National Grants for Neighborhood Projects
Applying for Neighborhood Grants
Many neighborhood grants are designed for small, community-led projects and do not require professional grant writers. If your neighborhood has an idea that brings people together or improves shared spaces, there is likely a grant that fits.
Grant programs and requirements change. Always confirm details on the funder’s website.
Tampa Bay Water — Water Conservation & Protection Mini-Grants
$2,000 to $10,000
Local Nonprofits
Tampa Bay Water offers a mini-grant program that funds projects and events that help conserve water and protect regional drinking water sources and ecosystems. This can be a strong match for educational projects, stewardship programs, and neighborhood-scale conservation efforts.
Annual
Tampa Bay Estuary Program (TBEP) — Bay Mini-Grants
$100- $5,000
Nonprofits / Community Orgs
Bay Mini-Grants are competitive awards that fund environmental restoration and education projects in the Tampa Bay watershed with a focus on community-led initiatives. This funding program stimulates environmental stewardship and science literacy among those who live, work, and play around Tampa Bay.
May through September 2026
Little Free Library – Impact Library Program
In-kind (Free Library + Books)
Nonprofits / Community Orgs
Helps neighborhoods install a free book-sharing library in places where access to books is limited. Great for parks, gateways, and places where neighbors already gather.
Annual
AARP Community Challenge
$500 – $50,000
Nonprofits & Local Governments
Small, visible projects that make neighborhoods safer and easier to use—things like benches, shade, safer crossings, signs, or pop-up improvements.
Annual
Walmart Spark Good Local Grants
$250 – $5,000
Local Nonprofits
Covers basic costs for neighborhood projects like cleanups, events, supplies, and youth activities.
Multiple cycles per year
Starbucks Foundation – Neighborhood Grants
$1,000 – $10,000
Grassroots Nonprofits
Supports small, community-led projects that bring people together or meet local needs. Often works best if someone involved has a connection to a local Starbucks.
Annual
KaBOOM! Community Play Projects
In-kind / Project-based
Nonprofits & Municipal Partners
Helps communities build or refresh playgrounds and play spaces, often through partnerships and volunteer build days.
Periodic
Is a Grant a Good Fit for Your Neighborhood?
A grant may be a good option if your neighborhood:
-
Has a clear project or event in mind
-
Has a few committed volunteers or partners
-
Can explain who the project benefits and why
-
Can track basic expenses and timelines
Not every project needs a grant, but when there’s a clear goal and community support, grants can be a helpful tool.
What Most Grant Applications Ask For
Most community grants ask for similar information:
-
A short description of your project
-
Who it will benefit
-
Why it matters to the neighborhood
-
A simple plan or timeline
-
Basic cost estimates or budget
Clear and specific answers matter more than fancy language.
Common Grant Pitfalls to Avoid
Before applying, keep these common issues in mind:
-
Applying too close to the event or project start date
-
Proposing projects that don’t match the grant’s purpose
-
Taking on projects that are too large or complex
-
Missing required attachments or support letters
Starting small and being realistic often leads to better outcomes.
How CONA Can Help
CONA helps neighborhood associations talk through project ideas, and learn from other neighborhoods that have applied successfully.
If you’re unsure where to start or want guidance before applying, CONA can help point you in the right direction.
One Important Note
Grant programs, deadlines, and requirements change over time. For the most up-to-date information, always visit the funder’s website before applying.