We strive to increase access to healthy foods and physical activity by providing technical assistance and opportunities to communities around the state. We believe that lasting change can happen at the community level through partnerships, evidence-based strategies, and small amounts of funding.
Between 2018 and 2020, ESMMSC will fund Let’s Go! 3.0 mini-grants in amounts up to $5,000 beginning in the summer of 2018. There will be two grant cycles per year with deadlines in January and July. The mini-grants will be used to fund healthy eating and active living projects that support policy, systems, and environmental (PSE) changes. This mini-grant opportunity is made possible through a grant provided to ESMMSC by the BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina Foundation, an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.
In addition to providing funding opportunities across the state, ESMMSC is invested in increasing the capacity and sustainability of coalitions and community organizations. Our staff is available to give consultations on potential projects. Please contact Kelsey Allen at Kelsey@eatsmartmovemoresc.org if you are interested in speaking with a staff person about your project.
Download the RFP Download the Sample Application Download the Budget Template
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
All applicants must be a current 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, as classified by the IRS, or governmental agency serving South Carolina communities, municipality, school OR use a fiscal agent who is a current 501(c)3.
All grant proposals MUST be related to healthy eating and/or active living and promote or support a PSE change.
In addition, strong grant proposals will address at least one of the following:
- Improving collaboration by creating new partnerships
- Addressing health disparities in your community
- Increasing capacity through leveraging funds from additional partners
In light of COVID-19, ESMMSC has decided to move forward with the final round of mini-grants but is asking that applicants choose from a list of projects that would be safe to complete with social distancing in mind. Below are some examples of projects that may be funded through the final round of Let’s Go 3.0:
- Bike racks and/or crosswalks to support a complete streets effort
- Supporting a local HYPE team
- Park or trail improvements
- Social media campaigns to engage people at home in healthy eating and active living
- Advocacy campaigns
- Community gardens
- Other project ideas are welcome but we ask that you contact ESMMSC staff first to approve the idea
ESMMSC is subject to the funding guidelines set by Blue Cross Blue Shield of South Carolina Foundation. If you have any questions or concerns about whether your project is fundable, please contact Kelsey Allen at Kelsey@eatsmartmovemoresc.org.
Other Information
Please see our Frequently Asked Questions for additional details about the grant process.
Key Dates
July 15, 2020: Applications Due
August 15, 2020: Applicants Notified
October 1, 2020: Funds Released
April 1, 2021: Grant period ends