CFES: Mini Grants

The CFES Mini Grants program, offered by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, supports local 501c3 nonprofits and certified schools with funding under $1,000 for diverse programs. These grants address crucial community needs in areas like health, arts, and education, enhancing services for vulnerable populations. Applications are accepted monthly, but first-time applicants may require a consultation. The program emphasizes collaboration and aims to empower organizations making a positive impact in Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

NOTE: First-time applicants to the Community Foundation will be limited to awards under $1,000 and may require a site visit or further conversations with staff before being eligible for a mini-grant award.
As leaders, grant makers, and stewards of philanthropy, the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore connects people who care to causes that matter for the common good of the Lower Eastern Shore. We are a 501c3 nonprofit with an inspiring history of fostering charitable endeavors, and have provided $89 million in grants and scholarships to the local community since 1984. We collaborate with individuals, families, and businesses to match their charitable interests with community needs and strengthen local nonprofits through grants and resources.
Mini-grants are offered on a rolling monthly deadline. These grants support programmatic needs in a variety of impact areas.
The following types of expenses are supported by this grant program:
Programs/Project needs for local 501c3 organizations in the following impact areas: Arts/Culture, Environment, Historic Preservation, Health & Human Services, Seniors, Veterans, Women & Children, and Youth Development. Technical Assistance & Capacity Building grants provide support to local 501c3 organizations for pilot projects, organizational improvement and capacity building, technology and equipment purchases.Emergency Assistance grants provide pharmaceutical, transportation, food, and utility assistance to local charities who support individuals and families.Youth Help grants provide support to schools and youth programs who are providing at risk and under-served youth with need based assistance or field trip opportunities. All other public/private school requests should be directed to our annual Education grant program.

Eligibility

Applicants must be 501c3 nonprofit organizations, public or MSDE certified nonpublic schools, faith-based organizations providing non-sectarian programs, or eligible programs within government agencies serving citizens in Somerset, Wicomico, and/or Worcester Counties.Mini-grant awards can be received once every twelve months.Unincorporated charitable organizations must apply through a qualified fiscal sponsor.

Ineligibility

The following needs are generally not funded through our grant programsAthletic Field Maintenance Fundraising Campaigns Nonprofit Start Up Fees (e.g. 501c3 Articles of Incorporation or Form 1023 Filing Fees) Political Lobbying Activities Sectarian Religious ProgramsOperational funds for government agencies or places of worshipGovernment agencies and places of worship may request programmatic funding for programs serving the community (not limited to congregation members).Are you an out of area applicant (not located in Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester county)? If so, please Contact our Program Director before applying.We cannot make grants to individuals.