Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP)

City of Milwaukee / Dept. of Neighborhood Services

Available Home Repair

About This Program

Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP) is available to homeowners in Milwaukee, WI.

Free professional repairs for income-qualified homeowners in Milwaukee's 18 NSP/CDBG areas. Covers code violations, lead hazard reduction, health and safety work. Forgivable loan forgiven after 5 years. Minimum scope $5,000. One-time use only. Apply through one of six community-based NIP agencies.

Must be in NSP area, below 60% county median income, owned & lived in 5+ years

Official program page checked live on 2026-06-22.

Data last verified 2026-04-01. How we verify our data.

In Milwaukee, WI, you can combine this program with other local help to cut your cost:

Key Details

  • Up to $24,500 in professional repairs at no cost
  • Forgivable after 5 years of continued owner-occupancy
  • Covers code violations, lead hazards, health and safety
  • Must be in one of 18 NSP/CDBG neighborhood areas
  • Must have owned and lived in home for 5+ years
  • Income at or below 60% of county median
  • Apply through a NIP community agency, one-time only

How to Apply

Get free help applying Visit Official Program Page Track this program

414-286-2567

A grant-savvy contractor in Milwaukee, WI can handle the paperwork, inspections, and timelines so your funding releases on schedule. Getting matched is free.

You will likely need a contractor to apply

Projects like this almost always need a licensed contractor, and many grants ask for a written estimate as part of your application. Lining up a contractor in Milwaukee early keeps your application moving.

Get matched with a contractor

This program is usually a forgivable loan: you owe nothing if you stay in the home for the set period, but it may place a lien on the property until then.

Each program sets its own contractor rules. Check the official program page for exact requirements.

Your application paperwork

Documents you will likely need

  • Proof you own and live in the home (deed, recent mortgage statement, or property tax bill).
  • A government-issued photo ID for every owner on title.
  • Household income proof (recent pay stubs, last year's tax return, or benefit award letters for everyone in the home).
  • A written estimate from a licensed contractor for the work (many programs require this to apply).
  • Photos of the problem area or the work to be done.
  • The program's own application form, completed (use the official link or phone number on this page).
Download this checklist (PDF)

Requirements vary by program and locality. Confirm the exact rules on the official program page. We can help you prepare your paperwork, but you submit it yourself.

Deadline: Apply through a NIP agency, year-round

Questions about this program?

Ask us. It is free, and a real person answers within a business day.

Email us about this program

Frequently asked questions

How much can Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP) provide in Milwaukee, WI?

Up to $24,500 (free, forgivable loan).

Who qualifies for Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP) in Milwaukee?

Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP) is open to homeowners in Milwaukee, WI. It prioritizes low-income households.

How do I apply for Neighborhood Improvement Project (NIP) in Milwaukee, WI?

Apply directly with City of Milwaukee / Dept. of Neighborhood Services using the official program link on this page or call 414-286-2567. There is no middleman and no fee.

Need a Contractor for This Grant?

Grant-approved contractors understand the documentation, inspections, and timelines, so your funding releases on schedule.

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