GrowOC Funding Guidelines

Purpose:

The Mission of the GrowOC Committee is to improve the community in ways that will directly enhance the lives of both our citizens and our guests. This will be accomplished through the use of lodging tax monies & GrowOC Utility checkoff donations to fund various projects and structures with the intent to attract tourists and make Orange city a desirable place to live.

ORIGINAL Statement from the CBB:

The GrowOC Committee believes its resources can generate the most benefits if they are allocated in larger amounts to support a limited number of projects, rather than attempting to become involved in as many projects as can be found. The projects which fit best the GrowOC mission statement are public attractions which will serve to draw tourists to Orange City. For this reason, most of our discussion has focused on projects dealing with parks and recreation. We are excited about the potential impact of GrowOC resources, and look forward to comments from the City Council and from the citizens of Orange City as we continue to identify the role GrowOC plays in the growth of Orange City

Eligibility Criteria:

1. 1. Location:
   • Applicants must be located within the city limits of Orange City.
2. 2. Community Impact:
• Projects must demonstrate a positive impact on the community, have an impact on tourism, cultural enrichment, or enhance quality of life for residents.
• Community Partnership: Applications that show strong partnerships with local organizations, schools, or community groups will be given preference.
3. 3. Financial Requirements:
   • Applicants must provide evidence of additional financial support beyond GrowOC application $$ requests. This includes other fundraising dollars, use of own funds, or other grants dollars to support the project.
   • GrowOC does not fully fund projects. Typical maximum funds of 33% of a project, with committee discretion to adjust and award.
   • Grant recipients will be encouraged to participate in the GrowOC Utility Check off program.

Application Process:

1. 1. Application Submission:
   • Applications can be submitted online via the Orange City website. The application must include:
     • Project proposal
     • Projected budget and use of funds
     • Documentation of community impact
     • A list of other funding sources
     • Applications may be temporarily suspended depending on account funding levels
     • 2. Evaluation Process:
       • Applications are reviewed by the GrowOC committee. The review process typically considers: ■ Alignment with GrowOC mission statement goals ■ Have GrowOC funds been received in the last 365 days by the requesting applicant ■ Feasibility and sustainability of the project
         • Impact on Tourism
         • Presentation to the GrowOC Committee
       • GrowOC does not fund brick and mortar funding requests
       • Maximum Project funding level guidelines have been set at $25,000 per application. Typical maximum funds of 33% of a project, with committee discretion to adjust and award.
       • Scope of Project adjustments will be prorated on a 33% basis of total project funded
     • 3. Approval and Funding:
       • ○ Approved projects will receive notification within 1 day of Presentation to the Committee.
       • Recommendations for funding will be forwarded to the City Council of Orange City for final approval at the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
       • Funds are distributed upon project completion.
     • 4. Reporting and Accountability:
       • Recipients must submit regular progress reports detailing project milestones, photos/videos of progress.
       • Funds will be distributed upon project completion and submission of receipts showing expenses totaling at least your funding amount. You can submit receipts by filling out the growoc submit receipts for project form ○ Scope of Project adjustments will be prorated on a % basis of total project funded
       • A video or written testimonial about how these funds impacted your project and organization upon completion of the project.
     • 5. Community Partnership:
       • Applications that show strong partnerships with local organizations, schools, or community groups will be given preference.

Deadlines:

• Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with specific review periods taking place as applications are received.
• Applications may be temporarily suspended depending on account funding levels