The City of Concord, North Carolina administers the Neighborhood Matching Grant (NMG) Program to support self-improvement initiatives led by recognized neighborhood organizations. The program is designed to enhance neighborhoods through community-led projects that align with city guidelines and priorities. The Concord City Council allocates $30,000 annually for this initiative, with the fiscal year running from July 1 to June 30. Grants are awarded on a competitive basis and can be as much as $3,000 per recognized neighborhood organization.

Eligibility for the grant is limited to neighborhood organizations that are formally recognized by the City of Concord and have maintained that status for at least one year. Organizations that are inactive or have “dormant” status are not eligible until they reactivate according to city criteria. Past recipients that did not successfully complete previously funded projects are also ineligible for new awards. Individuals or unrecognized groups are not permitted to apply.

The types of projects that may be funded are flexible but must benefit the neighborhood as a whole and fit within one of four general categories: Physical Improvement Projects, Neighborhood Identity Projects, Community Building Events, or Public Safety. Past funded projects have included playground upgrades, walking trails, beautification efforts, lighting improvements, and traffic calming measures. All projects must comply with city regulations and be completed within twelve months of the award.

Neighborhood contributions are a key component of the program. The value of the contribution—whether monetary, volunteer labor, or donated materials—must be equal to or greater than the amount requested from the grant. Projects must take place within the neighborhood boundaries, on public property, or on common property owned by the neighborhood organization. Additionally, projects involving public rights-of-way require an encroachment agreement and relevant documentation.

Applications for the Fiscal Year 2025-2026 cycle are currently open. Interested applicants can download the Neighborhood Matching Grant Application from the city’s website. Questions and comments can be directed to the city's contact line at 704-920-5298. The most recent round of awards was made on July 9, 2024, when the City Council distributed the full $30,000 allocation to 13 recognized neighborhood organizations for projects ranging from recreational enhancements to landscaping improvements.