Applications are now being accepted for the Thriving Communities Grant Program.
Donor Name: Norfolk Southern
State: Selected States
County: All Counties
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 09/01/2025
Size of the Grant: $100,000 to $500,000
Grant Duration: Grant Duration Not Mentioned
Details:
The Thriving Communities Grant Program is designed to promote sustainability initiatives, workforce development programs, and community resiliency efforts across Norfolk Southern’s 22-state network.
The Thriving Communities endeavor to help the communities serve thrive.They partner with nonprofits that drive economic development, support vibrant community life, and provide equal access to basic necessities – building a strong and resilient foundation for long-term prosperity.
How they invest:
- Basic Life Necessities: Programs that work to prevent or support those in financial need and provide long-term recovery assistance
- Well-Being Support: Programs that support those with mental health and substance abuse concerns, as well as those suffering from domestic abuse
- Preservation of Local Culture: Programs that strengthen identity and preserve historical elements in a community
- Enhance Community Spaces: Programs that beautify neighborhoods and improve shared spaces – increasing livability, promoting commerce, and attracting more residents/businesses to an area
Funding Information
Generally, the Thriving Communities grant ranges from $1,000 to $50,0000.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, an organization must meet the below criteria:
- Qualifies as a tax-exempt nonprofit organization based off one of the following charitable criteria:
- A public 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code as listed in the IRS Master File
- A state, county or municipal government entity and seeks funding to serve the needs of the community at large.
- A public or charter school
- Located within 30 minutes of NS network (Note: Organizations closest to our network will receive priority during review).
- Aligns with Norfolk Southern’s Corporate Giving focus areas
Applications must include the following:
- A valid Federal W9 Form (rev. March 2024)
- A valid 501(c)(3) determination letter from the IRS or letter demonstrating tax exemption status as a state, county, or municipal government entity
- A valid contact email address & phone number for questions regarding grant
- If applying as a 501(c)(3):
- Short overview of the organization (major achievements, recent accomplishments, impact, and major donors)
- Board of Directors listing
- Latest IRS 990 filings o Budget for program or proposed project o Full year operating budget
For more information, visit Norfolk Southern.
