Nonprofit organizations in Cortland County will soon be eligible to apply for Community Grants from the Central New York Community Foundation for the first time, with the inaugural application cycle opening July 6, 2026.
To prepare for the application process, prospective applicants must complete two required steps in advance of the July opening date.
First, organizations must register in the Community Foundation’s online grants portal in order to access and submit an application. Registration can be completed at cnycf.org/grantsportal.
Second, applicants are required to meet with Community Foundation staff to discuss their proposal before beginning the application. These conversations help ensure alignment with program priorities and provide guidance throughout the process. Meetings must be scheduled in advance and cannot take place within 10 business days of the application deadline. Appointments can be requested by submitting a form at cnycf.org/grantsmeeting.
The upcoming grant round will provide funding for projects that address community needs. Applications will be accepted from July 6 through August 28, 2026, with funding decisions announced between November 18 and December 16.
This milestone marks the next step in the Community Foundation’s expansion of its Community Grants program into Cortland County, made possible by a $12 million bequest from the estate of Nicholas and Agnes Renzi. Combined with their lifetime giving, the Renzis’ generosity established more than $14 million in endowed funds to support Cortland County residents for generations.
“This is an important moment for Cortland County nonprofits,” said Melanie Littlejohn, president & CEO of the Central New York Community Foundation. “Through the Renzis’ generosity, organizations now have access to resources that can help them expand their work, strengthen services and respond to the needs they see every day in their community.”
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, publicly supported entities such as schools and municipalities and organizations using a qualified fiscal sponsor. Organizations must serve residents of Cortland County.
The Community Foundation supports a range of project types, including capital improvements and program expansion. While each grant round highlights priority focus areas, organizations may apply for any funding that aligns with their mission and community impact goals.
Beginning in fall 2026, approximately $500,000 in funding will be available annually to support Cortland County nonprofits through the Community Grants program.
Organizations interested in applying are encouraged to begin preparing now by registering in the grants portal and scheduling a pre-application meeting with staff.
