Deadline: 1-Feb-23
The Greater Toledo Community Foundation has announced the First Solar Community Giving Fund – Civic Engagement and Environmental Impact Grants.
First Solar is a leading global provider of comprehensive photovoltaic (PV) solar systems which use its advanced module and system technology. The company’s integrated power plant solutions deliver an economically attractive alternative to fossil-fuel electricity generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life module recycling, First Solar’s renewable energy systems protect and enhance the environment. First Solar manufactures solar modules with an advanced semiconductor technology and provides comprehensive photovoltaic system solutions. By continually driving down manufacturing costs, First Solar is delivering an economically viable alternative to fossil fuel generation today. From raw material sourcing through end-of-life collection and recycling, First Solar is focused on creating cost-effective, renewable energy solutions that protect and enhance the environment.
The First Solar Community Giving Fund of the Greater Toledo Community Foundation seeks to improve the quality of life in communities around the world. Emphasis is placed on programs that support the First Solar Corporate giving values which include: focusing on “green” education initiatives, access to clean energy and water in underserved areas, and furthering the development of innovative and sustainable technologies. Priority will be given to organizations that make a significant impact in communities that share the giving values. The Fund seeks to support projects and services that support these giving values through Civic Engagement and Environmental Impact grants that make a difference in the communities they serve.
Funding Information
- Requests for these impact grants must exceed $10,000 (USD) to receive consideration. Requests under $10,000 should be directed to the First Solar local office nearest the grant seeker.
- In principle, requests should be in English. However, applicants may request translation assistance.
- Separate from the Civic Engagement and Environmental Impact program, applicants can also request a donation of modules and systems from First Solar. Module applicants are strongly encouraged to consult with an installation technician before submitting the application to ensure the project is feasible. Applicants can also request a monetary donation to assist with installation.
- Typically, this type of financial support has been distributed in the range of $10,000 to $15,000 (USD).
Module Donation Program LOI contents
In addition to the Impact Funds LOI contents. To be considered for a module donation, organizations must submit a proposal that contains the following components:
- Provide information regarding the proposed use of the modules and the requested grant funds.
- Explain in sufficient details the proposed plan, including but not limited to the size of the proposed project (KW or MW) as well as a timeline for installation of the needed modules and the proposed maintenance of the modules. Physical space constraints as well as Balance of Systems (BoS) needs should be explained as well.
- Provide information regarding how the proposed module donation would further the mission work of the applicant organization, specifically identifying the ways in which it would support one of First Solar’s areas of emphasis.
- If grant funds are being requested, specify the use of those grant funds and identify any sources of in-kind support for the project.
- Module technical information and history of previous solar module installations.
Eligibility Criteria
- Grants will only be awarded to a) nonprofit, charitable organizations that are designated as having tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Service code or b) organizations capable of demonstrating the ability to fulfill the charitable purpose of a grant award.
- The Fund may limit the number of requests accepted by any one requestor at its discretion.
Grant Restrictions
Through this funding opportunity, the First Solar Community Giving Fund will not consider requests that seek:
- Support for sectarian activities of religious organizations.
- Financial assistance with the annual campaign of an organization.
- Requests for scholarships.
For more information, visit Greater Toledo Community Foundation.