City of Goleta Old Town Pride Of Place Grant

The Old Town Pride of Place (POP) Grant, offered by the City of Goleta, provides funding opportunities for businesses and nonprofit organizations within Old Town Goleta to enhance the sense of place, attract more customers, and support economic revitalization efforts. A total of $120,000 is available in grant funding for eligible applicants. Businesses and nonprofits can apply online or via paper applications, which are available for pickup at City Hall or downloadable from the city’s website. The application submission deadline is Monday, March 3, 2025. The primary goal of the program is to strengthen and promote Old Town businesses by supporting projects that enhance the business environment, increase foot traffic, and contribute to community development. The grant will fund initiatives that demonstrate creative and innovative approaches to economic development while fostering collaboration among multiple businesses and engaging the local community. To apply, businesses or nonprofits must be in good standing with the City of Goleta and other applicable government agencies. Applicants must provide business details, including their name, address, business license number, and nonprofit status (if applicable). Additionally, applicants must submit a clear project proposal, a budget breakdown, and information about partnerships or matching funds. Applications will be evaluated based on several criteria, including alignment with program goals, community impact, creativity, budget feasibility, community engagement, and business collaboration. The Economic Development & Revitalization Committee will review applications in March 2025 and make funding recommendations to the City Council. The final grant awards will be determined in a City Council meeting in spring 2025, likely in April. Grant recipients are required to sign a W9 form and a grant agreement, ensuring compliance with funding terms. One year after receiving funds, recipients must provide a written report detailing the impact of the funding on the Old Town community. Businesses are encouraged to use local vendors when possible. Additionally, grant recipients should determine whether the funding is taxable income and report it accordingly. Certain restrictions apply to the use of grant funds. The funds cannot be used for political or religious activities, and grants will not be awarded to individuals unless they operate as sole proprietors. Only businesses and nonprofit organizations within Old Town Goleta are eligible to receive funding.