The Community Placemaking Grant Program, offered by Metro in Oregon, provides funding to support creative, arts-based projects that address community challenges or opportunities. The program aims to strengthen connections among people and places through initiatives that use art and cultural activities to bring communities together. Projects should foster interaction, enhance the unique qualities of a place, and help participants feel a stronger connection to their neighborhoods within the Portland region.
This grant emphasizes equity by prioritizing efforts that benefit people of color and historically marginalized communities. Applications led by or actively supported by these communities are encouraged, especially those that strengthen cultural assets and provide opportunities for cultural expression. The program seeks to empower these groups with resources and influence over their local environments.
Partnerships play a key role in this grant program. Successful applications involve collaboration among community partners and Metro, ensuring that community members participate in planning and implementation. Projects should build on existing regional efforts where Metro is engaged, maximizing the impact through cooperative work.
Leadership development is another focus area. The program supports projects that offer emerging community leaders opportunities to participate in decision-making processes and build capacity for civic engagement at both individual and organizational levels.
Eligible applicants include community-based organizations with tax-exempt nonprofit status. Individuals or groups without nonprofit status must partner with an eligible fiscal sponsor such as a certified 501(c) nonprofit or public agency capable of contracting with Metro. Public agencies applying must involve community partners in project execution. Previous recipients who funded single or multi-day events cannot reapply the following year.
Grants range from $10,000 to $100,000, with up to $450,000 available in total funding. The deadline for applications is October 4, 2024. For more details on how to apply and additional requirements, visit the Metro website linked above.
