FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Joan M. Williams, Council Chief of Staff
Email: jwilliams@akronohio.gov
Phone: 330-375-2258
Akron City Council Launches 2025–2026
Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program
$150,000 Investment to Strengthen Akron’s Neighborhoods
Akron, Ohio – September 26, 2025 – Akron City Council is proud to announce the launch of the 2025–2026 Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program (NPGP), a community-focused initiative that will invest $150,000 directly into Akron neighborhoods. This program is designed to spark collaboration, support innovative community-based projects, and enhance the health and well-being of residents across the city.
“As Federal resources continue to decline, it is more important than ever that we support our neighborhoods. The Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program allows us to invest directly in residents’ ideas and empower them to shape solutions that make our communities stronger, healthier, and more connected.” – Council President Margo Sommerville
The NPGP provides funding for a wide range of projects, including—but not limited to—vacant lot cleanups, community gardens, youth literacy and art programs, and neighborhood safety initiatives. In 2024, City Council increased the total investment by $50,000, bringing the program budget to $150,000 annually. Each of Akron’s 10 wards will receive $15,000 in funding, with individual grant awards ranging from $3,000 to $15,000.
Grants will be awarded through a competitive process, based on project merit, applicant eligibility, and available funding. The official Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) and the online grant application will be available starting October 1, 2025 at https://bit.ly/2025-2026NPGP. Starting October 10th, applications must be submitted through the Submittable online platform; paper applications will not be available. Council staff are available to provide guidance and support for applicants navigating the online process at 330-375-2256.
Eligible applicants include nonprofits, Block Clubs/Associations, faith-based organizations, Community Development Corporations (CDCs), and other neighborhood-based organizations.
Program Timeline
- October 1, 2025 – Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) Issued
- October 10, 2025 – Application Submission Period Opens
- October 30, 2025 (Midnight) – Application Deadline
With this continued expanded investment, Akron City Council is reaffirming its strong commitment to residents, neighborhoods, and grassroots leadership. Through the Neighborhood Partnership Grant Program, residents have the opportunity to shape the future of their communities —one project at a time.
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