Places and Spaces Program (previously Neighborhood Improvement Fund (NIF) Grant)

Places and Spaces Program (previously Neighborhood Improvement Fund (NIF) Grant)

Status: ACTIVE
Funder: City of Hampton
Amount: Up to US $150,000
Last Updated: January 23, 2026

Summary

The Places and Spaces Program aims to enhance neighborhoods in Hampton by funding collaborative projects that improve public spaces. Eligible organizations can apply for grants up to $150,000 for projects like entryway improvements and community enhancements. Emphasis is placed on inclusivity and strategic planning to ensure that projects reflect community priorities. Applications must be submitted 30 days prior to the grant application deadline, ensuring adequate preparation and community involvement.

Overview

NOTE:  An Intent to Apply form should be submitted 30 days prior to the submission of the neighborhood grant application. Places and Spaces Program The purpose of the Places and Spaces Program (PSG) is to support the work of neighborhood groups to implement collaborative efforts to improve the quality of life in their neighborhoods. Funds are reserved for strategic neighborhood priorities as identified through an inclusive neighborhood planning process. Projects PSG funds are available to support collaborative projects that involve physical improvements on public property. Funds are reserved for strategic neighborhood priorities as identified through an inclusive planning process. Grant funds cannot be used for routine maintenance and upkeep of facilities. However, improvements and upgrades to existing facilities are eligible. Projects will be assessed to ensure that they: Are consistent with the goals and principles of the Hampton Neighborhood Initiative;Benefit an entire neighborhood or community located in the City; andRepresent one of the neighborhood’s highest priorities as identified through an inclusive planning process. Examples of eligible projects include: Neighborhood Entryway Improvements – Projects that provide a clear sense of place and community pride such as beautification projects, decorative signage, landscaping, lighting, etc.Safety and Prevention – Projects that enhance the sense of safety of residents such as street lighting improvements, traffic calming measures, crosswalk improvements, etc.Community Enhancements – Projects that improve aesthetic quality and increase opportunities for community building, i.e., neighborhood parks, playgrounds, walking/biking trails, community gardens, etc.Recreational, Educational & Cultural Initiatives – Projects may include outdoor or recreational improvements, school park improvements or public art projects.Beautifications, Minor Neighborhood Improvement – Projects that quickly and easily improve the physical appearance of the neighborhood from landscaping, banners, signage, plantings, seating areas, and park enhancements. Funding Neighborhood Organizations may apply for a maximum of $150,000 in grant funds.

Eligibility

You can learn more about this opportunity by visiting the funder's website. Eligible applicants are registered neighborhood organizations located in or serving neighborhoods within the City and who have submitted an Intent to Apply form.Examples of eligible organizations include: neighborhood watch, neighborhood associations, block groups, homeowners’ association, PTA’s, Neighborhood Watch Associations, civic leagues, etc.Organizations may only have one active individual grant project approved and open at any time. The only exception to the project limit is when an organization is involved in a collaborative project. An organization may have one individual project and one collaborative project approved and open at a time.Organizations participating in collaborative projects may apply for a separate grant that is of a collaborative nature. Collaborative projects involve more than one neighborhood organization and must address common priorities between both organizations. Project leaders of both organizations must be identified in the application. The maximum amount for a collaborative project is $100,000 total and must follow all practices and procedures of the Neighborhood Resources Committee and the Neighborhood Commission.Pre-Approval Funding: While project planning and inquiry may and should take place before the project is approved, any purchases, site-work, or project implementation cannot be funded until after the project is approved by the required bodies including the Neighborhood Resources Committee, the Executive Committee, and/or the Neighborhood Commission. Any costs incurred prior to approval cannot be funded by grant funds. These costs are a responsibility of the organization or authorized individual.