Whether you're hyped about sharing your neighborhood or banding together to build something better, KCMO has given community members another way to improve their corner of the city: the Neighborhood Empowerment Grant.

What is it?

The program offers funding to Kansas City, Missouri neighborhood groups for projects geared towards quality of life improvements. If it falls under repairs, upgrades, safety, or beautification, it's probably eligible.

Since the program's launch in 2023, the Neighborhood Services Department has awarded funding in multiple cycles. Earlier this year, 23 organizations across Kansas City were awarded $455,000 in funding as part of the initiative's Midyear Neighborhood Empowerment Grant Cycle.

Who can take part?

Not-for-profit neighborhood groups registered with Kansas City + the State of Missouri.

"But I'm part of a neighborhood council, does that count?" As long as the group is registered with the proper entities, any manner of homeowners association, community association, and community council is eligible for up to $20,000.

What's next?

The Neighborhood Empowerment Grant program will continue to fund organizations that hope to improve the city. Projects can focus on areas like community engagement, public safety, enhancing neighborhood identity, and beautification efforts.

Organizations hoping to receive funding should get ready to apply. Applications for the 2025-2026 Annual Grant Cycle will open next Monday, March 17.

Which groups were funded?

In the past, "neighborhood Improvement" and "safety" have been popular categories, but they're not the only ones. The Historic West Bottoms Association previously received a $20,000 grant earmarked for "trees."

"We're working to eliminate blight, areas that are prone to dumping or other things not favorable to property owners, residents, and businesses." Tom Esselman, President of the Historic West Bottoms Association, told KCtoday.

As the brick-laden landscape evolves from its industrial origins, the neighborhood's status as an urban oasis hinges on a return to nature.

What exactly does that mean for the West Bottoms? A serious green space makeover around 9th and Mulberry, particularly the park near Forester Viaduct + the walking path by public sculpture Confluence.