Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced that applications are now open for the AWS InCommunities Eastern Oregon Fund, a community grant program that supports local initiatives in Morrow and Umatilla counties. AWS has committed $350,000to the fund, which is open to individuals, local community groups, schools, non-profits, and other organizations. This is the third consecutive year AWS is sponsoring the program to support local projects driving positive change in Morrow and Umatilla counties as part of its commitment to support communities where it has a presence.
Applicants for this year’s fund may apply for grants up to $10,000 to launch a new or expand an existing community project, focused on one of the following themes: science, technology, engineering, arts and math (STEAM), sustainability, economic development and leadership, community, and health and well-being. Applicants can also apply for funding to introduce one of six established community programs that have been successful in other communities across the world.
“Since launching our data centers in Eastern Oregon more than ten years ago, we are grateful to have forged strong partnerships with local organizations in our collective efforts to support the community,” said Paul Butler, AWS Community Engagement Manager. “We’re proud to once again offer this program to help local neighbors bring their best ideas to life and provide funding that can make a positive and lasting impact.”
Applications for the AWS InCommunities Fund will be accepted until August 15.AWS will award $175,000 of the funds in this cycle, and will open up for an additional cycle in January 2025 for an additional $175,000 in order to maximize impact for the community. AWS divided the distribution of funds into two, eight-week windows.
The AWS InCommunities Eastern Oregon Fund will be managed and administered by non-profit organization ChangeX. ChangeX will review applications and will assess and score them against funding criteria and the positive impact to the community, especially underserved populations. All successful applicants will complete a 30-day challenge, which includes mentorship and other resources, to kick-start their idea and take their first steps towards making their project a reality.
To help individuals and organizations with the application process, AWS invites community members to attend the following information session open to interested applicants:
AWS Community Fund Virtual Information Session
July 10, 2024 | 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. PST
To apply to the AWS InCommunities Fund and for more information, click here to access the ChangeX platform.
ChangeX is a non-profit organization with a community engagement platform designed to get funding and resources directly into citizens’ hands to lead impactful projects in their neighborhoods. The ChangeX team works with social innovators across the world to find and open-source proven solutions to environmental, economic, and social issues, partnering with companies and foundations to support communities with the necessary funding.
