Goosefoot is seeking applicants for a newly created community grant program for nonprofit groups, the organization recently announced.

The Goosefoot Community Fund aims to assist nonprofits that accomplishes one or more of the following: promotes economic development: protects rural character, the natural environment, or historic preservation; supports a sustainable, local food system; provides food and services to residents in need; and builds community and supports education as it relates to the priorities listed above, a news release said.

The funding program was born from the success of the organization’s grocery store in Bayview.

“The success of the Goose Grocer over the past three years has made it possible for us to take this significant step forward in our organizational history,” said Sandra Whiting, executive director of Goosefoot.

Goosefoot has already provided grants to Good Cheer’s Big Acre, Island Senior Resources, the Organic Farm School, the South Whidbey School District Garden Program, Whidbey Island Nourishes, and Whidbey Island Grown. The decision to formalize the grant program occurred when the Goosefoot board realized money would continue to be available to distribute, the press release said.

“When we realized our good fortune, the decision was made to open up our grant program so anyone fitting our guidelines and priorities could apply,” said Kevin Engstrom, Goosefoot board president.

During the first funding cycle, applicants may apply for grants ranging from $2,000 to $15,000. A letter of inquiry, due Aug. 1, is required. Projects best fitting Goosefoot’s priorities will be invited to submit a full application

Visit www.goosefoot.org/grants/ for additional details.