Doing good in Richmond? These new grants could help
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Illustration: Aïda Amer/Axios
Richmonders making a difference in their communities can apply this week for the first RVA Weaver Awards.
Why it matters: The winners will have their work recognized and funded through micro-grants, usually $2,500 to $5,000 apiece.
State of play: Richmond was one of 25 areas nationwide selected to take part in the annual awards as part of the Aspen Institute's Weave: The Social Fabric Project.
- The project supports individuals and small nonprofits that are "weaving a strong, local social fabric" through their work.
- This year, Richmond nonprofit PlanRVA was selected to facilitate the program here, and it plans to award at least 20 micro-grants a year over the next four years.
How it works: Anyone 18 or older and doing good work in RVA is eligible to apply, as are small nonprofits with annual budgets under $250,000.
- Applicants or nominees must live or work in the Richmond region, which includes Chesterfield, Hanover and Henrico, plus Ashland, Charles City, Goochland, New Kent and Powhatan.
- They also must have a project that helps connect neighbors.
- The work must address a shared community need.
- Applications can be submitted in writing or via video and in English or Spanish.
The process is designed to be "low lift" for community members who may not have the time or resources to apply for traditional grants.
What they're saying: "It truly is an amazing opportunity to get funds directly to folks making a difference, without all of the hoops folks sometimes feel they have to go through to apply for funding support," PlanRVA's Kristin Hott tells Axios.
What's next: Applications are open through Aug. 23. Weavers will be selected in October and awarded at a November ceremony.
- To learn more, attend Plan RVA's next info session at noon Friday or visit its website.