HCCF: Mini Grant Requests

The HCCF Mini Grant Requests program supports public, tax-exempt organizations in Hancock County with grants up to $1,500 for one-time expenses, excluding operating costs. Eligible organizations must be in good standing with HCCF, and applications are prioritized for emergencies. Non-501(c)(3) entities must consult HCCF before applying. The program encourages civic engagement and community pride, aligning with HCCF's mission to foster giving and learning in the community.

NOTE: Mini Grants are administered on a rolling cycle each calendar year. Applications are accepted and evaluated on a first-come, first-served basis until funds available for the calendar year are gone.
Requests must be for $1,500 or less.Requests should be for a one-time expense. Mini Grants will not sustain operating or programming costs from year to year. Mini-Grant requests to cover a portion of a new ongoing expense must explain the plan for future sustainability.
The applicant must be the organization that will benefit from the proposed use of the funds.

Eligibility

Eligible applicants must serve Hancock County and be public, tax-exempt organizations by Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code and organizations exempt from filing for a 501(c)3 status (units of government and religious organizations). Consideration may be given to an applicant that is a mutual benefit organization as defined by the IRS for a project that serves a charitable purpose, subject to expenditure responsibility procedures. Mutual Benefit Organizations include 501(c)4 civic leagues; 501(c)6 business leagues, chambers of commerce, real estate boards; 501(c)7 social & recreational clubs; 501(c)8 fraternal benefit societies, associations; 501(c)13 credit unions; and 501(c)19 veterans organizations.Non-501(c)3 organizations should contact the Community Investment & Grants Officer before applying.Eligible organizations MUST be in good standing with HCCF, meaning no overdue grant reports.Organizations may only receive one (1) Mini Grant per calendar year.

Ineligibility

Mini Grants will not sustain operating or programming costs from year-to-year. Requests for funding for sponsorships or events will not be considered.Ineligible Organizations or Activities:Applications for religious indoctrination or other religious activities Deficit financing Lobbying, electioneering, and activities of political nature will not be considered Proposals for ads, sponsorships Any proposals that discriminate as to race, gender, marital status, sexual preference, age, disability, creed or ethnicity HCCF grants will not reimburse expenses committed for projects, programs, capital improvement, and/or equipment. Applications from school corporations or school groups will not be considered as HCCF supports the school community with grants to each corporation’s school foundation.