The City of Sacramento recently opened applications for its $700,000 Forward Together grant program for non-profits, businesses and individuals located in and around Marysville and Del Paso boulevards.
The Forward Together grant program aims to fund community-led initiatives aligning with the recently adopted Forward Together action plan, and it seeks to support actions enhancing housing, employment, retail, and community experiences.
“District 2 has been in the shadows for far too long,” stated Councilmember Shoun Thao, who represents the district. “But this plan is a turning point. We’re going to revitalize this community by creating more housing, attracting businesses with good jobs, building a vibrant shopping district and creating welcoming spaces for everyone to enjoy. It’s a new day for District 2.”
Divided into two categories, the Forward Together grant program includes:
Collaborative Impact Grant: This grant encourages partnerships among nonprofits, community-based organizations, businesses, and other stakeholders to achieve multiple goals outlined in the Forward Together Action Plan. Collaborations focusing on revitalizing the commercial corridor can apply for up to $400,000. Those incorporating arts and culture organizations can seek up to $500,000.
Additionally, an allocation of $100,000 supports initiatives solely dedicated to arts and culture organizations collaborating to create transformative community art and enhance the creative economy.
Action Grant: This grant aims to swiftly deliver tangible results within a year. Divided into “Quick Win” and “Project Support” categories, this grant allows individuals, businesses, nonprofits and more to address specific goals of the Forward Together Action Plan.
Quick Win grants, capped at $5,000, aim to swiftly enhance the area through beautification and community events.
Meanwhile, Project Support grants, ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, support larger-scale projects contributing to neighborhood revitalization. Possible projects include beautification and community events, business pop programs, lighting improvements to increase safety, placemaking at key gathering spots to engage youth and families.
Applications will be scored by a review panel comprised of City staff, partner agency staff and community members. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. Aug. 5.
“Investing in community-led initiatives is not just about revitalizing neighborhoods — it’s about empowering residents and businesses to shape their own future, creating a vibrant and inclusive Sacramento for generations to come,” said the City’s Senior Project Manager Mikel Davila, who oversees the grant program.
City staff will be hosting webinars, office hours and workshops throughout the application period. The first information and application assistance session will be on May 27.
For more information on the grant program and application process, visit the City of Sacramento website.
Investments in North Sacramento
This latest investment builds upon the recent award of $1.1 million to North Sacramento nonprofits and two rounds of a façade improvement grant program. Under Councilmember Thao’s direction, the City has also opened a third round of façade grants eligible to District 2 properties located along commercial corridors.
To receive a notification when grant opportunities open, please subscribe to the City’s grants listserv.
