Love My Hood Matching Grant

Overview of the Love My Hood Matching Grant program:

The Neighbourhood Matching Grant, part of the City of Kitchener’s Love My Hood initiative, is a community funding program designed to empower residents to take the lead in making their neighbourhoods better places to live. The grant provides matching funds for resident-led projects that aim to build stronger community connections, improve public spaces, and foster inclusive, vibrant, and livable neighbourhoods. Residents, neighbourhood groups, and community organizations can apply for funding to support a wide variety of initiatives—from community gardens, art installations, and placemaking to event spaces, public amenities, and beautification efforts. Projects must be inclusive, welcoming, and open to the public, and they should respond to the unique character and needs of the local neighbourhood. What makes this grant unique is the matching requirement: applicants must match the value of the grant through a combination of volunteer time, donated materials, services, or additional funds. The grant is flexible, resident-driven, and focused on grassroots involvement. The City of Kitchener offers support throughout the process, including project planning, permitting assistance, and implementation guidance. This grant plays a key role in helping residents bring creative ideas to life, encouraging collaboration and civic engagement at the local level. Applications are accepted year-round, and projects must be completed within a 12-month window following approval.

Benefits of the Love My Hood Matching Grant program:

• Access up to $30,000 in matching funds for neighbourhood-based projects
• Encourages community-led design and decision-making
• Projects can include:
• Community art
• Gardens and green spaces
• Seating areas, kiosks, community boards
• Local celebrations or public events (with a placemaking purpose)
• Accessibility upgrades and beautification
• Builds stronger, safer, and more connected neighbourhoods
• Offers access to City staff support for permits, planning, and implementation
• Supports diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability
• Empowers residents to have a direct impact on their local surroundings

Eligibility criteria of the Love My Hood Matching Grant program:

• To be eligible for the Neighbourhood Matching Grant, applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Location: Project must take place in the City of Kitchener
• Eligible Applicants:
• Residents
• Neighbourhood associations
• Informal community groups
• Local non-profits working on neighbourhood projects
• Project Requirements:
• Must be resident-led and community-driven
• Must be free and open to the public
• Must match City funds with equal value contributions (volunteer time, materials, or additional funds)
• Project must be completed within 12 months of funding approval
• Must meet City safety and permitting standards
• Ineligible Projects:
• Initiatives led solely by businesses or external organizations
• Private or commercial benefit projects
• Projects that exclude participation or do not benefit the broader community