Atlantic City Launches $3 Million Community Grant Program

The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority aims to fund local initiatives through the new RISE Atlantic City program.

Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Casino

Screen-print poster illustration of a wooden boardwalk leading toward a coastal horizon, evoking Atlantic City's regional community investment efforts. — The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority launched the RISE Atlantic City program, providing $3 million in grants for youth and workforce initiatives. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority has officially launched RISE Atlantic City, a $3 million community grant program. This initiative seeks to provide direct funding to local projects focused on youth development, workforce training, and cultural enrichment.

Why it matters

The program serves as a targeted investment strategy to bolster community-based initiatives across Atlantic City. By supporting local organizations, the authority aims to strengthen economic and social resilience within the region.

The grant pool is divided into specific allocations, including $1 million for Tourism and Arts & Culture, $700,000 for Workforce Development, $600,000 for Youth and Teen Development, and $700,000 for Community Resilience.

The players

Casino Reinvestment Development Authority

This government entity is responsible for investing casino industry revenues into development projects and community programs throughout Atlantic City.

The details

Organizations can apply for funding on a reimbursement basis, with the CRDA Board required to approve all final awards. Applicants must provide a 25% funding match for requests between $30,000 and $99,999, while requests of $100,000 or more require a 50% match.

The Casino Reinvestment Development Authority announced the program launch on October 27, 2026.

Industry Dynamics

This program reflects the ongoing evolution of casino operators contributing to urban development through the Casino Control Act's reinvestment requirements. It marks a departure from purely infrastructure-focused spending, instead targeting granular community-based initiatives.

Local non-profits and community groups can now apply for reimbursement-based grants to fund their operations and projects. Organizations should prepare to meet required funding matches of 25% or 50% depending on the size of their request.

The takeaway

Interested organizations should begin reviewing their financial capacity to meet the mandatory funding match requirements. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, meaning groups should act quickly to secure funds before the total pool is exhausted.