Beacon Grants continue to be a powerful funding source supporting community-driven initiatives across the United States. Administered by the Elks National Foundation (ENF), these grants empower local Elks Lodges to strengthen their neighborhoods by addressing pressing local needs. July 2025 brings a series of updates, revised eligibility terms, funding priorities, and new success stories that reflect the program’s evolving mission. This update focuses on actionable information and insights for lodges, applicants, and stakeholders seeking to make the most of this opportunity.
Key Changes in July 2025
Increased Maximum Grant Amount
The grant ceiling has been raised from $4,000 to $5,500 per lodge to expand impact.
More Flexible Project Categories
Community service initiatives can now address a broader spectrum of causes, including mental health, nutrition, homelessness, and youth mentorship.
Priority to Collaborative Projects
Projects involving partnerships with nonprofits, schools, or faith-based groups are now given scoring preference.
Emphasis on Measurable Impact
Applicants must now submit a brief Impact Plan outlining goals, target population, and expected outcomes.
Mid-Year Reporting Required
Lodges must now provide a progress update by October 15, 2025, in addition to the final report.
Eligible Project Themes for 2025
Theme
Description
Youth Enrichment
Programs focused on education, career readiness, or sports mentorship
Hunger Relief
Food pantries, school meal support, and mobile food banks
Elder Care
Health checkups, mobility support, and community events for seniors
Mental Health Access
Workshops, counseling subsidies, and awareness campaigns
Homeless Assistance
Hygiene kits, shelter support, and outreach partnerships
Disaster Relief
Local responses to fires, floods, or other regional emergencies
Application Timeline for 2025
Phase
Date
Application Open
July 1, 2025
Initial Review Period
July 15–August 15, 2025
Notification to Lodges
August 20, 2025
Project Start Window
September 1 – December 31, 2025
Mid-Year Report Due
October 15, 2025
Final Report Due
March 31, 2026
Recent Successful Projects Funded in 2025
Boulder, Colorado Lodge #566
Launched “Warm Meals, Warm Hearts,” a hot meal distribution program for homeless youth in the downtown area. The grant covered commercial kitchen rentals and food supplies.
Orlando, Florida Lodge #1079
Partnered with local schools to deliver after-school coding workshops for underserved middle school students. Over 85 children participated in the first two months.
Toledo, Ohio Lodge #53
Used Beacon Grant funds to supply monthly hygiene kits for elderly residents in low-income senior housing. The program engaged volunteers from three churches.
Portland, Maine Lodge #188
Initiated a winter care drive, providing coats, gloves, and emergency shelter referrals for families living below the poverty line.
Funding Utilization Guidelines (2025 Update)
Category
Allowable Expense
Not Permitted
Personnel
Part-time program staff
Salaries for existing lodge members
Materials
Program supplies, kits
Branded merchandise, trophies
Transportation
Bus rental, fuel
Travel unrelated to the project
Venue Rentals
Community centers, shelters
Private event venues, banquet halls
Marketing
Flyers, digital ads
Political materials or religious proselytization
Eligibility Clarifications for July 2025
Active Participation Required
At least five Elks members must directly volunteer in the project.
One Beacon Grant Per Lodge
Lodges may not apply for multiple Beacon Grants even if multiple committees are involved.
Matching Funds Encouraged
While not mandatory, partner donations or matched funding are positively scored in evaluations.
No Retroactive Funding
Projects already underway or completed before approval are not eligible for reimbursement.
Application Tips for Lodges
Define a Clear Problem Statement
Describe what specific issue your project will solve and how.
Engage the Local Community
Include letters of support from schools, nonprofits, or local officials.
Outline Specific Activities
Instead of vague plans, detail what will happen month-by-month.
Include Budget Breakdown
Use categories like transportation, supplies, and staffing with estimated costs.
Plan for Sustainability
Indicate how your lodge will continue the project or its impact after the funding ends.
Feedback from July 2025 Grantees
Lodge
Comment
San Diego #168
“The new flexibility helped us include mental health counselors in our youth events.”
Asheville #608
“Early application approval allowed us to prepare before winter began.”
Syracuse #31
“The impact report structure was easy to follow and kept our team on track.”
Kansas City #26
“Working with a local church allowed us to reach more families than expected.”
Parting Insights
July 2025 brings renewed energy to the Beacon Grants program, with more funding, expanded project categories, and a focus on local impact. Lodges that act with strategic clarity, community connection, and volunteer commitment are likely to secure these grants and make meaningful change. Careful adherence to the updated guidelines and timely reporting will ensure both compliance and future eligibility.
FAQs on Beacon Grants – July 2025
Can a lodge apply for a Beacon Grant and a Gratitude Grant simultaneously? Yes, if both grant conditions are met and projects are distinct.
Can funds be used for capital improvements? No, renovations or infrastructure work are not permitted.
What happens if the project timeline changes? Lodges must inform ENF immediately and request a formal timeline extension.
How can new lodges increase approval chances? By proposing collaborative, low-cost, high-impact projects with clear goals and active Elk involvement.
