Neighborhood Matching Fund
Neighborhood Matching Fund supports Seattle community groups with funding for public art, events, neighborhood improvements, and education projects that strengthen community connections.
Funder: City of Seattle
Due Dates: March 10, 2026 (Community Partnership Fund Round One) | September 8, 2026 (Community Partnership Fund Round Two) | October 30, 2026 (Small Sparks final deadline)
Funding Amounts: Small Sparks: $500–$5,000, completed within six months; Community Partnership Fund: $5,001–$50,000, completed within one year
Summary: Supports community-led Seattle neighborhood projects that strengthen community connections through city funding and community contributions.
Key Information: Applicants must document community match equal to at least half their funding request.
Description
The Neighborhood Matching Fund is administered by the City of Seattle’s Department of Neighborhoods to support projects developed and carried out by community members. Established in 1988, it has funded more than 5,000 projects across Seattle. Its central principle is that partnerships between the city and community make neighborhoods stronger and more connected.
Supported work includes public art, community events, park and street improvements, playground improvements, and educational projects addressing topics such as emergency preparedness, cultural exchange, and social justice. Projects must provide public benefit and involve community members in planning and implementation. The program offers the Community Partnership Fund and Small Sparks Fund; Government 101 funding through Small Sparks supports community-led civic education and engagement with local government.
