Know Your Neighbors Grant

The Know Your Neighbors Grant Program is an initiative by the City of Palo Alto designed to support community engagement and strengthen neighborhood relationships among residents. This grant opportunity aims to foster community spirit, encourage cross-cultural and intergenerational interaction, and enhance the overall quality of life within Palo Alto’s neighborhoods. By offering funding for neighborhood-centric events and projects, the program promotes a greater sense of unity and governance within community associations. The program is open exclusively to residents of Palo Alto. Eligible applicants include individuals, informal groups, or neighborhood associations with a clearly articulated and resident-led event plan. Projects must occur within city limits and be inclusive of all eligible participants, without discrimination. Events must promote one or more of the program's core objectives such as improving communication among neighbors, enhancing neighborhood identity, encouraging participation across generations, and increasing leadership in neighborhood associations. All activities must also adhere to the City’s Zero Waste policies. The grant provides funding up to $700 for events organized by individual residents and up to $1,200 for those coordinated by neighborhood associations. Allowable expenses include food (excluding alcoholic beverages), entertainment, equipment rental, advertising, and permitting fees. The grant does not cover salaries, alcohol, travel or lodging outside Palo Alto, transportation, gift cards, or private homeowner benefits. Additionally, ongoing programs, political activities, and certain emergency preparedness supplies are ineligible. All events must be free and open to all eligible neighbors, with no admission fees allowed. Applications may be submitted on a rolling basis throughout the year but must be received at least two weeks before the proposed event date. Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. If approved, applicants receive a grant agreement and, following the event, must submit a grant evaluation and receipts within 30 days for reimbursement. Although most awards are issued post-event, the City may offer a cash advance in some cases, at its discretion. The program's timeline is governed by the fiscal planning cycle of the City of Palo Alto. Events must be completed by the second Friday of June each year, and evaluations must also be submitted by this date. Each neighborhood association may apply for up to two grants annually, with a cap of $500 each for distinct purposes. The City Council determines the availability of program funding during the annual budget process, and the City Manager retains authority to cancel or suspend the program at any time. This initiative underscores the City’s commitment to empowering its residents to take an active role in fostering resilient, inclusive, and engaged neighborhoods. For inquiries or assistance, residents can contact the program office via email at [email protected] or by calling (650) 463-4902.