Applications now open for South Dallas/Fair Park Opportunity Fund grants to support community growth

Dallas, Texas – The City of Dallas Office of Economic Development has officially opened the application window for the 2026 South Dallas/Fair Park Opportunity Fund (SDFPOF) Human Development Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). The application period began this week and will remain open for approximately eight weeks, closing on Friday, December 5 at 5 p.m. Organizations looking to bring positive change to South Dallas neighborhoods are encouraged to apply.

The SDFPOF Human Development Program offers financial support to nonprofit organizations that run new or growing programs designed to make a measurable difference in community well-being. Eligible programs must focus on one or more of the following impact areas: workforce participation, small business growth, health, public safety, or educational outcomes.

To qualify, organizations must either operate within the fund’s defined service area or demonstrate that at least 90% of their program beneficiaries reside in that area. The fund sets aside $200,000 each year to back initiatives with the potential to transform the South Dallas and Fair Park communities.

Information Sessions for Interested Applicants

To help applicants understand the process, the Office of Economic Development will host two informational sessions, both with in-person and virtual components. These sessions will provide an overview of the application steps and allow for live Q&A with city staff. Those interested in attending must RSVP in advance.

The session schedule is as follows:

• Thursday, October 23, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.
  Park South Family YMCA, 2500 Romine Ave, Dallas, TX 75215

• Thursday, November 20, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
  South Dallas Cultural Center, Multi-Arts Room A, 3400 S. Fitzhugh Ave, Dallas, TX 75210

About the Opportunity Fund

The South Dallas/Fair Park Opportunity Fund was created by City Council in 1989 to support the neighborhoods surrounding Fair Park. Over the years, the fund has grown to include two main branches: one supporting economic development and the other backing human development efforts.

Under the current guidelines, the fund offers loans and grants to businesses and nonprofits that align with its mission to uplift the area. All applications and funding recommendations are reviewed by the SDFPOF board before moving to the City Manager and City Council for approval.

Since 2020 alone, the Opportunity Fund has allocated more than $2.7 million to support local organizations and projects serving residents in South Dallas. This year’s NOFA marks another chapter in the city’s ongoing efforts to foster meaningful, community-led progress.