This page includes some Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Neighborhood Small Grants Program.  Please review the information below and contact Kristen at kristen@southeastuplift.org or 503-232-0010 x 319, with any additional questions.

1.    Who can apply for a grant?
Neighborhood, business and community-based organizations are eligible to apply for grants.  An individual must be affiliated with one of the above groups to be eligible to apply.  For example, if you live in the Sunnyside neighborhood and have an idea for a mural project you would have to be affiliated with the Sunnyside Neighborhood Association, a local nonprofit or a business so that you could apply on behalf of that organization. 

2.    We are an organization physically located outside of the coalition area, but we want to have an event in a park located in SE.  Can we still apply?
Yes, you may apply as long as project activities will take place in and benefit the residents of the coalition.

3.    The application states that we must partner with at least one organization.  What is the definition of a partner?
One of the main goals of this grant program is relationship building. We are looking for true partnerships where partners have direct interaction with one another and clear roles in the completion of the project.  The selection committee will be evaluating the nature of the partnership, so please clearly describe your partnership.

4.    Can we partner with any organization?
Applicants are able to partner with any neighborhood, business or community-based organization on the project.  There are four types of partners that will receive preference so you are encouraged to partner with one of the following types of organizations:  neighborhood associations, business associations or local businesses, and organizations that serve or are predominantly led by historically under-engaged communities including communities of color, immigrants and refugees, youth, people with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bi and trans communities.

5.    Can we partner with an organization that is located outside of the coalition area?
Yes, as long as project activities take place in and benefit the residents of the coalition.

6.    Are letters of support required from project partners?
Yes, you are required to submit a letter of support from each partner organization.  This letter should be printed on organizational letterhead and confirm the organization’s intent to partner on a specific aspect of the project in the event that funding is received.  It can be brief, but the letter is required as verification that the partner has agreed to the identified role in your project.  If the organization’s role in the project is pending a vote by the Board of Directors, for example, the letter from the Executive Director should state the intended role and the date in which the vote will take place.

7.    Can organizations apply if they have been funded in the past?
Yes, organizations that have been funded in the past are eligible to apply.  It is possible that the same project could be funded but you are encouraged to add new components or partner with new organizations to make your application stronger.  Aim to meet the three program goals of the application if you haven’t in the past or partner with an organization that serves or is led by a historically under-engaged community.

8.    Can we apply for more than one project?
Yes, organizations can apply for more than one project as the lead applicant, however we will only fund one project per organization as lead applicant.  While we will accept more than one proposal from an organization, we encourage you to determine which project is the priority and submit only one application if possible.  In years past, the committee has reviewed 2 proposals from groups and was concerned that the community may divided on the projects.  That may not be the case, but it could be something that would cross their minds and impact their decision. 

You are encouraged to only submit one proposal, but if that's not possible then you should submit two.  I would caution you from trying to force the two projects into one unless you can find a way to do so that would make sense, be manageable and effectively meet the goals of both projects. 

Organizations are also encouraged to partner on multiple projects, so your organization may consider having your partner organization apply as the lead applicant if you plan to apply as the lead applicant on another project.

9.    How much money can we apply for?  Can we apply for maximum amount?
Grant requests may range from $1000-$7500.  You are able to apply for any amount within this range. However, it is important that the amount you request is consistent with the scope, research and financial need of your project. Provide a clear budget so that the committee can plainly see how funds will be used. 

It is possible that the committee may choose to only partially fund your project.  The committee may determine that your project would still be possible with reduced funding.

10.    What is the timeline for the grant program?
The deadline to apply is Tuesday, November 1 at 2:00PM. Applications submitted after 2:00PM on Tuesday, November 1st will not be accepted.

The grant selection committee will review grant applications during November and December then present recommendations for project funding at the SE Uplift Board meeting on Monday, January 2nd.  All applicants will be notified of their application status by January 15, 2012.  Funds will be available for use by the end of January.  Project activities must be complete and final reports submitted by December 31, 2012.

11.    What are some examples of applicable projects?
Outreach & Communications: new electronic communications, all- household mailings, door-to-door canvassing, A-frame signs, banners, etc.

Community-building events:  one-time events such as neighborhood picnics, culturally specific festivals, forums, etc.

Community-building activities: ongoing efforts such as storytelling projects, neighborhood beautification projects such as cleanups, mural projects, etc.

Targeted outreach strategies:  Specialized efforts to build ties with people from historically under-engaged communities.

12.  Can we apply for funds for building improvements?
Building improvements fall under the category of “capital projects” which are not eligible for funding through the Neighborhood Small Grants Program. 

As well, funds cannot be used for costs that may be incurred in preparing this application; direct social services such as food baskets, health clinic services, etc; ongoing general organizational support such as rent & utilities; grants, scholarships or loans for the benefit of specific individuals; loans or debt retirement; annual appeals or general fund drives; or emergency funding.