This program supports public events and festivals that encourage exploration and enjoyment of the wealth of cultural, heritage, nature and recreational offerings within New York State's canal corridor.
USES OF FUNDS
These events may be, but are not limited to:
- Events that focus on the heritage and culture of the canals including the canals' bicentennial period (1817-1825)
- Events that promote recreation, especially when they encourage use of the NYS Canal System, Empire State Trail, or participation in On the Canals, Canalway Challenge, glamping, camping, or in connection with Reimagine the Canals projects. This includes four season recreational uses.
- Major events such as system-wide or regional celebrations focused on canal waterways and trails
- Events that highlight the canals as linear recreational assets, including but not limited to marathons, relay races, bicycling and paddling tours, and rowing
- Events that promote performance-based art on the canals including theater and music
- Events that actively include or serve people with disabilities or people from underserved populations
Events must meet New York State COVID-19 guidelines. In addition, applicants will be asked for a contingency plan or alternative project if the original event cannot be held as planned. https://coronavirus.health.ny.gov/
AWARD RANGE: $500 to $3,000
ELIGIBILITY
- Events must occur in 2023.
- Funding is open to counties, municipalities, units of local government, not-for-profit organizations and federally recognized Native American tribes located within the boundaries of the National Heritage Corridor (green shaded area on map).
- Proposed events may include reasonable fees.
INELIGIBLE USES OF FUNDS
- Staff time
- Food and beverages
- Advertising expenses for the organization, though advertising expenses specific to your event or festival are allowable for any media
- Regular education programs, e.g., school programs and summer camps
- Applicants who are not in good standing for other projects funded by the New York State Canal Corporation or Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor
FUNDING REQUIREMENTS
Matching Funds: The requested grant amount must be at least equally matched by the applicant, clearly demonstrated in the project budget. Federal and state dollars may not be used as a match. Matching funds may include cash support and in-kind donations, including volunteer hours.
If volunteer hours are used as a match, then the name of each volunteer, tasks performed, work hours and signature must be recorded on a separate document sent with the matching funds form. The current estimated value of volunteer time may be found here: Value of Volunteer Time — Independent Sector.
Recognition: Sponsorship must be recognized on the event website and promotional materials. Guidelines supplied for use of logos must be followed. Recommended credit:
This event is funded in part through the generous support of the New York State Canal Corporation and the Erie Canalway National Heritage Corridor.
Final Report: Awardees must submit a Matching Funds Form (provided by Grantors) within 30 days of the festival or event. Public attendance numbers, photos, and copies of event materials (e.g., brochure, flyer, poster, etc.) that document proper recognition must be included.
