Smith Email: amy.smith@cranberrytownship.org Phone: 724-776-4806 x 1016

Organization:
Email: info@cranberryfoundation.org
Address: 2525 Rochester Road, Suite 450, Cranberry Township, PA 16066
Registered Charity: 25-1484323