The Neighborhood Matching Grants (NMG) Program supports resident-led efforts to improve and strengthen Charlotte’s neighborhoods. Since 1992, the City of Charlotte has provided matching funds to eligible neighborhood-based organizations to help bring community-driven ideas to life. The program focuses on building capacity, encouraging active resident participation, and supporting projects that deliver visible and lasting impact.
The primary goals of the NMG Program are:
- Support resident-led solutions that empower neighborhoods to identify and implement projects based on their priorities and needs.
- Strengthen capacity and improve access to resources that support sustainable initiatives and create lasting impact.
- Encourage engagement by supporting opportunities for residents to connect, contribute, and feel a sense of belonging in their community.
- Create opportunities for partnership and collaboration among residents, community organizations, and the City of Charlotte.
Together, these goals show the City of Charlotte’s commitment to helping neighborhoods make lasting improvements that align with it’s vision for safe, inclusive, and thriving communities.
Neighborhood-based organizations within the program's eligible geography are encouraged to apply.
Eligible organizations include:
- Neighborhood Associations
- Homeowners Associations
- Neighborhood Coalitions
- Neighborhood & Business Associations
- Resident Organizations in Rental Communities
- Community Development Corporations (CDCs)
Organizations must be located within the designated eligible program geography and meet all eligibility criteria outlined in the guidelines.
The eligible geography is based on the Neighborhood Profile Area (NPA) median assessed property value*.
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Geography Area I:
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- Median assessed property value up to $$310,200
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Geography Area II:
- Median assessed property value between $310,201 to $536,150
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Neighborhood Associations, HOAs, and Resident Orgs in Rental Communities
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- Can apply for up to $25,000 per application
- No maximum per calendar year
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Neighborhood Coalitions and CDCs
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- Can apply for up to $25,000 per application
- $25,000 maximum per calendar year
Eligibility changes resulting from the 2023 Mecklenburg County Property Revaluation became effective as of the September 2025 grant cycle.
Note: Applications from organizations in Geography Area 1 will receive additional points during scoring due to the higher level of demonstrated need in that area.
- Determine your eligibility for the program.
- Attend a pre-application workshop.
- Review the NMG Program Guidelines
- Fill out your application using the online grant application*
*Organizations unable to complete the online application can call 704-336-4594 for assistance.
Documents you will need to complete your application:
- NMG Contribution Template
- NMG Budget Template
- Volunteer Pledge Sheet
- Volunteer Sign-In Sheet
- Volunteer Hours Tracking Sheet (No Physical Signatures)
All documents are available within the grant application. Samples may be viewed in the program guidelines.
Key Dates
Pre-Application Workshops:
There are no workshops scheduled at this time.
Deadlines:
The next funding cycle opens mid-2026
What is the Neighborhood Matching Grant?
The NMG Program provides matching funds to eligible neighborhood-based organizations in Charlotte for resident-led projects that build capacity, strengthen community connections, and improve neighborhood identity, safety, or appearance.
Who can apply?
Eligible applicants include neighborhood-based organizations located within the designated eligible geography. See the [Grant Guidelines] for more detail.
How much funding can we request?
Applicants may request up to $25,000 per project.
Is a match required?
Yes. Applicants must provide a 1:1 match. This means for every dollar awarded, the neighborhood must contribute an equal value.
What is a match and how does it work?
Neighborhoods must match the funds they request on a 1:1 basis.
- The first 50% of the match must come from volunteer hours contributed by residents.
- The remaining 50% can be any combination of volunteer labor, in-kind donations, or cash.
How often are applications reviewed?
Applications are reviewed twice a year—in March and September.
When can we start our project?
Projects should not begin until the organization has been notified of award and the contract agreement has been signed.
How long do we have to complete the project?
All projects must be completed within 12 months of the contract date.
Are there restrictions on what the grant can be used for?
Yes. Certain expenses are not eligible for funding. Please refer to the NMG Program Guidelines for a full list of ineligible items and project types.
Can we apply for multiple projects?
A neighborhood organization may not have more than one open Neighborhood Matching Grant at a time. You may apply for a future cycle once your current grant has been successfully closed. Additionally, some organization types may have limits on how often they can apply each year. See the NMG Program Guidelines for more information.