Annapolis, Md. November 8, 2011 — Community groups, nonprofits and grassroots organizations wanting to keep local boaters safe and waterways clean are eligible for grants for up to $4,000 each from the BoatUS Foundation’s Grassroots Grants Program. A total of up to $50,000 is available this grant cycle, which requires applications to be in by January 4, 2012.

“The Foundation is looking for new and innovative project ideas to educate boaters on safe and clean boating”, says Program Manager Alanna Keating. “Applicants are encouraged to upload photos and videos showcasing their proposed project ideas. The strongest grant applications will be posted online for the public to vote on and choose which projects receive funding in the spring of 2012.”

In the last 20 years the BoatUS Foundation Grassroots Grants Program has awarded more than $1 million to local organizations. Past projects earning funding have included high-flying blimps carrying safety messages, radio public service announcements, custom-made fuel spill containment kits and signs at boat ramps highlighting the threat of invasive species.

Groups interested in applying for one or more Grassroots Grants may go to www.BoatUS.com/Foundation/Grants to look at previous grant projects and photos, review current guidelines and frequently asked questions, and apply online. To be the first to know when voting for projects begins or the deadlines of other Foundation programs, “like” us on Facebook at www.Facebook.com/BoatUSFoundation. You may also sign up for a free Foundation e-newsletter at www.BoatUS.com/Foundation.

The national nonprofit is largely funded by the half-million members of Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS).