The city of Valparaiso is inviting neighborhoods to submit applications for the annual Neighborhood Improvement Grant program.
Guidelines have been updated for 2025, increasing the maximum amount from $15,000 to $20,000. Applications for the upcoming grant cycle will be due on March 1, 2025, with grant recipients announced by March 15, 2025, Maggie Clifton, the city’s community engagement director, said in a release.
The Neighborhood Improvement Grant program has funded 120 projects since its inception in 2018. With matching funds, the grants resulted in more than $1.15 million in neighborhood improvements over the past six years.
Previous projects awarded Neighborhood Improvement Grants include community spaces, like bus stop benches, play spaces and pavilions for gathering; neighborhood signage or branding that instills unity and a sense of pride; public art displays that add character by representing the neighborhood; and physical improvements, like planting trees or enhancing neighborhood park equipment.
Neighborhoods may submit applications for up to $20,000 in qualified funding through the Neighborhood Improvement Grant. In addition, two or more neighborhoods can collaborate on projects and apply for up to $30,000 collectively. The Neighborhood Improvement Grant program is funded by the Valparaiso Redevelopment Commission and administered by the Community Engagement Department. A grant review committee assists in the selection process.
Applications for the coming year are due March 1, 2025. A virtual information session will be on Sept. 9, at 5 p.m. via Zoom. Participants may access the online link at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/88998552789.
Guidelines and application materials are available on the Community Engagement page at Valpo.us. For questions or guidance, contact Community Engagement Director Maggie Clifton at MClifton@valpo.us or at City Hall, 219-462-1161.
