SarasotaManatee SG Homecoming Grant Application 2021

Overview

The SarasotaManatee SG (SarasotaManatee Student Government) Homecoming Grant Program was created to help local nonprofit organizations, schools, and community groups bring memorable, inclusive, and culturally enriching events to the region. The 2021 grant cycle opened in early February and closed on May31,2021. A total of $150,000 was allocated across up to 15 projects, with each award ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.

This page outlines the purpose of the grant, eligibility criteria, the application process, key dates, and tips for preparing a competitive proposal.

Purpose of the Homecoming Grant

Homecoming is a longstanding tradition that celebrates community unity, local heritage, and the return of alumni and visitors to the SarasotaManatee area. The grant seeks to:

• Encourage collaboration between schools, nonprofits, and civic groups.
• Support events that highlight the arts, cultural heritage, and environmental stewardship.
• Provide financial assistance for programs that might otherwise be financially out of reach.
• Foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents of all ages.

Eligibility

Applicants must meet all of the following:

• Be a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit, public school, charter school, or a partnership that includes at least one of those entities.
• Operate primarily within Sarasota County, Manatee County, or both.
• Propose an event that takes place between September12021 and March312022.
• Demonstrate how the event will serve a broad audience (minimum 200 participants).
• Commit to providing a postevent report within 30 days of completion.

Individuals, forprofit businesses, and political organizations are not eligible.

Funding Priorities

While all applications are reviewed, the following categories receive special consideration:

1. Arts & Culture: Local music performances, theatre productions, visualarts exhibitions, and cultural festivals.
2. Education & Youth Development: Workshops, STEM fairs, literacy programs, and youth leadership activities.
3. Environmental & Sustainability: Beach cleanups, mangrove restoration projects, and ecoeducation events.
4. Community Inclusion: Programs that specifically engage underserved populations, seniors, or individuals with disabilities.

Application Process

1. Register on the SG Homecoming Portal

Visit the SG Homecoming 2021 registration page and create an account. You will receive a unique applicant ID that must be included in all correspondence.

2. Download the Application Kit

The kit includes:

• Application Form (PDF)
• Budget Worksheet (Excel)
• Event Planning Checklist
• Guidelines for Supporting Documentation

3. Complete the Application

Key sections to complete:

• Project Summary (250words max): Concise description of the event, target audience, and expected outcomes.
• Detailed Budget: Itemized costs, any inkind contributions, and a justification for each lineitem.
• Community Impact Statement: How the event aligns with the funding priorities and benefits the region.
• Evaluation Plan: Methods for measuring success (e.g., surveys, attendance logs, media coverage).

4. Attach Supporting Documents

Include:

• IRS determination letter (for nonprofits)
• Proof of school accreditation (for schools)
• Letters of support from at least two partner organizations
• Sample marketing materials or previous event photos (if applicable)

5. Submit Online

Upload all files to the portal no later than 11:59PM EDT on May31,2021. Submissions received after the deadline will not be considered.

6. Review & Notification

The review committee, composed of SG alumni, local arts leaders, and municipal representatives, evaluates applications using a rubric that balances feasibility, community impact, and alignment with priorities. Notification letters are emailed by July15,2021.

Key Dates

Tips for a Strong Application

• Start early: Give yourself ample time to gather letters of support and prepare a realistic budget.
• Be specific: Use concrete numbers (e.g., expect 350 attendees) rather than vague estimates.
• Show partnership: Demonstrating collaboration with at least two local entities greatly strengthens your proposal.
• Highlight sustainability: Explain how the event will have lasting benefits beyond the grant period.
• Proofread: Typos or missing fields can lead to disqualification.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I apply for more than one grant?
A: An organization may submit only one application per grant cycle. If you wish to propose multiple projects, combine them into a single, cohesive plan.

Q: What if my event exceeds the requested budget?
A: Grants are intended to supplement, not fully fund, an event. You must demonstrate additional sources of revenue (ticket sales, sponsorships, etc.).

Q: Are travel expenses covered?
A: Travel costs may be included only if the travel is essential to the event and directly benefits SarasotaManatee residents (e.g., bringing a guest artist).

Q: How will the grant be disbursed?
A: Funds are released in two installments: 50% upon signing the grant agreement, and the remaining 50% after submission of the final report and proof of expenditures.