Community Festivals Grant

The Community Festivals Grant, administered by the City of Berkeley's Civic Arts Program, supports public festivals and special events that celebrate the city's cultural vibrancy and foster community engagement. This funding initiative is designed to back both emerging and established festivals that contribute to Berkeley’s identity as a dynamic destination for arts and culture. The primary goal of this program is to strengthen Berkeley's cultural ecosystem by funding events that preserve diverse traditions, stimulate civic pride, and enhance community connections. Eligible applicants for this program include nonprofit 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) organizations, as well as fiscally sponsored groups that operate as nonprofits. Fiscal sponsors must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations, and a formal agreement between the sponsor and applicant is required at the time of application. For-profit entities, individuals, and government agencies are ineligible. Festivals must occur within the city limits of Berkeley, be open and accessible to the general public, and include at least one free component. Events that are not eligible include school-based events during school hours, private functions, ongoing programs, or events whose primary purpose is fundraising, recruitment, or sports. Applicants may request up to $7,000 in grant funding. A total of $156,315 is projected for allocation in this category. Final award amounts are contingent on the adoption of the City of Berkeley's Fiscal Year 2027 budget. The grant covers a variety of expenses, such as performer stipends, venue and permit fees, production staff, equipment rentals, and materials. However, funds cannot be used for capital improvements, activities outside Berkeley, administrative overhead not related to the festival, or political lobbying. The application process is fully electronic and must be submitted through Submittable. Required materials include nonprofit status verification, event narrative, personnel qualifications, budget documents, board or festival committee biographies, and work samples. Fiscally sponsored applicants must also include a letter of agreement valid through the grant period. The application window closed on March 11, 2026, at 11:59 PM. Technical support and accessibility accommodations are available upon request. Grant applications undergo a rigorous review process by a diverse panel of cultural sector professionals from the Bay Area. Evaluation is based on four main criteria: Festival Narrative and Community Significance (25%), Festival Management and Production (30%), Community Engagement and Impact (25%), and Cultural Equity (20%). The Civic Arts Commission makes the final funding decision following panel review and recommendations from the Grants Subcommittee. Appeals are allowed only in cases of procedural errors or misconduct. The grant activity period spans from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027. Grantees must submit a final report by July 30, 2027, documenting their festival’s implementation and outcomes. Award recipients are also required to acknowledge the City of Berkeley in all promotional materials and comply with all relevant permitting requirements. Failure to complete the funded project or submit the final report will result in forfeiture of funds. This annual grant program plays a crucial role in supporting culturally inclusive public events that reflect the diversity and spirit of Berkeley.

Clearly define festival goals and demonstrate public benefit and inclusion. Ensure all documents align with eligibility and review criteria.