Organizations that offer community-based programs and services will soon be able to apply for financial support through a Richland County grant program.

On Tuesday, County Council voted to make $300,000 in Community Impact Grants available. The measure is part of an effort to encourage organizations and agencies to continue offering innovative and needed services that enhance residents’ quality of life.

Organizations can apply for up to $15,000 for a single year of funding or up to $30,000 over three years.

“The Community Impact Grant program is designed to use scarce public resources most efficiently and responsibly to support a broad range of local community needs, such as arts and culture, social and health services, education and recreation in Richland County,” said Abhijit Deshpande, the County’s director of Budget and Grants Management.

“We’re seeking to partner with transparent and accountable nonprofit organizations to fund innovative or creative projects with a significant impact on our local community,” Deshpande said. 

Eligible entities can apply online for funding beginning Wednesday, Nov. 2 via ZoomGrants: https://zoomgrants.com/gprop.asp?donorid=2236. The deadline to apply is 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, Nov. 23.

Proposed projects must address one of the following criteria:

• The activity meets service-type activities outlined in the organization’s mission, long-range plans, goals and objectives.
• The activity, in whole or in part, provides opportunities for underserved populations in Richland County.
• The activity provides solutions by way of systems or approaches that can prevent, mitigate or resolve individual, family or community problems.

“Council and County staff see the important work nonprofit organizations do in our community and the impact those efforts have on our residents every day,” said District 10 Councilwoman Cheryl English. “Funding from Community Impact Grants will help those organizations expand their presence in the community, taking on creative projects that will help them reach even more residents.”

The County’s Community Impact Grant Committee will review applications, evaluating projects based on project summary, project impact, organizational background and budget.

For more about eligibility, requirements or other information, visit the County’s ZoomGrants page.

For technical assistance with applications, contact Matiah Pough, Richland County grants manager, at 803-576-5459 or Pough.Matiah@richlandcountysc.gov.