ECF Shaping Tomorrow Grants

The ECF Shaping Tomorrow Grants aim to empower nonprofits in Erie County by funding projects that promote inclusivity and equitable impact. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000 for initiatives lasting 12-18 months, focusing on measurable community change in health, education, and economic growth. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, demonstrate community engagement, and align with ECF priorities. This program seeks to enhance organizational capacity and support collaborations that drive sustainable development.

Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000 for projects typically lasting 12-18 months.Projects should demonstrate clear community need, employ data-driven strategies, and have the potential for long-term, equitable impact.

Eligibility

Projects should focus on creating measurable change impacting systems and reflect community engagement. The Foundation’s Shaping Tomorrow grant program is intended to help nonprofits build program, organizational, and systems capacity.Organizations must qualify as exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, or have a fiscal sponsor.The applicant organization must be located in or serve residents of Erie County, PA.Organizations cannot have received a Shaping Tomorrow grant within the past 12 months.Organizations must be current with post-grant reporting requirements from previous grants.Applicants will be evaluated on their alignment with ECF priority areas, partnerships, planning, community engagement and should demonstrate a coordinated effort to address community needs. Proposals should provide comprehensive details about the project, including goals, objectives, and output (which show how the people served will be impacted), budget, timelines, and evaluation methods with clearly defined outcomes.

Ineligibility

Organizational start-up costs or seed funding.Fundraising events or campaigns.Religious activities.Deficit reduction.Property/real estate acquisition.Reimbursement for expenses already incurred.