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Grants and Scholarships

We know that Community Benefit Organizations (CBOs)  have unparalleled knowledge and experience working with Lancaster residents and addressing the needs of our community. Your work inspires us and brings essential support to residents across our community. Rooted in our organizational philosophy and values, the Community Foundation remains committed to cultivating a culture of equitable and inclusive opportunities in Lancaster County and we hope to partner with you.

2025-2026 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS ARE NOW OPEN

GRANT APPLICATIONS WILL OPEN ON MARCH 12

Eligibility Requirements & Resources

Before starting an application for any grant, review our eligibility requirements for funding. You can also access resources to help you meet our requirements.

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Grant Portal

Apply to new grants and awards or manage any of your current grant programs.

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Info Sessions and Office Hours

Sign up for upcoming grant information sessions and view hour Zoom office hours.

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Scholarships

Our scholarships connect generous donors with enterprising students. We offer both general scholarships and school-specific scholarships.

Scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 school year are now open!

General Scholarships

Scholarship applications for the 2025-2026 school year are now open!
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School-Specific Scholarships

Click for details on which schools offer scholarship opportunities.
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Community Resources and Scholarships

In addition to scholarships available from the Community Foundation, we’ve compiled a list of resources and other scholarships focused on Lancaster County students. Explore these local programs to see if any are right for you. 
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GRANT OPPORTUNITIES:

Cycle 1 Grants

Due Dates

Application drafts for staff feedback: April 18

Letter of Intent (LOI): May 9

Final application: May 16

Passion Grants

Thanks to visionary donors over time, Passion Grants support a broad range of impact areas including human services, the environment, human rights & inclusion, the arts, early child development, and projects in Eastern Lancaster County.
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John J. Snyder Fund

The John J. Snyder, Jr. Fund for Historic Preservation is a distinct fund of our Passion Grants. It provides for the restoration, maintenance, and repair of historical structures in Lancaster and Cumberland counties.
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Cycle 2 Grants

Due Dates

Application drafts for staff feedback: June 20

Letter of Intent (LOI): July 11

Final application: July 18

Baldwin Leadership Program

This program supports the personal leadership development of individuals in Lancaster County.
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Partnership Grants

Partnership grants each have their own application process and deadlines.

 

The Clean Water Fund

This fund will enable local partners to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of those projects using technology, cultural sensitivity, and science-based practices that will get our streams to clean and clear in a generation. 
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Lancaster Equity Grant

The Equity Council will award five grants of up to $5,000 to deserving community members working to create meaningful change. This is your chance to unleash your creativity and showcase your unique perspective. With this grant, you’ll have the support and resources to realize your vision and create a more just and inclusive Lancaster County.  
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LGBTQ+ Giving Circle

The LGBTQ+ Giving Circle will provide grants to CBOs working to raise visibility and address the needs of LGBTQ+ communities within Lancaster County. Priority will be given to proposals that center the most vulnerable LGBTQ+ communities and provide support for those most affected by systemic injustices such as racism, homophobia, transphobia, and misogyny.
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2024 ROC Giving Circle Grant

The Reimagining Our Community (ROC) Giving Circle is a way for the community to support BIPOC small business through collective philanthropy. The Giving Circle is managed by the ROC Cohort. Its purpose is to facilitate funding to initiatives that support BIPOC-owned small businesses. Funds will be awarded to existing 501c3 non-profit organizations that have or wish to develop programming, services, or products to support the development and sustainability of BIPOC-owned small businesses in Lancaster County. The goal is that these funds will bridge gaps within existing resources to ensure that services are equitable in access, participation, and implementation
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Aastha Horizons Grant

The Aastha Horizons Grant seeks to support organizations dedicated to enhancing Lancaster County. Applications from initiatives addressing a wide range of topics, including but not limited to education, healthcare, social services, environmental conservation, arts and culture, community development, and youth empowerment are welcome. This grant will provide resources to projects that demonstrate a commitment to making a positive impact in our community, whether by addressing immediate needs or fostering long-term sustainability
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More ways to expand impact

The Community Foundation is committed to supporting our community benefit sector through more than just grant dollars. We’re proud to provide opportunities for continued development and long-term sustainability.

CBO Capacity Building Resources

Workshops, resources, and roundtables that will equip your organization for success!

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CBO Sustainability

Build a sustainable source of income for your organization forever.

Learn more

Share Your Story

Has your organization received a grant from the Community Foundation? We encourage you to share your story of impact with your network and the media! Check out these resources, logos, and more. 

Media Resources