Community Grants

Program Status: Active and accepting applications annually

Geographic Scope: Brunswick and Columbus counties, North Carolina

Overview:
The Community Grants program provides funding to local non-profit organizations and community groups for projects that make a positive impact on the community. The program began in 2003 and continues to support community-led initiatives.

Award Details:

• Award Amount: Up to $2,500 per grant
• Expected Annual Distribution: Approximately $29,000-$36,500 annually
• Number of Recipients: Typically 23-36 organizations per year

Eligible Project Categories:

• Family service programs
• Civic and community programs
• Cultural and arts programs
• Emergency services
• Economic development programs
• Community development activities

Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a local agency or group
• Must serve Brunswick and/or Columbus counties
• Non-profit organization or community group status preferred
• Must operate in one of the five eligible focus areas

Application Timeline (Annual Cycle):

• Applications available: December
• Application deadline: February 15
• Announcement of awards: April/May

Program History:

• Began in 2003
• Has awarded over $680,000+ through the program since inception
• Funded several hundred projects
• Demonstrates commitment to community development and member services

Contact Information:

• Phone: (800) 842-5871
• Website: www.bemc.org/community-grants
• Email: Available through website contact form

Additional Details:

• BEMC also hosts an annual sealed-bid auction to raise additional funds for the Community Grants program
• 100% of Community Grants funds support project implementation

How to Apply

1. Obtain Application
   • Applications available in December
   • Visit www.bemc.org/community-grants
   • Call (800) 842-5871 for application materials
2. Submit Application
   • Deadline: February 15 (annually)
   • Submission method: Contact BEMC or visit website for instructions
3. Required Information
   • Organization name and contact information
   • Project description and goals
   • Budget and funding request (up to $2,500)
   • How project aligns with eligible categories (family services, civic/community, cultural/arts, emergency services, economic development)
   • Community impact and beneficiaries
   • Organization's tax-exempt status (if applicable)
4. Review Process
   • Applications reviewed for alignment with program categories
   • Projects selected based on community impact and need
   • Awards announced in April/May
5. Contact for More Information
   • Phone: (800) 842-5871
   • Website: www.bemc.org/community-grants
   • Hours: Mon-Fri, 8:00 am - 5:00 pm