Participatory Budgeting

Starting in September 2022, the CEC is implementing a citywide participatory budgeting process ("The People's Money"), which is a democratic process in which community members decide how a portion of the City budget is spent to empower and build stronger communities.

New Yorkers, 11 years and older, regardless of citizenship status, will be invited to directly decide how $5M of mayoral expense funding should be spent. This process is in addition to, and distinct from, the process run by City Council Members.

Community conversations will be held throughout the city between September - November 2022 to brainstorm ideas for expense projects based on provided criteria and needs. Residents can also propose ideas and projects online.

Community based organizations and the CEC, in coordination with stakeholder groups, will establish equity criteria and vet ideas for projects accordingly. Projects determined to meet the criteria will be developed into proposals that can be implemented after a citywide vote that will take place in May and June of 2023.

How to get involved in the first phase of NYC's First Citywide PB Process ("The People's Money"):

Civic groups, community boards, school clubs, and faith-based organizations can get funding of up to $20k to help kick-off New York City's first ever participatory budgeting process! #CivicEngagement #ParticipatoryBudgeting
Attend an idea generation session in the fall! Locations and times will be posted on participate.nyc.gov & sign up for an account on our website in order to receive updates on the process
Follow the CEC on social media for timely updates on the program and to read about the grassroots partners selected to help New Yorkers collect ideas on how to spend $5M

Sign up to volunteer to support the PB process