California Local Grants

This funding program provides financial support to public agencies and nonprofit organizations for initiatives that assist children and youth aged 0-24 affected by poverty, violence, and trauma in Sacramento.

The City and County of San Francisco offers "Grants for the Arts: Arts Services," a program designed to provide capacity building for San Francisco-based arts and culture organizations and/or artists. This grant aims to strengthen the arts community within San Francisco by offering support in various critical areas. While the specific foundation mission or theory of change is not explicitly stated in the provided text, the grant's focus on "capacity building" and supporting local arts organizations aligns with a broader goal of fostering a vibrant and sustainable cultural sector within the city. The target beneficiaries of this grant are San Francisco-based nonprofit organizations classified as 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), or 501(c)(6), as well as individual artists through fiscally sponsored organizations. The program prioritizes a wide range of areas for support, including audience development, cultural competency and racial equity action plans, fiscal sponsorship, financial management and literacy, fundraising, grant writing, legal compliance, marketing, mentorship, nonprofit governance, professional development, regranting programs, space/capital planning, strategic and business planning, and technical assistance. The impact goals are to enhance the operational and strategic capabilities of these organizations and artists, ultimately contributing to a more robust and equitable arts ecosystem in San Francisco. Expected outcomes include improved organizational sustainability, increased professionalization of artists and arts organizations, enhanced audience engagement, greater financial stability, and more effective program delivery. Measurable results from the FY24 cycle indicate grant amounts ranged from $10,000 to $140,000, although these do not reflect future cycles. The grant duration is two years, from July 1, 2024, to June 30, 2026, allowing for sustained capacity-building efforts and the potential for long-term impact on the beneficiaries. The grant's strategic priorities are clearly focused on empowering local arts and culture entities by addressing their diverse needs across operational and developmental aspects. The theory of change implicit in this grant is that by providing comprehensive capacity-building support in areas such as financial management, strategic planning, and racial equity, organizations will become more resilient, effective, and capable of serving their communities. This, in turn, is expected to lead to a more thriving and inclusive arts and culture landscape in San Francisco. Eligibility criteria, such as requiring a San Francisco corporate address and 501(c) status, underscore the commitment to local investment and accountability within the city's artistic community.

The Neighborhood Grants Program (NGP) is offered by the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) to support community groups in addressing local issues and improving quality of life. NGP provides financial and technical assistance to resident- and community-led projects that bring people together to identify and solve community challenges throughout Monterey County. The Neighborhood Grants Program (NGP) is a grant program of the Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC). NGP considers applications from various community groups throughout Monterey County that actively bring residents together to identify community issues and implement solutions to address them. The NGP is committed to providing financial and technical support to resident- and community-led groups for projects in their neighborhood or community that help improve the quality of life for its residents.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to non-profit organizations for projects that improve public facilities and services for low and moderate-income residents in Glendale.

The City of Eastvale in California is seeking applications for its Community Development Block Grants, a federally funded program aimed at providing housing, a suitable living environment, and economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons, with eligible activities including public services, public improvements, and housing services.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations and community groups in Mountain View that aim to improve access to resources and promote inclusivity for immigrant and mixed-status families.

This funding opportunity supports California-based nonprofit organizations that provide essential public services to low- and moderate-income residents of San Clemente.

The Jean P. Fitton Grant Program, funded by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, is accepting applications from 501(c)3 nonprofits, public schools, and public-school foundations in Monterey County, California, offering $1,000 to $10,000 for programs benefiting K-12 teachers, nonathletic scholastic and arts programs, and necessary equipment and facility improvements, with a deadline of October 4, 2024.

The Public-Space Activation Fund (PAF) is a grant opportunity offered by the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs. The grant program aims to fund temporary, creative projects in public spaces within LA City neighborhoods where arts and culture are absent or scarce. The funding levels range from $600 to $45,000, depending on the category and complexity of the proposed projects. The grant is open for monthly submissions from October 2023 to July 2024. Eligible applicants include Los Angeles-based community entrepreneurs, independent artists, cultural activists, nonprofit organizations, and collaborative partnerships under the stewardship of one lead-agent. There are four categories under PAF: Neighborhood Expressions (NE), Arts and Social Wellness (ASW), International Festivals & Intercultural Foods (IFIF), and International Participation And Promotion Projects (IPAPP). Each category has specific requirements and funding ranges. The primary aim of PAF is to activate designated public spaces through creative-connectivity for well-defined audiences. The deadline for applications is July 31, 2024, at 12:00 am. For more information on eligibility requirements and application instructions, prospective applicants are encouraged to refer to the PAF program guidelines available at dcaredesign.org/artsactivate or contact Armando Smith at [email protected] or Ben Espinosa at [email protected].

