Improvement of Public Spaces
This grant funds projects to improve existing public spaces in Philadelphia through community-driven enhancements, programming, and advocacy, with a focus on neighborhoods with histories of disinvestment.
Funder: William Penn Foundation
Due Dates: August 1, 2024 (Full proposal submission, due by 5:00 PM EST)
Funding Amounts: $4.5 million total available; no minimum or maximum per project; typical project duration 1–3 years.
Summary: Supports projects that improve the quality, accessibility, and community value of existing public spaces in Philadelphia.
Key Information: At least one third of funds reserved for organizations with budgets under $1M/year and/or led by individuals from historically excluded groups.
Description
This grant opportunity, offered by the William Penn Foundation under its Environment and Public Space program, aims to improve at least 100 existing public spaces in Philadelphia by 2035. The focus is on enhancing spaces that support recreation, refuge, and social interaction—such as parks, urban gardens, recreation centers, libraries, and community centers—especially in neighborhoods with histories of disinvestment. Eligible projects may include physical upgrades, improved signage, enhanced programming, community activation, and advocacy efforts to ensure sustainable, community-driven care and use of public spaces. Proposals are encouraged from organizations with creative, collaborative, and community-engaged approaches.
