California Local Grants

The California Dream Fund Grant Program (CDFG or Dream Fund) offers microgrants of up to $10,000 to support entrepreneurship and small business creation in underserved groups facing capital and opportunity gaps. This one-time $35 million grant program is designed for businesses started in California on or after July 1, 2019. To qualify, businesses must complete a small business training program provided by the OCIE SBDC.

The City of Indio in California offers the Community Grant & Sponsorship Program, which has been recently revised and approved by the City Council. This program provides monetary assistance and sponsorships of up to $5,000 annually, with a total annual funding of $150,000. Additionally, there is $25,000 available for in-kind contributions such as city services or event locations. The program also considers funding requests for event/table sponsorships.

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) has launched the Goat and Sheep Dairy Development Grant program to bolster the Northeast goat and sheep dairy sector. This initiative aligns with the NE-DBIC's broader mission to strengthen regional dairy industries by addressing critical areas such as business viability, market development, and innovative production methods. The program aims to enhance the growth and long-term viability of individual small ruminant businesses, while also tackling gaps in technical assistance, improving supply chain partnerships, and expanding market access. The program targets several beneficiaries, including dairy farmers (producers) currently or transitioning to producing goat or sheep milk, dairy processors transforming raw goat/sheep milk into edible products, dairy producer associations representing and promoting goat/sheep dairy products, and technical assistance providers working with these groups. The impact goals are to foster growth, increase profitability, improve herd/flock health and milk quality, reduce barriers to new markets, and expand distribution opportunities for goat/sheep dairy products within the Northeast region. The grant program focuses on two main project types: Individual Business Projects and Sector Enhancement Projects. Individual Business Projects support farmers and processors in making improvements to increase business viability, market development, or production innovations. Examples include engaging with technical assistance providers for business improvements, diversification and marketing efforts, research and development of innovative solutions, and purchasing specialized dairy equipment. Sector Enhancement Projects are designed to engage multiple dairy businesses in activities that improve or expand small ruminant production practices or dairy markets, strengthening relationships across the goat/sheep dairy supply chain. Examples include developing tools and resources, improving farmer access to resources, and initial investments to strengthen supply chain relationships. Funding priorities emphasize projects that address at least two of the following: developing resources to fill unmet technical assistance needs, increasing pay price for goat/sheep dairy farmers, producing deliverables for new or transitioning dairy farmers, including educational/information sharing components, fostering collaborative efforts, increasing profits for dairy businesses, improving herd/flock health/nutrition/milk quality, reducing barriers to new markets, developing market channels, and implementing innovative strategies to increase awareness and consumption of goat/sheep dairy products. The program's theory of change appears to be that by investing in these specific areas, both individual businesses and the sector as a whole will experience sustainable growth and increased competitiveness. Individual business grants range from $15,000 to $50,000, requiring a 25% cash and/or in-kind match commitment. Supply chain projects are eligible for grants between $25,000 and $75,000, also with a 25% match commitment. A total of $760,000 is available for this program. The expected outcomes include a more robust and resilient goat and sheep dairy sector in the Northeast, with enhanced business viability for producers and processors, expanded market reach for their products, and a stronger, more collaborative supply chain. The grant period for projects is between 8 and 12 months.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Placer County that focus on preventing domestic violence and human trafficking or assisting survivors with essential services.

SF Shines Design Services Grant Program, offered by the Invest In Neighborhoods division of the Office of Economic and Workforce Department in California, provides grants, design services, and project management for property improvements to help small businesses thrive and create vibrant and safe neighborhood commercial corridors. The program aims to assist businesses in obtaining permit drawings for storefront improvements to ensure compliance, safety, and efficient business operations. Grantees will have access to a licensed architect to ensure that their projects comply with local, state, and federal laws and codes.

