Ames Community Grant Program
Criteria and Guidelines

What is the Ames Community Grant Program?

The Ames Community Grant Program was established by the Ames Convention & Visitors Bureau (Bureau) to support a wide range of local projects. The program is funded by 5% of the hotel/motel tax income of the Bureau. Grants are awarded annually on the basis of merit as determined by the Grant Committee and administered by the Bureau.

Statement of Purpose

As the Bureau works to generate overnight visitors to the Ames Community, the grant program is available to provide funding to assist cultural, educational, arts, environmental, athletic and other local organizations to develop projects, special events and activities that have the potential to attract visitors to the Ames area or to enhance a visitor’s experience while improving the quality of life for area residents.

Who May Apply

The program accepts applications from public or private organizations with the demonstrated ability to complete proposed project(s). Eligibility of sponsors and projects is designed to encourage wide participation and innovative proposals.

Application

The Ames Community Grant Committee will meet during the fourth quarter of each year to review applications for the upcoming year. The Grant Committee will review the submitted application forms and make their recommendation to the Bureau Board of Directors for final approval. Please be prepared to provide additional information during the screening process upon request.

Download 2012 Grant Application and Program Information Download 2011 Final Report Form

• Your application must be submitted by noon (CST) on October 17, 2011.
• Applications should include a full description of the organization making the request, the proposed project including dates, cost estimates and how the funds will be utilized.
• Applicants will be notified by December 31, 2011, if they will be receiving grant funds for their project. Grant funds will be available for distribution by the Bureau beginning January 2012.

Definitions

Event: Activity with potential to attract visitors to the Ames area.
Project: A specific item within the event budget for which the Ames Community Grant is requested. (see "examples of projects eligible for funding" listed below under Requirements)

Criteria

To be considered for funding, projects must meet the minimum grant requirements. The review committee will rate applications based on the following:

• Diversity and uniqueness of the event, program or project
• Ability to create a positive perception of Ames to visitors and community members
• Demonstrated enthusiasm and commitment for the success of the project
• Time of year during which the project takes place
• Appeal of the project to a broad-based audience
• Public access to the project
• Potential for economic impact

Requirements

• Project is open to the public
• Potential Grant recipients are required to complete a Grant Application.
• Grant awards should not exceed more than 50% of the project costs.
• Projects should contain the Bureau logo complete with telephone number and website address along with “Supported by the Ames Community Grant Program” when possible.
• Grant recipients are required to become a member of the Bureau so that the program can be marketed through the Bureau Web site and additional materials. The membership fee will be deducted from the grant if the organization is not a current member.
• Grant awards are intended to be set up on a reimbursement basis. However, applicants may request up to 50% of the total award in advance of the project.
• A Final Report Form must be completed within two months after the completion of the project.
• A copy of original receipts is required.

     Examples of projects eligible for funding consideration include:

• Attraction/Event advertising, marketing or promotion
• Printing and design expenses
• Website design and development
• Travel Shows – include booth space and registration fees
• Enhancements designed to grow current events or activities
• Travel expenses related to development or marketing opportunities
• Hospitality services provided to events
• Rental of equipment needed for event operations

• Operating expenditures
• Permanent Infrastructure
• Capital building projects
• Professional services, including legal, medical, engineering, accounting or auditing
• General fundraising, donations or sponsorship of organization
• Salaries, wages or administrative fees
• Debt retirement or associated fees
• Anything contrary to federal, state or local law or ordinance
• Private events

For additional information or comments please contact Allyson Walter