Mini-Grants Program

I. Purpose

The Gullah Geechee Cultural Heritage Corridor (GGCHC) Mini-grant Program is designed to support projects that preserve, promote, and protect the unique cultural and natural heritage of the Gullah Geechee people in the Gullah Geechee Corridor. This program encourages Corridor community-based initiatives that align with the GGCHC’s mission to enhance the sustainability of Gullah Geechee cultural practices, arts, and traditions. Grant amounts range from $2,500 -$7,500 per project. 

II. Eligibility
To be eligible for a GGCHC mini-grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Be a registered nonprofit organization, tribal entity, educational institution, or government agency. (For-profit businesses are not eligible for funding).
2. Demonstrate a commitment to preserving and promoting Gullah Geechee culture.
3. Propose a project/program that aligns with the GGCHC’s mission and objectives within the four-state Corridor.
4. Provide evidence of the ability to meet the 1:1 match requirement.
5. Ability to complete the project within a one-year timeframe.

III. Grant Categories
The mini-grant program supports projects in the following categories:

•      Cultural Preservation: Initiatives that safeguard traditional practices, arts, and crafts.
•      Education and Awareness: Programs that educate the public about Gullah Geechee history and culture.
•      Community Development: Projects that strengthen the economic and social well-being of Gullah Geechee communities.
•      Environmental Stewardship: Efforts to protect and restore natural habitats significant to Gullah Geechee heritage.
•      Celebrations and Festivals: Financial support for events and activities that promote Gullah Geechee culture.

  *Construction, food, and prizes are not eligible costs for funding.

IV. Match Requirement
Applicants must provide a 1:1 match for the requested grant amount. The match can be fulfilled through:

1. Cash Contributions: Direct financial support from the applicant or third parties, excluding federal contributions.
2. Volunteer Time: Valued at the rate of $36.00/hour.
3. In-Kind Donations: Goods or services provided at no cost to the project, excluding food and prizes.

If you are an GGCHC partner or grant recipient, please familiarize yourself with the match guide and use the blank timesheets, in-kind form, and the final report form available on this page as well.

Use a desktop or laptop computer for maximum accessibility — links may not work optimally on mobile devices. Browsers that work best with our website are Edge, Firefox, and Safari. Also remember to enable pop-ups and downloads.

For questions reach out to Brigitte Griswold, Research and Grants Manager, at bgriswold@gullahgeecheecorridor.org.