POET grant applications open

POET Bioprocessing-Fostoria is offering community grants of up to $4,000, and the application period is now open, the company said in a news release. POET, which touts itself as the world's largest biofuel producer, annually offers local grants in the communities surrounding each of its 33 bioprocessing facilities. Formerly known as the Never Satisfied Grant program, the POET Community Impact Grant program seeks to support causes in POET communities that "align with the company's commitment to initiating lasting change by being good neighbors and good stewards of the earth," according to the news release. "POET's core mission is to leave the world better than we found it," Karl Charron, general manager of POET's Fostoria plant, was quoted as saying in the release. "This grant program enables us to do that right here in our hometown by partnering with those who are striving to better our community." Past grant recipients have included individuals and groups with values relating to the earth, the community and the next generation, the release said. Examples of eligible applicants include schools, churches, community organizations, boys and girl scouts, environmental groups and individuals proposing community-improvement programs. "I'm proud to work for a company that cares about its people and the places where we live," Charron was quoted as saying in the release. "Every year, the team looks forward to this opportunity to learn more about all the good things going on in the area and support the people who are spearheading those efforts. I think we can make a very bright future when we work together." The grant application deadline is April 28. For more information and to apply, visit poet.com/grants.