City of Derby

A.C.E. Grant Frequently Asked Questions

Do we have to be a Derby organization or live in Derby to be eligible?
No. As long as the proposed program or event happens in Derby for the benefit of Derby, you are welcome to submit an application for consideration.

My organization has an event that’s well-established. Are we eligible for an A.C.E. Grant?
It depends. The purpose of the A.C.E. Grant is to diversify the entertainment, cultural, and artistic offerings in Derby. If your event or activity was in place in Derby before A.C.E. was established in May of 2006, it will not be competitive for an A.C.E. Grant. However, if your event pre-dates May 2006 but you are now altering or adding to it in a substantial way that significantly expands its impact on Derby, you are welcome to submit an application for consideration.

We have a new fundraising event. Are we eligible for an A.C.E. Grant?
Fundraising events to benefit non-profit organizations will only be eligible for a one-time start-up contribution.

I received an A.C.E. Grant last year. Am I eligible to apply for an A.C.E. Grant this year?
Yes. With the exception of fundraising events, past recipients of A.C.E. Grants are welcome to compete with other applicants for grant funding in future cycles.

How are grant applications evaluated and awarded?
A selection committee will review the applications for the A.C.E. Grants. Based on the competitiveness of the applications and the amount of grant funding available, the selection committee will make recommendations on which applications should receive grant funding. Those recommendations are considered for approval by the City Council.

I know grant funding is limited. Even if it isn’t possible to fund the full amount we’ve asked for, receiving partial funding would still be helpful. Is that an option?
Yes. If partial funding would be beneficial to you (as opposed to no funding at all), feel free to note that in your application materials. The selection committee will consider all applications on their merits and, as funding permits, will make every effort to extend support to competitive proposals.

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