Urban Revitalization Grants Program

The Duke Energy Foundation Urban Revitalization Grants program is a private philanthropic initiative designed to support community-focused redevelopment efforts within areas served by Duke Energy. The foundation operates as the charitable arm of Duke Energy, focusing on strategic investments that strengthen communities, promote economic vitality, and address structural challenges in underserved or transitioning areas. This specific grant program targets urban revitalization by addressing blight, vacancy, and economic stagnation in designated urban centers, including historic river communities, select Cincinnati neighborhoods, and first-ring suburbs. The primary purpose of the program is to stimulate economic growth and improve community conditions by supporting projects that remove urban blight and encourage business development. The program emphasizes initiatives that not only improve physical conditions but also catalyze broader economic activity, including job creation and retention. Projects are expected to serve as catalysts for additional commercial redevelopment, contributing to long-term sustainability and increased investment in the targeted areas. The program prioritizes efforts that enhance community vitality, strengthen local economies, and deter the decline of neighborhoods and commercial corridors. Funding is specifically directed toward predevelopment activities rather than capital construction. Allowable uses include professional services such as architectural design and engineering, environmental assessments, and consulting services like real estate market analysis and financial feasibility studies. These activities are intended to prepare projects for future development by reducing uncertainty and improving project readiness. However, the program explicitly excludes funding for construction, equipment purchases, general operating expenses, travel, and infrastructure projects such as streetscapes or utility installations, ensuring that funds remain focused on early-stage project development. Eligibility for the grant is limited to organizations that meet strict criteria. Applicants must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or governmental entities, including school systems. Organizations must serve communities within Duke Energy’s service territory and demonstrate a commitment to nondiscrimination. Additionally, applicants are required to have systems in place to measure and report program outcomes, ensuring accountability and measurable community impact. Certain entities are explicitly excluded, including for-profit organizations, individuals, private foundations, and organizations engaged in political or regulatory advocacy. The application process requires organizations to complete an online submission and upload additional required documentation, including responses to supplemental grant questions. Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact a designated Duke Energy Foundation representative prior to submission to discuss their proposal, indicating a semi-structured pre-application engagement step. The application deadline is July 31, and no rolling submissions are indicated. Supporting materials such as budget templates, sample applications, and funding guidelines are provided to assist applicants in preparing complete and competitive proposals. Evaluation of applications is based on alignment with program goals, including the potential to reduce blight, create or retain jobs, and stimulate further economic development. Projects must demonstrate clear community impact and feasibility, supported by appropriate planning and analysis. While specific award timelines are not provided, the structured deadline and annual nature of the program suggest a recurring funding cycle. The program does not specify award amounts or the number of grants, indicating a competitive process where funding levels may vary based on project scope and available resources.

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