Urban Revitalization Grants Program

The Duke Energy Foundation Urban Revitalization Grants program supports initiatives that address urban blight and foster commercial redevelopment in selected areas within Duke Energy’s service territories. The primary intent is to improve community vitality by targeting neglected or underutilized spaces for transformation, thereby spurring job creation and attracting business investment. These grants are specifically aimed at addressing the redevelopment needs of historic river communities, Cincinnati neighborhoods (excluding the Central Business District and Over the Rhine due to existing redevelopment efforts), and the region's first-ring suburbs. The Urban Revitalization Grants fund projects that act as catalysts for broader economic activity and redevelopment. This includes projects that deter the decline of urban centers, stimulate job growth or retention, and invigorate main street corridors. The program prioritizes proposals that support commercial redevelopment as a means of job creation and community revitalization. Funding may be used for predevelopment functions such as architectural and engineering design, environmental services, and real estate market or financial feasibility consulting. However, the grant does not support organization operating funds, capital or endowment campaigns, physical construction (“bricks and mortar”), equipment purchases, travel expenses, or infrastructure projects such as street lighting and streetscapes. The funding is tightly scoped to ensure it directly fuels planning and feasibility work that paves the way for larger redevelopment outcomes. To qualify, applicants must have 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status or be a governmental entity, including school systems. The organization must serve communities within Duke Energy’s service areas and adhere to non-discriminatory service practices. Applicants must also demonstrate their capacity to track and report measurable community impact through one or more program outcomes. Several restrictions apply: the foundation does not fund individuals, churches, private or foreign foundations, for-profit entities, or organizations primarily focused on political, legislative, or regulatory causes. The application process requires submission of a completed grant application and additional questions, available through a linked form. Applications are due July 31. While most of Duke Energy’s grantmaking occurs at or below the $20,000 level, larger projects may be considered under this program. Local Impact Grants are open year-round and may be more suitable for smaller, community-based projects, though they are distinct from the Urban Revitalization program. Organizations interested in this grant should consult the application process flow chart and reach out to their county-specific Duke Energy representative for guidance. The Urban Revitalization Grant does not operate on a rolling basis, and applicants must plan around the single annual deadline. No specific contact names, phone numbers, or emails are listed directly in the source text; instead, applicants are directed to a representative contact page.

Review the flow chart and contact your local representative for guidance.