Neighborhood Grants Program
Neighborhood Grants Program supports resident- and community-led groups in Monterey County, funding local projects that address unmet needs, build leadership, and improve neighborhood quality of life.
Funder: Community Foundation for Monterey County
Due Dates: Rolling (until all funds are awarded)
Funding Amounts: $3,000–$5,000 for 12 months; $35,000 available in 2026
Summary: Supports resident- and community-led projects that address unmet needs and improve neighborhood life in Monterey County.
Key Information: Groups must include at least five unrelated volunteers; academic research is not funded.
Description
The Neighborhood Grants Program provides financial and technical support through the Community Foundation for Monterey County to grassroots, resident- and community-led groups. It supports projects or series of activities that bring residents together to identify community issues, implement solutions, and improve quality of life in the neighborhoods where members live. Grants are generally awarded to informal groups without 501(c)(3) nonprofit status.
Supported work includes community clean-ups, neighborhood advocacy, free arts experiences in under-resourced communities, resident leadership development, and support groups addressing transportation or language barriers. The program emphasizes unmet needs, shared decision-making, leadership development, and positive community impact. Priority goes to groups serving residents with the greatest needs and fewest opportunities, and to activities spanning several months rather than one-day events.
