Applications Invited for National Wildlife Refuge Friends Group Grant Program
In recognition of the role refuge Friends organizations play in building critical community support for the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's National Wildlife Refuge System, the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and its partners provide assistance to new and existing Friends organizations through the National Wildlife Refuge Grant Program.
The program provides competitive seed grants of $1,500 to $5,000 for creative and innovative proposals that seek to increase the number and effectiveness of organizations interested in assisting the refuge system nationwide.
Eligible applicants must be refuge Friends organizations and either tax exempt under Section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code, or in the process of applying for 501(c)(3) status. All applicants must submit their determination letter from the IRS or a copy of the letter confirming that their application has been filed.
Grants will be provided to support proposals that fall within the following areas:
Start-up grants - Funds will be provided to assist new refuge Friends organizations with formative and/or initial operational support. Funds may be requested for such things as membership drives, tuition for nonprofit training programs, brochure and newsletter development, logo design, office equipment, or consultant fees for planning a mission and strategic plan.
Capacity-building grants - Funds will be provided to strengthen the capacity of existing refuge Friends organizations. Capacity building refers to projects that enhance an organization's abilities while allowing them to achieve measurable and sustainable results. Projects may include outreach programs aimed at increasing organizational capacity to serve the public, business plan development or other strategic planning costs, membership program development, board/ leadership development, development of exhibits to expand community outreach efforts, tuition for skill-building training programs, and nature or book store start-up.
Visit the NFWF Web site for the Request for Proposals and application procedures.