The Northgate Boulevard Storefront Improvement (NBSI) Grant Program is designed to empower small business owners along the Northgate Boulevard commercial corridor by providing financial assistance for exterior property enhancements. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to foster local economic vitality and community pride. By focusing on physical improvements such as new paint, signage, lighting, windows, doors, and awnings, the program directly addresses the aesthetic and functional needs of small businesses, thereby contributing to a more vibrant and appealing commercial district. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are small, for-profit retail or service establishments with street frontage on Northgate Boulevard. These businesses must be independently and locally owned and operated, with a principal office and owners domiciled in the greater Sacramento region. Furthermore, eligible businesses must have 100 or fewer employees or earn $18 million or less in average annual gross receipts over the last three tax years. Tenants are also eligible, provided they secure property owner consent and have a current lease with at least three years remaining, or an assurance of a lease extension. The program explicitly excludes non-profit entities and franchises, ensuring its focus remains on supporting truly local and independent enterprises. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, aiming to support the retention and growth of existing businesses, deter vacancies, attract more visitors to the corridor, and spur new investment. The strategic priority is to enhance the physical appearance of storefronts, which is viewed as a catalyst for broader economic and community benefits. The theory of change posits that by improving the visual appeal and functionality of individual businesses, the entire commercial corridor will become more attractive, leading to increased foot traffic, customer spending, and business stability, ultimately contributing to a more resilient local economy. Eligible activities encompass a range of exterior improvements, including painting, installation or repair of façade elements, restoration of original architectural features, and removal of exterior clutter. Exterior security enhancements are also permitted, with the caveat that they cannot exceed 25% of the total grant award, must comply with City design standards, and be proposed in conjunction with other beautification efforts. Additionally, applicable professional service fees related to design, architectural, electrical, engineering, or construction plans (up to 25% of the award) and City/State permitting fees (up to 10% of the award) are covered. The program has a total of $200,000 available, with minimum funding requests of $5,000 and maximum requests of $15,000 per application, over a project period of one year. These measurable results, coupled with the improved physical appearance of storefronts, will indicate the program's success in achieving its stated objectives.

This funding opportunity provides financial assistance to independent cultural venues in Sacramento, such as music venues, art galleries, and bookstores, to help them recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The City of Kettering Demolition Grant Program provides financial assistance to commercial and residential property owners for the demolition of structures and clearance of sites for redevelopment, economic development, and removal of blight. The program aims to eliminate existing or potential blighting influences, encourage property maintenance, promote sustainable reuse of properties, and ensure compliance with the city's zoning code. Grants cover up to 50% of demolition costs, not exceeding $25,000. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding contingent on the city's budget.

This funding opportunity provides up to $2 million to a single organization to enhance statewide tobacco prevention efforts in California through communication, technical assistance, and support for local initiatives targeting high-risk populations.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to non-profit organizations and public agencies in San Diego County for projects that enhance community well-being, safety, and economic opportunities.

The City of Santa Clara Community Grant Program in California was established in 2018 to provide grants to qualifying nonprofit community organizations, athletic groups, educational groups, and individuals for events, activities, and competitions that benefit the city and its residents. This program also includes the Santa Clara Championship Team Fund Program, which supports Santa Clara teams and groups participating in state, national, or international competitions or performances.

The Workplace Safety Grants for Health Care Entities program, authorized by 2023 Session Law Chapter 70, Article 4, Section 109, is designed to enhance safety measures in health care settings. This includes establishing or expanding programs that train staff in de-escalation and positive support services. The program's core mission is to prevent workplace violence and foster long-term improvements in safety and stability for both staff and patients within health care environments. This aligns with broader strategic goals of creating secure and supportive health care systems. The program primarily targets various health care entities within Minnesota. Eligible applicants include long-term care facilities, acute care hospitals with 49 or fewer beds located in rural areas, critical access hospitals, medical clinics, dental clinics, and community health clinics. The impact goal is to significantly reduce incidents of workplace violence and improve the overall safety culture within these institutions, leading to better patient care and staff well-being. The program's key priorities are centered on implementing effective safety measures and providing comprehensive training. This includes de-escalation techniques and positive support services to equip staff with the necessary skills to manage challenging situations. The focus is on proactive prevention and creating environments where staff feel secure and empowered to deliver quality care. Expected outcomes include a measurable decrease in workplace violence incidents, improved staff morale, and enhanced patient safety. The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) anticipates awarding approximately $1,500,000 through 30 grants in this funding cycle, with a maximum award of $50,000 per grant. Grant agreements are estimated to begin on October 1, 2024, and conclude on September 30, 2025, demonstrating a clear timeline for the expected results and program impact.

