California Arts Grants

The City of Santa Barbara's Cultural Arts Grants program is an annual initiative demonstrating the city's commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable local cultural sector and ensuring arts access for all residents. With an investment of nearly $250,000, the program aims to strengthen the community through various artistic endeavors. This aligns with a broader mission to enhance local economic and community vitality by supporting diverse nonprofits and catalyzing engaging events and festivals. The grant program targets Santa Barbara-based organizations, specifically focusing on underserved communities and youth to provide equitable arts access. The overall impact goal is to uplift these communities, support the capacity and performance of nonprofit arts organizations, and promote the city's cultural vitality. By embracing multicultural and neighborhood arts, the program seeks to create a more inclusive and culturally rich environment for everyone. The program is structured around three distinct grant programs, each with specific priorities and focuses. Community Arts (CA) Grants prioritize projects that create arts opportunities for underserved communities and youth, with a maximum funding request of up to $6,000. Organizational Development (OD) Grants are designed to support nonprofit arts organizations in enhancing their capacity, audience reach, and earned income, with a maximum funding request of up to $15,000. Finally, Community Events & Festivals (EF) Grants focus on incubating events that contribute to the city's cultural promotion and vitality, also with a maximum funding request of up to $15,000. The expected outcomes of these grants include increased arts access for all community members, strengthened capacity and performance of local arts organizations, and the successful execution of events and festivals that boost local economic and community vitality. Measurable results would likely involve the number of participants reached through Community Arts projects, the growth in audience numbers or earned income for organizations receiving Organizational Development grants, and the attendance and economic impact generated by Community Events & Festivals. The city's strategic priority is clearly to invest in and sustain a thriving arts ecosystem that serves all its residents and contributes to the overall well-being and economic health of Santa Barbara. The theory of change suggests that by providing targeted financial support, the city can foster a dynamic cultural landscape that enriches lives, strengthens community bonds, and stimulates local economic activity.

The nature of this partnership includes funding, information exchange, cooperative activities, and leadership. The partnership enables individuals, organizations, and communities to create, present, and preserve the arts of all cultures to enrich the quality of life for all Californians.

This grant provides funding for full-time graduate students in the Western U.S. to collaborate with their academic advisors and local producers on projects that promote sustainable agriculture through research and education.

This grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in Monterey County, California, that aim to improve the well-being of individuals and families, promote cultural activities, and enhance community services.

The Towbes Fund for the Performing Arts, administered by the Santa Barbara Foundation, aims to support qualifying performing arts nonprofit organizations in furthering their missions by providing quality performing arts opportunities. Grants of up to $15,000 will be awarded to organizations that seek to produce, present, and preserve exceptional works from various artistic traditions, ensuring participation reflects the demographic diversity of Santa Barbara County. Priority is given to organizations that demonstrate a sustained or increased demand for the performing arts, are working to expand organizational capacity, show cultural competence, and work to dismantle barriers preventing access to arts for low-income and marginalized populations. Funding can be used for general operating, program-specific support, expansion of existing programs, pilot programs, and collaborative efforts.

This grant supports the well-being of California’s cultural vitality by creating resilient and diverse networks of arts service organizations and artists. Grantees will be required to accomplish the following within the grant activity period: Arts service organizations must provide practical services for artists, creators, culture bearers, and/or arts and cultural organizations. Constituent representation must be active, ongoing, effective, and relevant statewide or regional reach. Programs and/or services must provide engagement and access throughout all counties and/or municipalities identified within the statewide or regional network.

