Community Equity Grants Open Nov. 1 to Support Local Nonprofits

Applications for the 2026 Community Equity Grants open Nov. 1, offering local nonprofits funding to address inequities and strengthen communities across South Central Pennsylvania.

"When more people have access to opportunities, our entire community benefits," said Stefani McAuliffe, vice president of community impact at The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC). "These grants help local nonprofits expand their impact and make a lasting difference for the people they serve."

Grants generally range from $5,000 to $10,000, with applications due Feb. 1, 2027.

Investing in Local Communities

In 2025, TFEC awarded $48,971 through the Community Equity Fund to support 15 projects across 13 organizations.

Among the recipients was Lebanon Family Health Services, which received $4,471 to improve access to services for individuals whose primary language is not English. YWCA Carlisle and Cumberland County received $1,000 to support the Central PA HBCU and Workforce Fair.

"Last year, TFEC awarded more than 1,700 grants totaling over $8.7 million," McAuliffe said. "The Community Equity Fund is one part of that broader investment, helping us direct charitable resources toward needs in the communities we serve."

A New Opportunity for Local Nonprofits

The Community Equity Fund is open to nonprofit organizations serving Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Lebanon or Perry counties, as well as the Dillsburg area of northern York County.

Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations or work with an eligible nonprofit fiscal sponsor.

Projects must take place during the grant period of July 1, 2027, through June 30, 2028.
TFEC encourages community members and business leaders to share this opportunity with local nonprofits whose work aligns with the fund's purpose.

Make a Difference Through Local Giving

Individuals and businesses can help strengthen communities by investing in the work of local nonprofits. A gift to the Community Equity Fund helps support future grants that address inequities and expand opportunities across the region.

Those interested in supporting other community needs can explore TFEC's charitable funds and contribute to a cause that matters to them.

For individuals or businesses looking to make a lasting impact, TFEC can also help establish a charitable fund that reflects their giving goals.

Contact the Philanthropy Team at philanthropy@tfec.org to explore the possibilities.

Learn More About Community Equity Grants

To help nonprofits prepare, TFEC will host a free, 30-minute virtual information session on Wednesday, Nov. 11, from noon to 12:30 p.m.

McAuliffe and TFEC's Grants Team will explain the funding opportunity and answer questions about the application process.

Register for the free Community Equity Grants webinar.

Organizations interested in applying can review the funding priorities and eligibility requirements at www.tfec.org/grants/tfec-community-equity-grants/.

For questions, contact TFEC's Community Impact Team at grants@tfec.org or 717-236-5040.