Block-by-Block Neighborhood Pride Grant Program

The City of Norfolk’s Block-by-Block Neighborhood Pride Grant Program is a local initiative designed to empower civic leagues and neighborhood associations to improve their communities incrementally and sustainably. Administered by the Department of Neighborhood Services, this program offers two funding pathways—matching grants of up to $2,500 and mini grants of up to $500—allowing local groups to propose and implement projects that foster neighborhood pride, engagement, and collaboration. The purpose of the grant is to support resident-led improvement efforts that encourage community involvement and strengthen relationships with the city and local businesses. Successful projects are those developed by the neighborhood residents themselves, and they must be implemented within the proposing neighborhood’s geographic boundaries. The program emphasizes collaborative, inclusive planning and aims to build long-term capabilities and cohesion within the community. The matching grant requires recipients to contribute at least 50% of the awarded amount through cash, in-kind donations, or documented volunteer labor, reflecting the city's commitment to shared investment. Mini grants, by contrast, are designed for smaller-scale initiatives and do not require a match. Both grant types must adhere to the guidelines provided in the grant packet and be submitted alongside a completed W-9 and verification of the group’s legal entity status with the Virginia State Corporation Commission. To qualify, applicant organizations must be civic leagues or neighborhood associations with open membership, elected officers, established bylaws, regular meetings, and recognition as a Virginia non-stock corporation. Proposed projects must have community approval and must not originate from individuals acting alone. Documentation requirements include a project budget with verified cost estimates, relevant permits, a preliminary volunteer roster, and the signature of a designated Neighborhood Development Specialist. The application process occurs three times annually, with upcoming 2025 submission windows open from February 17 to March 7, July 14 to August 1, and October 20 to November 7. Applications must be submitted at least four months prior to any associated event. All applications undergo an internal review before proceeding through the City Attorney's Office, Finance Department, and City Manager’s Office. Residents seeking assistance can access an instructional video through the NBN Academy on YouTube or request a 30-minute technical assistance session. For further guidance, applicants may contact Neighborhood Engagement via email or phone at 757-664-6770. The program exemplifies Norfolk’s commitment to bottom-up community development through structured, collaborative neighborhood engagement.

Ensure legal entity status is verifiable and obtain all approvals and documentation in advance. The application must be submitted four months prior to the event.