Neighborhood Mini Grant

The application is closed. 

About the Mini Grant Pilot Project

The Neighborhood Services Division is excited to offer the Neighborhood Mini Grant (NMG) Pilot Project, a competitive grant program that will support projects that build community and engage residents. This pilot program is being offered in response to community requests for support with outreach, engagement, and increasing participation in community activities, especially among BIPOC, renters, and young families with children. Whether it includes activities that increase volunteerism, outreach efforts and civic engagement, or residents working together on a beautification project or block party, the NMG will financially contribute to activities that strengthen Arlington neighborhoods. 

This pilot project will use up to $10,000 and the maximum grant amount will be $1,000 per applicant. To further the Countywide goal of promoting racial equity, diversity, and inclusion, this grant program will offer the opportunity for groups to seek to become more inclusive by reaching out to diverse populations residing within their neighborhoods and to include them in their events, programming, or activities. 

Eligible activities will be programs, events, or projects that increase neighborhood connections, build capacity, and support resident-led action by:

  • Promoting neighborhood pride and building community.
  • Addressing a pressing neighborhood need/opportunity.
  • Improving the neighborhood’s capacity to build civic and social capital.
  • Strengthening relationships and improving communication between residents, community leaders, and other community organizations to benefit neighborhoods.

Potential projects could include but are not limited to:

  • Community events (e.g., block parties, festivals)
  • Community engagement/outreach to promote inclusion and encourage involvement in community efforts/activities
  • Public health and safety activities (e.g., education, neighborhood clean-ups, walking, biking, yoga, safe routes to school) 
  • Small-scale projects that encourage volunteerism and community building (e.g., beautification, building a little free library, community gardens)

This is not an exhaustive list of potential projects and applicants are encouraged to present in their application other projects/activities that meet the vision of this program.

Eligibility Requirements and Evaluation Criteria 

To be eligible to receive a Neighborhood Mini Grant, applicants can be the following:

  • 501(c)(3) organizations, civic associations, and community groups with tax identification numbers located in Arlington County. 

If a group is interested in applying and does not have 501(c)(3) status, they should consider obtaining 501(c)(3) status or partnering with a qualifying 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to serve as their fiscal sponsor and project partner.

NMG Application

Application Period

The grant application period is from April 8, 2024, to April 28, 2024. A formal NMG award letter will be sent to grant recipients by May 17, 2024. 

Process and Timeline

Neighborhood Services Division staff and designees of the County Manager will consider applications and administer the funds. Final grant awards will be based on scored evaluation criteria.

 
Applications will be evaluated based on the following criteria.
Project Information

35% of score

  • Activity is realistic and intent is clearly explained
  • Activity will provide a substantial and lasting neighborhood benefit
  • Activity addresses a recognized problem or identified need/issue
  • Complements other County efforts/initiatives relating to neighborhoods and engagement.
  • Demonstrates a commitment to diversity, racial equity, and inclusion
Community Engagement

30% of score

  • Demonstrates evidence of broad resident/neighborhood involvement and participation
  • Demonstrates evidence of partnership and collaborations with other businesses and organizations to complete the project/activity
  • Includes a clear plan for marketing, promotion and community outreach 
Project Planning

20% of score

  • Detailed description of the activity and schedule that is ready for implementation
  • Can be completed by the assigned deadlines (See Grant Timeline)
  • Associated with an applicant’s Arlington Neighborhoods Plan or Project 
Project Budget

15% of score

  • Budget is realistic and clearly describes and leverages other resources

Please note that the grant is intended to reimburse eligible expenses. 

How to Apply

The application process is electronic. Complete and submit the NMG application by Sunday, April 28, 2024, 11:59 p.m.

Click here to apply - Neighborhood Mini Grant Application

To complete this process, you will need access to a computer and internet access. The Neighborhood Services Division (NSD) can assist those who need help submitting an online application.

Please direct any requests for application assistance to NeighborhoodServices@arlingtonva.us.

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NeighborhoodServices@arlingtonva.us

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