SHELBY – The Shelby Foundation is now accepting applications for its second grant cycle of 2025, with a deadline of Friday, Sept. 19.
This opportunity is open to local nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions that serve Shelby residents.
“Our board approves grants twice a year, in the spring and fall,” said Executive Director Carrie Kemerer. “This is really the heart of the Foundation — it’s how we help local nonprofits that provide direct, on-the-ground support to Shelby residents.
“Cycle 2 is the last opportunity this year for our nonprofit partners to receive financial help.”
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, applicants must:
● Be a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, government entity, or educational institution.
● Serve Shelby residents, with consideration given to how many are impacted.
The Foundation seeks to support initiatives that:
● Enhance Community Services: Programs that improve the well-being of Shelby residents.
● Promote Education: Educational projects that offer valuable learning opportunities.
● Foster Community Development: Efforts that contribute to the overall growth and improvement of the Shelby area.
Kemerer emphasized that grants are designed to support programs and projects, not operating expenses.
“We do not help with sustainability costs like electricity or salaries. Our grants are about programming, projects, and out-of-the-box help that improves lives,” she said.
Encouraging Applications
Nonprofits that applied in the spring and weren’t selected are encouraged to apply again.
“Absolutely reapply,” Kemerer said. “And if your application wasn’t approved, I encourage you to have a conversation with me. My job as director is to be an advocate for your organization — I do not vote, but I can help represent you to the board.”
The Foundation’s Distribution Committee carefully reviews each application, considering both community needs and the frequency of past applications from organizations.
- Download Application: Access the fillable PDF form at theshelbyfoundation.org/grants
- Complete Form: Answer all questions thoroughly, including impact and reach within Shelby.
- Submit: Email completed applications to info@theshelbyfoundation.org or mail to The Shelby Foundation office by Sept. 19, 2025.
Funding recommendations will be presented at the Foundation’s Board of Directors meeting in October, with applicants notified soon thereafter.
About the Shelby Foundation
The Shelby Foundation is a nonprofit community foundation that connects generosity with community need.
Through grants, scholarships, and strategic investments, the Foundation works to improve the quality of life for Shelby residents today and for generations to come.