A monthlong application period for the Port of Long Beach’s Community Sponsorship Program will open Sunday.

The deadline is 5 p.m. Sept. 30.

The awards are given out three times a year, in January, May and September. In May, the port awarded 268 community sponsorships — totaling $926,150 .

The aim for the prospective nonprofits is to help inform residents about the port and to host events centering around the themes of the arts, environment, education, social justice and historic preservation.

Because of the application review process, applicants are advised to plan in advance for their events, which must take place at least 60 days after the end of the call. That allows time for the review, consideration and recommendation process prior to the final decision by the Long Beach Board of Harbor Commissioners.

The harbor commission approved a significant increase in the funding for the program to accommodate an increased demand from community organizations.

Applications are judged on how effectively events and activities can help the port inform the community about its role as an environmental steward, economic engine and job creator. Events should include promotional, marketing and community outreach opportunities for the port.

For more information, go to polb.com/sponsorships.