The Port of Los Angeles announced it was starting a grant program to help fund organizations benefiting the Harbor area.

The $50,000 Community Investment Sponsorship Program will make grants of up to $5,000 to organizations seeking to promote the waterfront and surrounding coastal areas as vibrant visitor destinations, as well as to help organizations educate the community on environmental issues, the benefits of international trade, security and safety and maritime history and tradition, the port said

Applications are due Sept. 20, and will be reviewed by a committee comprised of port and community representatives. Funds must be spent by June 30, 2014.

Funding for the program will come from port revenue.