California Local Grants

This funding opportunity provides financial support to local non-profits and school groups for projects that promote environmental sustainability, such as water conservation, waste reduction, energy efficiency, and educational initiatives.

The Richmond Fund for Children and Youth is offering a three-year grant ranging from $100,000 to $500,000 to non-profit organizations and public agencies that provide services in areas such as mental and physical health, learning needs, and community safety to children, youth, and young adults in Richmond and unincorporated North Richmond, California, with a focus on those most impacted by harm, inequity, and lack of access to support and services.

The City of Vallejo received American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding to establish a grant program aimed at supporting local small businesses severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative directly aligns with the city's commitment to economic recovery and resilience, seeking to mitigate the negative financial repercussions experienced by its business community. The program's core mission is to provide crucial financial assistance, specifically targeting security improvements, thereby fostering a safer and more stable operating environment for eligible businesses within Vallejo. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are for-profit and non-profit brick-and-mortar businesses situated in Vallejo. To qualify, businesses must possess a valid Vallejo business license, employ 20 or fewer individuals, and provide receipts for purchases made between January 1, 2023, and September 24, 2024. The program's impact goals are focused on enhancing the physical security of these businesses, thereby reducing vulnerability to crime and creating a more secure commercial landscape. The program prioritizes funding for security improvements, with grants available up to $3,000 for items such as cameras, locks, and window enhancements. This focus addresses a critical need for small businesses that may lack the resources to invest in such protective measures independently. The expected outcomes include a tangible increase in the security infrastructure of participating businesses, leading to a safer environment for employees, customers, and business assets. Measurable results will be directly tied to the utilization of grant funds for approved security upgrades. Success will be determined by the number of businesses receiving grants, the types of security improvements implemented, and potentially, a reduction in reported incidents related to security vulnerabilities among grant recipients. The City of Vallejo's strategic priority through this program is to strengthen its local economy by supporting its small business sector, recognizing that a resilient business community is vital for overall city prosperity and recovery from the pandemic's economic downturn. The underlying theory of change is that by providing targeted financial aid for essential security enhancements, the city can empower small businesses to protect their assets, maintain operations, and contribute to the broader economic stability and revitalization of Vallejo.

This grant provides funding for projects that improve park facilities and recreational access while addressing climate change, with a focus on benefiting economically disadvantaged communities.

This funding program provides financial support to local artists and nonprofit arts organizations in Los Angeles County to create engaging cultural arts projects that benefit the Burbank community.

Community Arts Grants are being offered to small nonprofit arts organizations in Monterey County. These grants provide support for public arts and culture projects/programs with funding of up to $5,000 per year. Eligible organizations may receive one grant per year, provided they have submitted the final report for their previous grant before applying for a new one. Program Description: Community Arts Grants are available to small nonprofit arts organizations seeking support for public arts and culture projects/programs up to $5,000 per year. Organizations may only receive one grant per year and must have completed their previous grant’s final report before submitting a new application. Definition: An arts and cultural organization is defined as an entity with a primary purpose of providing arts, creative, or cultural programming/services. Assessed by Arts4MC staff, this purpose is determined by the organization’s mission, purpose statement, and/or by its summary of core organizational programs and services. Funding provided by The David and Lucile Packard Foundation. If you need assistance, call Klara Hickmanova: 831-622-9060 ext. 103 or email klara(at)arts4mc.org Eligibility Criteria: Grant Program staff determines the eligibility of the applicant based on the following criteria: Monterey County-based nonprofit organizations whose budgets are $250,000 or less and seeking support for public arts and culture projects in Monterey County. An applicant without nonprofit status may use a California-based Fiscal Sponsor with a federal 501(c) (3) designation to conduct work on a nonprofit project. (contact Action Council.) Planned project/program must be completed in Monterey County within one year of grant award; and Fiscal sponsor letter, letter of approval from your Board President/Chair or Group Leader and letters of recommendations need to be within 60 days of the application; and Reporting requirements for previous Arts4MC Community Arts grants have been met. Restrictions: Universities and colleges are limited to providing fiscal sponsorship for one arts program only. Grants may not support operating costs for the university or college, but must be applied to program and overhead costs of the applying entity. Grants may not be applied toward support for political or religious purposes, fundraisers for other organizations or causes, capital improvements, the purchase of equipment or real property, or projects already completed. Deadline: Submit anytime; reviewed monthly. Until funds expended or June 30, 2024, 11:59 pm. Review Process: Grants are awarded on a competitive basis. The Arts Council appoints a panel comprised of five community members with diverse perspectives, representing our County’s five districts to review all applications. The highest scoring grant applications will be complete and accurate, attaching only required documents. They will also substantially demonstrate: The overall strength of the organization, including the evidence of community support and leadership. Quality of the program or project, scope of service and potential impact for Monterey County residents. Evidence of unique contribution(s) to the region.

