Grant Application
Our Vision & Mission
The Madison Street Festival (MSF) is dedicated to bringing our community together through a celebration of arts, culture, education, interactive experiences, and live entertainment. For more than four decades, MSF has created a free, family-friendly event that celebrates the people and organizations that make Madison a special place to call home.
Beyond the annual festival, MSF is committed to making a lasting impact in our community through the MSF Grant Program. Each year, grants are awarded to organizations and initiatives that support educational opportunities and promote literacy.
Through these grants, MSF helps empower students of all ages and abilities by providing resources that encourage learning, personal growth, and opportunities for higher and continuing education.
The Madison Street Festival is more than a one-day celebration—it is a year-round commitment to supporting our community and investing in the next generation.
Eligibility
MSF community grants are open to organizations that serve residents of Madison County, Alabama.Eligible organizations must demonstrate a clear impact on the Madison County community and align with MSF’s mission to support education and literacy.
Grant Application Procedures
- Grant applications will be made available each year on the MSF website under the “Grants Application” tab.
- Only applications submitted through the MSF website will be accepted.
- The deadline for submission is 11:59 p.m. Central Time on October 31 each year. Late submissions will not be considered.
- The MSF Grant Committee will review all completed applications and make funding recommendations to the MSF Board of Directors.
- Final grant recipients and award amounts will be determined by the MSF Board of Directors.
- The MSF Grant Committee Chair will notify all selected recipients by email within 30 days of the application deadline. Notification will include the date and location of the MSF Grant Reception, where awards will be distributed. This event is held in January every year.
- The MSF Grant Committee Chair will also notify all applicants who were not selected via email.
- Previous MSF grant recipients are eligible to reapply. However, to be considered for a new grant, recipients must submit a “Completion Form” for the previously funded grant.
Grant Scoring Criteria
Educational Impact
The program includes clear, meaningful goals that address educational needs and/or support literacy.Community Impact
The program intentionally reaches and demonstrates a measurable impact on the local community.Feasibility & Budget
The project is realistic, well-planned, and fiscally sound. The budget clearly outlines how funds will be used.Accessibility
The program is designed to be open and inclusive to all participants, when applicable.Our Grant applications will open on September 1, 2026.
Madison Street Festival (MSF) Community Grants – Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
We have listed some FAQs below. If you have further inquiries, please email our Grant team at msf.grantapps@gmail.com.What is the purpose of the MSF Community Grant program?
The MSF Community Grant Program is designed to support organizations and initiatives located in Madison County, Alabama that offer educational opportunities and promote literacy. By awarding these grants, MSF aims to empower students of all ages and abilities within our local communities to pursue higher or continuing education.
Who is eligible to apply?
Any organization based in Madison County, Alabama that provides educational programs or supports literacy initiatives may apply. This includes nonprofits, schools, and community groups.
When can I apply for a grant?
Grant applications open annually on September 1st and are available on the MSF website (madisonstreetfestival.org) under the “Grants Application” tab. The deadline to apply is October 31st at 11.59 p.m. Central Time. Applications must be submitted online through the website on time to be considered.
How will applications be reviewed?
All submitted applications are evaluated by the MSF Grant Committee using a standardized scoring process. The committee then makes award recommendations to the MSF Board of Directors, who determine final recipients and funding amounts.
How will proposals be evaluated?
Each application will be reviewed and scored using a standardized rubric based on the following criteria:
– Educational Impact
The program includes clear, meaningful goals that address educational needs and/or support literacy.
– Community Impact
The program intentionally reaches and demonstrates a measurable impact on the local community.
– Feasibility & Budget
The project is realistic, well-planned, and fiscally sound. The budget clearly outlines how funds will be used.– Accessibility
The program is designed to be open and inclusive to all participants, when applicable.
When will i know if I received a grant?
Award recipients will be notified by November 30th. Notifications are sent by email and will include an invitation to the annual MSF Grant Reception.
What if i can not attend the grant reception?
If you or a representative from your organization are unable to attend the Grant Reception, your grant check will be mailed to the address listed on your application within five business days.
What if I am not selected for a grant?
All applicants will be notified via email, regardless of whether or not they receive funding.
Can I apply again if I've received a grant before?
Yes! Organizations that have previously received a grant are welcome to apply again.
