Competitive Grant Cycles
Grants help nonprofit organizations move ideas forward, respond to community needs, and expand the work they’re already doing.
The Community Foundation for Mississippi provides grants to nonprofits across central and southwest Mississippi in several ways. Some funding is directed by donors, while other opportunities are offered through competitive grant programs managed by CFM or individual funds.
Each type of grant works a little differently, but all are designed to support organizations working to strengthen their communities.
Understanding how these grants are structured can help you identify the right opportunities and know what to expect.
“Because of a grant from the Community Foundation for Mississippi, we were able to transform an underutilized downtown courtyard into a vibrant, welcoming space that supports local businesses and community life.”
— Brandon main street association
How CFM Grants Work
Donor-directed grants are charitable gifts recommended by CFM fund advisors to specific nonprofits or causes. These grants are made possible through Donor-Advised Funds.
These grants:
- Do not require a formal application
- Are based on the priorities of individual donors
- May be awarded at any time throughout the year
If your organization has received funding from CFM in the past, it may have been through a donor-directed grant.
CFM offers competitive grant opportunities throughout the year.
These grants:
- Are based on defined focus areas
- Require a formal application
- Are reviewed by a decision-making committee
- Follow established eligibility and selection criteria
CFM manages the full process and may provide technical assistance to support applicants during the application period.
Some funds at CFM offer their own competitive grant programs.
These grants:
- Have criteria determined by fund advisors
- May follow their own timelines and requirements
- Are typically managed by the fund’s advisory group
Each fund operates independently within the Community Foundation.
CFM offers several types of grants to support nonprofit organizations. Each type follows a different process.
Grant Focus Areas
CFM prioritizes funding in areas that reflect community needs across central and southwest Mississippi. These focus areas guide many of the competitive grant opportunities offered throughout the year.
Placemaking
Center for Social entrepreneurship
Placemaking focuses on how communities design and use shared spaces. This work brings together residents, organizations, and local partners to improve public spaces in ways that reflect the identity and strengths of the community.
Examples of this work include:
Transforming an unused plot of land into a community garden that provides fresh food and a shared gathering space
Creating a courtyard designed for reflection and community connection, rooted in local history and civil rights legacy
Improving access between existing community assets, like connecting a walking trail to a public park and fitness space
Children and Families
Young Futurists Project
CFM supports work that improves the physical, mental, and financial well-being of children and families. This includes programs, services, and initiatives that help create more stable and supportive environments over time.
Examples of this work include:
Expanding training for court-appointed child advocates so more children have consistent, informed support through the legal system
Hosting a regional youth health symposium that connects students to resources, addresses common misconceptions, and promotes overall wellness
Creating mentorship and leadership programs that connect middle and high school students with community leaders and career pathways
Community Partnerships
Extra Table Packing Party
CFM supports efforts that bring organizations and groups together to address shared challenges. This includes partnerships across nonprofits, churches, associations, and other sectors to create more coordinated and effective responses.
Examples of this work include:
Organizing large-scale volunteer events to prepare and distribute thousands of meals through local food pantries
Hosting community events that connect residents to health screenings, social services, and ongoing care
Developing collaborative programs that bring together multiple organizations to expand access to literacy, arts, or education initiatives
Capacity Building
Operation Shoestring
CFM invests in the long-term strength of nonprofit organizations. This includes support for training, technical assistance, and resources that help organizations operate effectively and sustain their work.
Examples of this work include:
Supporting leadership development programs for nonprofit staff and emerging leaders
Providing training and resources that help organizations improve operations, planning, and long-term sustainability
Get Grant Updates
We offer grant opportunities at different times throughout the year. Fill out this form and we’ll keep you updated on what’s coming up.
News & Stories
WATCH: Riverside Collective
With a Community Foundation for Mississippi Community Impact Grant, Riverside Collective is using public art to bring people together and reimagine public space in South Jackson. Their project, “Transforming Communities with Art: Empowering Students as Creative Entrepreneurs,” connects students, local creatives, and neighbors to design participatory murals that reflect the community’s identity and aspirations.