Fort Wayne Neighborhood Engagement Grant Program

The 2026 Fort Wayne Neighborhood Engagement Grant Program is a local initiative designed to empower registered neighborhood associations in the City of Fort Wayne, Indiana, by providing funding for community-driven events and programs. This grant supports initiatives that foster relationships among residents, businesses, and organizations to enhance collaboration and neighborhood pride. By encouraging social connection and cooperative problem-solving, the program seeks to create a lasting positive impact on local communities. The program is administered by the City of Fort Wayne’s Department of Neighborhoods and supported through funding from the Foellinger Foundation. Grant awards of up to $5,000 are available to eligible neighborhood associations for qualified events and programs that fall into four specific categories: Community Celebration, Educational Opportunity, Reaching Residents, and Working Together. These categories cover a wide range of possible initiatives, from block parties and wellness workshops to volunteer clean-up efforts and partnership programming with local schools. Only neighborhood associations located entirely within Fort Wayne city limits and registered with both the Department of Neighborhoods and the Indiana Secretary of State are eligible to apply. Additionally, applicant associations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and be able to provide documentation such as Articles of Incorporation and IRS determination letters. Insurance coverage is also required, with the program allowing applicants to use grant funds to obtain one-year “General Liability” and “Directors & Officers” insurance policies if not already in place. The grant specifically excludes projects that promote religious or political views, engage in discriminatory practices, or involve high-risk activities or routine infrastructure maintenance. Applicants may choose whether to receive grant funds via direct payment to vendors or reimbursement upon proof of payment. Regardless of the payment method, a detailed budget supported by quotes or price documentation is mandatory, along with a defined scope of work and project timeline. All expenditures must occur after the grant agreement is executed, and the project must be completed by the end of the calendar year. Permits and approvals from relevant city departments or third parties must also be secured prior to implementation. Applications will be evaluated based on a points-based system. Reviewers will assess the quality, originality, and comprehensiveness of responses, as well as the extent to which proposed events promote inclusive engagement, volunteerism, leadership development, partnerships, and measurable community outcomes. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend a grant workshop or meet with the grant administrator to ensure a well-prepared submission. Projects with no previous grant history may receive additional consideration to broaden program reach. The grant application opens on April 6, 2026, at 8:00 AM and closes May 8, 2026, at 5:00 PM. Award announcements are expected by May 29, 2026, with grant agreements to be finalized by July 2, 2026. All funded events must be completed by December 31, 2026. Contact for the program is Holly Muñoz, Improvement Grant Administrator, who can be reached at [email protected] or by phone at 260-427-2856.

Attend workshops and include measurable community impact, volunteer support, and event visibility for stronger scores.