Amtrak – Community Investment Program (2026)
$50 Million Investment Supporting Community Projects in West Baltimore
Organization: Amtrak
Support Type: Charitable grants and direct investments
Geographic Focus: West Baltimore communities along the Frederick Douglass Tunnel alignment
About the Funder
Amtrak, the nation’s passenger rail service, is investing in communities impacted by major infrastructure development through its new Community Investment Program (CIP). This $50 million initiative is part of the broader B&P Tunnel Replacement Program and reflects Amtrak’s commitment to equitable development, community resilience, and long-term neighborhood benefit alongside transportation improvements.
What This Program Supports
The Community Investment Program will fund projects that deliver meaningful, place-based impact in West Baltimore. Projects must fall within one of six categories:
Community Development
Initiatives that strengthen neighborhoods, improve quality of life, and support local economic vitality.
Workforce Development
Programs that prepare residents for employment opportunities, including those connected to infrastructure and construction.
Parks & Recreation
Projects that enhance recreational spaces, promote physical activity, and improve community well-being.
Open Space
Efforts to create, restore, or expand access to green space and natural areas.
Transportation
Projects that improve mobility, connectivity, and safe access to transit (eligible within a broader geographic radius).
Historic Preservation
Preservation and rehabilitation of historically significant structures and districts, with dedicated funding for key impacted areas.
In addition to traditional grants, Amtrak may provide direct investments, procuring goods or services on behalf of organizations that may not have the capacity to manage funds directly.
Eligible Support Types
- Community-based project grants
- Capital and programmatic investments aligned with CIP priorities
- Direct investments (Amtrak-managed procurement for eligible projects)
Eligibility & Preferences
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be a 501(c) nonprofit organization or a city/state government agency
- Propose projects located within ¼ mile of the tunnel alignment (or ½ mile for transportation projects)
- Align with one of the six CIP funding categories
Additional notes:
- Organizations do not need to be physically located within the boundary, but projects must serve those communities
- Organizations without nonprofit status may apply through a fiscal sponsor
- Amtrak aims to award ~75% of funding to nonprofits and up to 25% to government entities
Ineligible / Limitations
- Projects outside the defined geographic area
- Activities that do not align with one of the six funding categories
- Projects that cannot reasonably be completed within the required 18-month performance period
Funding Amounts
- Total Program Investment: $50 million over the life of the program
- Includes:
- $5 million for a Workforce Hub
- $2.75 million for Historic Preservation in designated districts
- Individual grant amounts are not standardized and will vary by project scope and impact
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Window: March 23, 2026 – May 22, 2026
📅 Program Type: Annual funding cycles (via NOFO)
📅 Project Timeline: Funds must be spent within 18 months of award
Amtrak will host information sessions during the application period and provide technical assistance to applicants and awardees.
Application / Request Process
- Applications must be submitted through the Amtrak Grants Portal
- Applicants should:
- Demonstrate clear alignment with CIP priorities
- Provide evidence of community support
- Present a realistic 18-month project plan and budget
Applicants may submit multiple proposals across funding categories.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://amtraknewera.com/bptunnel/community-investment-program/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is ideal for organizations that:
- Serve West Baltimore communities impacted by infrastructure development
- Focus on parks, open space, workforce development, or community revitalization
- Can execute projects within a defined 18-month timeline
- Are looking for significant, place-based investment tied to a major federal infrastructure project
The Amtrak CIP is a strong fit for nonprofits working at the intersection of community development, climate resilience, and equitable access to green space.
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Competitive (annual NOFO)
Typical Lead Time: 2+ months before deadline
Best Suited For: Place-based nonprofits and public agencies in West Baltimore
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