Alcoa, Inc., accepting grant requests through Dec. 31

Alcoa Inc. Tennessee Operations is now accepting concept papers for 2008 Alcoa Foundation community-based grants. Only organizations classified as public charities and tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code will be considered for a community-based grant. Non-governmental organizations may also qualify to submit a grant request.

Two-page concept papers must align with one of Alcoa Foundations Areas of Excellence:

Conservation and Sustainability - priority funding area

Global Education and Workplace Skills - priority funding area

Safe and Healthy Children and Families

Business and Community Partnerships

In general, Alcoa Foundation does not consider the following for funding:

Individuals

Organizations and programs designed to influence legislation or elect candidates to public office

Sectarian or religious organizations whose services are limited to members of one religious group

Religious programs

Endowment funds, capital campaigns, or funds directed towards deficit reduction or operating reserves

Fundraising events or sponsorships

Trips, conferences, seminars, festivals, one-day events, unless they are a part of an approved program activity

Documentaries, videos, or research projects/programs

Indirect or overhead costs

Private foundations

Trust funds

Multi-year grants (two years is the maximum)

Concept paper review and funding recommendations are guided by Alcoa’s 14-member Community Advisory Board, comprised of business and community leaders in Blount, Knox, and Sevier counties.

Complete concept paper guidelines can be found by logging on to www.alcoa.com (select “Community” tab). All concept papers must be accompanied by a project budget.

The deadline to receive concept papers for 2008 is Dec. 31, 2007. All concept papers must be sent electronically to Melissa Copelan, Community Relations Manager, at Melissa.copelan@alcoa.com. Concept papers can also be mailed to Alcoa Inc., Attn. Melissa Copelan, 2300 North Wright Road, Alcoa, 37701.

In 2006, Alcoa Foundation made $26 million in grants around the world. Locally, Alcoa Foundation awarded more than $360,000 this year to organizations in Blount, Knox, and surrounding counties.