Grant making at the LCCF is a competitive and thoughtful process. We undertake a careful assessment of community needs, research existing programs, and identify gaps in services in order to make grants that will provide the most effective support for the Lake County community. We want LCCF grants to provide support for Leadville/Lake County nonprofits’ greatest needs. We also hope that LCCF grants will highlight community buy-in for valuable local endeavors, including efforts that may be in the launch phase and working to get off the ground. The LCCF focuses on funding projects that fit within the following areas:
- Arts and Culture
- Community and Economic Development
- Education and Training
- Environmental Initiatives
- Health and Wellness
The LCCF awards grants to local nonprofit organizations and partnerships that meet our mission statement objectives and other selection criteria; programs that increase the capabilities and capacity of other local nonprofit organizations; and infrastructure projects focused on developing a sustainable economy or programs aimed at improving the quality of life for people in the community. Currently, we do not offer grants to individuals or multi-year funding.
Grant-making process
The LCCF offers at least one grant-making cycle each year. Notice of grant opportunities may be provided through local newspapers and social media. Applications are generally available at least four weeks prior to the grant deadline and can be located on the LCCF website under Grants. You can also check our eligibility criteria to ensure your organization’s funding request fits with our mission and funding areas, or email director@lakecountycommunityfund.org with any questions prior to submitting a proposal. Grant applications are not automatically mailed to organizations that are past funding recipients. It is the responsibility of the organization to request the current grant application documents. Late and/or incomplete applications will not be accepted or considered for funding support.
The amount of funding available will be announced prior to the opening of each grant cycle and will vary from year to year. The LCCF will strive to direct grants to programs, projects and entities that most clearly address key community needs. There may be years in which the LCCF prioritizes one funding area, or a narrower focus within a funding area, to maximize our impact with the grant funds available. This will always be determined by the community’s needs.
How we decide
Submitted proposals will be reviewed by the Executive Director to ensure they are complete. Applicants will be contacted about incomplete proposals or supporting documents. Complete proposals will be reviewed and scored by the Board of Directors based on our established criteria. Applicants will be notified of their funding status no later than one week following the Board of Directors’ review meeting.
