Community Connections Grant Applications now open!

LEWIS COUNTY - Naturally Lewis is excited to open applications to its Community Connections Fund, of the Community Economic Development Program. The aim of the Community Connections Fund is to strengthen ties within the community, to develop relationships, and to spur economic growth and development through the creation and enhancement of public gathering places and services. The Community Connections Fund is seeking programs or projects that create a “good sense of place” and contribute to Lewis County placemaking efforts.

“We're excited about the potential for these funds to drive meaningful change in our communities," said Jenna Lauraine, Programs & Partnerships Director at Naturally Lewis. "We look forward to seeing proposals that creatively enhance public spaces and promote stronger community connections, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being of Lewis County."

Key details about the Community Connections Fund:

  Eligibility: 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations, municipalities and schools

  Focus: The program or project must strengthen ties within the community, develop relationships, and spur economic growth and development through the creation and enhancement of public gathering places.

  Grant Awards: Two $30,000 Awards or one $60,000 Award

  Applications Open: April 1, 2024

  Application Deadline: June 13, 2024

The Community Connections Fund is dedicated to placemaking efforts, aiming to enhance public gathering places and services that contribute to a "good sense of place" in Lewis County. Eligible projects must align with at least one of the following placemaking facets: access & linkages, comfort & image, users & activities, and sociability. Applicants are required to demonstrate sustainability given this is a one-time grant; funding cannot be rewarded for retroactive projects or projects that have already started. Two grants of $30,000 each or one grant of $60,000 will be awarded to eligible applicants.

The application period is now open, and eligible applicants are invited to submit their entries before the deadline on June 13, 2024. For more information about the Naturally Lewis Community Connections Fund, including eligibility criteria and application guidelines, please visit  naturallylewis.com/growing-opportunities/community-connections-fund.

ABOUT THE COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM:

The Lewis County Development Corporation created the Community Economic Development Program in 2022 with funds made available through a Host Community Agreement between Number 3 Wind and the Lewis County Development Corporation. The Lewis County Community Economic Development Program is the mechanism for investing in initiatives that build a great quality of life, sustainable employment and collaborative plans that make Lewis County a community to thrive at work and at home.