The Neighborhood Improvement Grant program is intended to give residents an opportunity to have direct input and influence into the improvement of Valparaiso’s neighborhoods. The funds provide for small neighborhood-based projects that offer community-wide benefit. The goal is to bring neighborhoods together and to increase partnerships between neighborhoods and the city through positive improvement projects.

Grants of up to $15,000 are available to neighborhood groups in 2019 with a total cap of $100,000. The grant funds are provided by the Redevelopment Commission and the program is administered by the Community Engagement Department.

Is your neighborhood interested in applying for funds?  Here's what you can do before the September 20 deadline.

1.  Review the 2019 Neighborhood Improvement Grant program guidelines. 

2.  Attend a public information session to learn more about the program and requirements for submitting a successful application.  Sessions will be held April 29 at 7pm, May 1 at 12pm and May at 5pm all held at the Valparaiso Public Library.

3.  Review the grant application and grant application review checklist to learn more about what the review committee will be looking for.

4.  Check out our Neighborhood Toolkit for ideas and tips for bringing your neighbors together.

In 2018, eight neighborhoods received funding with a combined award amount of $55,500.  Projects included sidewalk improvements, park equipment, landscaping and neighborhood branding and signage.  View all applications submitted from the 2018 grant program or a quick summary.

For more information or contact Maggie Clifton, Community Engagement Director at mclifton@valpo.us or 219-462-1161.