The City of Cupertino's Community Funding Grant Program provides financial support to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations for projects or events that benefit the Cupertino community. Funding priorities include social services, fine arts, and other initiatives that align with the Cupertino General Plan's guiding principles. Grant amounts vary based on a tiered structure, and requests may range from less than $1,000 to $20,000. Applications are evaluated based on community impact, the number of Cupertino residents served, alignment with city priorities, uniqueness, and demonstrated need. The grant cycle runs annually, with applications open from January 1 through February 1, followed by reviews by the Parks and Recreation Commission and final funding decisions by the City Council in June.
Eligible organizations must submit complete applications by the February 1 deadline and meet specific criteria, including the ability to manage and implement the proposed project, allocation of at least 75% of funds for direct service costs, and demonstration of community benefit. Grants cannot be used for ongoing operational costs, endowments, or duplicative services unless the applicant demonstrates collaboration or a unique approach. Admission to funded events must be free, and organizations receiving festival fee waivers cannot apply for the same festival.
Evaluation includes clarity of the application, cost reasonableness, past performance for recurring applicants, and collaborative efforts with other community organizations. Funding is contingent upon the City Council’s General Fund allocation, and awarded recipients must submit a written report by July 15 of the following year to document the use of funds and the program’s impact on the community. Failure to submit this report may result in ineligibility for future funding.