The Northeast Dairy Business Innovation Center (NE-DBIC) has launched the Goat and Sheep Dairy Development Grant program to bolster the Northeast goat and sheep dairy sector. This initiative aligns with the NE-DBIC's broader mission to strengthen regional dairy industries by addressing critical areas such as business viability, market development, and innovative production methods. The program aims to enhance the growth and long-term viability of individual small ruminant businesses, while also tackling gaps in technical assistance, improving supply chain partnerships, and expanding market access. The program targets several beneficiaries, including dairy farmers (producers) currently or transitioning to producing goat or sheep milk, dairy processors transforming raw goat/sheep milk into edible products, dairy producer associations representing and promoting goat/sheep dairy products, and technical assistance providers working with these groups. The impact goals are to foster growth, increase profitability, improve herd/flock health and milk quality, reduce barriers to new markets, and expand distribution opportunities for goat/sheep dairy products within the Northeast region. The grant program focuses on two main project types: Individual Business Projects and Sector Enhancement Projects. Individual Business Projects support farmers and processors in making improvements to increase business viability, market development, or production innovations. Examples include engaging with technical assistance providers for business improvements, diversification and marketing efforts, research and development of innovative solutions, and purchasing specialized dairy equipment. Sector Enhancement Projects are designed to engage multiple dairy businesses in activities that improve or expand small ruminant production practices or dairy markets, strengthening relationships across the goat/sheep dairy supply chain. Examples include developing tools and resources, improving farmer access to resources, and initial investments to strengthen supply chain relationships. Funding priorities emphasize projects that address at least two of the following: developing resources to fill unmet technical assistance needs, increasing pay price for goat/sheep dairy farmers, producing deliverables for new or transitioning dairy farmers, including educational/information sharing components, fostering collaborative efforts, increasing profits for dairy businesses, improving herd/flock health/nutrition/milk quality, reducing barriers to new markets, developing market channels, and implementing innovative strategies to increase awareness and consumption of goat/sheep dairy products. The program's theory of change appears to be that by investing in these specific areas, both individual businesses and the sector as a whole will experience sustainable growth and increased competitiveness. Individual business grants range from $15,000 to $50,000, requiring a 25% cash and/or in-kind match commitment. Supply chain projects are eligible for grants between $25,000 and $75,000, also with a 25% match commitment. A total of $760,000 is available for this program. The expected outcomes include a more robust and resilient goat and sheep dairy sector in the Northeast, with enhanced business viability for producers and processors, expanded market reach for their products, and a stronger, more collaborative supply chain. The grant period for projects is between 8 and 12 months.

The Bridge Association of REALTORS® Community Foundation Grant is designed to financially support essential community programs that address housing, opportunities for youth, and champion diversity within the community. The foundation's mission is aligned with supporting programs in Youth Arts and Education, Senior Services Community Activities, and Workforce Housing and Homelessness within specific cities in Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The grant prioritizes specific project-based funding over general operational funds, ensuring that contributions directly impact targeted initiatives. The grant targets several key beneficiary groups. For Youth Arts & Education, the foundation seeks to equalize opportunities for children from all social and economic backgrounds through programs offering arts and cultural classes, public and private education (including Special Education), and food & nutrition programs addressing hunger. For Workforce Housing & the Homeless, the focus is on organizations directly benefiting the homeless population and advocacy groups working towards long-term solutions for the housing crisis, including affordable housing and hunger/nutrition issues. Finally, Senior Services & Community Activities aims to support organizations providing services to seniors for socialization, healthcare advice, transportation, nutritional issues, and housing support. The foundation's strategic priorities and theory of change center on providing targeted support to create tangible improvements in the community. They believe that by funding specific projects that address critical needs in youth development, senior well-being, and housing stability, they can achieve measurable positive outcomes. This approach ensures that grants contribute to concrete solutions rather than diffuse efforts. Expected outcomes include enhanced opportunities for disadvantaged youth, improved living conditions and support for the homeless population, and increased access to vital services for seniors. While specific measurable results are not explicitly detailed beyond the grant's categories, the emphasis on project-specific funding implies a focus on demonstrable impact within those project parameters. The maximum grant size awarded is $3,500.00, and eligible organizations must have an annual budget under $1,000,000 and provide services in Albany, Berkeley, Emeryville, Kensington, Oakland, and Piedmont.

The California Department of Food and Agriculture is offering a grant of over $1 million through its Dairy Plus Program to California dairy farms for implementing advanced manure management practices that reduce methane emissions and manage nitrogen and salt surplus, with a focus on climate-smart practices and product markets.

This grant provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on improving the well-being of senior citizens in Escondido by addressing issues like elder fraud prevention, social isolation, and access to basic needs.