The Tustin Cares program, offered by the City of Tustin in partnership with the Orange County-Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (SBDC), presents the Main Street Digital Training & Grant Program. This initiative aims to provide vital training and funding to retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits within Tustin, specifically targeting an increase in their social media presence and overall revenue. While not explicitly stating a "foundation mission alignment," the program's focus on local business development and recovery suggests an alignment with broader community economic well-being and resilience, particularly in the wake of financial hardships. The target beneficiaries of the Main Street Digital Program are for-profit commercially-zoned brick-and-mortar retail businesses, home-based businesses, and nonprofits physically located in Tustin. Eligibility criteria specify that businesses must have had an active Tustin business license since the first quarter of 2023, possess a minimum of 2 employees and no more than 25 full-time equivalent employees as of December 31, 2023, and be in good standing with the City. Businesses that have participated in previous Main Street Digital Programs are ineligible, but those that received alternative COVID-19 related funding, such as EIDL or PPP loans, are eligible. The program's priorities and focuses are squarely on digital presence and revenue generation for small businesses and nonprofits. The SBDC has developed a virtual training program specifically designed to assist businesses with "Creating a Digital Presence." This emphasis highlights the City of Tustin's strategic priority to empower local enterprises with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital marketplace, thereby fostering economic growth and stability within the community. Expected outcomes and measurable results include an enhanced social media presence and increased revenue for participating businesses and nonprofits. The program's theory of change appears to be that by providing targeted digital marketing training and financial assistance, local businesses will be better equipped to reach customers, expand their operations, and ultimately contribute to the economic revitalization of Tustin. The requirement for businesses to certify financial hardship due to COVID-19 and the $500 grant amount, which cannot exceed the amount of lost revenue, also suggest an immediate goal of alleviating pandemic-related economic strain.

This program provides financial support to community events in Santa Cruz that promote cultural vibrancy, economic activity, and community well-being.

The HALO Award is a capacity-building program designed to strengthen and sustain nonprofit organizations by supporting volunteer programs and recognizing volunteers for their exemplary work in Los Angeles County. The Carl & Roberta Deutsch Foundation is inspired by volunteers who go above and beyond to better their communities and the nonprofits that support them. The foundation’s desire is for the HALO Award to inspire nonprofits and philanthropy to invest in volunteer management, aligning with their mission to uplift community angels through dedicated support. The primary beneficiaries of the HALO Award are 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations (or those sponsored by a 501(c)(3)) working with and serving Los Angeles County, as well as active and unpaid volunteers within those organizations who are not currently serving as board members. The program aims to strengthen and sustain nonprofit volunteer programs while honoring individual volunteers. The impact goals include enhancing the capacity of nonprofits to manage and leverage volunteer efforts and celebrating the significant contributions of volunteers to their communities. The program prioritizes investment in volunteer management and aims to foster a culture where volunteerism is recognized and supported. The core focus is on both organizational capacity building related to volunteer programs and individual recognition for outstanding volunteer service. The funding structure directly reflects these priorities: a $20,000 grant is provided to the nonprofit to strengthen, implement, and sustain its volunteer program, and a $5,000 award is given to the volunteer, distributed by the nominating nonprofit organization. Expected outcomes include more robust and effective volunteer programs within participating nonprofits, leading to greater community impact. Measurable results could involve an increase in volunteer retention, enhanced program efficiency due to improved volunteer management, and a demonstrable positive impact of recognized volunteers' efforts. The Carl & Roberta Deutsch Foundation's strategic priority is to empower both the organizations that harness volunteer power and the volunteers themselves, operating on a theory of change that by investing in and celebrating volunteerism, they can foster stronger, more vibrant communities.

