Sprint Grant Request for Proposals (RFP)
Fiscal Year 2025 - Regional Core Enhancement Program Overview
The Greater Peoria Leadership Council invites applications for Sprint Grants designed to create rapid, visible impact in the Greater Peoria Regional Core within 3-6 months. Sprint Grants support quick-implementation projects that enhance regional core beautification, programming, and hospitality while building momentum for longer-term regional development.

Total Available Funding: $151,000
Number of Awards: 3-4 grants (approximately)
Average Award: $37,750
Application Deadline: September 1, 2025
Project Duration: 3-6 months
Application Frequency: Semi-annually (2 cycles per year) Grant Categories
Sprint - Quick Impact Threshold

• Funding Range: $5,000 - $25,000
• Focus: Accessible, rapid implementation projects
• Overhead Maximum: 10%

Sprint - Major Impact Threshold

• Funding Range: $25,001 - $50,000
• Focus: Enhanced capacity projects with maximum sprint value
• Overhead Maximum: 10%

2025 Focus Areas
All Sprint Grant projects must align with one or more of the following Regional Core enhancement priorities. (These examples are meant to spark your thinking, not limit it):

Regional Core Beautification

• Window clings in empty storefronts
• Streetscape improvements: flowers, lighting, seating in Regional Core areas
• Visual enhancements that create immediate positive impact

Regional Core Programming

• Pop-up support for existing planned events
• Programming enhancements that attract visitors and activity
• Creative activations that utilize existing Regional Core infrastructure

Regional Core Hospitality

• Street hospitality teams or local concierge ambassadors
• Visitor experience improvements
• Initiatives supporting positive Regional Core experiences during events

Eligibility Requirements
Quick Impact Threshold ($5,000 - $25,000)
Eligible Organizations:

• 501(c)(3) organizations OR
• Peoria & East Peoria Municipal departments/agencies OR
• Peoria & East Peoria public schools/park districts OR
• GPLC Partner Community Development Organizations (CDOs)

Requirements:

• Minimum 1 year of operations
• Must serve Greater Peoria region with demonstrated community benefit
• Current on required state filings, no significant financial violations

Major Impact Threshold ($25,001 - $50,000)
Additional Requirements:

• Annual organizational budget of at least $75,000 OR demonstrated management of projects >$15,000
• Strong regional benefit with preference for cross-river coordination
• Track record of at least one previous project with budget >$10,000 successfully implemented

Required Documentation
All Applicants:

• IRS determination letter (or official letterhead documentation for municipal entities)
• Simple project budget using GPLC template
• Previous year's year-end financial statements (board-approved)
• Current year organizational budget (year-to-date)

Major Impact Threshold Additional Requirements:

• Brief organizational description including staff capacity (1 page maximum)
• Description of previous successful project with budget >$10,000
• Detailed project timeline with milestones