This funding opportunity provides financial support to nonprofit organizations in El Dorado County for programs and improvements that directly benefit the local veteran community.

This initiative provides financial and technical support to individuals and organizations in Hayward, California, for community-driven projects that promote education, sustainability, economic development, and health.

SF Shines Design Services Grant Program, offered by the Invest In Neighborhoods division of the Office of Economic and Workforce Department in California, provides grants, design services, and project management for property improvements to help small businesses thrive and create vibrant and safe neighborhood commercial corridors. The program aims to assist businesses in obtaining permit drawings for storefront improvements to ensure compliance, safety, and efficient business operations. Grantees will have access to a licensed architect to ensure that their projects comply with local, state, and federal laws and codes.

The Northgate Boulevard Storefront Improvement (NBSI) Grant Program is designed to empower small business owners along the Northgate Boulevard commercial corridor by providing financial assistance for exterior property enhancements. This initiative aligns with a broader mission to foster local economic vitality and community pride. By focusing on physical improvements such as new paint, signage, lighting, windows, doors, and awnings, the program directly addresses the aesthetic and functional needs of small businesses, thereby contributing to a more vibrant and appealing commercial district. The primary beneficiaries of this grant program are small, for-profit retail or service establishments with street frontage on Northgate Boulevard. These businesses must be independently and locally owned and operated, with a principal office and owners domiciled in the greater Sacramento region. Furthermore, eligible businesses must have 100 or fewer employees or earn $18 million or less in average annual gross receipts over the last three tax years. Tenants are also eligible, provided they secure property owner consent and have a current lease with at least three years remaining, or an assurance of a lease extension. The program explicitly excludes non-profit entities and franchises, ensuring its focus remains on supporting truly local and independent enterprises. The program's impact goals are multifaceted, aiming to support the retention and growth of existing businesses, deter vacancies, attract more visitors to the corridor, and spur new investment. The strategic priority is to enhance the physical appearance of storefronts, which is viewed as a catalyst for broader economic and community benefits. The theory of change posits that by improving the visual appeal and functionality of individual businesses, the entire commercial corridor will become more attractive, leading to increased foot traffic, customer spending, and business stability, ultimately contributing to a more resilient local economy. Eligible activities encompass a range of exterior improvements, including painting, installation or repair of façade elements, restoration of original architectural features, and removal of exterior clutter. Exterior security enhancements are also permitted, with the caveat that they cannot exceed 25% of the total grant award, must comply with City design standards, and be proposed in conjunction with other beautification efforts. Additionally, applicable professional service fees related to design, architectural, electrical, engineering, or construction plans (up to 25% of the award) and City/State permitting fees (up to 10% of the award) are covered. The program has a total of $200,000 available, with minimum funding requests of $5,000 and maximum requests of $15,000 per application, over a project period of one year. These measurable results, coupled with the improved physical appearance of storefronts, will indicate the program's success in achieving its stated objectives.

Program Goals Projects should address the following Exposure program goals: Develop long-term, mutually beneficial relationships between arts and educational organizations, teaching artists, and the youth and families in the communities they serve. Cultivate students’ appreciation for the arts and understanding of themselves as the next generation of arts patrons and participants. Promote culturally and linguistically responsive learning through the arts, using cultural knowledge to support the cultural assets of the local community and students’ positive self-identification within and respect for diverse cultures.

This grant provides funding for nonprofit organizations in Gilroy and surrounding South County areas to support impactful projects in various fields, including education, health, and the environment.

