Neighborhood Matching Grant Program
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What Can Your Neighborhood Do Next? Neighborhood Matching Grants are Open for Applications
Every year, neighbors across Olympia turn ideas into action with funds from the Neighborhood Matching Grant (NMG) Program. The funds have been used for neighborhood clean-ups, safer pathways, shared gardens, gatherings that bring people together, and more!
The NMG Program supports community-led projects that strengthen neighborhoods and build connections. Through reimbursement-based grants that are matched with volunteer time, donated materials, and neighborhood contributions, the program gives community members the chance to shape the neighborhoods they live in.
What's new in 2026
This year, the City has expanded grant eligibility to include opportunities for informal neighborhood groups to access NMG funds. The purpose of the expansion is intended to support emerging neighborhood associations by removing barriers and providing access to resources for small quick-win projects that align with program goals, or for activities that help the group prepare to operate as a Recognized Neighborhood Association (RNA).
In addition to the eligibility changes, this grant cycle offers two funding timelines to better fit a wider variety of project types as well as an expanded list of program goals and potential project types to reflect the needs and interests of neighborhoods and community members. Click here to see the full program overview for this year
How funding works
The total program budget for 2026 is $33,000. RNAs may request between $500 and $5,000 for one or more projects. Informal neighborhood groups may request up to $600 for one project and must have a sponsoring RNA. All projects require a one-to-one match, which means that for every NMG dollar received, there must be an equal contribution from the applicant that can be met through volunteer hours, donated materials, cash donations, or a mix of all three. An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is required as part of the application process and there are resources to learn more about this below.
Thinking about organizing with your neighbors?
Informal neighborhood groups are a great fit for small, quick-win projects-like a first community gathering, a cleanup, community plantings, or a small improvement to a common space. Funding can also support early steps toward forming a future neighborhood association, such as outreach, communication tools, or meeting materials.
Informal groups must include at least four neighbors connected by a defined geographic area within Olympia or the Urban Growth Area and must not be within the boundaries of an existing RNA. Projects must be manageable by volunteers and able to be completed before December 15th 2026.
If you and a few neighbors have an idea for a project to benefit your neighborhood, take a look at the Program Description to learn more about eligibility requirements to see if this is the right opportunity for you.
Important dates and resources
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Applications are open through March 9, 2026 (11:59 p.m.)
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An informational meeting was held on Monday, February 2, 2026 on Zoom and the slides are available on the City's grant webpage.
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An informal workshop on obtaining an EIN will take place in person and online. The event is not meant to provide tax advice or financial recommendations.
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Tuesday, February 17th at noon
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In Person: Olympia City Hall, Room 207
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Online: Zoom (register)
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Contact
Brittany Gillia, Associate Planner
Community Planning & Economic Development
360.753.8427
[email protected]
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