Fall Community Needs Grants open with $20,000 request cap
DeKalb County nonprofits and public-sector organizations have until September 1 to apply for capital assets, equipment, renovations, and eligible project services.
In one sentence
The Community Foundation's fall grant cycle is open through 11:59 p.m. September 1, with eligible organizations able to request up to $20,000 for defined capital and project needs.
The DeKalb County Community Foundation has opened its fall 2026 Community Needs Grant cycle for nonprofit and public-sector organizations serving DeKalb County.
Applications are due online by 11:59 p.m. September 1. The 2026 guidelines set a $20,000 maximum request and say fall decisions will be announced by November 1.
Who may apply
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and public-sector organizations, with preference given to 501(c)(3) groups that directly assist or benefit DeKalb County residents.
The guidelines require an eligible organization to have a valid EIN and, when applicable, current IRS filings. Organizations located outside the County must still demonstrate local leadership, support, management, or accountability for the work.
What the grants support
The program supports capital assets or equipment tied to projects, renovations of existing facilities, and eligible services across DeKalb County.
Priority areas include arts and culture, community development, education, environment and animal welfare, and health and human services. Grants are generally one-time awards for projects completed within one year.
What belongs elsewhere
Facility construction or expansion requests now belong in the Foundation's Build the Future Grant program.
The Community Needs guidelines generally exclude routine operating costs, payroll and overhead, event sponsorships, advertising, consumable items, debt reduction, political activity, and direct grants to individuals.
How to apply
Applications must be completed through the Foundation's online system. The guidelines say hard-copy applications are not accepted.
Foundation staff offers year-round help with eligibility and project questions. Applicants should read the full 2026 guidelines before submitting because recent grants and prior reporting can affect eligibility.
What is still unclear
What the record did not yet answer
- Opening the application does not guarantee an award or the full amount requested.
- Recent Community Needs or Build the Future funding can affect an organization's eligibility.
- Public-sector applicants have additional building, department, or institutional requirements in the guidelines.
Later developments will appear in new coverage, preserving what this story established on its publication date.
Source trail
Check the record
- 01Community Needs Grants (opens in a new tab)
DeKalb County Community Foundation · Checked July 29, 2026 · Official grant page
- 02Community Needs Grant Guidelines 2026 (opens in a new tab)
DeKalb County Community Foundation · 2026 · Official grant guidelines