Apply for a Community Empowerment Matching Grant

The Community Empowerment Matching Grant Program helps neighbors work together to accomplish common goals that support the overall health, vitality, and inclusivity of the place they call home. The City of Rockville offers these grants to neighbors and organizations willing to match funding through cash, in-kind donations, or volunteer hours.

This is a competitive grant program, and applications are reviewed and awarded by the Housing and Community Development Department. Grants typically range from $500 to $1,000 and benefit those who live within Rockville city limits.

After the project is completed, grant recipients must submit a summary of project outcomes, receipts showing proper use of funding, and at least two visual items (such as photos or printed materials) to illustrate the project.

Timeline

Objectives

The Community Empowerment Matching Grant Program has three primary objectives. Grant applications may address any or all of the objectives, and no single objective is prioritized over the others for funding. The objectives are:

• Building community: Funds may be used for programs or projects that promote the development or sustainability of a neighborhood association or community group. They may also support activities that promote inclusion and diversity within the Rockville community. For example, a neighborhood could host a Heritage Celebration Day to highlight the diverse cultures of its residents.
• Community improvement projects: Funds may be used to enhance shared spaces within a neighborhood or to strengthen community identity. Bonus points will be awarded if two or more neighborhoods or community groups collaborate on a project.
• Livability initiatives: Funds may be used for education and outreach efforts that strengthen social connections within a neighborhood or between multiple neighborhoods or community groups. Eligible initiatives include increasing safety, addressing neighborhood challenges or conflicts, serving low-income residents, or welcoming newcomers to Rockville.

Eligibility

Successful grant recipients must designate one individual to manage the grant contracts and funds. Each group must have at least three members. If applying on behalf of an established organization, such as a homeowners association, civic association, or other community group, applicants must provide documentation of authorization. All funds provided through this grant are subject to taxes. Examples of eligible groups include:

• Neighborhood, civic, or homeowners associations
• Community groups
• Groups of neighbors
• Student groups

How to Apply