A RISING TIDE LIFTS ALL SHIPS. Eau Claire County's Community Agency Funding initiative, open to local nonprofits (like Beaver Creek Reserve, pictured) is now accepting applications towards programs which "enhance community well-being, address local needs and strengthen essential services."

Eau Claire County is now accepting applications to its Community Agency Funding initiative, open to area nonprofits in need of programmatic support.

According to Samantha Kraegenbrink, an executive office administrator for the County, they anticipate up to $250,000 in available funding, pending the county board’s 2027 budget adoption.

Eligible applicants include those local entities which offer “initiatives that enhance community well-being, address local needs and strengthen essential services,” a recent media release stated.

Originally created years ago – as a way for the County to offer financial support to local nonprofits – the program has recently been refreshed to make the application process more accessible, Kraegenbrink said.

The 8-page application includes several informational sections that require supporting documents – including recent audited financial statements, organizational budget, board of directors list and more – which will be evaluated utilizing a 100-point scoring rubric (listed on the final two pages of the application).

“Funding recommendations will prioritize proposals that demonstrate clear community need, strong collaboration with county departments and measurable return on investment,” the program website states.

Applications are due by 4pm on June 1. While the grantees determination process does not have an explicit timeline – pending the county’s annual budget process and approvals – formal notification will be provided by the County Finance Department, Kraegenbrink added.

“Internal stakeholders” will determine grantees and work off of the county’s recommended budget. Jon Johnson, the Eau Claire County administrator, will also make funding recommendations.

Then, these recommendations will be reviewed and vetted by the Finance & Budget Committee, before being sent to final review by the County Board of Supervisors.

Learn more about the Eau Claire County Community Agency Funding program online • Applications are due by 4pm on June 1 and can be submitted online through the County • Inquiries may be sent to samantha.kraegenbrink@eauclairecounty.gov