This program provides financial assistance to commercial businesses and property owners along Western Avenue in Rancho Palos Verdes for visible storefront improvements to enhance the area's appearance and economic vitality.

The Arts and Cultural Impact Grants, funded by the County of Monterey and administered by the Arts Council for Monterey County (Arts4MC), aim to support public arts and culture projects and programs within Monterey County. These grants, offering up to $5,000 per year, are designed to align with Arts4MC's mission of promoting arts and culture and ensuring equitable distribution of funds across the county. The program specifically targets nonprofit organizations and arts organizations with a fiscal sponsor that have been operating in Monterey County for at least two years. The primary beneficiaries of these grants are the communities within Monterey County, who will experience increased access to public arts and culture projects and programs. The impact goals include fostering a vibrant cultural landscape, enhancing community engagement through artistic endeavors, and supporting the stability of local arts organizations. By providing financial assistance for various projects, the program seeks to strengthen the arts sector and enrich the lives of residents across all five supervisorial districts. The program prioritizes projects that demonstrate quality in their program/event design, feature high-caliber artists and teaching artists, and show significant community impact. Additionally, organizational stability is a key focus, ensuring that supported entities have the capacity to effectively execute their proposals. Applications are also evaluated based on the quality of supporting materials, emphasizing thorough planning and clear communication of project objectives. Expected outcomes include a broader reach of arts and cultural activities throughout Monterey County, increased participation in public arts programs, and a measurable positive impact on local communities. While specific measurable results are tied to the individual project proposals, the selection criteria suggest an emphasis on qualitative and quantitative indicators related to program quality, community engagement, and artistic excellence. The independent panel review process, comprising evaluators from each supervisorial district, further reinforces Arts4MC's strategic priority of equitable fund distribution and a localized approach to cultural development.

California: Tourism and Special Event Grants Program provides financial support for activities promoting Livermore's downtown, wine country, and events that boost tourism and generate economic benefits for the region. The program awards five grants of $2,000 each to event organizers who can demonstrate direct benefits to Livermore downtown businesses and local wineries, as well as a minimum of 1,000 combined expected attendees in person and virtually. Preference is given to new and innovative events not previously supported by the grant.

Grant Opportunity: City of Long Beach Neighborhood Micro Grant Program Donor: City of Long Beach, California Type: Grant Deadline: Ongoing Grant Size: Up to $1,500 Duration: 12 months The Development Services Department Housing and Neighborhood Services Bureau is seeking proposals from established Long Beach neighborhood associations to host neighborhood events and improvement projects. The Neighborhood Micro Grant Program (NMGP) aims to support events and projects that enhance neighborhood spirit, collaboration, and revitalization efforts. NMGP will provide up to $1,500 for goods and services to support approved events and projects focused on blight reduction, financial or employment training, crime awareness, fair housing, health services, and mental health services citywide. Eligible public service events/projects must have the support of the neighborhood organization’s governing body and the affected neighborhood. The grants will be disbursed directly to neighborhood associations with a tax ID number or fiscal agent. All events/projects must be completed within twelve months of the Notice of Funding Availability. For more information, visit City of Long Beach website.

Grant Name: 2023 City of Menifee M.E.N.U Grant Program Location: California Description: The M.E.N.U. Grant aims to support unique concepts and entertainment proposals from residents in Southwest Riverside County by removing market and construction barriers. It aligns with Menifee’s Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy (CEDS), addresses community and demographic demands, and promotes tourism opportunities in the city. Eligible expenses include start-up costs such as grease trap installation, kitchen equipment, and other approved startup expenses. Applicants are required to submit a pre-application detailing proposed expenses and providing concept board or visual renderings. Pre-applications will be accepted until December 24, 2024, or until all designated funds have been distributed.

The City of Stockton and Stockton Arts Commission are offering a grant of $10,000 to $100,000 for local artists and art organizations to fund projects that promote public engagement and access to various forms of art within the city, with funds being used for artist compensation, production, exhibit costs, marketing, rental cost, and supplies.

This program provides funding to local nonprofit organizations and educational institutions in San Diego to address community needs related to health, safety, and sustainability through tangible items like equipment and furnishings.

This program provides funding to businesses, nonprofits, institutions, and school districts in Alameda County to replace single-use transport packaging with durable, reusable alternatives, helping to reduce waste and lower costs.