Small Grants Program

The Small Grants Program is an initiative of the City of Sedona designed to support the delivery of impactful community-based services, programs, and events by local 501(c) nonprofit organizations. The goal of the program is to enhance public health, safety, and welfare and foster the prosperity and contentment of Sedona residents. With individual grants typically ranging from $2,000 to $20,000, the City seeks to empower community organizations whose missions align with the priorities established in the Sedona Community Plan. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c) organizations in good standing with the Arizona Corporation Commission and must maintain an independent board of at least three members. The programs or activities proposed must provide a direct benefit to residents of the City of Sedona and preferably occur within city limits. The City prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a high return on investment, address clear community needs, and would not be possible without city funding. Organizations already receiving City funds from other sources, such as service contracts or other municipal grant programs, are not eligible for this opportunity. Funding cannot be used for staff compensation, organizational operations, deficit reduction, religious programs, or direct scholarships to individuals. Instead, eligible expenditures include costs associated with events or services that are open to the public and provide demonstrable benefits to the community. Examples of previously funded efforts include youth mentoring programs, public arts performances, trail maintenance, recycling initiatives, and events designed to foster social cohesion. The fiscal year 2026–27 application window opens on March 2, 2026, and closes at 12 PM (noon) on April 30, 2026. An optional Applicant Workshop is scheduled for March 19, 2026, to assist new applicants in navigating the process. Following the application deadline, a Citizen Work Group Grant Evaluation Committee will conduct interviews with applicants between June 11–12, 2026, to review proposals and ask clarifying questions. Funding recommendations will be submitted to the City Council for final approval on July 14, 2026. Submission of a complete application, including required financial documentation, budget worksheets, program narratives, and confirmations of compliance, is mandatory. Applicants may submit their completed application by email to Kristie Turck at [email protected] using the subject line "Small Grants Application." Hard copy submissions may also be arranged if necessary. All submissions must be consolidated into a single PDF document if emailed. Funded organizations are required to acknowledge the City of Sedona in any program-related marketing materials and provide a final report on outcomes and financial performance by April 30, 2027. The program aims to foster equity and transparency in public grantmaking, stimulate innovative community services, and support Sedona’s vibrant civic life through small, high-impact investments.

Ensure alignment with the Sedona Community Plan and demonstrate measurable impact and fiscal necessity.