Renaissance Block Challenge Pre-Applications 

for Will be Available Jan 2026

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The Renaissance Block Challenge Grant encourages groups of neighbors to collaborate on exterior improvements to their properties in order to begin revitalizing  Oswego’s neighborhoods and inspire others to reinvest.

 

Participating property owners in a Renaissance Block are eligible for Matching funds (a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $1,000, for exterior improvements, for each property owner). This is a matching grant. If $500 is spent, for example, a $250 match will be made. If $2,000 (or more) is spent, the match is $1,000. Note: houses on corners of intersections, and the house owned by the Block Leader (the person getting their block together) are eligible for up to $1500 matching grant.

 

NOTE: You may also be eligible for an EXTRA $1000 matching grant (Paint Oswego) if you are painting your home. The Paint Oswego grant can be awarded in addition to the Block Challenge Grant ($2000 altogether!). Learn more about Paint Oswego.

 

 

Grant are awarded competitively, and funded based upon the availability of funding and the number and quality of applications received. Please contact the ORA for more information

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How to Participate 

 

Look to see if your neighborhood is in one of the Target Zones. Streets in target zones are especially encouraged to apply. The ORA has, however, funded blocks outside of the Target Zones. Being in a Target Zone is one of several factors that impact the likelihood your block would be awarded the grant.

 

If you decide to apply for the Renaissance Block Challenge for 2025, form a cluster of at least FIVE neighboring property owners who intend to perform exterior work to their properties–including landscaping, exterior painting, porch repair, walkway/sidewalk repair, and lighting. Homeowners, landlords and/or tenants may apply. Neighbors submitting pre-applications on time then meet with an ORA representative to prepare and submit a detailed, final application. Designation of 2025 Renaissance Blocks will occur in Mid-May, 2025.

 

1. Tips for a Competitive Final Application

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2. Pre-Applications Available for Download January 2026