The Alameda Countywide Clean Water Program is offering Community Stewardship Grants to fund projects that prevent stormwater pollution, improve local watersheds, creeks, and the San Francisco Bay, and include a public outreach component. This initiative directly aligns with the program's mission to enhance environmental health through community engagement and education. Projects must be implemented within Alameda County. The grants target a wide range of beneficiaries, including teachers and student groups, service clubs, community groups, environmental groups, youth organizations, homeowner associations, and non-profit organizations. The program aims to foster a collective effort in environmental stewardship, empowering various community sectors to contribute to a healthier local ecosystem. For-profit groups and public agencies are not eligible, emphasizing the program's focus on grassroots and non-commercial community efforts. The program prioritizes creative and innovative projects that prevent or educate about stormwater pollution. Specific focuses include litter reduction, outreach and education on topics such as household hazardous waste disposal and Integrated Pest Management, development of outreach materials, public art projects, creekside restoration and enhancement, stormwater detention projects (e.g., rain gardens, cisterns, bioretention areas), coastal and creek cleanups, and wildlife habitat enhancement. These diverse project types reflect a comprehensive approach to improving water quality and ecological well-being. Expected outcomes include a reduction in stormwater pollution, improved health of local watersheds and the San Francisco Bay, and increased public awareness and engagement in environmental protection. Measurable results could include the number of community members reached by outreach efforts, the volume of litter removed, the area of habitat restored, or the number of stormwater detention systems implemented. The program's strategic priority is to leverage community-led initiatives to achieve tangible environmental improvements and cultivate a culture of environmental responsibility within Alameda County. The underlying theory of change posits that by empowering and educating local communities, sustainable practices for water quality and watershed health will be widely adopted. Individual grant amounts range from $500 to $6,000, with a total of $30,000 available in grant funding. This funding structure is designed to support a variety of projects, from smaller, localized efforts to more extensive community initiatives. Applicants who are not formal 501(c)(3) non-profits are required to secure a fiscal sponsor, ensuring proper financial management and accountability for the grant funds.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to Sacramento-based nonprofit cultural organizations and for-profit creative businesses to develop workforce training and internship programs for underserved youth and young adults aged 16-24.

The City of Indian Wells’ Grants-in-Aid program is designed to provide funding to tax-exempt, non-profit organizations under Section 501(c)(3) that have been in business for at least five years. The program aims to support community assistance and services within the Coachella Valley. The City recognizes the crucial role community-based organizations play in providing various services or education, and this grant program serves as a financial aid mechanism to support these efforts. This aligns with the City's broader mission to foster a supportive and well-served community by backing organizations that possess expertise in offering valuable services that the City itself does not provide. The primary target beneficiaries of this program are the residents of Indian Wells and the Coachella Valley at large. The program specifically seeks to address identified community needs within this region. The impact goals are centered on enhancing the availability and quality of essential community services, education, and support. The City prioritizes funding for initiatives that expand existing service programs, add new services or special projects, or facilitate the purchase of specific items necessary for service delivery, excluding start-up, administrative, overhead, or fundraising costs. The program focuses on organizations that demonstrate a clear community need, are not duplicating services already funded by the City, and do not rely solely on community assistance funding for viability. The City aims to support services that would be more costly if provided directly by the municipality, emphasizing efficiency and leveraging external expertise. Expected outcomes include the successful implementation of new or expanded community programs, increased access to vital services for residents, and a stronger network of community support within the Coachella Valley. Measurable results are expected through the submission of compiled year-end reports, including project completion by June 30 of the funded year, and accurate accounts of all receipts and expenditures. Funding is awarded on a single-year basis, and proof of adequate insurance coverage may be required. The City's strategic priority is to invest in community-based groups, non-profit social agencies, or area service providers that directly benefit its residents, thereby enhancing the overall well-being and quality of life in Indian Wells and the wider Coachella Valley.

