Neighborhood Vibe Grant

Audible is excited to announce a grant program to help beautify our neighborhood and celebrate Newark’s vibrant community. All homeowners, residents, artists and organizations can apply for up to $5,000 in grants for streetscape improvements, vacant lot revitalization and community space activations within our neighborhood.

Who Can Apply?

Any resident, group or organization is eligible to apply. See below examples:

  • Any resident or community-led group working on a physical neighborhood improvement project that will directly benefit their community.

  • Advocacy groups focusing on neighborhood improvements such as restoration and beautification efforts, public gardens, etc.

  • Artists or arts organizations creating experiences or art installations.

What Can It Fund?

The awarded funds can be used in the following ways:

  • Professional services: The grant can be used to pay for professional services that are directly related to the implementation of the project, such as licensed contractors, landscape designers, craftsmen and artists.

  • Materials & supplies: The grant can be used to purchase or rent tools, equipment, and materials directly related to the implementation of the project. Examples include plants, paint, mulch, lumber, garden supplies, planters, trash receptacles, benches, and purchase or rental of tools and equipment.

Project Categories

Proposed projects must fall under one of the categories below:

  • Streetscape Improvements: Community or residential beautification or repairs that face the street, which include landscaping, minor home repairs, art installments, pedestrian spaces, lighting improvements, and public safety.

  • Vacant Lot & Community Space Revitalization: Projects can include repairs or modifications to community grounds such as playgrounds, schools, public art installations, community gardens, and public areas and recreational spaces (such as planting trees, landscaping, or installing community signage).

Please email newarksquared@audible.com about your project’s eligibility and ask any questions before you submit your final proposal. We want proposals that are strong and successful.

More Details

  • Audible will review each proposed project and send a letter of approval or denial to each applicant. Someone may reach out to the applicant if any additional information is needed or to make project recommendations.

    All proposals must be submitted via this online form ONLY. Include a current picture(s) of the proposed project location. Please keep the following guidelines in mind:

    • Projects should be clear, detailed and logical.

    • Projects should be able to be completed within the grant established timeline.

    • Projects should promote neighborhood improvement and beautification.

    • Project ideas should have confirmed support from the owner of the location.

    • Priority will be given to applicants who apply jointly with other neighbors, community partners, local businesses, or educational institutions and/or provide maximum impact for their neighborhood. -

    • Only one grant application is allowed per person or organization.

  • Grant funds may only be used for the implementation of visual and physical neighborhood improvement projects. Awarded funds CANNOT be used to pay for:

    • Time spent managing the project

    • Miscellaneous items such as clothing, books, and entertainment

    • Administrative salaries or an organization’s operational expenses

    • Trainees or other training costs

    • Advertisements

    • Reimbursements for purchases prior to award notification

    • Donations or funding, instead of physical improvements

    • Projects intended to advance a religious purpose. Projects must serve the secular purposes of neighborhood revitalization.

    • Initial planning and/or concept design. However, construction drawings are considered part of the implementation process.

    • Social services, training, award ceremonies, or parties

  • Audible will contact grantees to monitor project progress, and all grantees must be responsive to calls and/or emails. After the completion of the project, each recipient must submit a final report via an online form.

    • Grants awarded are up to $5,000.

    • Funds will be released upon contract signing. If approval is required by the Landmark & Historic Preservation Commission, funds will be released upon approval.

    • Projects must be completed by October 1, 2024.

    • Proof of permission to use public land is required if the proposed project is located on public land, including a right-of-way. Permission from the property owner or proof of personal ownership is required if the proposed project is located on private land.

    • Exterior changes may require approval by the Landmark & Historic Preservation Commission.

    • Grant funds may be used only for items included in the application.

    • Final Report due within 30 days of project completion with original receipts, updated budget, and photos of the completed project.

    • Application Due Date: June 1, 2024

    • Winners Announced: June 30, 2024

    • Projects completed by: October 1, 2024

    • Reports due: 30 days after completion