Small Grants Program

The Small Grants Program is an annual municipal funding initiative established by the City of Sedona to support community-serving organizations that align with the city's strategic goals. Designed to encourage and fund local activities, programs, or events, the program seeks to provide financial assistance to 501(c) organizations whose work contributes to public health, safety, general welfare, and the overall prosperity of Sedona residents. Grants awarded through this program typically range from $2,000 to $20,000. These funds are allocated to initiatives that directly benefit the community and are ideally conducted within the city limits. City funding is expected to play a crucial role in the success of the supported programs or services. Applicants must demonstrate how their proposed projects contribute to the objectives outlined in the Sedona Community Plan. Eligibility is limited to organizations with 501(c) status that provide a fair return value to the city through their services. While there are no minimum budget requirements or size limitations for applicants, proposals must show significant positive impact on the residents of Sedona. The city places emphasis on programs that promote well-being, prosperity, and contentment, reinforcing the vision laid out in its long-term planning documents. The application cycle for the 2025–26 fiscal year opened on February 12, 2025. An optional applicant workshop was held on March 12, 2025, between 10 AM and 12 PM. Final applications were due by 12 PM on April 24, 2025. The evaluation committee met with applicants and reviewed submissions over two days on June 11–12, 2025. Funding recommendations were made to the City Council, which approved awards on July 8, 2025. The grant application process requires submission of a completed application and any supporting documentation necessary to demonstrate eligibility and alignment with program goals. While participation in the applicant workshop is not mandatory, it is strongly encouraged as it provides applicants with valuable insights into the review process and city priorities. As of the April 24, 2025 deadline, the application period for the 2025–26 fiscal year has closed. The next funding cycle will begin in February 2026. Applicants interested in future funding are advised to refer to the city’s published schedule and attend relevant workshops to enhance their proposal's competitiveness.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend the applicant workshop and align programs with the Sedona Community Plan.