Community Events Grant Program

The Community Events Grant Program (CEGP), administered by the City of Sunnyvale, is designed to support free, nonreligious public events that contribute to community engagement, cultural celebration, and civic vitality within Sunnyvale, California. With a total allocation of $150,000 across its annual cycles, the CEGP is a reimbursement-based grant opportunity intended for nonprofit and not-for-profit organizations. For the 2026 calendar year, the program has been structured into two grant cycles: Fall and Spring. While $95,895 was awarded during the Fall cycle, $54,105 remains available for distribution through the Spring cycle. Applications for the Spring cycle will be accepted from February 23 through March 27, 2026. The primary mission of the program is to foster inclusive and citywide events that highlight the unique character and diversity of Sunnyvale’s community. Eligible events must occur within Sunnyvale city limits, be free and open to the public, have the capacity to attract at least 500 attendees, and encourage a sense of belonging and identity among residents. Events must take place between January 1 and December 31, 2026. While fundraisers are explicitly ineligible, events with passive donation options that do not solicit funds directly may qualify. Proposals that introduce new event concepts or continue highly successful past events are especially encouraged, though each application is evaluated independently each cycle. Applicants must be nonprofit or not-for-profit entities with appropriate IRS documentation, such as 501(c)(3) or related status. Organizations affiliated with religious institutions are eligible provided the event serves a secular purpose. Political events or organizations with outstanding debts to the City of Sunnyvale are ineligible. All applicants must demonstrate sound financial and event management capabilities and a clear public benefit to the community. Proposed events should ideally supplement City services or meet public needs not currently addressed by the City. Funding awards will not exceed 50% of the total event budget, inclusive of in-kind services provided by the City such as insurance, recycling services, waiver of special event application fees, and limited promotional support. In order to receive funding, applicants must also secure any necessary special event permits, particularly for larger public gatherings or those requiring road closures. Permit applications are due a minimum of eight weeks prior to the event, and this process is separate from the grant application. Grant funds are provided on a reimbursement basis. Successful applicants must first incur and document expenses before seeking reimbursement from the City. Reimbursements may be issued in partial payments with prior City approval, especially in cases involving significant upfront costs. Following the event, recipients must submit a final report, original receipts, and visual documentation acknowledging the City’s funding no later than December 31, 2026, or 30 days after the event—whichever occurs first. Applications must be submitted by 5 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026. A City Council subcommittee will evaluate submissions and may contact applicants for clarification or additional information. Final award decisions will be rendered by the full City Council, with notifications expected in June 2026. Questions about the program can be directed to [email protected] or 408-730-7599.

Events must be free and open to the public, nonreligious, and attract at least 500 attendees; fundraisers are not allowed.