Ames Community Grant Program
Criteria and Guidelines

What is the Ames Community Grant Program?

The Ames Community Grant Program was established by the Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau (ACVB) to support a wide range of local projects funded by 5% of the hotel/motel tax income of the ACVB. Awards are granted annually on the basis of merit as determined by the Grant Committee and administered by the ACVB.

Statement of Purpose

As the ACVB works to generate overnight visitors to the Ames Community, the grant program is available to provide funding to assist cultural, educational, arts, environmental, athletic and other local organizations to develop projects, special events and activities that have the potential to attract visitors to the Ames area or to enhance a visitor’s experience while improving the quality of life for Ames residents.

Who May Apply

The program accepts applications from public or private organizations with the demonstrated ability to complete proposed project(s).  Eligibility of sponsors and projects is designed to encourage wide participation and innovative proposals.

Application

The Ames Community Grant Committee will meet during the fourth quarter of each year to review applications for the upcoming year. The Grant Committee will review the submitted application forms and make their recommendation to the ACVB Board of Directors for final approval. Please be prepared to provide additional information during the screening process upon request.

Download Grant Requirements Download Application Download Grant Program Brochure

• Your application must be submitted by October 10, 2008.
• Applications should include a full description of the organization making the request, the proposed project including dates, cost estimates and how the funds will be utilized.
• Applicants will be notified by December 31, 2008, if they will be receiving grant funds for their project. Grant funds will be available for distribution by the ACVB beginning January 2009.

Definitions

Event: Activity with potential to attract visitors to the Ames area.
Project: A specific item within the event budget for which the Ames Community Grant is requested. (see Fundable items listed below under Requirements)

Criteria

To be considered for funding, projects must meet the minimum grant requirements. The review committee will rate applications based on the following:

• Diversity and uniqueness of the event, program or project
• Ability to create a positive perception of Ames to visitors as well as community members
• Demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment for the success of the project
• Time of year during which the project takes place
• Appeal of the project to a broad-based audience

Requirements

• Project is open to the public
• Potential Grant recipients are required to complete a Grant Application.
• Grant monies should not exceed more than 50% of total project costs.
• Projects should contain the ACVB logo complete with telephone number and Web site address along with “Supported by the Ames Community Grant Program” when possible.
• Grant recipients are required to become a member of the ACVB so that the program can be marketed through the ACVB Web site and additional materials.  The membership fee will be added to the grant if the organization is not a current member.  (Fee is $125.00)
• Grant awards are intended to be set up on a reimbursement basis. However, applicants may request up to 50% of the total award in advance of the project.
• A Final Report Form must be completed within two months after the completion of the project.
• A copy of original receipts is required.

Projects that will be considered for funding could include, but are not limited to the following:

• Fundable:
  • Attraction/Event advertising, marketing or promotion
  • Printing and design expenses
  • Web site design and development
  • Travel Shows – include booth space and registration fees
  • Seed funds for start-up events or projects, registration, bid or rights fees
  • Enhancements or new activities designed to grow current events or activities
  • Travel expenses related to development or marketing opportunities
  • Hospitality services provided to events
  • Purchase and rental of equipment needed for event operations
• Non-fundable:
  • Annual operating expenditures
  • Permanent Infrastructure, capital building projects
  • Professional legal, medical, engineering, accounting, auditing services
  • General fund raising or donations
  • Salaries, wages or administrative fees
  • Debt retirement or associated fees
  • Anything contrary to federal or state law or local ordinance

For additional information or comments please contact Allyson Walter