FORT MYERS – Collaboratory is accepting applications until Nov. 12 for its Community Impact Rural Micro Grant program, which will award up to eight grants of $5,000 to eligible organizations serving Charlotte, Glades and Hendry counties. Supported by the Florida Blue Foundation, the program funds projects that address community challenges and advance systems-level change.

Eligible applicants include tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, colleges and universities, and governmental entities, state agencies and county health departments serving the three eligible counties.

Projects must demonstrate measurable short-term results and primarily align with at least one of Collaboratory’s coalition system-level indicators:

• Prenatal Care First Trimester
• Uninsured Population under age 65
• Behavioral Health Workforce: Percentage of Community Need Met
• Housing and Transportation Affordability
• Food Environment Score
• Percentage of Residents with Access to High-Speed Internet
• Kindergarten Readiness Rate
• High School Graduation Rate
• Skilled Workforce Rate

Projects should also contribute to longer-term improvements, such as influencing policies, strengthening partnerships or improving how funding and information are shared.

"This program unites Collaboratory's Health and Wellness, Community Infrastructure and FutureMakers coalitions for a common goal – addressing community challenges head-on," said Dawn Belamarich, president and CEO of Collaboratory. "We're grateful for the Florida Blue Foundation for entrusting Collaboratory to support exemplary organizations in creating a long-lasting impact across Southwest Florida."

Funded projects may run for up to 12 months. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Nov. 12, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted, and selected applicants will be notified by mid-December.

For more information about eligibility or to apply for the Community Impact Micro Grant, visit Collaboratory.org/Grantmaking.