MDA Microgrant Program
Our 2025 microgrant funding cycle is now open!
So many of us go months or even years without knowing our immediate neighbors on the block. The goal of our microgrant program is to bring folks together, providing an opportunity for neighbors to make meaningful connections and foster a sense of community, block by block.
Grant recipients may use the funds for a variety of activities that benefit their block. Get creative and plan an event that will bring people together. Some ideas to get you thinking –– porch concerts, sprucing up tree wells, sidewalk chalk art contest, cookout…the possibilities are endless!
Grants will be funded on a reimbursement basis. In your application below, detail what expenditures you expect to incur. Following your event, you’ll provide corresponding receipts, and we’ll cut you a check!
Please note – grants will be awarded for events hosted by community individuals; they are not official MDA events. As such, the MDA will not provide liability insurance for your event.
Testimonials:
“We just had a wonderful afternoon with our neighbors, thanks to the microgrant. We met several neighbors, made valuable connections, and really enjoyed the jazz music! Everyone had a great time and appreciated the MDA for the opportunity to get together. Thank you! I hope you all will continue to put these grants out - it is a very effective way to build community in our neighborhood.”
“In preparation for the winter solstice and holiday season, residents from the 3100 & 3200 blocks of Floyd Avenue gathered to make natural wreaths and high fat bird treats. The first Sunday in December was unseasonably warm and allowed a couple dozen neighbors to gather outside, sharing not only greenery and berries from the area, but also laughter and conversation. There were homemade cookies and holiday punch for the humans and suet bells were made for birds from lard, natural peanut butter, nuts, dried fruit, and berries. Participants ranged in age from 10 to 87 years and everyone made a few new friends. The group agreed that this crafting get-together should be an annual event and plans have already been made for a larger space and more tables for next year!”