Longano, (IS) Molise - The DeNicola Family Foundation today announced the creation of the Longano Community Development Grant Program, a $500,000 USD incentive designed to support cultural, economic and community development projects in the historic village of Longano in the Molise region of Italy.
The program reflects the Foundation's deep ancestral connection to Longano and its commitment to investing in the future of the community while preserving its rich heritage. Through a structured public grant process, residents, associations, businesses, and community organizations will be invited to submit project proposals that benefit the village.
Projects eligible for funding may include:
"Longano is part of our family's history and identity," said Cosmo & Morgan DeNicola, the Foundation's leadership. "This Program is designed to empower residents, celebrate tradition, and create opportunities for future generations."
Applications will be evaluated by a review committee composed of representatives from the DeNicola Family Foundation. The Foundation retains full discretion in evaluating and selecting applications. Funding awards will be based on a scoring system evaluating community impact, feasibility, economic benefit, and cultural value.
The program will distribute grants ranging from $2,500 to $75,000 USD depending on project scope.
The application deadline is August 1, 2026.
The Foundation expects the incentive to support numerous projects that enhance Longano's cultural vitality, tourism potential, and quality of life for residents.
This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a binding offer, commitment, or obligation of any kind.
For additional information, contact Natalie Scarantino Sadler, Program Director, at modenicola@cosmodenicola.com.
Supporting:
Total Program Funding: $500,000 USD
This document is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a binding commitment.
The DeNicola Family Foundation has established the Longano Community Development Fund to support projects that strengthen the social, cultural, and economic vitality of Longano, (IS) Molise, Italy.
The DeNicola Family Foundation is providing grant funding to support initiatives that enhance the community, culture, economy, and heritage of Longano, (IS) Molise.
This program is designed to encourage:
Applications may be submitted by:
Note: Applicants must demonstrate a direct benefit to the Longano community.
Applicants may apply under one of the following categories:
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Community Infrastructure | Improvements to shared resident spaces |
| Youth & Education | Programs supporting youth and lifelong learning |
| Local Business & Crafts | Artisan workshops and small enterprises |
| Cultural Heritage | Preservation of traditions, history, festivals, and archives |
| Tourism Development | Projects that attract visitors to Longano |
Potential projects may include:
Grant size will vary based on project scope.
Restoration, preservation, and celebration of Longano traditions.
Examples:
Projects designed to increase visitation to Longano.
Examples:
Programs that support young residents and lifelong learning.
Examples:
Support for local entrepreneurship.
Examples:
Improvements to shared public spaces.
Examples:
Grants will range from $2,500 USD to $75,000 USD.
Multiple grants will be awarded until the full $500,000 USD program fund is allocated.
Applicants must submit the following:
Must include:
A detailed breakdown of how grant funds will be used.
Example:
| Expense | Amount USD |
|---|---|
| Equipment | $5,000 |
| Materials | $2,000 |
| Labor | $3,000 |
Applications will be reviewed and approved by a review committee composed of representatives from the DeNicola Family Foundation.
The Foundation retains full discretion in evaluating and selecting applications.
Applications will be evaluated using a 100-point system:
| Evaluation Criteria | Points |
|---|---|
| Community Impact | 50 |
| Economic or Tourism Benefit | 20 |
| Cultural or Educational Value | 20 |
| Applicant Experience | 10 |
Projects with the highest scores will receive funding until the grant pool is fully allocated.
| Step | Date |
|---|---|
| Grant Announcement | April 2026 |
| Application Deadline | August 1, 2026 |
| Evaluation Period | August – September 2026 |
| Awards Announced | September – October 2026 |
| Project Start | October – November 2026 |
Awarded applicants must sign a grant agreement outlining:
All terms, conditions, obligations, and requirements related to the Longano Community Development Fund will be fully defined and governed by the Grant Agreement executed between the Foundation and selected awardees. In the event of any inconsistency between this informational document and the Grant Agreement, the Grant Agreement shall prevail.
All funded projects must include the following acknowledgment:
“Supported by the DeNicola Family Foundation Longano Community Grant Program.”
This recognition helps build awareness of the program and its impact on the community.
Within twelve (12) months of project completion, all grant recipients are required to submit a written report documenting: (i) the use of funds, with supporting financial documentation; (ii) the outcomes achieved relative to the stated project goals; and (iii) the impact on the Longano community, including quantitative indicators where applicable. The Foundation reserves the right to request additional documentation or conduct a site visit to verify project outcomes.
The Foundation reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to revoke, suspend, or reclaim any funding in the event of misuse of funds, misrepresentation, or failure to comply with the terms and conditions of the grant.
Grant amounts are denominated in U.S. Dollars (USD). Any currency conversion into Euro (EUR) is the responsibility of the applicant.
For questions, contact Natalie Scarantino Sadler at modenicola@cosmodenicola.com.
