Neighborhood Grant Program

The Neighborhood Grant Program (NGP), administered by the City of Sunnyvale, is a community-focused initiative designed to empower registered neighborhood associations through funding support for localized projects and events. The program seeks to strengthen neighborhood engagement, build pride and identity, and foster collaboration between residents and City Hall. Applications for the Spring 2026 cycle are open from February 23 through March 27, 2026, with a total of $54,105 available for both Community Events and Neighborhood Grants. The NGP operates on a twice-annual cycle, offering funding to groups that may have missed prior application windows. Neighborhood associations may apply for one grant per year, based on a tiered system reflecting the number of households represented. Tier 1 (fewer than 250 households) is eligible for up to $1,500, Tier 2 (251–499 households) for up to $3,000, and Tier 3 (500 or more households) for up to $5,000. Each application must include a written explanation of how household counts were determined. In addition to these standard grants, neighborhood groups can also apply for smaller block party grants. These support intimate, community-building events and provide up to $500 per party, with the number of applications capped by tier. Block party funding is only considered after primary neighborhood grant allocations are made. Eligible projects must occur between January 1 and December 31, 2026, and focus on at least one of four goals: improving neighborhood communication, building cross-cultural connections, enhancing physical conditions, or boosting neighborhood pride. Projects must be developed and led by residents within the neighborhood. All funded efforts must acknowledge the City’s financial support in promotional materials, including flyers, social media, and signage. Certain expenditures are ineligible for grant use, such as political activity, equipment used infrequently, operating costs, and permanent improvements to non-City property. Reimbursement is the only funding method—grant recipients must spend approved funds upfront and submit original receipts and a final report within 30 days after project completion or by December 31, 2026, whichever is earlier. Multiple disbursements are not mentioned and should not be assumed. Some events may require a special event permit, especially those that are public-facing, include games or petting zoos, or require use of specific city areas or street closures. Permit applications must be submitted separately and at least eight weeks before the event date. For events requiring permits, in-kind City support will cover services like insurance, recycling, application fees, and limited marketing promotion. Applications are evaluated by a Council subcommittee based on alignment with program goals, clarity and feasibility of the project plan, benefit to the neighborhood, and resident involvement. All applications are subject to competitive review, and grant awards are not guaranteed based on previous funding. Final decisions will be issued in writing in June 2026. Questions may be directed to [email protected] or 408-730-7599.

Projects must be neighborhood-led, promote resident communication and pride, and avoid ineligible political or commercial activities.