Neighborhood Enrichment Grant Program

The Neighborhood Enrichment Grant Program (NEGP) is administered by the Richland County Community Planning & Development's Neighborhood Improvement Program (NIP) and provides funding to neighborhood-based organizations within Richland County, South Carolina. The program is designed to support projects that promote leadership, independence, and overall community improvement through enrichment initiatives. This initiative represents a shift from the previous Neighborhood Matching Grant by removing the requirement for matching funds or volunteer hours, thereby making the grant more accessible to a broader range of neighborhood groups. NEGP is a competitive grant opportunity, meaning that funding is not guaranteed solely by submitting an application. Applications must be complete and submitted within the specified window to be eligible. The application period opens on December 1, 2025, and closes on February 6, 2026. The program includes optional Grant Training Sessions to help applicants prepare, offered before and during the application window. Applicants may also schedule one-on-one sessions with NIP staff to assist in the preparation process. Applicants must submit their materials online or via alternate methods such as email, fax, mail, or in-person drop-off, provided all submissions are received by the deadline. Eligible applicants are neighborhood-based organizations located within Richland County, including neighborhood associations, homeowners associations, property owners associations, and similar groups. These organizations must be open to all residents of the neighborhood, regardless of race, religion, gender, or other protected status. Ineligible applicants include religious organizations, businesses, political groups, public agencies, and colleges, although such groups may participate through partnerships with eligible neighborhood organizations acting as the lead applicant. Projects funded through NEGP must benefit the neighborhood at large and be achievable within the fiscal year from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2027. Projects must also adhere to local regulations and may require permits. Priority is given to applications that demonstrate community engagement and partnership with local non-profits, businesses, or agencies. Projects should fall under one or more of the following categories: Neighborhood Beautification, Community Engagement, Safety & Health, or Leisure. Examples include community clean-up days, signage installation, outdoor movie events, emergency preparedness giveaways, and community gardens. Funding tiers are based on the income demographics of the neighborhood. Tier 1, for neighborhoods outside low-to-moderate income areas, allows for up to $1,500 per fiscal year. Tier 2, for neighborhoods within such areas, permits up to $2,500. Grant awards may be disbursed as an upfront payment or as a reimbursement. Once awarded, grantees must submit a signed Grant Agreement and Check Request Form by September 30, 2026. All expenditures must occur after July 1, 2026, and must be for eligible expenses only, such as project materials and services. Ineligible expenses include infrastructure improvements, personal equipment, operating expenses, and salaries. The application process is structured in phases: application submission, review and award decision, and post-award grant management. Applications are reviewed by a County Review Committee based on impact, budget accuracy, neighborhood participation, and preparation. Final award decisions are made by the County Council. Applicants are notified of award status by July 15, 2026. Grantees must submit a Closeout Report with receipts and project documentation by June 30, 2027. Failure to comply may result in ineligibility for future grants. The program encourages transparency, neighborhood involvement, and thoughtful planning in all project phases to improve the quality of life in Richland County communities.

Priority is given to applicants who partner with local businesses or nonprofits; schedule early submission for faster check processing.