2024 Applications
Applications are open on June 10, 2024 and are due July 12, 2024 at 5:00 p.m. There will be no exceptions.
Innovation Grants for Neighborhood Information, Transformation, and Enhancement!
The goal of the Neighborhood IGNITE Grant Program is to improve South Bend Neighborhoods through innovative projects that spark community engagement and development and are led by neighborhood residents!
Welcome to the City of South Bend IGNITE Grant! South Bend is proud of its historic and vibrant neighborhoods and the connections that they offer for residents. To support that vibrancy and connection, the City of South Bend’s Deparment of Community Investments and Engagement and Economic Empowerment(E3) Team is offering grants of up to a minimum of $5,000 to a maximum of $15,000 to neighborhood associations to create and expand ways for neighborhoods to engage, connect, and grow. The funds provide for small neighborhood-based projects with community-wide benefits.
Key 2024 Dates
Department of Community Investment
| June 10 | 2024 Applications Are Open |
| June 17 – July 19 | One-on-One Meetings Scheduled with IGNITE Project Manager |
| July 12 | Grant Applications Are Due by 5:00 P.M. |
| November | 2024 Awards Announced |
Who Can Apply?
The program is administered by the City of South Bend’s Engagement and Economic Empowerment (EEE) team. The grant program is exclusively for neighborhood associations and the residents within the neighborhood. A neighborhood association must identify neighborhood boundaries. Then develop a committee of at least 5 neighborhood residents (with contact information).
Where can I host a project?
The project must be carried out within the declared boundaries of the neighborhood. Applicants are welcome and encouraged to partner with local organizations and businesses but the project itself must be for the residents of the applying neighborhood association and provide a clear community benefit.
Application
How Does the Funding Work?
As these grants offer funding up to $15,000, the applying neighborhood must have a tax identification number and a bank account, which requires that the association is at least recognized as a nonprofit by the State of Indiana. Organizations do not have to have 501c3 certification. Depending on the project, the city may pay vendors or suppliers directly.
Why is this being offered?
South Bend has a rich and proud history of neighborhoods. Investments in our neighborhoods and neighborhood associations are one of the best ways to facilitate community connection and provide the opportunity for residents to organize and advocate for themselves. The COVID-19 pandemic has made especially clear the importance of local action and we want to do everything we can to make South Bend neighborhoods places for every resident to live, grow, and thrive.
For more information, email eee@southbendin.gov
We Awarded Grants to 9 Neighborhoods in 2023!
LaSalle Park Neighborhood Association
Development of a neighborhood tool trailer and lending program for residents
Miami Village Neighborhood Association
Randolph Park beautification
Near Northwest Neighborhood
Pocket Park Improvements
Near West Side Neighborhood Association
Installation of permanent signage identifying and welcoming residents and visitors to the neighborhood
Northeast Neighborhood Council
Installation of fence/mural signage identifying and welcoming residents and visitors to the neighborhood
River Park Neighborhood Association
Installation of Pole Banner Signs and Meeting Yard Signs
Southeast Organized Area Residents
Installation of permanent signage identifying and welcoming residents and visitors to the neighborhood
Twyckenham Hills Neighborhood Association
Installation of permanent signage identifying and welcoming residents and visitors to the neighborhood
ENGAGEMENT AND ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT TEAM | Department of Community Investment | City of South Bend