Annual Community Grants Program

Annual Community Grants Program is sponsored by Cranberry Foundation (Cranberry Township, PA). Funds community projects in Cranberry Township under pillars of growth, vitality, and sustainability.

2026 Grant Info & Application | Cranberry Foundation The Cranberry Foundation invites applications for its Annual Community Grants Program. Applications are reviewed by the Cranberry Foundation’s Community Impact Committee, with final approval by the Foundation Board of Directors. The grantmaking budget is established at the end of the prior fiscal year and is contingent upon fundraising outcomes.

Applications open: January 2nd Decisions announced: by July 1st Project period: July 1st – June 30th Grantees are recognized at the Foundation’s Four Pillars Reception. Applications are now being accepted. Apply here.

Eligible applicants must: Be recognized by the IRS as a 501(c) non-profit organization (e.g., 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), 501(c)(6)) and operating for more than one year, OR Be a civic organization located in Cranberry Township that has: Operated for more than 3 years An elected governing body & bylaws A consistent record of community service Be in good standing with all federal, state, and local regulations Demonstrate that Cranberry Township is part of their core service footprint Comply with applicable nondiscrimination laws Note: General service to “Western PA” or “Butler County” alone is not sufficient.

Exceptions & Special Requests The Foundation may consider off-cycle grants for: Urgent or unforeseen community needs Initiatives directly supporting Township priorities Projects and events that directly benefit Cranberry Township residents New or expanded programs with measurable community outcomes Grants range $500–$5,000. The Foundation does not fund 100% of a project.

Applicants must demonstrate additional support, either monetary or in-kind.

Applications must include: Organization mission and specify the community impact in Cranberry Township Description of project/event, goals, and target population Budget & funding plan (showing other committed/expected sources) Evidence of a track record of impact in Cranberry Township Plan for recognizing the Cranberry Foundation’s support General operating expenses or salaries unrelated to the project Partisan political activities, lobbying, or religious proselytizing Completed projects, debt reduction, or retroactive expenses Fundraising events, endowments, vehicles, real estate, alcohol, prizes/gift cards Individuals, including scholarships or student projects Reporting & Accountability Final report due within 12 months of disbursement or 30 days after project completion (whichever is sooner).

Reports must include how funds were used, outcomes achieved, and Cranberry Foundation recognition materials (photos, press, social posts). Late or missing reports may affect future eligibility. Unused funds must be returned; project scope changes require prior approval.

Applications will be reviewed by the Cranberry Foundation’s Community Impact Committee, with final approval by the Foundation Board. Priority is given to proposals that: Demonstrate measurable resident impact Align with the Foundation pillars of growth, vitality, and sustainability Show strong partnerships and financial feasibility The Cranberry Foundation reserves the right to refuse or deny any application for grant funding.

amy. smith@cranberrytownship. org "It's not how much we give, but how much love we put into giving."