The Office of Youth Opportunities’ Partnerships Grant is open to organizations serving Charlotte teens ages 13 to 17. The funding is intended to build on existing programs, not launch new ones. Eligible efforts could include keeping community centers open on Friday or Saturday nights, adding activities during school breaks or providing transportation so teens can attend programs. Nonprofits, faith-based groups and recreation providers are among the organizations the city says could apply.

Applications are due Nov. 2. The city expects to notify selected organizations in December, and grant-funded activities must finish by July 31, 2027.

The grants come as Charlotte moves toward a pilot curfew approved by City Council last month. Starting Nov. 1, people under 18 will be required to stay out of public spaces from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. The policy follows several large teen gatherings across the city that led to arrests, injuries and property damage.

City officials first discussed the grant idea at an August City Council meeting where council members and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department representatives considered ways to prevent teen takeovers. The grant program is intended to expand options for young people during out-of-school hours, alongside the curfew.