Hastings Community Investment fund returns for 2023

The City of Hastings has replenished its Community Investment Fund in its second year of existence with another round of funding of $100,000 for 2023. 

The City created a Community Investment Fund to encourage and support community partnerships and community-driven projects. An initial round of funding of $100,000 was approved in 2022 and several project proposals received funding. A second round of funding of $100,000 was approved for 2023. 

Projects should be community-supported public amenities. Examples include, but are not limited to the following: 

• Streetscape beautification and walkability. 

• Enhancements to parks or athletic facilities. 

• Trails and non-motorized infrastructure. 

• Public art. 

• Improved access to public amenities. 

• Tourism amenities. 

• Historic preservation or commemoration. 

• Studies to investigate otherwise eligible projects.

A public meeting for interested applicants was held last year on January 24. 2022. View the Zoom meeting video for more information on the types of projects and application process. 

Applications will be accepted on an ongoing basis, with a first review of applications on March 31, 2023. After March 31, applications will be reviewed on a first-come basis to the extent funds remain available. 

There is not a maximum grant award; however, the City may limit grants in order to fund multiple project applications. Matching dollars are not required by the CIF program but will help demonstrate community support, as well as help the CIF funds go further to partner with multiple projects.