Legacy Foundation of Tompkins County Grant

The Legacy Foundation of Tompkins County Grant provides funding for various programs and projects in health, education, recreation, and the arts, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Applicants must be tax-exempt, 501(c)(3) organizations based in Tompkins County. The Foundation supports innovative projects while encouraging sustainability beyond their funding. Organizations can apply during fall or spring cycles, ensuring diverse community needs are met effectively.

The Legacy Foundation supports programs, projects, and capital expenditures in the areas of: Health, Education, Recreation, Human and Social Services, Aging, and the Arts. Support may also be given to requests for "seed" money for new or innovative projects or programs.
Organizations are encouraged to apply for funding during either our fall or spring granting cycles but generally will receive funding from Legacy once per calendar year. Emergency situations will be evaluated separately.
Funding
Typically grant award amounts are up to $5,000, and very seldom more than $10,000. For any grant request over $10,000 please call to discuss before applying.

Eligibility

All grant applicants must be within Tompkins County and be from a tax-exempt, 501(c)(3), not-for-profit organization or one serving other charitable purposes.Requests should be for a particular program or project, for a specific amount over a particular span of time.

Ineligibility

Generally, the Legacy Foundation should not be considered an ongoing source of funding. Projects that rely primarily on Legacy funding should identify ways to continue the program once this funding has ended.We will consider support for the same project for only a limited number of years.The Foundation does not make grants for on-going operating expenses, budget deficits, endowments, or for loans or assistance to individuals.