Nonprofit Grants Program

The City of Gulf Shores Nonprofit Grants Program is designed to support vital nonprofit organizations that directly serve the residents of Gulf Shores by providing essential resources to expand their impact.

Program Guidelines and Requirements

Eligibility

Applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits that provide services directly benefiting residents within the City of Gulf Shores. Organizations do not need to be physically located in Gulf Shores, but all funded programs must serve the local community. Nonprofits must have been in operation for at least one year prior to application.

Grant Cycles & Deadlines 

Grants are awarded twice per year.

• Spring Cycle
  1. Application opens: January 15
  2. Application deadline: February 15
  3. Award notifications sent: April 1
  4. Funds disbursed: By April 15
• Fall Cycle
  1. Application opens: July 15
  2. Application deadline: August 15
  3. Award notifications sent: October 1
  4. Funds disbursed: By October 15

Funding Limits

Approved nonprofits may receive up to $2,000 per grant cycle, with a maximum total of $4,000 per calendar year.

Use of Funds

Grants may be used for project-based needs, event support, or critical resources. Funding may not be allocated toward salaries, debt service, or political lobbying. When applicable, all funds must be spent at businesses holding a current City of Gulf Shores Business License.

Application Requirements:

Applicants must complete an online application and provide the following items to be considered for this program. 

• Organization name and address
• Federal tax ID number (EIN)
• Copy of IRS determination letter granting 501(c)(3) status
• Description of the charitable purpose and intended use of funds
• Names and addresses of executive staff and board members
• List of programs/initiatives that serve the Gulf Shores community
• Detailed budget breakdown for the proposed use of requested funds
• (Optional but encouraged) Letters of support from community partners or beneficiaries
• Allow City of Gulf Shores employees opportunities to volunteer with organization for special events or on an as needed basis

Evaluation Process

Applications will be reviewed by the City of Gulf Shores Grant Review Committee. Priority may be given to organizations demonstrating significant local impact, efficiency, and clear alignment with community needs. All applicants will be notified of award decisions, and feedback will be provided upon request.

Reporting Requirements:

Awarded organizations must submit a final report within thirty (30) days of project completion. 

The report should include:

• Overview of the project’s impact on Gulf Shores residents (e.g., number of residents served, funds raised, other measurable outcomes)
• Vendor/supplier list, including business addresses and total amount spent with awarded funds
• (If applicable) Photographs or media from the funded project or event
• For multi-phase projects, interim progress reports may be required as determined by the Grant Review Committee.

Apply 

Applications are no longer being accepted for the 2026 Spring Cycle. Applications will be accepted for the fall cycle starting July 15.

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Questions & Support

For further information or assistance with the application process, please contact the Public Engagement Office at lhart@gulfshoresal.gov. We look forward to supporting nonprofit organizations that make a meaningful difference in Gulf Shores!