The SEED grant application period is now closed. The application period for 2025 grants will open on June 1, 2024 and will close on June 30, 2024.
One way Seward Co-op lives its Ends Statement to “sustain a healthy community” is through robust community grants. The SEED program is a simple yet powerful community giving opportunity that allows customers to “round-up” their grocery bill for recipient organizations that share our commitment to a healthy community. All funds donated at the register are given directly to the recipient organization at the end of each month, often totaling over $10,000 per month. Seward Community Fund (SCF) grants are smaller, but come directly from co-op resources. We also offer a small grant each year to an alternative transportation-focused organization as part of our People Powered Perks program. The SEED, SCF and People Powered Perks grant application processes are combined. By submitting an application, your organization is automatically considered for all three programs.
SEED “Round-Up” Program
A calendar of rotating monthly recipients is established annually. One organization is selected per month and all donations made during the month will go to the designated recipient. At Seward Co-op’s discretion, the recipient calendar may be preempted to raise emergency or disaster relief funds. Local food shelves are typically designated as SEED recipients once per quarter. With the exception of food shelves, organizations may be a SEED recipient no more than once per year.
One SEED recipient per quarter will be a “community choice” recipient. Seward Co-op owners and community members will be invited to vote to select four SEED recipients from a finalist list reviewed by a grant committee of co-op staff. Look for detailed information in our e-newsletter and on our website toward the end of the summer. Awardees will be notified prior to the Seward Co-op Annual Owner Meeting in October and will be announced to the public at the meeting.
Seward Community Fund (SCF) Grant
SCF grants are awarded annually in the amount of $1,000 per recipient. Applications are reviewed by a grant committee comprised of co-op staff, and recipients will be notified prior to the Seward Co-op Annual Owner Meeting in October.
People Powered Perks Grant
One People Powered Perks grant of $1,000 is awarded annually to an organization related to alternative transportation as part of our commitment to positive environmental impacts.
Selection Criteria
Grants are given to organizations whose work aligns with our Ends Statement:
Our Ends Statement
Seward Co-op will sustain a healthy community that has:
• Equitable economic relationships;
• Positive environmental impacts; and
• Inclusive, socially responsible practices.
In addition, priority will be given to organizations that:
• Are based in the communities served by Seward Co-op.
• Reflect the cultural and racial diversity of our communities.
• Use this funding for work related to food justice.
• Use this funding for specific projects rather than general operating costs.
• Are nonpartisan and do not advocate a particular religion.
• Are registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations.