Frequently Asked Questions

The Town of Apex provides annual funding to nonprofit organizations that deliver vital community services benefiting Apex residents. The program focuses on funding specific programs rather than general organizational operations, ensuring that Town funding directly supports measurable outcomes.

To be eligible, organizations must:

• Have 501(c)(3) nonprofit status
• Maintain a volunteer board of directors
• Provide programs that benefit residents within the Town of Apex corporate limits

Demonstrate sound financial management consistent with the Local Government Budget and Fiscal Control Act

Programs should:

• Complement or enhance a vital Town service at a reduced cost
• Provide a cost-effective or operationally efficient service alternative
• Fill a gap between existing government services and community needs

Requests for staffing costs or for programs that duplicate services already available to the public will receive the lowest funding priority.

Individual program awards typically range from $500 to $20,000.

The total annual funding pool is tied to $1 per Apex resident, which ensures the program grows as the Town’s population increases.

Applications are submitted online through the Town’s Cognito Forms platform. The link is available on the Town’s website during the application period.

You’ll need to upload all required attachments (see below) before submitting your application. You may save your progress and return to complete it later.

1. List of Board of Directors (include addresses, dates of appointment, and term lengths)
2. Articles of Incorporation or Bylaws
3. IRS Determination Letter (or notarized Form 1023 if pending)
4. Most recent IRS Form 990
5. Independent audit or financial review (or written reason for exemption)
6. Program budget (current and proposed year)
7. Signed and notarized Standard Assurances Form

Applications are reviewed by the Town’s Finance Committee, which evaluates submissions based on eligibility, alignment with Town priorities, financial accountability, and community impact. Recommendations are then presented to the Town Council for approval.

Funding notifications are issued by July 1 each year. Applicants will receive an email informing them of their award status.

Each funded organization must submit a final report by June 30 of the following year showing how funds were spent and the results achieved. Reports should include measurable outcomes and may include testimonials or participant stories.

This year’s cycle introduces an emphasis on impact storytelling — sharing the real-world difference made by Town-funded programs. Nonprofits are encouraged to provide short testimonials, quotes, or photos that illustrate their work and the beneficiaries served.

Please contact Celeste Sherer with any questions.