This grant provides funding for individual artists, arts organizations, and small businesses in Chula Vista to create free cultural events and projects that promote community engagement and inclusivity in various artistic disciplines.

This program provides financial support to nonprofit organizations hosting community-focused events in Elk Grove that promote engagement, cultural enrichment, and economic impact.

Grant Opportunity: Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program Funding Organization: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Contact Information: No specific contact information provided Program Description: The CDBG Program is a federally funded program that provides financial resources to states, cities, and counties to address community development needs. It supports the development of urban communities by creating decent housing, suitable living environments, and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income individuals. Eligibility: Eligible service programs must meet at least one of three national objectives for the CDBG program: benefit low- and moderate-income persons, aid in the prevention or elimination of slums or blight, or meet a community development need with urgency. Grant Opportunity: CDBG Business Grant Program Funding Organization: City of Aliso Viejo Contact Information: Rose Rivera at rrivera@avcity.org Program Description: The CDBG Business Grant Program aims to provide pandemic relief funding to assist small businesses impacted by COVID-19 within the City of Aliso Viejo. Funding will be provided based on compliance with program guidelines, availability of funds, and submission of the required application and supporting documentation. Grant Opportunity: CDBG-CV Funding Organization: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Contact Information: No specific contact information provided Program Description: The CDBG-CV program was established under the CARES Act to provide $5 billion in CDBG funds for low-income families and vulnerable citizens affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The City has received two allocations totaling $414,751 for various activities that meet the national objectives of the CDBG program. Other Relevant Information: - 2023-2027 Consolidated Plan and FY 2023-24 Annual Action Plan outline housing and community development needs within the context of the CDBG program. - Citizen Participation Agreement ensures resident participation in the development of the Consolidated Plan and related documents. - Consolidated Annual Performance & Evaluation Report (CAPER) summarizes progress towards meeting goals outlined in the Consolidated Plan and Annual Action. - Proposed 2020-2024 Orange County Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing identifies barriers to fair housing and outlines an

The City of West Hollywood's Art on the Outside (AOTO) program is a public art initiative designed to fund the temporary display of rotating art exhibitions in publicly accessible locations such as parks, traffic medians, and communal areas of City-owned facilities. The program's mission aligns with enhancing public spaces and enriching the cultural landscape of West Hollywood by making art accessible to its residents and visitors. It supports a variety of art forms, including sculpture, murals, digital screen-based artwork and projections, and performance art, contributing to the City's vibrant artistic identity. The primary beneficiaries of the AOTO program are individual artists, curators, and non-profit arts organizations based in the United States, particularly those representing emerging, mid-career, and established artists. The program aims to provide opportunities for these artists and organizations to showcase their work, gain exposure, and engage with a broader public. The impact goals include fostering artistic expression, promoting cultural diversity, and creating engaging public environments that stimulate dialogue and appreciation for the arts. The program prioritizes proposals for temporary public art projects that can be displayed for durations typically ranging from 6 months to 3 years. While new artworks are eligible, the AOTO program is particularly well-suited for exhibitions of prefabricated artworks that require minimal modification for installation, largely due to funding limitations. This focus ensures efficient use of resources while still supporting a diverse range of artistic endeavors. Evaluation criteria emphasize artist qualifications, aesthetic appeal, diversity, proposed budget, public safety, material integrity, and suitable location. Expected outcomes of the AOTO program include an increased presence of diverse public art across West Hollywood, greater public engagement with artistic and cultural experiences, and enhanced opportunities for artists to contribute to the public realm. Measurable results could include the number of artworks displayed, the duration of exhibitions, audience engagement metrics, and feedback from both artists and the community. The program's strategic priority is to integrate art into daily life, reflecting the City's commitment to culture and community well-being. The City of West Hollywood's underlying theory of change for the AOTO program is that by funding and facilitating the display of temporary public art, it can cultivate a more aesthetically rich and culturally vibrant urban environment. This, in turn, is expected to enhance civic pride, stimulate local engagement, and support the professional development of artists and arts organizations. The program operates on the belief that accessible art can positively impact quality of life and foster a dynamic community spirit.

