The Pebble Partnership’s commitment to supporting the development of sustainable communities in Southwest Alaska continues with the Spring Pebble Fund grant cycle. Applications for the Spring grant cycle, which are due Feb. 28, 2011, by 9 p.m. Alaska Standard Time, are currently being accepted by the Alaska Community Foundation.
To date, roughly $2.5 million in grant monies have been distributed from the Pebble Fund throughout 22 Southwest Alaska communities during the past two years. Seventy-three, wide-ranging projects have benefited from the Pebble Fund including a Renewable Energy Greenhouse powered by wind turbines in Igiugig, a Food Bank benefiting the communities of Naknek, King Salmon and South Naknek, and a super diesel fuel project with the Bristol Bay School District.
Established in 2008 as part of a five year, $5 million sustainable community development plan for the region, Pebble Fund grants have helped to leverage more than $12 million in matching funds from other organizations.
Grant criteria and grant awards are determined by an independent advisory board comprised of representatives from across Southwest Alaska. Administered by the Alaska Community Foundation, applications are assesses twice annually, and are only accepted electronically. Applications for the next grant review cycle are available at www.alaskacf.org, within the Competitive Grants section. The Alaska Community Foundation Web site offers helpful hints for Pebble Fund applicants, as well as Webinar slides that walk applicants through the criteria and application process.
The Pebble deposit is located in Southwest Alaska on state land designated for mineral exploration and development. It is situated approximately 1,000 feet above sea-level and 65 miles from tidewater on Cook Inlet. The Pebble Partnership was established in July 2007 as a 50:50 partnership between a wholly-owned subsidiary of Anglo American plc and a wholly-owned affiliate of Northern Dynasty Minerals, Ltd.