Akron City Council Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program

The Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program is administered by Akron City Council to empower community stakeholders in improving neighborhood vitality, engagement, and the overall well-being of Akron residents. Established to fund creative, resident-driven initiatives, the program provides direct financial support to neighborhood-based organizations committed to community enhancement, collaboration, and resident involvement. The program’s overarching intent is to cultivate stronger relationships among residents through local activities and to encourage collective problem-solving at the neighborhood level. The program allocates a total of $15,000 per ward within the City of Akron, with individual grant awards ranging from $3,000 to $15,000. Funding may be used to support projects that promote community engagement, beautification, safety, recreation, or education. Eligible projects include neighborhood cleanups, vacant lot revitalization, youth programs, literacy or art initiatives, block safety programs, and other public-benefit efforts. All projects must demonstrate direct neighborhood participation, measurable public benefit, and completion within one year or less. Projects that duplicate existing services, involve lobbying, or provide administrative operating support are ineligible. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, block clubs, associations, faith-based organizations, neighborhood-based groups, and community development corporations. Applicants who are not registered 501(c)(3) entities must partner with a qualified fiscal agent in good standing with the Ohio Secretary of State. Repeat applicants are eligible if their proposals build upon previously funded projects to expand impact. Successful grantees are required to submit progress and final evaluation reports as part of the reimbursement process, and all reimbursements are contingent upon proper documentation and adherence to contract terms. Applications open on October 10, 2025, and close at midnight on October 30, 2025. Council members review and score submissions using a standardized rubric that evaluates innovation, feasibility, community impact, project timeline, and partnership strength. Each ward councilperson forwards their highest-scoring recommendations to the Grant Selection Committee, which includes three City Council members, the Clerk of Council, and three representatives from the city administration. Awardees will be notified by December 10, 2025, with projects beginning after full contract execution. Funds are distributed on a reimbursement basis and cannot be transferred between wards or projects. All receipts and records are subject to city review and possible audit. The program does not require cost sharing or matching funds. Applicants are encouraged to ensure accurate financial documentation to avoid disqualification. Questions about the application or eligibility may be directed to Akron City Council staff at 330-375-2256. Applications are submitted online through the Akron City Council’s Neighborhood Partnership Grant portal at www.akroncitycouncil.org. The program continues to be an essential instrument for fostering civic engagement, beautification, and neighborhood solidarity throughout Akron.

Emphasize clear community impact, feasible timeline, and collaborative partnerships; incomplete applications are not reviewed.