Small arts and cultural organizations in Sacramento County can now apply for the Small Organization Sustainability Fund, which offers up to $5,000 in general operating support for each eligible organization.
The program, supported by the City of Sacramento’s Office of Arts and Culture, the County of Sacramento’s Office of Economic Development and the California Arts Council, is open to arts and cultural organizations throughout Sacramento County with annual budgets under $25,000.
The program is designed to strengthen the region’s creative ecosystem by helping small arts and cultural organizations sustain their operations and continue serving their communities.
“Small arts and cultural organizations play a vital role in shaping Sacramento’s creative identity,” said April Breis, arts program coordinator for the City’s Office of Arts and Culture. “These funds help sustain their work and strengthen the cultural fabric of our neighborhoods.”
Through a competitive review process, a total of $100,000 in grant funding will be distributed, with individual awards of up to $5,000. Final award amounts will be based on each applicant’s operating income, panel evaluation scores, and the total funds available.
Grant funding may be used for general operating expenses such as salaries, rent, artist payments, professional development, and other organizational costs. Unlike project-based grants, this program is designed to support an organization’s mission, capacity and long-term sustainability.
“Sacramento County is proud to partner in this effort to keep our creative sector thriving,” said Crystal Bethke, director of economic development for Sacramento County. “These small organizations bring creativity and connection to every corner of the county, especially in our unincorporated communities.”
To assist applicants, the Office of Arts and Culture will host an online grant writing workshop on Nov. 13 and open office hours on Nov. 20 and Dec. 1, each from noon to 1 p.m.
The application period runs from Nov. 3 through Dec. 5, 2025, with all submissions due by 11:59 p.m. on Dec. 5.
Applicants must submit materials electronically through the City’s Grants Management System. Organizations without nonprofit status may apply using an eligible fiscal sponsor.
General questions can be sent to artgrants@cityofsacramento.org.
Details, registration links and full program guidelines are available on the City’s Small Organization Sustainability Fund webpage.
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