17STRONG Nanogrants empower Hamilton students to turn their ideas into meaningful projects that bring people together and make a difference in our neighborhoods.
Youth Nanogrants · 2026–2027
What is a Nanogrant?
Nanogrants are a student-led community engagement experience. Students explore Hamilton’s neighborhoods, identify a need or opportunity, research possible solutions, build a realistic plan, and present their proposal to 17STRONG.
Selected projects receive funding, guidance, and community connections to help students turn their ideas into action.
Their ideas matter now.
The goal is not simply to purchase something. Students experience the full journey from an idea to a positive community impact.
Program timeline:
October 2026–May 2027
From Idea to Impact
Identify –> Imagine –> Research –> Plan –> Present –> Implement –> Celebrate!
Who Can Participate?
Nanogrants are available through participating schools in the City of Hamilton. Students develop the projects, while their school serves as the applicant and project partner.
What Students Learn
Participating schools should review the complete guidelines, including key requirements, eligible expenses, approvals, maintenance responsibilities, and general grant policies.
Research, budgeting, and teamwork
Creative problem-solving
Community engagement and responsibility
How ideas move from planning to action
What It Can Fund
Community events and activities
Service and neighborhood projects
Public-space improvements
Creative ideas that connect residents
What Is Not Eligible
Projects for student-only use
Classroom or operating expenses
Permit fees and insurance costs
Projects without public community benefit
Students and their school research the need, location, costs, permissions, restrictions, and long-term considerations before presenting a proposal. Projects involving public property or another organization must be discussed with the appropriate City department, property owner, or community partner. Lasting improvements must include a maintenance plan.
Project Requirements
Review the Complete Nanogrant Guidelines
2026–2027 Participating Schools
Students participate in the program through their school.
Brookwood Elementary
Garfield Middle School
St. Ann Catholic School
Wilson Middle School
Hamilton High School
Nanogrants are coordinated through participating schools. For additional information, contact Sara Silva at sara.silva@hamilton-oh.gov
Questions?