SUNLIGHT NETWORK INVITES PROPOSALS FOR NEW “MINI-GRANTS”

$1000-$5000 Grants Will Be Given

July 11, 2006

Contact: Gabriela Schneider 202-742-1520 ext 236

Washington, DC – Today, the Sunlight Network (the 501(c)(4) affiliate of the Sunlight Foundation) is announcing a series of "mini-grants" of $1,000 to $5,000 for nonprofit organizations and non-affiliated groups who have creative and innovative approaches to strengthening the relationship between Members of Congress and the citizens they represent. “It’s a critically important time for citizens to engage. The Sunlight Network wants to enable citizens and community groups to implement the most creative of their ideas that relate to our mission,” said Zephyr Teachout, National Director for the Sunlight Network. “We believe there are many would-be incubators for change who just need a little help, and part of our mission is to provide that financial assistance.” Projects will be judged on their creativity, their likelihood of success, and the degree to which they match Sunlight’s goals. Applications from existing small nonprofits, local or regional chapters of national organizations and groups of individuals are all encouraged. Grants are available to augment existing projects or to jumpstart new ones. Grants will be made available on a rolling basis starting July 15th. To apply, groups and individuals should send a one-page summary of their proposed project, a budget (including the amount requested from Sunlight) and contact information to Zephyr Teachout, National Director, Sunlight Network (zteachout@sunlightfoundation.com). The Sunlight Network, a 501 c(4) affiliated with the Sunlight Foundation, was founded in 2006 to foster a more positive relationship between lawmakers and their constituents, using technology, transparency, and local communities. # # #