Community engagement is a critical process in which design professionals collaborate with stakeholders—those who live, work, or spend time in or near a space—to shape urban environments that are inclusive and responsive to community needs. In New York City, certain aspects of the design process require engagement through mandated reviews with the Public Design Commission and local Community Boards at specific project phases.

We believe community engagement can and should go beyond the city’s requirements. AIA New York’s Community-Centered Design Grant supports integration throughout the design process—from pre-design to post-occupancy evaluation. While mandated methods follow strict regulations, a wider array of alternative engagement strategies can ensure meaningful participation.

The Community-Centered Design Grant will award $35,000 to one project that demonstrates a strong commitment to expanding community engagement beyond traditional requirements.

Eligibility: To qualify, projects must meet all of the following:

• Be located within the boundaries of one of New York City’s five boroughs or located within the United States and the submitter’s firm must have a primary office in New York City.
• Either in part or in full, encompass publicly accessible space.
• Have design and construction services already funded.
• Be completed by December 2026*

*Note: The project itself does not need to be fully completed by this date—only the portion funded by the grant must be completed by December 2026.

Deadline: Monday, September 8, 2025