Fieldale Recreation Center receives $25,000 in support to support for their pickleball courts project.
What could $25,000 do in your community?
Across Martinsville-Henry County (MHC), strong ideas often stall because of two challenges: funding and knowing how to access it.
The Pick Up the Pace! (PUP) Grant Program is designed to remove those barriers. This grant opportunity offers up to $25,000 for nonprofits, faith-based, and government organizations to help turn community-focused ideas into action.
PUP Grant at a Glance
- Grants up to $25,000 for community-focused projects in Martinsville-Henry County.
- Designed for nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and local government entities.
- Supports projects that deliver measurable community impact within 12 months.
- Streamlined application and review process with decisions in ~30 business days.
- Fiscal sponsors available to expand access for community-led ideas.
From Idea to Impact: Meet the PUP Grant
For organizations exploring grants for nonprofits in Virginia, The Harvest Foundation PUP Grant Program offers a clear path from idea to implementation.
Through PUP, organizations can apply for up to $25,000 for projects that:
- Benefit the broader community.
- Can be completed within 12 months.
- Deliver clear, measurable results.
Designed to support smaller, community-focused efforts, PUP is one of the most accessible funding sources for nonprofits in MHC, featuring a streamlined application and review process. Whether launching something new or expanding an existing effort, it provides a practical way to access local funding opportunities and move projects forward.
What PUP Supports & Who Can Apply
If you’ve been exploring how to apply for grants, you might be unsure about whether your project “fits” or is “big enough.” What makes PUP different is simple: The focus isn’t on scale, but on community impact.
PUP supports projects that respond to real needs. These projects create opportunities, strengthen connections, and improve quality of life. Projects that align with Harvest Foundation’s strategic priorities may be especially competitive, including those focused on:
1.
Thriving youth
2.
A vibrant community
3.
A resilient
and diverse economy
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, faith-based organizations, and local government entities. If your group isn’t a registered nonprofit, you can still apply by partnering with a fiscal sponsor. This approach helps expand access to grants for nonprofit organizations in Martinsville-Henry County especially for newer or grassroots efforts.
See PUP in Action
The impact of PUP’s community grants can already be seen across Martinsville-Henry County with local organizations expanding access to arts, education, and community programming:
Fieldale Recreation Center transformed underused space into pickleball courts, creating new opportunities for wellness and connection.
Youth programs like Critter Camp help young people build confidence and responsibility through hands-on learning experiences.
Piedmont Arts restored the Uptown Elephants on Parade mural, preserving a beloved piece of public art while strengthening community identity and cultural vitality.
The Martinsville-Henry County SPCA launched a spay/neuter clinic, expanding access to affordable services for residents while training future veterinary staff.
What Makes a Strong Application (And How to Get There)
If you’ve been wondering how to get funding for a nonprofit, a strong PUP application is more straightforward than you might think. The most competitive proposals clearly answer three questions:
- What need are you addressing?
- Who will benefit?
- What will success look like within 12 months?
Strong applications don’t have to be complex. They focus on a clear idea, a realistic timeline, and a defined community impact. Partnerships can strengthen your proposal, but what matters most is a well-thought-out plan that can be put into action.
And you don’t have to figure it out alone.
One of the most valuable grant application tips we can offer?
Connect with a Harvest program officer before you apply.
Program officers bring expertise across key focus areas, including economic development, education, health, community revitalization, and more. They can help you refine your idea, align your project with funding priorities, and navigate the application process with confidence.
How to Apply for a PUP Grant in 4 Simple Steps
For organizations learning how to apply for nonprofit grants, PUP offers a clear and manageable process:
1. Define Your Idea
What will you do and who will benefit? Start with a project idea that meets a real community need and has a clear, achievable plan.
2. Connect with a Program Officer
Before applying, contact a program officer. Have a conversation to strengthen your approach and get guidance.
3. Submit Your Application
Apply online. Complete the application outlining your project, impact and timeline.
4. Get a Decision
Applications are reviewed by The Harvest Foundation staff with decisions typically made within 30 business days.
If you’re ready to explore nonprofit funding in Martinsville-Henry County and take advantage of local grant funding opportunities, this is your opportunity to move from idea to action.
Let’s get started.
Discover More Harvest Foundation Grants
Looking for a more grassroots, community-driven approach? Explore how a Project HOPE grant supports neighbors coming together to create change.