The Northern Monterey County Foundation (NMCF), an affiliate of the Community Foundation for Monterey County, is seeking applications to support nonprofit organizations. The foundation's mission is to strengthen community resources and services in Northern Monterey County. This grant program is aligned with the foundation's goal of supporting organizations that demonstrate strong leadership and capacity to provide essential services to the communities of Aromas, Bolsa Knolls, Boronda, Castroville, Elkhorn, Las Lomas, Moss Landing, Oak Hills, Pajaro, Prunedale, Royal Oaks, and Santa Rita. The grant targets 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, public programs (including school activities not part of normal curricula, parks, and public health initiatives), and church-sponsored activities that benefit the entire community (e.g., food pantries). Organizations and collaboratives that are not legally incorporated may also apply with a fiscal sponsor. The goal is to make a significant impact by supporting vital community resources and services, ultimately leading to stronger, more resilient communities within Northern Monterey County. The program prioritizes several key areas. Funding will be considered for program support, which includes the expansion or refinement of existing programs and new programs with promise of impact and sustainability. Operating support is also available as unrestricted grants to organizations. Capital support is provided for costs associated with buildings and/or facilities. Additionally, organizational development is a focus, aiming to strengthen the internal capacity and infrastructure of organizations with a proven track record of community benefit in Northern Monterey County. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the expected outcomes are centered on enhancing the capacity of local nonprofits and public programs to serve their communities effectively. The foundation's strategic priority is clearly to invest in organizations that are directly improving the lives of residents in Northern Monterey County through various forms of support. The underlying theory of change is that by strengthening the infrastructure and programs of these community-focused organizations, the overall well-being and resources available to the target communities will be significantly improved and sustained.

This funding opportunity supports developers in California who are creating affordable housing projects, providing guidance and financial assistance to promote sustainable and innovative solutions.

The Sonoma County Agricultural Preservation and Open Space District is inviting applications for its Community Spaces Matching Grant Program, which aligns with its core mission of protecting land and fostering open spaces within urban and community settings. This program is rooted in the understanding that access to natural resources and open areas is vital for community well-being, ecological health, and agricultural preservation. Through strategic partnerships with local public agencies, non-profit organizations, and federally recognized tribal organizations, the District aims to implement projects that resonate with its broader conservation and community development goals. The primary beneficiaries of this program are the residents of Sonoma County, who will gain access to enhanced recreational opportunities, places for quiet reflection, venues for public gatherings, and spaces for growing local food. The program specifically targets collaborations with eligible public agencies, federally recognized tribes, and 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, leveraging their capacity to execute impactful projects. The overarching impact goal is to transform neighborhoods by creating vibrant and accessible open spaces that connect communities with nature and promote a deeper understanding of natural resources and agriculture. The program's priorities and focus areas are clearly defined by its three categories of eligible project types: acquisition, improvement, and a combination of acquisition and improvement. This structured approach ensures that funding is directed towards projects that directly contribute to the creation or enhancement of open spaces. The District's strategic priority is to facilitate projects that not only preserve land but also create tangible community assets, thereby addressing both environmental and social needs. The theory of change behind this program is that by investing in accessible open spaces, communities will experience improved quality of life, increased environmental stewardship, and a stronger connection to their local agricultural heritage. Expected outcomes include an increase in protected and accessible open spaces within cities and communities, a greater number of opportunities for recreation and community engagement, and a strengthened local food system through community gardens and agricultural education initiatives. While specific measurable results are not detailed in the provided information, the program's success would likely be evaluated by metrics such as the acreage of land acquired and improved, the number of community members utilizing new or enhanced open spaces, and the development of new programs related to natural resources and agriculture within these spaces. The annual budget of $3,000,000 for the Matching Grant Program underscores the District's significant commitment to achieving these outcomes and realizing its vision for a more connected and sustainable Sonoma County.