The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP), provided by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), offers funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements. This program is specifically designed for nonprofit organizations in California that are at high risk for violent attacks and hate crimes due to their ideology, beliefs, or mission. The grant size ranges from $100,000 to $500,000 with a duration of two years, running from December 1, 2024, to December 31, 2026. The total amount available for solicitation is $76,000,000, with a maximum of $250,000 per location, up to a total of $500,000 per applicant. The primary target beneficiaries are California nonprofit organizations described under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) and exempt from tax under Section 501(a). This includes organizations such as churches, mosques, and synagogues, which are automatically exempt if they meet 501(c)(3) requirements. The overarching impact goal is to enhance the physical security of these vulnerable organizations, thereby preventing and protecting them against violent attacks and hate crimes. The program seeks to ensure the safety of both facilities and the people within them, including those with access and functional needs, and those with limited English proficiency. The program prioritizes several categories of cost, including Planning, Equipment, Training, Construction/Renovation, Contracted Security, Management and Administration (M&A), and Support Services. Planning activities may include developing security plans, emergency contingency plans, and evacuation plans. Equipment focuses on physical security enhancements like reinforced doors, high-intensity lighting, alarms, inspection systems, and access control. Training is for employees or members to receive on-site security training, addressing specific threats and vulnerabilities. Construction or Renovation is permitted for target hardening, limited to $100,000, and contracted security personnel are allowed but cannot exceed 50% of the requested amount, with the expectation that applicants can sustain this capability without future CSNSGP funding. M&A and Support Services each have a cap of five percent of the funds. Expected outcomes include a significant improvement in the physical security posture of participating nonprofit organizations, a reduction in their vulnerability to violent attacks and hate crimes, and enhanced preparedness for emergencies. Measurable results would involve the successful implementation of security enhancements, such as new equipment installations, improved security plans, and trained personnel. The program's strategic priorities align with the foundation's goal of safeguarding communities and promoting a secure environment for organizations that may face threats due to their core identities or missions, thereby contributing to the broader theory of change that targeted security investments can mitigate risks and foster resilience within vulnerable populations.

The WeHo Community Arts Grant, offered by the City of West Hollywood, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations, individual artists, or artist collectives that have a history of supporting LGBQ, BIPOC, and/or female artists and audiences. This grant aligns with the City's mission to enhance the community through art-centered presentations and participatory programs, fostering cultural equity and providing access to specific communities. The overall strategic priority is to use the arts as a tool for community engagement, cultural recognition, and economic development within West Hollywood. The target beneficiaries of this grant are LA County-based artists, collectives, or non-profit arts organizations that meet specific criteria, including a history of supporting underrepresented groups in the arts. The grant specifically focuses on engaging West Hollywood residents and visitors, expanding arts audiences, and recognizing local cultural resources. The impact goals are to increase access to quality arts programming that is financially and geographically accessible, boost revenues for local businesses through arts-business partnerships, and generally increase participation in the arts through education. The grant prioritizes art-centered presentations and workshops that support community goals through cultural equity. Eligible projects must take place within West Hollywood or immediately adjacent areas and applicants must demonstrate a marketing and outreach strategy targeting West Hollywood residents. The City's theory of change appears to be that by investing in accessible and inclusive arts programming, they can create a more vibrant, engaged, and culturally equitable community, leading to broader social and economic benefits. Expected outcomes include increased engagement of residents and visitors with the arts, expanded arts audiences, and the discovery of new places for artmaking. Measurable results could include an increase in attendance at arts events, a rise in local business revenues attributed to arts programming, and a greater number of individuals participating in arts education. The total available funding for this category is $30,000, with a maximum award of $6,000 per organization, demonstrating a commitment to funding multiple impactful projects within the community.

The San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority, a regional government agency, allocates funds for restoring and enhancing wetland and wildlife habitats along the San Francisco Bay shoreline. Grants exceeding $1 million are available for projects lasting up to five years, with a deadline of September 20, 2024. Eligible projects must be located within the nine Bay Area counties—Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Solano, and Sonoma—and align with priorities outlined in Measure AA. These priorities include maximizing positive environmental impacts, ensuring geographic distribution, leveraging additional resources, and benefiting economically disadvantaged communities. The Authority funds various project phases, including planning, construction, and scientific studies, provided they support habitat restoration, flood management, or public access initiatives. Projects must meet specific criteria related to improving water quality, enhancing wildlife habitats, providing flood protection, and improving public access. Eligible applicants include federal, state, and local agencies, tribal governments, nonprofits, and shoreline parcel owners in the San Francisco Bay Area. For more information, visit the San Francisco Bay Restoration Authority website.

This funding opportunity provides up to $2 million to a single organization to enhance statewide tobacco prevention efforts in California through communication, technical assistance, and support for local initiatives targeting high-risk populations.