The goal of the City’s Community Organization Grant Program is to engage citizens in creative efforts to improve the community and promote community involvement and pride. The City will provide up to two $5,000 grants, or one$10,000 grant per organization per fiscal year. Community organizations are responsible for proposing, designing and implementing the project. The City believes that community grants have the incredible potential to catalyze community projects in a cost-effective way.

Eligibility

Any 501c3, community group, or organization that is seeking funding to complete an activity or project that improves the quality of life in Rancho Cordova is eligible.

Criteria

Submissions will be reviewed by the city within 30 days, using the following criteria:

• Are city funds currently available?
• Can the proposed project be completed with local group contributions and up to a $5,000 Small Community Grant?
• Does the proposed use of the funds have a reasonable likelihood that it will benefit the Rancho Cordova community?
• Does the project serve a public purpose?
• Can the project be completed in the calendar year?
• All projects must take place within the city limits of Rancho Cordova.
• All activities/projects must be free to participants and open to the public.

Note: Preference is given to projects that occur in public spaces, such as parks, public schools, City Hall or similar locations.

How to Apply

1. Review Small Community Grant Guidelines for Nonprofits and Standard Insurance Requirements
2. Complete an Organization Grant Application
3. Provide three letters of support from community members who will be a part of the project and who live in the project neighborhood.

Note: Organizations have the option to apply for up to two $5,000 grants per fiscal year, OR one $10,000 grant per fiscal year (July 1-June 30).

Ready to apply? Send your completed application and letters of support to CommunityEngagement@CityofRanchoCordova.org.

Projects that are Ineligible for City Grants

Projects that are not eligible for either of the city’s community grant programs include the following.

• Retroactive funding for projects already completed
• Salaries for permanent employees
• Replacement of funding for preexisting community projects or programs
• Start-up programs that require ongoing funding that is not available at time of application
• One-time, individual benefit activities (no Eagle Scout projects, study trips, library memberships or similar)
• Projects or activities identified with political parties
• Organizations that practice discrimination of any kind
• General contributions to larger capital projects
• Fundraising for personal gain

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