Adaptation Planning Grant Program

The Adaptation Planning Grant Program (APGP), administered by the Integrated Climate Adaptation and Resiliency Program (ICARP) under the California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, is designed to support local, regional, and tribal governments in their efforts to prepare for and respond to the escalating threats posed by climate change. As California experiences increasingly frequent and severe climate-related disasters such as wildfires, extreme heat, floods, drought, and sea level rise, many jurisdictions face challenges in planning and building long-term resilience due to limited resources, capacity, and technical guidance. APGP seeks to address these gaps by funding critical planning work that identifies resilience priorities and supports the development of future infrastructure projects that mitigate climate risk. The core vision of the Adaptation Planning Grant Program is to foster equitable and science-based planning across California. It enables communities, particularly those with fewer resources, to begin or advance climate resilience efforts by providing the necessary financial support and access to tools and guidance. APGP emphasizes inclusive and transparent processes that center community input and data-driven planning to strengthen long-term adaptive capacity. Funding for the program is structured into rounds. While the first round of APGP was successfully administered and awarded, a planned second round was canceled due to statewide budget constraints as of July 16, 2024. This cancellation resulted in the withdrawal of an anticipated $9.5 million in funds that had been earmarked for climate adaptation and planning across the state. Despite this, the program staff remain committed to supporting communities by exploring alternative funding sources, including other State, Federal, and philanthropic channels. The APGP provides grants specifically for adaptation planning and not for construction or implementation of infrastructure. It helps jurisdictions assess climate vulnerability, prioritize actions, and create frameworks that inform future investment. Eligible expenditures may include staff time for planning, hiring consultants for vulnerability assessments or public engagement, and development of climate adaptation strategies aligned with state guidance. Eligible applicants for the APGP include local governments, regional agencies, and federally recognized tribal governments within California. Though Round 2 funding was canceled, the ICARP team encourages past and prospective applicants to stay informed via newsletters and updates, as the program may reopen or evolve subject to new funding opportunities. The application process typically includes a direct submission with required forms and project narratives outlining community need, climate risk, and proposed planning activities. Evaluations prioritize need, alignment with state adaptation goals, community engagement, and long-term impact. For more information, Brandon Harrell, the Program Manager for the Adaptation Planning Grant Program, serves as the primary point of contact and can be reached via email at [email protected]. While there is no active application cycle at this time, the state encourages stakeholders to remain engaged and ready for future rounds or related funding opportunities that may arise. No formal deadlines or performance periods are currently in effect due to the program’s pause following the cancellation of Round 2 funding.