Thrive West Central launches effort to help entities secure federal grants
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Terre Haute-based Thrive West Central has launched an initiative to help local governments and nonprofit organizations apply for government grants and other sources of funding.
Assistance includes helping organizations register with the federal government to receive federal grants, providing access to a searchable directory of foundations, and offering guidance through the grant writing and application process.
“This program is about removing the barriers that too often stand between communities and the funding they need,” Kristi Whitacre, director of community and economic development at Thrive West Central, said in a May 12 news release. “We’re equipping leaders with the tools and knowledge to confidently pursue funding that supports lasting community improvements.”
A key aspect of the assistance, the community development organization said, is helping organizations with SAM.gov, the federal government’s registration website to receive federal grants.
Thrive West Central said many organizations face challenges with the SAM.gov registration process because of leadership turnover, misplaced records or a lack of familiarity with the process. Without an active registration, organizations are ineligible for federal funding.
Thrive West Central also is offering access to a comprehensive grant database and assistance from staff in helping organization’s identify grant opportunities that align with their goals.
Staff are available to answer eligibility questions, guide organizations through the application process and assist with grant administration, which can be especially helpful for smaller communities that lack personnel with such experience, the news release said.
“Increasing grant readiness in our communities not only helps bring funding home — it builds long-term capacity,” Ryan Keller, Thrive’s CEO, said in the release. “By investing in these services now, we’re laying the foundation for stronger, more resilient counties for years to come.”
For more information about the program or to schedule a grant services appointment, contact Whitacre at kwhitacre@thrivewestcentral.com.