Are collaborative proposals preferred?
No, collaborative proposals are not preferred. However, the County recognizes that a greater collective impact may occur with collaboration.
How many proposals does the County anticipate awarding?
The number of awards will be determined based on the strength of the proposals, the amount being requested, the recommendations of the review panel, and the Board's approval.
What is the desired timeline?
The recommended timeline is the 2026 calendar year. Programming should begin by July 1.
Can a person or organization that is not a 501(c)(3) submit a proposal?
The County will only award and grant funding to a 501(c)(3). Individuals and other organizations could partner with a 501(c)(3) in a proposal, although they would not be paid by the County from this grant funding.
What is allowed for capital expenses?
Any capital expenses should be minimal, clearly necessary, and closely tied to proposed programming.
Can proposals request support for current programming?
While the County values ongoing programming, the grant opportunity focuses on pilots and expansions that add something novel to the community.
Do proposals have to address all issues?
No, proposals may focus on one area (place-making, community building, programming, economic development, housing).
Are there specific age ranges that should be the focus for funding?
Proposed programming can support any age range. A strong proposal will address how services targeted to one age group have community-wide benefit.
What is meant by "place-making"?
Place-making involves highlighting and enhancing the physical, social, and cultural assets present in the neighborhood to strengthen, celebrate, and draw people into the community.
How are proposals evaluated?
Proposals will be scored by the review panel based on the rubric provided at the end of the application. The rubric explains what a good score would look like for each question.
Will ongoing funding be available?
This grant opportunity is supported by one-time funding. There are currently not plans for second cycle.
Questions may be addressed to Elizabeth Matlock at ematlock@arlingtonva.us.