The Port of Los Angeles has awarded grants totaling $1 million in non-taxpayer funds to 27 organizations as part of its fiscal year 2016-17 Community Investment Grant Program.
This year, the streamlined annual grant program—which combines all of the port’s community grant-making into one program—received grant applications from a record 56 organizations, requesting nearly $3.2 million in support.
“The community investment grant program provides us an important mechanism for addressing the needs of our community and investing strategically in promising programs and initiatives that can really make a difference in the Los Angeles Harbor community,” said Ambassador Vilma Martinez, President of the Los Angeles Harbor Commission.
Grants are awarded based on specific criteria outlined by the port, which sought proposals promoting maritime and port-related workforce development and education; sustainable practices aimed at preservation and conservation of natural resources in the port environment; and programs promoting the LA waterfront, its history and culture. Since fiscal year 2013-14, the Community Investment Grant Program has provided 112 local initiative community grants.
Funding was made available in three categories: small ($5,000 and under), medium (between $5,001 - $99,999) and large ($100,000 or more). To help local organizations prepare grant applications, the Port held workshops in both San Pedro and Wilmington prior to the grant submission deadline May 9.
The eight programs and initiatives receiving funding in the small grant area included support for a youth mentoring program; a new submarine exhibit at the Maritime Museum; a gang-prevention summer youth program and a YWCA International Festival, among others. The 17 medium-category grants provided funding for initiatives such as a Wilmington Waterfront wayfinding signage project; marine science community events at the Cabrillo Marine Aquarium; environmental clean-up and beautification programs; a CicLAvia bike event for the San Pedro/Wilmington area; and an international business and maritime studies program at Port of Los Angeles High School.
The two largest grants went to the Los Angeles Maritime Institute for its TopSail Youth Program, and International Trade Education Programs (ITEP) for its 10-Point Program.
All grant applications were reviewed by a grants committee, which included a representative from Los Angeles City Council District 15, a San Pedro community representative, a Wilmington community representative, and three Port of Los Angeles staff members. All recipients were required to be nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status in order to apply for and receive port grants.