MVSB fund grant applications due Oct 15, new annual focus area announced

Meredith Village Savings Bank invites nonprofit organizations throughout the Lakes Region to submit applications for the 2026 grant cycle, due by Thursday, Oct. 15. The focus area for this year's grant cycle is food insufficiency. The MVSB Fund is seeking proposals from organizations and projects that work to address hunger, improve food access, strengthen local food security, and ensure individuals and families throughout the community have reliable access to nutritious food.

Beginning with the current application cycle, each annual grant season will focus on one specific area of community need. By concentrating resources on a single impact area each year, the committee aims to maximize the positive results achieved through the program while helping a greater percentage of applicants receive funding.

"As the popularity of the MVSB Fund continues to grow, so does the number of deserving organizations seeking support," said Carmen Lorentz, MVSB Fund Committee chair. "By focusing on one critical community need each year, we can make larger, more meaningful investments in the organizations addressing that issue. We also hope this approach will reduce competition among applicants and increase the likelihood that the dedicated staff and volunteers leading these important nonprofits achieve a positive funding outcome. Food insecurity affects neighbors in every community we serve, and we believe this year's focused approach presents an opportunity to make a measurable impact on a fundamental human need."

The MVSB Fund is separate from the bank's ongoing community support efforts, which include donations, sponsorships, scholarships, and volunteer hours contributed annually by employees. The fund specifically provides grant-based support to organizations whose work enriches and improves the quality of life throughout the region.

The MVSB Fund Board seeks opportunities where a modest investment can create a significant local impact. Grant requests of up to $10,000 will be considered, with historical awards averaging $5,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate tax-exempt status or public agency status, a primary presence within MVSB's market area, organizational sustainability, community impact, and the ability to effectively leverage grant funding.

Nonprofit organizations interested in applying should visit mvsb.com/about/community-involvement/fund-application.

Applications must be submitted by Thursday, Oct. 15.