Deadline: 08-Feb-2026
Programme Overview
The Grow Prosper Belong Fund is a community grant programme designed to support not-for-profit organizations in Lincoln. It provides funding for clearly defined, time-limited events, projects, and programs that directly benefit residents and strengthen local community life within the town’s geographic boundaries.
Purpose and Key Objectives
The fund aims to strengthen community development by supporting initiatives that are well-managed, inclusive, and sustainable. Funding is intended to complement other financial resources and encourage efficient use of public funds rather than act as the sole source of support.
Key objectives include:
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Supporting not-for-profit community organizations in Lincoln
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Enabling delivery of time-bound initiatives with clear start and end dates
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Promoting arts, culture, environment, recreation, health, and social well-being
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Advancing equity, inclusion, and accessibility in service delivery
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Encouraging sustainability, volunteer development, and sound financial management
Eligible Activities and Focus Areas
Funding may be requested for initiatives that support, sustain, promote, inform, educate, celebrate, preserve, or provide access to community activities. Priority focus areas include:
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Arts and culture programmes and events
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Environmental initiatives and awareness activities
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Social development and heritage projects
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Recreation and health-related programs
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Equity and inclusion initiatives that improve access and participation
All funded activities must be delivered within Lincoln and demonstrate a clear benefit to local residents.
Funding Amounts and Cost Sharing
Project funding under the Grow Prosper Belong Fund is structured to encourage shared responsibility and sustainability.
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Funding covers up to 50 percent of the total eligible costs of an approved initiative.
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No single organization may receive more than 25 percent of the Town’s total annual approved grant funding.
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The maximum amount an organization can receive is $5,000.
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Funding must be spent within the fiscal year in which it is awarded and used only for the approved purpose.
Why This Fund Matters
Local community organizations play a critical role in enhancing quality of life, social connection, and civic participation. This fund helps ensure that community-led initiatives remain accessible, inclusive, and financially sustainable while delivering measurable benefits to Lincoln residents.
Who Is Eligible?
Eligible applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
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Be a not-for-profit community organization
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Be located in Lincoln and operate primarily within the town’s geographic boundaries
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Be in good standing with the Town of Lincoln
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Demonstrate sound financial management practices
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Submit only one application per funding cycle
Organizations must also show that their programs are delivered in an effective, equitable, and inclusive manner.
Sustainability and Accountability Requirements
Applicants must demonstrate active sustainability efforts that support the continuation of their event, project, or program beyond the grant period. Preference is given to organizations that show:
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Efficient use of financial and volunteer resources
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Strong governance and sound business practices
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Commitment to volunteer development and capacity building
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Clear and positive impact on local residents
How to Apply
Organizations should follow these steps when applying:
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Confirm eligibility based on location, not-for-profit status, and organizational standing.
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Define a time-bound event, project, or program with clear outcomes.
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Prepare a balanced budget showing how Grow Prosper Belong funding complements other resources.
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Demonstrate equity, inclusion, and accessibility in service delivery.
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Submit a single application within the designated application period.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Requesting funding as the sole source of project financing
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Proposing ongoing or open-ended initiatives without clear timelines
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Failing to demonstrate sustainability or community impact
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Submitting more than one application per organization
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Weak financial planning or lack of accountability measures
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is the main purpose of the Grow Prosper Belong Fund?
The fund supports time-bound community initiatives in Lincoln that benefit residents and strengthen local community life.
2. How much funding can an organization receive?
Organizations can receive up to 50 percent of project costs, with a maximum grant of $5,000.
3. Can funding be used for ongoing operational costs?
No. Funding is intended for specific events, projects, or programs with defined start and end dates.
4. Who can apply for this fund?
Not-for-profit community organizations located in Lincoln and operating primarily within the town.
5. How many applications can one organization submit?
Each organization may submit only one application per funding cycle.
6. When must the funding be spent?
All awarded funds must be spent within the fiscal year in which the grant is approved.
7. What types of projects are prioritized?
Projects that demonstrate equity, sustainability, efficient use of resources, and positive impact on residents are prioritized.
Conclusion
The Grow Prosper Belong Fund is a strategic investment in Lincoln’s community organizations and local initiatives. By supporting inclusive, well-managed, and sustainable projects, the fund helps ensure that community events, programs, and services continue to enrich the lives of residents and strengthen the town’s social fabric.
For more information, visit Town of Lincoln.
