Community Foundation Tampa Bay announced it has awarded a record-breaking $2,520,473 through its 2026 Annual Competitive Grants cycle, which also saw a record number of nonprofit applications across Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties.
The grants support organizations working to expand economic opportunities, protect the region’s natural environment, improve physical and mental health, strengthen education for children and youth, and build more connected and resilient communities throughout the five-county region.
Community Foundation Tampa Bay received 426 applications during this year’s competitive grants cycle, a more than 17% increase compared to the previous year. Following a competitive review process, the Foundation awarded 88 grants to nonprofit organizations.
“This year’s applications reflected a growing need across our region, particularly for programs focused on basic needs such as housing, food security, clothing, healthcare, and other essential services,” said Marlene Spalten, President and CEO of Community Foundation Tampa Bay. “Through these grants, we are supporting organizations developing projects and programs that create lasting, positive change throughout our communities.”
Funding will support a wide range of programs across the region, including natural spring restoration, expanded access to dental care for economically vulnerable populations, maternal mental health and early learning literacy initiatives, and efforts to protect older adults from financial scams.
“The grant proposals submitted this year demonstrated the extraordinary creativity, resilience, and the deep understanding nonprofits bring to addressing our region’s most pressing challenges,” said Jesse Coraggio, Chief Impact Officer at Community Foundation Tampa Bay. “This year’s process also emphasized collaboration, encouraging nonprofits to work together with other organizations in developing innovative, community-driven solutions that expand opportunity, strengthen neighborhoods, and create lasting improvements in quality of life across our region.”
Community Foundation Tampa Bay connects philanthropy with community needs, working alongside donors and nonprofit partners to build a stronger, more vibrant region.
For more information about the Foundation’s Annual Competitive Grants program and this year's recipients, visit https://www.cftampabay.org/past-competitive-grants-awarded.
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