The City of Oakland's 2025 Neighborhood Voices for Festivals Grant Program aims to amplify cultural expressions, stories, and heritage within Oakland's neighborhoods, particularly those that have historically lacked equitable investments and recognition. This grant supports in-person Oakland arts and cultural activities that are free and open to the public, focusing on one- or multi-day festivals rather than ongoing programming. The program seeks to foster community engagement and celebrate the unique identities within the city. The grant prioritizes festivals that uplift the cultural identity of a people or the historical significance of a neighborhood, specifically encouraging applications from racial/ethnic-specific communities or other under-recognized groups in Oakland. It also supports festivals in neighborhoods with limited formal cultural resources and seeks partnerships with organizations deeply embedded in their local communities. The program aims to increase visibility and support for these communities and their cultural practices. Target beneficiaries include Oakland-based nonprofit organizations with 501c3 status and their fiscal sponsors, who are in good standing with state agencies and comply with federal regulations. The festivals themselves benefit the broader Oakland public by offering free arts and cultural experiences. The impact goals are to provide equitable resources, recognize underrepresented cultures, and enhance community vibrancy through cultural celebrations. Expected outcomes include increased cultural expression, enhanced community pride, and greater access to arts and cultural events for all Oakland residents, especially in underserved areas. Measurable results could include the number of festivals supported, the diversity of communities reached, attendance figures for the festivals, and qualitative feedback on the cultural impact. The program's theory of change posits that by investing in neighborhood-led cultural festivals, the city can empower communities, promote cultural understanding, and foster a more inclusive and vibrant Oakland.

The City of Santa Barbara's Cultural Arts Grants program is an annual initiative demonstrating the city's commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable local cultural sector and ensuring arts access for all residents. With an investment of nearly $250,000, the program aims to strengthen the community through various artistic endeavors. This aligns with a broader mission to enhance local economic and community vitality by supporting diverse nonprofits and catalyzing engaging events and festivals. The grant program targets Santa Barbara-based organizations, specifically focusing on underserved communities and youth to provide equitable arts access. The overall impact goal is to uplift these communities, support the capacity and performance of nonprofit arts organizations, and promote the city's cultural vitality. By embracing multicultural and neighborhood arts, the program seeks to create a more inclusive and culturally rich environment for everyone. The program is structured around three distinct grant programs, each with specific priorities and focuses. Community Arts (CA) Grants prioritize projects that create arts opportunities for underserved communities and youth, with a maximum funding request of up to $6,000. Organizational Development (OD) Grants are designed to support nonprofit arts organizations in enhancing their capacity, audience reach, and earned income, with a maximum funding request of up to $15,000. Finally, Community Events & Festivals (EF) Grants focus on incubating events that contribute to the city's cultural promotion and vitality, also with a maximum funding request of up to $15,000. The expected outcomes of these grants include increased arts access for all community members, strengthened capacity and performance of local arts organizations, and the successful execution of events and festivals that boost local economic and community vitality. Measurable results would likely involve the number of participants reached through Community Arts projects, the growth in audience numbers or earned income for organizations receiving Organizational Development grants, and the attendance and economic impact generated by Community Events & Festivals. The city's strategic priority is clearly to invest in and sustain a thriving arts ecosystem that serves all its residents and contributes to the overall well-being and economic health of Santa Barbara. The theory of change suggests that by providing targeted financial support, the city can foster a dynamic cultural landscape that enriches lives, strengthens community bonds, and stimulates local economic activity.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to community-based organizations in Salinas that implement programs focused on improving health, safety, and well-being while addressing issues like youth violence and mental health.

The Community Service Funding program, provided by the City of Temecula, aims to bolster the efforts of nonprofit organizations that benefit the residents, neighborhoods, and communities within Temecula. This initiative serves as a crucial funding resource for community-based organizations offering vital programs and services. The policy and application criteria are established to ensure a transparent and effective evaluation process for all funding requests, aligning with the city's broader mission to enhance community well-being and support local impact. The primary target beneficiaries of this grant are the general community of Temecula residents, particularly those who benefit from the programs and services offered by eligible nonprofit organizations. The impact goals revolve around augmenting existing community service programs, thereby improving the quality of life and fostering stronger neighborhoods within the city. By providing financial support, the City of Temecula seeks to enable nonprofits to expand their reach and deepen their positive influence on the local population. The program prioritizes organizations that are tax-exempt, hold 501(c)(3) status, and specifically provide projects, programs, or services that directly benefit Temecula residents. There are clear restrictions on how the funding can be used, excluding salaries, scholarships for students, and debt repayment. This focus ensures that the allocated funds are directed towards direct program implementation and service delivery, maximizing the tangible benefits to the community. The City of Temecula has allocated a total of $100,000 for this funding cycle, with individual grants not exceeding $5,000 per organization per fiscal year. While specific expected outcomes and measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the general benefit to residents, the underlying theory of change suggests that by empowering local nonprofits with financial resources, the city can achieve a more vibrant, supportive, and engaged community. The strategic priority is clearly to strengthen the community service infrastructure in Temecula through targeted financial assistance.