Neighborhood Matching Fund announces 2015 funding opportunities

Seattle Department of Neighborhoods’ popular Neighborhood Matching Fund (NMF) has announced its funding opportunities for 2015.

All three of its funds (Small Sparks, Small and Simple Projects Fund, and the Large Projects Fund) support the efforts of community members as they work on projects to build stronger neighborhoods and communities.

Since the program started 27 years ago, over 5000 projects have been launched across the city with funding support.

The Small Sparks Fund which provides awards of up to $1,000 per project accepts applications year-round. This funding opportunity is perfect for small community projects including events such as Neighbor Appreciation Day, Night Out, Earth Day, and others.

The Small and Simple Projects Fund provides awards of up to $25,000 and community groups have three opportunities to apply. Deadlines for applications are February 2, June 1, and October 5, 2015 by 5 p.m.

For locals interested in applying in February, NMF staff are hosting workshops about the guidelines and application process. The closest workshop to our neighborhood is being held on Wednesday, January 14, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Phinney Neighborhood Center (6532 Phinney Ave N – Room 3).

To RSVP call (206) 733-9916 or register online. Childcare and interpreters can be arranged for workshop participants who RSVP and request these services at least 72 hours in advance. Additional workshops will be offered prior to each Small and Simple Projects Fund application deadline.

The Large Projects Fund (LPF) awards up to $100,000 per project and is open to applications once a year. This year’s deadline is May 4, 2015 by 5 p.m. It is mandatory for interested community groups to attend one of the six LPF workshops offered before applying.

The closest workshop to our neighborhood is being held on Tuesday, February 10, from 6 p.m. – 8 p.m. at the Northgate Community Center (10510 5th Ave NE – Multipurpose Room).

Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact a Neighborhood Matching Fund Project Manager for application tips before applying at (206) 233-0093 or NMFund@seattle.gov.

Click here to learn more about the Neighborhood Matching Fund and to download the application forms.