“Projects that benefit the community, that bring neighbors together, neighbors helping neighbors.”
Suzette Long is liaison for the city of Grand Rapids’ Neighborhood Match Fund, or NMF, which is currently accepting proposals for projects taking place between September 2024 and February 2025.
“Submissions are gathered, and we have a community group of members that form our advisory team along with city staff that review all the applications and then they determine the amount that is awarded.”
The NMF awards anywhere from $500 to $5,000 to residents or non-profit groups who submit project ideas that are community-focused, inclusive, and promote a deeper sense of belonging among neighbors. The recipient of the award must then contribute an equal amount to the project.
“It can be accomplished through cash donations and also volunteer hours and each hour working on the project totals $31.80.”
The NMF program has awarded over $850,000 to 260 community-led projects since its inception in 2017, contributing murals, cultural celebrations, and minority-based lending libraries to neighborhoods throughout Grand Rapids.
Residents can apply and learn more about the process on the city of Grand Rapids’ website. Applications for this round are due by June 30th.
