Application handbook
You are strongly encouraged to review the handbook before getting started. It describes eligibility, grant requirements, the application review process and previews the application questions.
Ready to apply?
Start your online application. You will be prompted to create an account if you are new to ZoomGrants. Find important tips for working in ZoomGrants in the application handbook.
Apply now
Important dates for 2022 grant cycle
Aug. 6: Applications open
Oct. 1 at noon: Applications due
Early January: Awards announced
Early March: Funds available, grant-funded activities can begin
June 30, 2023: Grant-funded activities should conclude
Funding available
Up to $193,000 will be awarded in grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 for the 2022 cycle. No matching funds are required.
Elements of a strong proposal
Community Placemaking grants support arts and culture based, community-driven, equity-centered efforts that strengthen people’s connections to each other and places they care about. Strong proposals are grounded in racial equity and address a critical community challenge or opportunity. The Community Placemaking program has four objectives.
- Placemaking: People’s connections to each other and to places they care about are strengthened.
- Equity: People of color and members of historically marginalized communities have power and resources to influence their neighborhoods and communities.
- Partnerships: People’s efforts are maximized because they work in partnership with each other and with Metro.
- Leadership: People participate in projects and decisions that affect them.
Application assistance
Applicants are encouraged to contact the grant manager to discuss your idea. Staff is available to help you make your application as strong as possible. Contact information appears at the bottom of this page. Attend an online information session where the grant manager will walk through the application handbook and answer your questions. These sessions will be recorded and posted here if you are unable to attend.
Who can apply?
Note: All grant-funded activities must take place wtihin Metro's urban growth boundary.
- Community-based organizations with nonprofit status.
- Community groups or individuals without nonprofit status must partner with a fiscal sponsor, such as a 501(c) nonprofit or a public agency.
- Public agencies must have community partners involved in the implementation of the project and a plan to involve the broader public.
- If you are a past recipient of a Community Placemaking grant and your project was an event (spanning a single or multiple days), you may not reapply the year following your award.