The City of Bloomington will help residents lead grassroots climate action in their own neighborhoods. Applications are now open for the 2025 Sustainable Neighborhoods Grant, with up to $1,000 available per project on a rolling basis.
The grant supports small-scale initiatives that align with Bloomington's Climate Action Plan, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 25% below 2018 levels by 2030 and to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. Eligible projects range from compost bins and rain gardens to solar installations and community recycling programs.
“We know there are residents out there with great ideas to improve sustainability in their own neighborhoods,” said Jolie Perry, sustainability program coordinator for the city. “This grant gives them the financial support they need to bring those ideas to life.”
Previously administered by the Bloomington Commission on Sustainability, the program is now managed by the Department of Economic and Sustainable Development. That shift allows commission members to focus on helping residents with the application process, offering guidance for first-time applicants.
Last year, one project in the Covenanter neighborhood introduced a TerraCycle recycling station for hard-to-recycle materials. The program saw strong participation and earned a second round of funding to continue.
Applicants must form a team of at least four Bloomington residents who live near—and will benefit from—the project. While a formal neighborhood association isn’t required, applicants must demonstrate they live in the vicinity and have a stake in the outcome.
The city encourages residents to reach out early for support. The sustainability team can help clarify technical requirements, and the Commission is available to provide feedback on proposals.
“If you’ve never submitted an application for a grant before, that might seem a little daunting or complicated,” Perry said. “But the best advice is to just be detailed and not leave anything out.”
Applications are open now and will be accepted until the $10,000 budget is allocated—likely by Dec. 1.
More information and the application form can be found at: bloomington.in.gov/sustainability/neighborhood-grants
