Impact Partner Grant

The Impact Partner Grant is a City of Raleigh initiative designed to fuel economic opportunity through sustainable innovation. The Impact Partner Grant prioritizes new, innovative pilot projects that promote environmental resilience and community-based solutions that help shape a future-ready Raleigh.  

This year, we are focused on supporting non-profits who have big ideas for a more sustainable and prosperous Raleigh. Awardees receive $20,000 in grant funding and access to technical support, citywide visibility, and connections to local networks that accelerate impact.  

Together, we aim to build an economy that expands opportunity, encourages collaboration, and enhances environmental resilience.

Timeline for Current Application Cycle

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about the 2026 Impact Partner Grant.

When do applications open?

Applications opened on July 15, 2026. Apply here! All applications must be submitted through the online portal by 11:59 p.m. EST on September 10, 2026.

Who is eligible?

The eligibility requirements for the grant are:

• New Requirement for 2026: Applicant organizations must be 501(c)3 nonprofit entities.  
• Projects must support economic development by increasing employment, expanding business opportunities, and/or improving property conditions. 
• Projects must demonstrate an impact on environmental resilience. 
• The organization must be registered with the North Carolina Secretary of State. 
• The majority of project beneficiaries—the individuals or organizations the project is intended to support—must be based in Raleigh.
• Projects must be pilot initiatives, meaning they test new strategies the organization has not previously implemented or locations the organization has not previously served. These funds are not intended for general operations. 
• Impact Partner Grant winners may not win a grant two years in a row. 

How much funding will be awarded?

Each organization may request up to $20,000.

What are the selection criteria?

The ideal project proposal for the Impact Partner Grant demonstrates the following:  

• Fills a Gap or Need
  The program addresses a clear and pressing economic development and environmental need within Raleigh. It fills a critical void in the local sustainability ecosystem.  
• Outlines a Clear Program Plan
  The proposal describes a new initiative that goes beyond day-to-day operations, designed specifically to test and implement innovative strategies. It is guided by clear goals, measurable objectives, and a well-defined workplan that outlines key activities, timelines, and milestones to ensure effective implementation.  
• Leverages Partnerships  
  The success of the proposed program is supported by a strong network of partners, including both new and existing collaborations. These partners bring complementary skills, shared resources, and aligned missions that enhance the reach, impact, and sustainability of the program.  
• Organizational Capacity  
  The organization has the necessary capacity to carry out this program successfully, with dedicated staff, relevant expertise, and access to essential resources. The team is well-positioned to manage the program’s implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement.  

What are some examples of potential projects?

Read more about our current grantees and their projects.

What do I need to submit my proposal?

The application includes two steps:   

• Step 1: Eligibility Assessment – A short form to make sure you’re eligible for the grant. Please allow 2-3 business days for the eligibility assessment to be reviewed. 
• Step 2: Full Application – If approved in step 1, you will be invited to complete the full application.  

The full application will include:

• Written responses to the application questions via the submission form.
  Download the application questions (PDF). Please note, proposals must be submitted via the Neighborly platform to be accepted.  
• A detailed program budget. Proposals that do not include a budget will not be reviewed.
  Download a template budget (CSV). Please note, budgets must be submitted via the Neighborly platform to be accepted.