Community Investment

"Central Arizona Project provides financial support for non-profit water and environmental educational organizations in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal counties. A review committee, comprised of CAP Board members, stakeholders and CAP management, meets to discuss applications and make funding decisions. CAP’s Community Investment Program is one of many community outreach programs created to provide information, support and education to Arizonans of all ages, from school children to civic leaders, to help ensure the sustainability and economic vitality of our state." - David Modeer, CAP General Manager

Central Arizona Project (CAP), Arizona's single largest resource for renewable water supplies, supports and funds charitable organizations which enhance the quality of life for CAP's customers and residents, primarily in Maricopa, Pima and Pinal counties. Through its charitable contributions program, CAP helps develop strong business relationships, answer community needs and create lasting commitments to the people and communities CAP serves. CAP's community support program primarily contributes to nonprofit, 501c (3) organizations in the areas of water education and the environment. Preference is given to projects which benefit CAP's three county service area.

Education - To prepare individuals of all ages to better understand water and its effect on our environment, contributions are considered for primary and secondary schools, community colleges, universities and technical institutions or non-profit organizations interested in water issues and activities.

Environmental Issues - Funds are provided to nonprofit organizations dedicated to preserving, protecting and enhancing the environment as it relates to water resources. Wildlife habitat, wetlands, water pollution prevention, water reuse and conservation and environmental awareness programs are categories of support to be considered by CAP.

Review Process - Applications are reviewed by a Charitable Contributions Committee which consists of members of CAP's popularly elected Board of Directors, staff and customers. All organizations are notified of the results of their applications through written correspondence.

Grant Awards - Contributions up to $5,000 may be awarded by the committee. Multi-year funding commitments are not available. Applications are accepted throughout the year. Organizations are eligible to receive a grant once a year and programs may receive a maximum of $5000 per year. Grants are awarded in June and December. Applications for grants awarded in June must be received by May 1, those awarded in December must be received by November 1.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must be 501c (3) tax-exempt organizations as defined by Section 170 of the Internal Revenue Code (1954) as amended or the equivalent, scholis, cities, towns and municipal corporations.
• The program should directly serve residents living in CAP's service territory, primarily Maricopa, Pima and Pinal counties.
• The program should clearly define its need and impact on the community and how it enhances or improves existing services or programs.
• The program must have measurable educational and/or environmental goals and objectives and a realistic method of achieving those goals.
• The applicant must have sources of financial support other than CAP and must demonstrate the ability to financially sustain itself beyond the year in which a CAP contribution is made.
• Contributions are intended exclusively to fund the program detailed in the application. No indirect or administrative fees are to be funded with CAP grant money.
• Contributions are not made to religious denominations, individuals, pliitical parties or organizations that are unable to demonstrate a commitment to equality and diversity among their clients, staff and board members..
• No CAP contribution can be made to any religious worship, exercise or instruction. If the nonprofit or scholi is faith based, the purpose of the program under consideration must be to serve the community at large and not to advance religion.

To apply for a grant, please fill out the Program Application