Spelling out grant money for Florida nonprofits
If you run a nonprofit in Florida, or work for one, you probably know that there are numerous grant-making foundations that offer funds to qualified nonprofits. But just knowing they exist isn't enough. Most foundations only offer grants to nonprofits that meet certain requirements, and these requirements vary in complexity. So the best way to improve your chances of receiving grants for your nonprofit is to research foundations that support your field and look at the types of grants they have made in the past. There are several foundations that specialize in Florida nonprofits.
John S. and James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation is one of the most active arts and media-related foundations in the country. According to the Knight Foundation's 2007 Progress Report, the foundation has granted more than $400 million since its formation in 1950, and $100 million of that was granted in just the last three years.
Although the foundation is currently active all over the country, it is incorporated in the state of Florida and offers a number of grants specifically to nonprofits that impact Florida communities. A few of the areas funded by Knight Foundation grants include: press freedom and freedom of information; digital media and news in the public interest; training and education; universal access to information and the Internet; fine arts and performing arts.
knightfoundation.org/grants
BankAtlantic Foundation
Since its creation in 1994, BankAtlantic Foundation has awarded more than $15 million to nonprofit organizations across the state of Florida. The four main areas supported by the foundation are community and economic development, human services, education and the arts. To apply for a grant from BankAtlantic Foundation, your nonprofit must already have 501(c)3 status and proposals are reviewed between March and October of each year.
bankatlantic.com/BAFoundation/
Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida
The Blue Foundation for a Healthy Florida is the philanthropic arm of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Florida. The foundation supports efforts that improve access to quality health services for the uninsured and underprivileged residents of Florida. If your nonprofit works with health-related services or health education in the state of Florida, then you should apply for a grant from The Blue Foundation.
bcbsfl.com
Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation
The Jacksonville Jaguars Foundation aims to help meet the needs of underprivileged youth and families in Baker, Clay, Duval, Nassau and St. Johns counties. Since its inception in 1995, the foundation has awarded grants totaling more than $12.5 million to assist disadvantaged youth and their families. The foundation offers two grant cycles per year and requires that grantees possess 501(c)3 status.
jaguars.com/foundation/
County and Community Foundations
Nearly every county and community in Florida has a foundation setup to offer grants for various community improvement efforts. Check with your nearest city hall for information about these foundations.
Tags: Knight Foundation, BankAtlantic Foundation, Blue Foundation, foundations that, more than, more than million, state Florida
