The Mat-Su Trails and Parks Foundation provides around $350,000 in annual grant funding for trails, parks, and recreation projects throughout the Mat-Su Borough. The Foundation considers grant applications for financial assistance on a competitive basis each quarter as funding availability allows. Before submitting an application, potential partners are encouraged to learn more about our priorities by reviewing the Foundation’s Grant Guidelines or contact staff directly to discuss their project.
To continue to provide the most benefit to communities building and maintaining world-class parks and trails across the Borough, our grant reviewing committee made guideline revision recommendations to the Board of Directors last week.
We are excited to announce the following changes to our grantmaking program:
- Requests $20,000 and less will require no cash match. Applications that show in-kind match (volunteer time, supplies, travel, etc.) will score more favorably but in-kind, and cash match will not be required.
- Requests between $20,001 and $50,000 will be 3:1 MSTPF cash to applicant cash/in-kind. Ex: a $40,000 total project budget would mean the applicant provides $10,000 cash and in-kind match. Half of the match must be cash totaling at least $5,000.
- Requests over $50,000 will be a 2:1 MSTPF cash to applicant cash/in-kind. The requirement that cash makes up at least half the match still holds.
- To pursue annual strategic directions, MSTPF staff may seek applicants whose work aligns explicitly with our current grantmaking strategy and invite them to apply. Match requirements may be waived pending approval by the MSTPF Board of Directors for these exceptional circumstances. This approach will be by invite only.
We hope that these changes to the guidelines will help us find more great organizations to partner with and get funding to the people and groups making a significant impact in our community.
To be considered for the next round of application review, applications need to be submitted through our grants portal no later than March 28th. But, if you miss this round, there will be opportunities in July and October for your project to be reviewed.
If you have any questions or want to learn more about our grant opportunities, please contact staff by email at info@matsutrails.org or phone at 907-746-8757
EASIEST WAY TO DONATE For Alaskans
While applying for their PFD online, Alaskans can choose to Pick.Click.Give. in increments of $25. All donations are tax deductible and donors will receive tax documentation from the State once their donations have been processed. Permanent Fund Dividend applications are available from January 1 to March 31, though Alaskans may choose to add or adjust their pledges online through August 31.
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Grants and Event Sponsorships
The Mat-Su Trails & Parks Foundation partners with organizations and local governments on projects and efforts that expand and enhance the valley’s network of trails and parks. Find out how we can help fund your next trail, park, or recreation project!
