Mini Grants

Apply today! Turn your idea into action.

High school ball game | Galena

Bring Your Community Project to Life.

Our Stone County Mini Grants provide funding to support local ideas that bring people together and strengthen our community.

Grants ranging from $500 to $2,500 are available for events, activities, and projects that advance affordable housing, improve water quality and conservation, and create or enhance community gathering spaces.

Whether you're hosting a neighborhood conversation, leading a workshop, or activating a shared space, this program is designed to help turn your ideas into meaningful action across Stone County.

Applications for the Summer 2026 grant round are due by July 17. Selected grantees will be notified by July 31, with funding distributed shortly after acceptance. The application process is designed to be simple and accessible—just submit a short proposal outlining your idea, timeline, and budget.

Applicants may include nonprofits, community groups, local agencies, or individuals with a strong idea to benefit Stone County.

GRANT APPLICATION
GRANT GUIDELINES
GRANT REPORTING

Direct any questions about the guidelines or application to Morgan Lommele, Vice President of Projects, at morgan@citythread.org

Please submit your application via email as a .pdf or .docx file. Include the name of your organization and Mini Grant in the subject line (example: Awesome Community Organization Mini Grant Application).

  • We welcome a range of project proposals, including but not limited to:

    • Hosting neighborhood conversations or community events to gather ideas and build support around housing, water, or local gathering spaces

    • Organizing workshops or information sessions to explore local needs, share knowledge, and identify solutions

    • Leading outreach efforts that connect with residents who may not typically attend meetings

    • Creating storytelling, photo, or video projects that highlight local experiences, challenges, and opportunities

    • Facilitating community walks, tours, or outdoor activities that explore neighborhoods, natural resources, or existing gathering spaces

    • Launching small campaigns or ambassador programs to share information and collect input from across the community

    • Partnering with local organizations to host events that bring people together while gathering feedback and ideas

    • Activating parks, vacant lots, or other shared spaces through pop-up events, clean-ups, or temporary improvements

    • Engaging youth and families through educational activities, public  art, or hands-on events connected to community prioritiesOur work is supported by organizations that help coordinate the effort and provide resources, including Neighbor, Stone County Health Department, and City Thread, along with many local institutions, nonprofits, businesses, and community members

  • The following organizations, groups, and individuals are eligible to apply for funding through this grant program:

    • Non-profit organizations providing services in Stone County or to Stone County residents

    • City or county government agencies that operate in Stone County or provide services to Stone County residents 

    • Community groups, neighborhood associations, or other community-led organizations in Stone County (do not have to have non-profit status) or that provide services to Stone County residents

    • Individuals or small groups that have a great idea for their community

  • The timeline below outlines key dates and milestones for the Spring 2026 grant round:

    • May 15, 2026: Applications available

    • Jul 17, 2026: Applications due

    • Jul 31, 2026: Grant awardees notified

    • Aug 7, 2026: Grantee signs and returns award acceptance form

    • Sep 30, 2026: Activities/Project complete

    • Oct 14, 2026: Final reports due