The Ceramic Tile Education Foundation (CTEF) announced that it has received a $10,000 matching grant from the National Tile Contractors Association (NTCA) to financially support CTEF.

CTEF, like many other non-profit organizations, has been challenged during the pandemic to maintain its daily functions to be ready for the pent-up demand that looms soon. Specifically, CTEF needs funding to reinstate in-house tile training classes, and Certified Tile Installer (CTI) and Advanced Certified Tile Installer (ACT) testing programs.

To offset these ongoing expenses, NTCA has offered a $10,000 matching cash grant to CTEF. If CTEF can raise $10,000 through the generosity of those interested in the success of the tile industry, that $10,000 will become $20,000.

“This is an opportunity which will help ensure that CTEF can continue to exist and fulfill our mission,” said Scott Carothers, CTEF director of certification and training. “COVID-19 has severely threatened CTEF programs and income. This matching grant program from NTCA will directly benefit the work we do for the benefit of the industry.”

The NTCA has supported both residential and commercial tile contractors since 1947 through its commitment to growing the tile industry.

“This grant demonstrates our ongoing commitment to helping the tile industry become even better than it already is,” said Bart Bettiga, executive director of NTCA. “Our industry has a long history of giving back. That’s how CTEF came to be. We must ensure that CTEF’s critical work educating and certifying tile installation professionals continues.”

The NTCA matching grant program means that NTCA will match dollar-for-dollar all donations received, up to $10,000, doubling the impact of CTEF’s fundraising efforts.

“We encourage you to participate and invite every member of your community of family and friends to do the same. Thank you in advance for your consideration and generosity,” Carothers added.

To participate in the NTCA Matching Grant program, visit https://www.ceramictilefoundation.org/donate-ntca