The Neighborhood Matching Grant program is offered by the City of Concord to support recognized neighborhood organizations in implementing self-improvement initiatives. This program reflects the city's commitment to empowering communities to address local needs and enhance their shared environments. Each fiscal year, the Concord City Council allocates $30,000 to fund projects that build neighborhood identity, improve public spaces, and encourage civic engagement.
Grants are competitively awarded in amounts up to $3,000 per neighborhood organization. Projects must be community-driven and provide a clear benefit to the entire neighborhood. Examples of funded efforts include landscaping improvements, neighborhood signage, recreational amenities, community events, and safety initiatives such as neighborhood watch programs. All activities must occur within the neighborhood boundaries or on public/common property and must comply with city regulations and permit requirements.
Eligibility is restricted to formally recognized neighborhood organizations that have been active participants in the City of Concord’s Recognized Neighborhood Program for at least one year. Groups that have previously received funds but failed to complete prior projects successfully are not eligible. Neighborhoods that have fallen into "dormant" status must meet reactivation criteria before reapplying. Importantly, individual persons are not eligible applicants.
Projects must be completed within twelve months of the award date. Additionally, all awarded projects require a matching contribution from the neighborhood equal to or greater than the grant amount. This match can include in-kind services, volunteer time, or other resources, provided it meets or exceeds the awarded funding. For projects located in public right-of-way areas, applicants must submit an encroachment agreement and supporting documents.
Applications for the Fiscal Year 2025–2026 cycle are currently closed. The city awarded $26,506 to several neighborhood organizations for the 2024–2025 fiscal year, with project topics ranging from park renovations and signage improvements to beautification efforts and recreational installations. For more information, interested parties are encouraged to contact the City of Concord’s program office at 704-920-5298. Future cycles are expected to follow an annual schedule based on the city’s fiscal year, which begins on July 1 and ends on June 30.
Projects must provide neighborhood-wide benefit, follow city regulations, and be completed within 12 months.
