Grants Up for Grabs: Community Foundation Funding Available for Projects that Shape Excelsior Springs
The Community Foundation of Excelsior Springs is currently accepting applications for the fiscal year 2026 Community Project Grants and Festival/Event Grants. These programs provide partial funding to Excelsior Springs–based nonprofit organizations for projects and events that align with the city’s goals. For those with an idea ready to move from the “what if” stage to an action plan, the clock is officially ticking.
The application deadline is September 10, 2025. Awards will be announced September 24, 2025, and funded projects must take place between October 1, 2025, and September 30, 2026.
Community Project Grants
Community Project Grants are available for nonprofit-led initiatives that support one or more of the city’s strategic goals:
- Downtown development
- Economic development
- Growth and land use
- Housing and neighborhood revitalization
- Human services
- Recreation and community wellness
- Tourism
Eligible projects may include new or special programs, community workshops or seminars, seed money for new initiatives, and specialized equipment. Projects must be completed within the fiscal year funding is approved. Ongoing operating expenses, staff wages, travel, projects outside Excelsior Springs, and for-profit organizations are not eligible.
Festival/Event Grants
Festival/Event Grants are for not-for-profit organizations hosting events with community or tourism value. These can include:
- Community events: Activities that benefit residents, build community pride, and encourage interaction.
- Emerging economic and tourism events: Events with potential to generate economic growth and attract tourism.
- Signature economic and tourism events: Major tourism events with at least three years of demonstrated growth and sustainability.
Projects must request only partial funding, with the remainder covered through partnerships or fundraising.
Funding and Reporting Requirements
Grants are generally paid after the project or event is completed and receipts are submitted. Up to 25 percent of the award may be provided in advance if needed. A Post Project/Event Form and proof of expenses must be submitted within 30 days of completion. Organizations that have not submitted required reports from previous grants are ineligible. Groups receiving funding for three consecutive years must wait one year before reapplying.
Past Funded Projects – FY2025
- Excelsior Citizen – Grant was given for the purpose of creating a video series showing off local businesses and telling the stories of the people who run them.
- Chamber of Commerce – given to create a community guide, improved the farmers market setup, and held an online job fair.
- Downtown Excelsior Partnership – Paid for online ads to bring visitors downtown, bought new banners and flower planters, and made better promotional materials.
- SAFE Program – Put on programs to help families get the support they need.
- Friends of the Wells – Publishing a souvenir book about the history of Excelsior Springs.
How to Apply
Application forms, guidelines, and eligibility requirements are available at:
Completed applications should be submitted to:
Community Foundation of Excelsior Springs
Attn: Molly McGovern
201 E. Broadway
Excelsior Springs, MO 64024
Questions may be directed to Susan Conyers at (816) 630-0752 or sconyers@excelsiorsprings.gov. City staff are available to review applications prior to submission.
For organizations with a well-formed idea and a plan to deliver it, the FY2026 grants offer a chance to create measurable change in the community, making a mark on Excelsior Springs’ shared goals of improvement and innovation.
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