Media Contact: Scott Reigstad (608) 458-3145
Community Grants Program application deadline is February 2
MADISON, WI – January 5, 2009 – The Alliant Energy Foundation is pleased to alert organizations seeking funding for projects, programs or initiatives that improve the quality of life in their communities to apply for an Alliant Energy Foundation Community Grant. There are four grant cycles annually and the application deadline for consideration in the current grant cycle is February 2, 2009.
“We value our role as a partner with Alliant Energy communities and we want to work with them to affect positive change,” said Marthea Fox, Alliant Energy Foundation Executive Director. “Our foundation is pleased to offer grants to groups that are dedicated to improving their communities.”
The Community Grants Program awards financial support in five major categories: civic, culture and art, education, environment, and, human needs. Programs, projects or initiatives that qualify in multiple categories are of particular interest and will receive special consideration for funding. The Community Grants Program awards on average over 450 grants totaling more than $750,000 each year to communities in Alliant Energy’s utility service area in Iowa, Minnesota and Wisconsin.
Grant-making priority is given to community projects that encourage community partnerships and leverage additional support, have a measurable impact in the community, come from groups that have strong financial management and board commitment and are sustainable and demonstrate innovative solutions to problems.
Organizations may apply for the Community Grant online at http://www.alliantenergy.com/foundation or may request an application from the Foundation office by calling (608) 458-4483. To be eligible, an organization must be (1) a registered non-profit organization as defined by Section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Service Code; (2) a fully accredited public or private school or university; or (3) an instrument of federal, state or local government as provided by Section 170(c)(1) of the code.
Organizations are encouraged to review project eligibility guidelines before applying. Grant request forms are accepted on an on-going basis throughout the year and are decided and awarded on a quarterly basis. Funding decision letters will be sent to grant seekers on April 15, 2009.
The Alliant Energy Foundation is a philanthropic organization created by Alliant Energy Corp. and is operated as a separate entity led by its own board of directors. The Foundation is committed to making a positive difference in the communities where Alliant Energy employees, retirees and customers live and work. The Foundation, which is funded solely by the Alliant Energy shareowners, seeks to further the corporation’s goal of being a good corporate citizen and contributing member of society.
