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City of Albuquerque offering $500 grants for community block parties

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (KRQE) – The City of Albuquerque is giving out $500 grants to support block parties in certain parts of the city. The purpose of the grant is to foster community engagement through business- and neighborhood-led events that highlight public spaces through music, food, art, and more, according to a news release from the city. ESPN's 'SportsCenter' is hitting the road to film in Albuquerque, cities across America 'Great cities are built by great communities, and this grant helps celebrate the people and neighborhoods that make Albuquerque special,' said Mayor Tim Keller in the news release. 'Whether it's music, food, or just good conversation, we're excited to help residents turn their streets into spaces for connection and celebration.' The grant funding is being distributed by the Metropolitan Redevelopment Agency and the block parties must be held in one of the 22 designated Metropolitan Redevelopment Areas across Albuquerque. Those areas are highlighted on the map below and can be found by clicking here. Applications must be submitted at least 60 days before the event date, and they will be reviewed on a rolling basis until funds are depleted. Before applying, the city said applicants must collect verifiable signatures of support from at least 70% of the businesses or property owners on the party block(s). Only the blocks receiving the 70% or more level of support will be included in the party block boundaries. 'Block parties are a powerful way to build community and bring energy back to our streets,' Terry Brunner, MRA director, stated in the news release. 'Whether you're a local business, a neighborhood group, or just someone with a great idea, this grant helps make it happen.' MRA sponsorship can be used to pay for permits, insurance, social media ads, hire a DJ, an ice cream truck, or rent games, according to the city. Funding is awarded competitively, emphasizing free entry to the block party or free activities. Applicants can receive up to two awards a year; however, priority will be given to new applicants. To learn more and apply, visit For questions, please contact Mara Salcido, project manager, at msalcido@ Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.