LAKE PLACID — The Town of North Elba is accepting applications for grant funding through its Local Enhancement and Advancement Fund. The deadline for submission is Feb. 1.

The Local Enhancement and Advancement Fund (LEAF) provides grants for programs, activities and facilities offering direct benefits to North Elba communities, while improving the quality of place for both residents and visitors.

Many of the projects funded through LEAF grants have benefited the entire community, according to North Elba Town Supervisor Derek Doty.

“Grant recipients have developed and undertaken some exciting and important projects that benefit residents and visitors alike,” he said. “Our community is continually improved by the funding, in conjunction with the recipients’ hard work.”

Proposed projects must positively impact the community, its residents and its visitors by addressing a significant need in the community. It must be completed within a defined time frame, the grant recipient must demonstrate sound administration and financial management, the project must be located within North Elba, or benefit North Elba residents and the initiative must be sustainable — independent of ongoing LEAF funding.

Additional considerations include: background information about the organization applying for the grant funding, specific project plans, information about the proposed equipment purchase and budget.

LEAF grant funding is awarded after a two-step process. A committee representing businesses and local organizations ensures a robust and transparent process for allocating these funds. The committee reviews each organization’s application and presents its recommendations to the Town of North Elba board for final approval.

The North Elba LEAF is a dedicated and ongoing fund available to nonprofits, local governments and public sector organizations that have a positive impact on the Town of North Elba. Monies for the fund are derived from a dedicated 2% Essex County occupancy tax, collected from resort, hotel, motel, bed and breakfast or short-term rental properties, implemented by the Essex County Board of Supervisors in June of 2020. Funds must be used to benefit residents and the experience of visitors to the region.

Awards will be announced in April. For more information, visit tinyurl.com/38cu29vc or email info@NorthElbaLeaf.org.