The Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation (CICF) focuses its efforts on programs that are designed to improve the quality of life in the communities served by the cruise industry. CICF supports programs that enhance educational opportunities for youth, including those designed to improve literacy, teach basic life skills, and promote good citizenship. The Foundation also supports academic enrichment opportunities to enhance student proficiencies in reading, math, and science.

CICF supports non-profit organizations that encourage job creation and training, improve access to community services, and provide youth and adult education, particularly for minority and disadvantaged students. In addition, the Foundation promotes programs designed to improve public health or medical research aimed at disease prevention. CICF also supports programs that promote environmental awareness and education, as well as the study of enhanced ecological technologies for the maritime sector.

The Cruise Industry Charitable Foundation, a non-profit 501(c)(3) public charity, focuses its efforts in the following areas:

• Civic and Community Development

• Educational Assistance and Training Programs

• Public Health Programs

• Environmental Preservation Initiatives

Must a grant applicant be located in a "port" state in order to be considered for a CICF grant?

No. CICF makes grants to organizations that are located or operate in U.S. communities where the cruise industry maintains vessel operations, employs significant numbers of individuals, or purchases products and services from strategic business partners; and carries out programs and activities that confer significant local community benefits. Thus, CICF considers grants from organizations that operate in communities where the cruise industry does business whether in port or non-port states.

CICF grant applications are accepted throughout the calendar year. Grant submissions will be reviewed on a quarterly basis for final selection. The full review process may take up to six months.