Building Together: How Microgrants Will Strengthen Hamilton in 2026

Every year, Hamilton’s 17 neighborhoods show what’s possible when residents have the freedom, funding, and support to dream big. As we move into 2026, the 17STRONG Microgrant Program continues to stand as one of the most effective tools for empowering neighbors to create meaningful, people-centered change. These small grants, typically between $500 and $2,500, help residents transform ideas into real, shared experiences that make our community stronger, more connected, and more vibrant.

A Look Back: Microgrants in Action in 2025

The past year demonstrated the incredible range and creativity of projects made possible through microgrants. From cultural festivals to neighborhood gatherings, residents used funding to build community pride and elevate the unique identity of their neighborhoods.

• Hamilton Hispanic Festival
  This event brought thousands together to celebrate Hispanic culture through food, music, art, and dance. The microgrant helped organizers expand programming, elevate local vendors, and create a family-friendly environment that showcased the cultural richness within Hamilton.

• Jefferson Neighborhood Fiesta
  In the heart of Jefferson, neighbors gathered to celebrate community, culture, and connection. The Fiesta brought residents together across generations, strengthening relationships and encouraging deeper neighborhood engagement.

• Dayton Lane & German Village Dinner En Blanc
  Inspired by the concept of elegant, pop-up dining experiences, these two historic neighborhoods collaborated on a joint Dinner En Blanc. The microgrant supported décor, lighting, and logistics, transforming shared spaces into a magical, community-focused evening.

• Blues on Bailey
  A brand-new addition to Hamilton’s neighborhood events, Blues on Bailey brought soulful live music and residents together for an evening that transformed Bailey Square into a lively, welcoming gathering space. The microgrant helped organizers secure musicians, enhance the event setup, and create a comfortable environment where neighbors could relax, mingle, and enjoy music close to home.

• Lindenwald Porch Fest
  A newer Hamilton tradition, Porch Fest uses front porches as stages for live local music. Microgrant support helped expand the number of participating homes, amplify artists, and deepen Lindenwald’s spirit of hospitality and creativity.

These examples show how microgrants act as sparks, showcasing the power of residents working together. The outcomes are diverse, but the purpose is consistent: building stronger neighborhoods from within.

How Microgrants Strengthen Community Life

The beauty of the 17STRONG Microgrant Program lies in its flexibility and accessibility. Any resident living in one of the 17 neighborhoods can apply, individually or as part of a group. The only requirement: the project must benefit the entire neighborhood, not just a single household. This keeps the grant focused on the collective good, whether that’s beautification, public safety, engagement, or celebration.

The review process encourages collaboration, too. Applicants gather signatures from fellow residents, building early support and ensuring projects reflect shared interests. This step transforms ideas from “one person’s dream” into “the neighborhood’s plan,” creating stronger buy-in, turnout, and continuity once the project launches.

Because of this framework, microgrants have empowered residents to:

• Bring neighbors together across cultures, interests, and generations

• Create shared experiences that deepen belonging

• Beautify public spaces and strengthen neighborhood identity

• Improve safety and visibility

• Launch or expand yearly traditions that become part of Hamilton’s story

Looking Ahead: Opportunities in 2026

With the new year comes new opportunities and new ideas waiting to take shape. In 2026, we anticipate even more residents stepping forward with creative visions for their neighborhoods. Possibilities include:

• Cultural celebrations

• Youth engagement projects

• Pocket-park or alleyway revitalization

• Collaborative cross-neighborhood events

• Safety enhancements and lighting projects

• Cleanup and beautification efforts

• New porch fests, pop-up markets, or community dinners

If this past year proved anything, it’s that residents already have the ideas; they just need the support to bring them to life. And that’s exactly what microgrants are designed to do.

Your Neighborhood. Your Idea. Your Impact.

Whether you want to host a family-friendly event, revitalize a shared space, celebrate your neighborhood’s culture, or build stronger connections among neighbors, the Microgrant Program is here to help you get started. Big change doesn’t always require big budgets; it requires committed neighbors with a vision and the willingness to make it happen.

As 2026 begins, we invite every Hamilton resident to dream boldly and consider applying for a 17STRONG Microgrant. The next great neighborhood tradition might start with your idea.

The above article was written by 17STRONG Board member and Microgrant Ambassador, Dayton Lane neighbor, Bethany Spaeth.