The City of Orlando is accepting applications to the Mayor’s Matching Grant program. Past funded projects have ranged from banners, entrance beautification, and science clubs, to puppet shows that teach kids bullying prevention.

Other projects have included movies in the park, wayfinding signage, and vegetable gardens.

There are two categories of grants offered through the program- grants for neighborhood organizations (neighborhood, resident owner, condominium and homeowner associations) and grants for schools and non-profit organizations. The organization’s match may come in the form of cash donations, volunteer labor (sweat equity), or in-kind goods or service donations toward the project.

Neighborhood projects must fall into one of three categories: physical improvements, public safety or educational and cultural initiatives with awards ranging from $500 to $5,000.

Awards for schools and non-profits (including religious institutions) range from $1,000 to $10,000 and must be used on a specific youth-oriented project or program that improves academic achievement, reduces youth crime and invests in the foundation of safe communities.

The Mayor’s Matching Grant Program accepts applications on a year-round basis.