BROOKLYN, N.Y. – As part of National Grid’s ongoing Project C community commitment, today the company launched a Youth Spaces Competition for Brooklyn-based non-profit organizations to submit applications and short videos on their plans to upgrade physical space designated to providing programs and services for local youth. The local community will vote on a winner to receive a $25,000 grant to make the desired improvements and five runners up to each receive $5,000 grants.

“National Grid is partnering with the Brooklyn community to provide resources for spaces dedicated to bringing young people together to inspire, uplift and create inclusive change,” said Renee McClure, National Grid’s Director for Community and Customer Engagement. “Through Project C, we partner with communities to build a better and more equitable future for our youth. Our enriching spaces program is starting in Brooklyn focusing on small non-profits and we have plans to expand and engage neighborhoods across New York State as the program grows.”

National Grid will award a $25,000 grant to the winning non-profit organization.  Five runners up will each be awarded $5,000 for improvements to a youth-focused space, whether it be for equipment, facility renovations or other upgrades. 

The application period opens February 13, 2023, for qualifying non-profit Brooklyn organizations.  Applicants have until March 17, 2023, to submit a brief application with a two-minute video explaining their project and why their organization deserves to win. 

A committee of judges made up of National Grid employees and Brooklyn community leaders, including the Brooklyn Community Foundation, will select the six projects that closely align with the company’s Project C mission and values, especially as it relates to fighting for social and racial justice. The finalists will be available online for the community to vote to determine the competition winter. The community will be invited to vote from April 10-14, 2023.

Eligibility

To be eligible for funding under Project C Youth Spaces Competition, a Brooklyn non-profit organization must meet the following criteria:

• 501©3, 501©4 or 501©6 tax status
• Demonstrates a positive impact on youth in their community
• Identifies a physically defined space in need of a refresh and has access and any required consent for improvements or alterations
• Has a maximum $1 million in organizational budget

A full list of eligibility requirements, access to the application form and a contact for questions is available at Project C Youth Spaces Competition.

About National Grid