The City of Raleigh’s Design Review Commission created the Design Impact Grant (DIG) to help fund projects that improve public spaces and design quality in Raleigh.
Donor Name: City of Raleigh
State: North Carolina
City: Raleigh
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 03/06/2026
Size of the Grant: $1000 to $10,000
Grant Duration: 1 Year
Details:
These projects might include research, creative programs, or upgrades to buildings and outdoor areas.
Objectives
- Support catalytic projects that address the community’s unique needs and desires.
- Empower residents, business owners, and other stakeholders to shape the built environment and character of the city.
- Activate the public realm through innovative proposals and design applications.
- Spur future interest and investment in a particular place.
- Uplift underrepresented populations and communities.
Funding Information
The amount of money available each year can change, but past grants have been between $1,000 and $10,000.
Project Period
July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027
Eligible Expenditures
- Materials
- Contracted Labor
- Artist/Designer Fees
Evaluation Criteria
Successful applications will strive to address as many of these criteria as possible; however, not all requirements need to be addressed to be selected.
- Innovation and Design Quality
- The project elevates the quality of place and character of the city through exceptional design and other innovative practices.
- Community Impact
- The project addresses a specific need or deficiency in the community.
- The proposal improves overall well-being and social cohesion.
- Public Realm Activation
- The project encourages activity in a public space.
- Economic and Social Advancement
- The project uplifts historically disadvantaged populations and communities.
- Feasibility and Durability
- The grant, if/when combined with other dedicated financial resources, is sufficient to fulfill the project vision.
- The project makes a lasting impact on the community.
- There is a plan for long-term maintenance and programming.
For more information, visit City of Raleigh.
