Public Image Grants Are Back — Now Up to $300 in Matching Funds!

CNY Rotary’s Public Image Committee is thrilled to announce that Public Image Grants are back—and now even better! Clubs can once again apply for matching grants (now up to $300) to support evergreen projects that boost Rotary’s visibility in their communities. These funds can help purchase materials and tools that promote your club for years to come.

“Strong public image builds stronger communities,” said Melissa Ward-Rathbun, CNY Rotary Public Image Grant Coordinator. “These grants empower clubs to tell their stories in creative, lasting ways—so more people see Rotary’s impact and want to be part of it.”

Key Requirements

  • Public Image Chair: Your club must have an active Public Image Chair entered in Club Executives in ClubRunner

  • MyRotary Goals: Clubs must enter at least their six priority goals (marked with stars) into MyRotary

Suggested Projects

  • Branded Materials: Tablecloths, pull-up banners, pop-up tents, feather flags, club banners, tote bags, and stickers

  • Marketing Tools: Road signs, website development, and social media support (e.g., Facebook)

Items Not Covered

  • Event-Specific Items: Banners or materials tied to a particular event or date

  • Third-Party Sponsored Items: Products featuring a list of sponsors

  • Annual Rotary-Themed Items: Items tied to specific Rotary observances

This year, applications are being accepted on a rolling basis until March 15, 2026 or until funds last. Apply, get approved, purchase and get reimbursed as we go and not only after a certain deadline.

CNY Rotary Public Image Grant Instructions

Please follow the steps below to apply for and receive funds:

1. Submit Your Grant Application

  • Complete the Public Image Grant Application Form

  • Include a short description of your project or idea

  • If possible, upload a sample or representation (mock-up, draft, screenshot, photo, etc.) of what you plan to create with the funds

2. Wait for Approval

  • Your application will be reviewed for alignment with Rotary’s public image guidelines

  • You will receive confirmation once your project is approved

3. Move Forward with Your Project

  • After approval, you may proceed with your public image project or purchase

4. Submit for Reimbursement

  • Once your project is complete, complete this form for reimbursement
    IMPORTANT: Upon submitting the reimbursement form you will receive a confirmation email. Soon after that you will receive an email requesting documentation regarding your request. Please reply to that second email with:

    • A photo of the final product (banner, brochure, ad, sign, social media image, etc.) showing proper Rotary branding

    • A zero-balance receipt showing the bill has been fully paid by the club

5. Receive Your Funds

  • Once your reimbursement form, photo, and zero-balance receipt are verified, CNY Rotary will issue your grant reimbursement

Remember:

  • No funds are provided upfront

  • These are matching grants - basically, we are going halfsies on this purchase

  • Reimbursement is only made after your grant is approved, your submit proof of branding compliance and completion, and a zero-balance receipt

You can see this quick video for a summary of the PI grant process. For additional questions, contact melissawardrotary@gmail.com.