STL VACANCY COLLABORATIVE
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Vacancy to Vibrancy Small Grants Program 

About the Program

The Vacancy to Vibrancy Small Grants Program supports resident-led projects that strengthen neighborhoods through creative land reuse.

​Through small grants of up to $5,000, community teams transform underutilized and vacant lots into vibrant green spaces that build connections and reduce vacancy in St. Louis City. 

The 2026 grant cycle is closed.

Upcoming Events 

GG's Garden Placemaking Blitz
Saturday, October 3 | 9:30 AM-1 PM | 4020 19 Street, St. Louis MO, 63107

We’re bringing neighbors and community members together for a hands-on morning to transform a long-vacant lot into a welcoming community space. We’ll prepare garden beds, plant new greenery, care for new trees and plants, and help GG’s Garden get ready to grow. 

All are welcome. No experience necessary. Light breakfast provided at 9:30. We'll start at 10 AM!
Sign up to volunteer

Granville Community Garden & STEM Center Placemaking Blitz 
Saturday, October 17 | 9:30 AM-1 PM | 1400 Granville Place, St. Louis MO 63112
Ready to get your hands dirty? Join neighbors and community members for a hands-on morning to transform a vacant lot into a community hub. We’ll prepare garden beds, plant new greenery, care for new trees and plants, and kick off Granville Community Garden & STEM Center! 

All are welcome. No experience necessary. Light breakfast provided at 9:30. We'll start at 10 AM!
Sign up to volunteer

Why Vacant Lots?

St. Louis City has 15,000 vacant lots. When vacant lots are abandoned or poorly maintained, they attract illegal dumping and violent crime, suppress community pride, and place added burdens on City departments and nearby residents.​

But when residents take the lead in reimagining these spaces, something powerful happens: vacancy turns into vibrancy. 
​

Vacant lot beautification and activation is one of the tools in our toolbox to reduce vacancy and its impacts in a creative, equitable, and sustainable way. By investing in resident-led greenspaces, we strengthen connections, improve safety, and plant new possibilities across St. Louis City. 
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Join the Vacancy to Vibrancy Committee 

The Vacancy to Vibrancy Small Grants Program is powered by a committed group of volunteers. From reviewing applications and working directly with grantees to lending skills and expertise, our volunteer committee makes each project possible. 
Learn more and sign up

Partners and Funders

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Contact Us

Have questions or need help with your application? Email: [email protected]
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Question? Contact Us
Subscribe to our monthly newsletter
  • About
    • Vacancy Strategy Initiative >
      • About the VSI
      • Resource Library
    • Board of Directors
    • Contact Us
  • Our Work
    • STLVC Reading Group
    • Vacancy to Vibrancy Grants
    • Newsletter and Archive
  • Resources
    • For Neighborhoods
    • For Residents
    • For Rehabbers
    • St. Louis County Land Bank Coalition
    • Neighborhood Voices
  • Data Tools
    • Vacant Property Explorer
    • Demolition Dashboard
    • Community Organizations
  • Donate