Neighborhood Grants Program

Neighborhood Grants Program

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: Community Foundation for Monterey County
Amount: US $3,000 - US $5,000
Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Summary

The Neighborhood Grants Program, managed by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, provides funding from $3,000 to $5,000 to community-led initiatives that enhance local quality of life. Open year-round, this program prioritizes applications from underserved areas and encourages projects that demonstrate community involvement, leadership, and measurable impact. Since its inception in 1997, over $1 million has been awarded to support grassroots efforts across Monterey County.

Overview

NOTE: Grant applications will be accepted throughout the year until all funds have been awarded. About The Neighborhood Grants Program (NGP) is the Community Foundations for Monterey County’s commitment to support community and volunteer-led groups at the grassroots level. Groups may apply for a grant ranging from $3,000 to $5,000 for a project or series of activities that improves the quality of life in their neighborhood. Since 1997, more than $1 million has been awarded. Criteria Grants will be selected based on the information provided in the grant application, fit with the grant guidelines and the following criteria: Need Does the project fulfill a community need that is not being met? Leadership Does the group demonstrate leadership and train its members to take on leadership roles? Involvement Does the group involve other people in the project? Are decisions made by the group and not by just one member? Impact Will the group’s project achieve positive changes for their community?

Eligibility

We've imported the main document for this grant to give you an overview. You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Any resident- or community-led group in Monterey County is eligible to applyGroups are eligible to apply for a neighborhood grant if they meet the following criteria:Group is made up of 5 or more person (non-family related)Group is based in Monterey CountyProject or activities are carried out in any one of the cities or unincorporated areas of Monterey CountyGroup does not have any a final report due from a previous grantAble to open a bank account under the group’s name (assistance will be provided)

Ineligibility

Exclusions: Academic research Capital campaigns Debt reduction or legal settlements Expenses incurred prior to the grant award date The creation of, or addition to endowment funds Funding to schools and public agencies that would supplant tax-supported, mandated services Projects whose main purpose is fundraising Individuals, including scholarships Political campaigns Religious activities or servicesSalaries, stipends, honorariums, or other special pay