This funding provides financial support to local nonprofit organizations in San Leandro that offer food services and assistance to low-income residents.

The City of Ventura offers Special Event Grants to support events and festivals that enhance public spaces and boost visitor spending. The program aims to champion community celebrations that draw in both residents and visitors, reinforce Ventura's cultural identity and economic vitality, and foster an entrepreneurial spirit alongside innovative public-private partnerships. While the document does not explicitly state a "foundation mission alignment," the grant's objectives align with broader municipal goals of community enrichment, economic development, and cultural promotion within the city. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant program are City of Ventura-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status, or those with a City of Ventura-based fiscal agent that holds 501(c)(3) status. The grants are intended to increase the number of free and affordable community events, thereby benefiting residents and visitors by providing accessible cultural and entertainment opportunities. The impact goals include strengthening Ventura’s cultural identity, enhancing economic vitality through increased visitor spending, and promoting collaboration between sectors. The program's priorities and focuses revolve around activating public spaces and celebrating community. Specifically, the annual funding through the Special Event Grant Program aims to support events that attract residents and visitors, strengthening the city's cultural and economic fabric. This year, there is an additional focus, approved by the Ventura City Council in their 2023-24 goals, to award one-time funding to specifically increase free and affordable community events throughout the city. Expected outcomes and measurable results, while not explicitly detailed with specific metrics, can be inferred from the grant's objectives. These would likely include an increase in the number of free and affordable events, a rise in visitor spending attributable to these events, enhanced community engagement and participation in local celebrations, and a strengthened sense of cultural identity within Ventura. The grant also seeks to promote innovative partnerships, suggesting an outcome of increased collaboration between private sector and public agencies. The "theory of change" underpinning this program is that by funding special events, the city can achieve its broader strategic priorities of community development, economic growth, and cultural enrichment.

This grant provides financial support to volunteer-driven nonprofit organizations that serve the residents of Monte Sereno through free community services and events.

Grants are provide to acquire mountainous or natural community conservation lands in the Coachella Valley and its surrounding mountains, or in limited cases, to provide capital improvements on existing conservation lands.  Priority acquisitions are those that support the implementation of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan.   Matching funds are preferred, but not required.

This program provides funding to community groups and local organizations in Santa Rosa for projects that improve neighborhoods and foster community engagement, such as clean-ups, public art, and gardens.

The Neighborhood Beautification Grant (NBG) initiative, a component of the City's Community Partnerships & Engagement Division (CPED), is designed to engage and encourage residents to work with their neighbors on enhancement and improvement projects. The core mission of NBG is to promote healthier, safer, and cleaner neighborhoods, while simultaneously strengthening community connections and the social fabric within them. The City Council has approved an allocation of $42,000 for these beautification projects, distributed equally at $6,000 to each Council District and the Mayor's office. The NBG targets a broad range of beneficiaries including any resident, group, and/or organization with a new or established community project in Salinas. Specifically, residents, community-led groups, advocacy groups, art organizations, apartment or community associations, and neighborhood watch groups are encouraged to apply. The impact goals are centered around cultivating healthy and resilient neighborhoods, supporting engaged and informed residents, stimulating a thriving community, and properly managing shared assets and spaces. The ultimate aim is to achieve a collective impact in the development of neighborhood communities and service delivery strategies to improve the overall quality of life in Salinas. The program prioritizes projects that can be completed within the established timeline, promote neighborhood self-help efforts, and foster neighborhood improvement and beautification. Furthermore, projects must provide health and safety benefits, have confirmed neighborhood support, be visible and accessible to all city residents, and address a specific neighborhood need. Eligibility also requires that group projects focus on beautification, restoration, neighborhood improvements, fostering neighborhood leadership, or addressing neighborhood problems, with each group including at least five volunteers or members. The expected outcomes and measurable results of the NBG initiative include tangible improvements in neighborhood aesthetics, safety, and community engagement. By supporting projects that are visible and accessible to all city residents, the program aims to create a widespread positive impact. The emphasis on confirmed neighborhood support and self-help efforts suggests a theory of change that empowers communities to drive their own improvements, leading to more sustainable and impactful results. While the document does not explicitly detail the foundation's strategic priorities or theory of change beyond the NBG's objectives, the program's design implicitly aligns with strategies that foster civic participation, local ownership, and community-led development for urban betterment.