In RVA, two out of every five children are born into poverty. It’s a staggering statistic and one of the key drivers behind why we launched the Lora M. & E. Claiborne Robins, Sr.  Community Innovation Grant (CIG) in 2014.  Something NEEDS to change. 

We’re looking for something bold and risky. At its core, this grant opportunity forces applicants to answer the question, “What if?”

What if we had $500,000 to transform the community? What project could we bring to life? How can and will my organization make a seismic difference in the neighborhoods we serve?

CIG focuses on projects or ideas that are innovative and collaborative, address an unmet need, support an emerging neighborhood and have a high potential for impact on our community.

Beyond just a great project or idea we’re also looking for what we call the “Fab 5”:

1. Governance – Has your board bought into the idea? How involved and excited are they?
2. Management – Who are the key players that are going to make this project real?
3. Program – What is your BIG idea? Does it address social and economic issues facing our communities?
4. Relationships – Who are your collaborative partners? How do they add to the value of the project or program?
5. Finance – How will the $500,000 be allocated over the next one to three years?

At the end of this process, an organization in our community will be granted half a million dollars and other wraparound services like additional training and professional development. If you have a great answer to “What if I had $500,000 to transform the community?” we want you to apply. Applications are open from August 1 to September 1 at 5:00 p.m.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to email info@robinsfdn.org. On August 1 you’ll be able to start the application process here.