Community organizations and small nonprofits across New York City can now apply for funding through the Spring 2026 CitizensNYC Grant Cycle, according to an announcement from New York State Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton.
The program, organized by CitizensNYC, provides micro-grants to local nonprofits, grassroots organizations, and neighborhood groups working to strengthen communities and support economic development throughout New York City. Organizations and applicants interested in similar programs can also get alerts for new funding opportunities to stay updated on upcoming grants, community funding, and economic support initiatives across the United States.
In a public announcement, Senator Scarcella-Spanton encouraged eligible groups to submit their applications before the July 27, 2026 deadline.
“Applications for the Spring 2026 grant cycle through CitizensNYC are now open,” the senator stated, noting that the funding aims to support community-led projects and local economic growth across the city.
What Grants Are Available?
The Spring 2026 cycle includes two major funding opportunities:
Community Leaders Grant
This grant is designed for local leaders, grassroots organizers, and neighborhood-based initiatives focused on community improvement projects.
Application portal: citizensnyc.org/clg/
Neighborhood Business Grant
This funding opportunity supports local business-focused initiatives and projects that promote economic activity and neighborhood revitalization.
Application portal: citizensnyc.org/nbg/
Who Can Apply?
Eligible applicants may include:
- Community nonprofits
- Neighborhood associations
- Grassroots organizations
- Civic groups
- Local development initiatives
- Community-based economic support programs
The grants are intended to help organizations launch or expand projects that create measurable impact in New York City neighborhoods.
Application Deadline
Organizations interested in applying must submit their applications no later than:
July 27, 2026
Applicants are encouraged to prepare supporting documents early and review eligibility requirements before submitting their proposals.
Contact Information
Groups with questions about the application process can contact Senator Scarcella-Spanton’s office directly:
- Email: spanton@nysenate.gov
- Phone: 718-727-9406 (Staten Island)
- Phone: 718-484-3216 (Brooklyn)
Why This Matters
Micro-grant programs like CitizensNYC grant play a major role in supporting hyper-local community development efforts that often struggle to secure large-scale funding. For many neighborhood organizations, these grants provide critical support for youth programs, public events, small business initiatives, beautification projects, and other community-driven efforts.
With applications now officially open, community groups across New York City have an opportunity to secure funding for projects aimed at improving local neighborhoods and strengthening economic opportunity in 2026.
Applications for the Spring 2026 grant cycle through @CitizensCommittee are now open! CitizensNYC awards micro-grants to local nonprofits and community groups to support economic development throughout NYC. Apply now through July 27, 2026! pic.twitter.com/aO2DBBMJjt
— Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton (@NYSenator_JSS) May 6, 2026
