Bloomington, Indiana – The City of Bloomington has officially launched the 2025 Sustainable Neighborhoods Grant, a community-focused initiative aimed at helping residents turn their climate-conscious ideas into tangible neighborhood improvements. This funding opportunity provides up to $1,000 per project for local teams looking to make small-scale but meaningful strides toward environmental sustainability.
The program, rooted in the city’s broader Climate Action Plan, encourages everyday residents to become environmental stewards in their own backyards. From community gardens to energy-saving upgrades, the grant helps fill the financial gap that often prevents good ideas from becoming reality.
“The City is here to support the community’s climate action ideas,” said Jolie Perry, Sustainability Program Coordinator. “Residents need the resources to do what is best for their neighborhood, and we provide this grant program to fill that need. We look forward to partnering with Bloomington residents on their grassroots efforts to address climate change.”
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To be eligible, a project team must consist of at least four Bloomington residents who live near the proposed project site. One team member must serve as the liaison between the team and the city. Local organizations may also partner with the team and apply on their behalf.
The City has identified a wide range of projects that align with its sustainability goals. Some of the possibilities include creating a rain garden to prevent stormwater runoff, planting native trees and pollinator gardens, or building a neighborhood composting station. Teams might also consider investing in electric lawn equipment, installing solar panels on shared buildings, or hosting educational workshops about energy efficiency, home weatherization, or green landscaping.
Although these are just suggestions, the program encourages creativity—as long as the proposal clearly supports sustainability and benefits a local neighborhood. Each application must include a detailed plan outlining the project goals, timeline, budget, and letters of commitment from everyone involved. To ensure accountability, the city requires that each project be completed within one year, followed by a brief report on outcomes.
What makes the grant especially appealing is its accessibility. Neighborhood teams do not have to belong to a formal neighborhood association or live in a designated neighborhood zone. However, applicants must show that their project serves a local community and that the people working on it live nearby.
Funding is available on a rolling basis, which means projects can be submitted anytime until the $10,000 annual budget is fully distributed. This gives residents ample opportunity to apply, but it also adds some urgency for those hoping to secure funding.
The grant represents a growing trend in cities across the U.S. to involve everyday people in the fight against climate change. Rather than large-scale government projects, programs like this one empower citizens to make visible, practical changes right where they live.
Full program guidelines and the application can be found on the city’s sustainability website at bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/neighborhood-grants.
Whether it’s a composting bin on the corner, a new tree canopy on a sunny block, or a gathering of neighbors learning how to green their homes, the City of Bloomington is betting on small changes that add up to a big difference.
