Local nonprofits can submit their applications for grant funding to the Haines Borough by 5 p.m. Monday, Aug. 24.
The annual process involves nonprofits applying for funding from three pots of borough money: the “community chest” (from the areawide general fund), the medical service area fund, and the tourism and economic development fund. A committee then scores the applications and recommends funding levels to the assembly.
The “community chest” shrunk significantly this year – from $32,500 to $18,003 – after the assembly during the budget process moved money from the chest toward funding the Haines Animal Rescue Kennel animal control contract.
The amounts available from the medical service area fund ($28,750) and tourism and economic development fund ($17,500) are the same as last year’s levels.
Grant applicants must identify which pot of money they want to compete for and why their nonprofit qualifies for that specific type of funding. They also must explain how their projects support the borough’s Comprehensive Plan.
The scoring matrix measures nine facets of the nonprofit application, including the organization’s plan for funds (five points), contribution to economic development (three points), service to vulnerable Haines residents (three points) and the broadness of community support (five points).
The scoring committee will consist of the Mayor, three assembly members and the manager. The committee’s recommendation for funding will be made by September.
If a nonprofit received funding last year and hasn’t yet submitted its progress and financial reports to the borough, the reports must be submitted with this year’s application.
The assembly last year authorized $94,300 for nonprofits, nearly $33,000 less than the amount requested and the lowest amount it disbursed in grants since 2009.
The application is available on the borough website. For more information on the application process, contact clerk Julie Cozzi at 766-2231 or [email protected].