Dogs, Kids, Picnics and Films: Catch Up on The Coalition’s Latest Mini-Grant Recipients
This was our last mini-grant cycle of 2025 and one thing’s for certain: We’re ending the year—and heading into a new one—strong.
Bentonville, we should stand, walk, bike and roll proud.
In this latest cycle, the Coalition provided between $500 and $2,500 to fund local ideas that bring the Connecting Bentonville Bike & Pedestrian Master Plan to life. We awarded funds in August and projects must be completed by December.
For this grant cycle, the Coalition awarded nearly $11,965 to 10 grantees.
Got a big idea for a project?
Help make Bentonville safer, healthier and more connected by bringing your idea to life through a mini grant. We hold several grants cycles each year, so fill out an application to receive funding, and watch our social media for the next closing date.
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Now, enjoy reading about some of the Coalition’s latest mini-grant recipients and what they do to help build excitement, momentum and grassroots support for safer and healthier streets in and around Bentonville. Maybe you were even part of one or two of these events. Do you see yourself in any of the photos?
Biking Jerseys for Service Dog Handlers and Volunteers
Mission: Service Dog originally planned to host Bike-a-Palooza, but due to rain, the team pivoted and participated in First Friday instead—marking their first official fundraiser on Sept. 5. Using the grant from the Coalition, they purchased custom biking jerseys for volunteers and board members to wear in raising awareness for their new nonprofit, which serves children with disabilities, combat veterans and civilians. The jerseys helped create visibility for the organization and sparked meaningful conversations within the community. The dogs, especially, loved the event, giving it two paws up.
Transportation Mela at Philips Park
We were grateful to participate in the Ra-Ve Cultural Foundation’s Transportation Mela this past weekend in August. As sponsors, it was incredible to see our community come together to celebrate culture, connection and mobility. Families gathered for a free picnic, enjoyed e-bike demonstrations from Gnargo Bikes, and learned about mobility options through Ozark Regional Transport. A special highlight was Gnargo Bikes giving people rides on the trishaw bringing joy, accessibility and movement to people of all ages. Events like this remind us why we’re committed to making Bentonville a safer, more accessible city for everyone, whether you’re walking, biking or rolling.
Crosswalk Flags at Melissa/8th
This neighborhood school knows how to get projects moving in the right direction. School leaders, including nurse Abigail Friddle, at Founders Classical Academy–Bentonville led the project to increase pedestrian visibility at the intersection of 8th Street and Melissa Drive. The initiative provided high-visibility hand flags to encourage responsible walking and biking, promoting safety for students and other pedestrians. Planning began in June 2025 with city coordination, followed by ordering and preparation through July. Installation was completed before the start of the school year in August 2025. Now, 50-plus students walk and bike to school safely, and with more confidence and joy.
Bentonville Cargo Bike Community
The Bentonville Cargo Community hosted monthly rides to bring together cargo bike owners and families pursuing a more bike-friendly lifestyle in Bentonville. The rides build community, encourage everyday cargo bike use and support local cycling businesses through small raffles and giveaways. Despite one rainout, participation remained strong and continues to grow, helping foster connection and confidence among local riders.
They’re definitely a welcoming community, whether you’re riding for fun, commuting, hauling groceries or adventuring with the kids. Check them out!
