The City of Santa Cruz has opened the application period for its FY2026 Special Event Grant Program, which offers financial assistance of up to $2,500 for events that enhance the city’s cultural vibrancy, economic activity, and overall community well-being. Applications will be accepted beginning March 12, 2025, with a submission deadline of April 16, 2025. Eligible events must occur within the Santa Cruz city limits between July 1, 2025, and June 30, 2026.
To qualify, events must not be religious or political in nature, nor promote any activity restricted by City Council policies. Both newly established events and those that have occurred previously are eligible. A completed Special Event Grant Application must be submitted alongside a Special Events Permit Application. Events must be based in or clearly benefit the Santa Cruz community, and applicants must have no outstanding debts to the City. Post-event reports are required within 30 days of the event’s conclusion, and applicants must disclose all other sources of funding.
Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the City’s Health in All Policies framework, potential economic benefits to local businesses, educational elements, involvement of multiple community organizations, and expected attendance. First-time applicants receive priority consideration. Successful applicants will be notified of award decisions by June 2, 2025.
Past grantees include a diverse range of community events such as the Santa Cruz Pride 50th Anniversary Parade & Festival, the NAACP March for the Dream, Day on the Beach, and Santa Cruz Firecracker. These events represent the program’s goal of supporting inclusive, community-building initiatives that enrich the public life of Santa Cruz residents.
Applications may be submitted via email to eventpermits@santacruzca.gov or delivered in person to the Parks & Recreation Administration Office at 323 Church St., Santa Cruz, CA 95060. For further information or assistance, applicants can contact the City of Santa Cruz at eventpermits@santacruzca.gov or call 831-420-5030.
