Grants Available for Boating Nonprofits

These days there are so many worthwhile organizations seeking financial help that it could make your head spin. In recent years, West Marine has taken a creative approach to sorting out which groups it can and cannot support by instituting the BlueFuture Fund, which is accepting grant applications through October 1.  

The fund is focused on "nonprofit, youth-focused, community-based organizations that teach sailing, powerboating, fishing or boatbuilding skills; foster aquatic sustainability and conservation practices; and encourage learning in the marine sciences."

Selected organizations will receive $1,500 grants, with no strings attached, meaning they can use the money however they choose to. So if your organization meets the criteria, don’t miss the October 1 deadline. To apply, visit this website, then click "Grants." The online application process is said to be quick and straightforward. 

BlueFuture grants are supported by (tax-deductible) donations from private donors — which can be made through the website — and three annual in-store fundraisers: National Safe Boating Week in May, World Oceans Day in June, and the Month of Giving in December.