Now Accepting Applications For Aviation Education Grants

The Outer Banks Community Foundation is now accepting applications from nonprofits for the Aviation Education Grant Program. Applications are due on Friday, May 1, and prospective applicants are encouraged to contact the Community Foundation before applying.

The Aviation Education Fund was established by Phil and Mary Woodruff in 2007 to support charitable projects focusing on aviation education. The fund is structured as a perpetual endowment; as such, the principal of the fund remains invested for growth, while a portion is available for grants each year.

The fund has just over $322 to award in 2015, but excellent projects that meet certain criteria may be eligible for matching dollars from other Community Foundation grant funds.

“We invite any organization working in aviation education to apply for this award,” said Lorelei Costa, the Executive Director of the Community Foundation. “Because it is a smaller grant, organizations can apply with a simple, one-page letter that explains their aviation education project and how they would spend the grant money.”

Nonprofits should also attach a copy of their IRS letter verifying their 501c3 status.

“If an organization has a larger project in mind, they can apply for matching funds through our online application at www.obcf.org,” said Costa. Any larger request should meet the Community Foundation’s Community Enrichment Grants Criteria (click here).

In years past, the Aviation Education Fund has supported projects like the December 17 Aviation Flyby and the acquisition of an educational replica of the Wright brothers’ aircraft.

The application deadline for Aviation Education Grants is Friday, May 1. Before submitting an application, prospective applicants are urged to contact Lorelei Costa at the Community Foundation at 252-261-8839.