Innovate Alabama Network Project Grant

Welcome to the Innovate Alabama Network Project Grant Application

This application is open to existing members of Innovate Alabama’s Network, as well as organizations that have submitted an application to join the Network this year.

Project Grants are competitive awards designed to support critical projects that strengthen Alabama’s innovation ecosystem, infrastructure, networks, resources, and programming. Please note that Innovate Alabama reserves the right to decline applications that, while valuable, do not align with our funding priorities.

Important: Project Grant funds are intended to serve as one-time “seed money” to launch new initiatives or strategically grow existing ones. Applications seeking ongoing support, multi-year funding, or operating expenses will not be considered.

All submissions must be received by 5:00 p.m. CT on October 20th.

"Infrastructure Development" projects lay the groundwork for broader engagement and growth in outdoor recreation. Project examples include: building or improving trails, parks, facilities, and other physical assets that directly impact the accessibility and quality of outdoor experiences.

"Engagement and Collaboration" projects drive interest in and cultivate a strong outdoor recreation culture. Project examples include: marketing, educational programs and partnerships, events, and community initiatives that promote outdoor activities with goals to increase public awareness, foster a culture of outdoor lifestyle, and encourage broader community involvement.

"Entrepreneurship" projects stimulate innovation and economic growth through support for new and existing businesses in the outdoor recreation space. Project examples include: funding for new business ideas, product development, and the creation of other innovative outdoor recreational experiences that contribute to economic vitality.

Attachment #1 - Project Budget

As part of your application, you are required to submit a detailed project budget attachment. We ask that your attachment be as detailed and transparent as possible to provide a clear understanding of your financial needs and project feasibility.

For capital projects, it is recommended that you include quotes from contractors or service providers to support your proposed budget. For programmatic projects, it is recommended that you include quotes for cost of employing teachers or service providers to support your proposed budget.

Uses: Your budget should include an itemized list of all project expense categories, including but not limited to construction/renovation costs, administrative costs, marketing, etc.

Sources: Your budget should also include any funding sources or in-kind contributions that will support the project.

Please attach your file with the following naming convention: "[Organization Name] - [Document Name]".

Attachment #2 - Annual Report or Impact Report (recommended)

To support your application, you may submit your organization's most recent Annual Report or Impact Report.
This document should provide an overview of your activities, achievements, and financial health.

If your organization does not have a formal Annual or Impact Report, you may submit a narrative report that covers similar content areas. Be sure to highlight any achievements or impacts specifically related to outdoor recreation, as these will be of particular interest to the review committee.

Attachment #3: Other

It is recommended that you attach an additional document of your choosing to support your application (e.g., Design Documents for a construction or renovation project) that detail the plans and specifications for your project. These documents help our review committee assess the feasibility and alignment of your project with program goals.