Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program
Neighborhood-based organizations in Raleigh may apply for grants of up to $5,000 for projects that strengthen and improve neighborhoods and enhance a sense of community.
Neighborhood organizations share in the cost of a project by providing a match, which can come through a combination of fundraising, volunteer labor, in-kind contributions and other sources. To receive a grant, an organization must demonstrate community input and involvement and be able to show that a project will benefit the neighborhood.
Organizations within conservation or redevelopment areas can receive grants of up to 75 percent of a project’s cost. Organizations outside these areas can receive grants of up to 50 percent of a project’s cost.
How to apply
Before applying, a neighborhood-based organization should call the Community Services Department at (919) 996-6100. To apply for a grant, an organization must submit an application, a budget worksheet itemizing how funds will be spent and a detailed letter from the organization’s president.
Guidelines
An organization applying for a grant must:
- Have an identifiable constituency within specific geographic boundaries inside the City’s corporate limits;
- File an annual work plan with the Community Services Department;
- Hold at least one annual meeting;
- Have officers, with at least one person designated as the contact for the organization;
- Be nonpartisan;
- Have a constitution, bylaws and/or mission statement; and
- Open its membership to everyone who lives or owns property in the neighborhood.
Eligible projects
Eligible projects may be organizational, social or educational or involve a structural or physical improvement. Examples:
- Community gardens
- Mailings to members of a neighborhood organization
- Neighborhood Watch signs
- Newsletter or website development
- Neighborhood parks and related improvements
Ineligible projects
Neighborhood Improvement Matching Grant funds are public funds. They may not be spent for purposes that violate state law or City ordinances. Grants may not be used for:
- Motor vehicles.
- Employment of individuals or companies to provide services available from the City.
- Purchase of real property.
- Mobile phones or mobile phone services.
- Purchase of yard equipment unless it is part of an approved community tool shed.
For an information packet about Neighborhood Improvement Matching Grants, click here.
For More Information Contact:
Charlene Willard
Community Specialist
Community Services Department
310 West Martin Street, Suite 201
Raleigh, NC 27601
919-996-5718
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