Community members in Tompkins County with ideas to improve sustainability and equity can now apply for funding through a local grant program.
Sustainable Finger Lakes is accepting applications for its Spring 2026 round of Neighborhood Mini-Grants, which support grassroots projects focused on resilience, environmental stewardship, and social equity.
The program has awarded more than $100,000 through 246 grants since launching in 2008. Individual grants range from $150 to $750 and can fund projects related to sustainable food systems, alternative transportation, waste reduction, energy conservation, environmental education, and efforts to address social and economic inequality.
Organizers say individuals, community groups, organizations, and small businesses are all eligible to apply. Priority is given to newer or smaller groups with limited access to funding.
Past projects supported by the program include community gardens, bike repair stations, school sustainability initiatives, and educational resources for English language learners.
Applications must be submitted by April 1.
An application deadline for Schuyler, Seneca, and Yates counties has not yet been announced, as organizers say additional sponsorship is still needed for that region.
