Competitive Grant Program

Geographic Scope: Clinton County, PA. Eligible organizations must be located within Clinton County, Pa., or demonstrate their services benefit residents in Clinton County.

Eligibility:

• Governmental units/political subdivisions
• Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) designation recognized by the IRS

What They Fund:

• Life-saving equipment for emergency responders
• Public park renovations
• Food banks and food security programs
• Youth development and civic engagement
• Children's literacy and reading programs
• Clothing and basic needs (boots, shoes, socks)
• Fire and disaster relief
• Community beautification
• Cultural and entertainment events
• Healthcare equipment and services
• Recreation and sports programs

What They Don't Fund:

• Administration or labor costs

Key Information:

• In 2025, approved approximately $559,000 in competitive grants from 88 applications seeking just under $1 million
• Approved grants leverage an estimated $750,000 in additional investment by grant recipients
• Prior year 2024 grant recipients must submit evaluative reports by Dec. 1 to be eligible for 2025 grants
• Grant awards typically require grant agreement signing before disbursement
• All 2025 grant recipients must submit evaluative report by Dec. 1, 2025

Contact:

• Phone: 570-220-1038
• Email: cccf@clintoncountyfoundation.org
• Mailing Address: PO Box 652, Lock Haven, PA 17745
• Office: 350 East Water Street, Lock Haven, PA

Application Process

Deadlines:

• Application submission opens: October 1 (annually)
• Application deadline: 5 p.m. Monday, December 2
• Applications by mail must be postmarked no later than December 2
• Applications hand-delivered must be received by 5 p.m. at 350 East Water Street, Lock Haven
• Grant agreement signing deadline: March 31 (to receive funds)
• Evaluative report due: December 1 (following year)

Required Materials:

• 11 paper copies of grant application and supporting documents
• 1 copy of IRS 990
• 1 copy of IRS 501(c)(3) letter
• 1 copy of Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations (BOCO) certificate or exemption letter

Steps to Apply:

1. Download grant guidelines and application form from www.clintoncountyfoundation.org (click "Grants" link)
2. Review the guidelines and FAQ section
3. Complete application form
4. Submit 11 paper copies via mail (postmarked by Dec. 2) or hand-deliver (by 5 p.m. Dec. 2)
5. Sign and return grant agreement within specified timeline to receive funds

Reporting Requirements:

• Grant recipients must submit evaluative report by December 1 following award year
• Report must outline how funds were spent, why they were spent, and provide key receipts
• Prior year grant recipients must submit evaluative reports by December 1 to be eligible to apply in subsequent years

Selection Timeline:

• Board of Directors reviews applications and makes decisions in late January at annual meeting

Contact for Questions:

• Email: cccf@clintoncountyfoundation.org
• Phone: 570-220-1038
• Website FAQ: Available in grant guidelines on www.clintoncountyfoundation.org