Best Grants for Museums in California

California Credit Union League: Network Awards

Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference. 

Recognizes individuals and local Networks for their extraordinary impact and commitment to professional development, advocacy and collaboration in the Networks and the local community of credit unions. 

California Credit Union League: Distinguished Service Award

Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference. 

Recipients of the Distinguished Service Award are honored for service to the credit union community outside the usual scope of employment at a credit union, and beyond the scope of their networks.

The Museum Grant Program, established under California Assembly Bill 716, aims to support museums through competitive grants for projects focused on exhibits, education, and outreach, particularly benefiting historically underserved communities and students. Following the impacts of COVID-19, funding is prioritized for museums significantly affected by the pandemic. This initiative enhances access to cultural resources and promotes the preservation of California's historical and cultural heritage.

Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference.

Tomorrow’s Star Award

The Tomorrow’s Star Award recognizes the achievements by young credit union professionals age 35 and under.

Each year, California’s Credit Unions and Nevada’s Credit Unions honor distinguished industry leaders and volunteers during the Leagues’ REACH Conference. 

Shapiro: Kim Bannan Eternal Flame Awards

These awards recognize efforts that contribute to the success and future of Shapiro Group credit unions, and are named after the League’s late vice president of credit union development and research and information.

The Oil Spill Response Equipment Grant, managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, provides funding to local government agencies for purchasing essential oil spill response equipment. This program aims to enhance the readiness of first responders in mitigating oil spills, ensuring economic stability in affected communities. Grants also cover training and equipment delivery, focusing on agencies located near state waters. Applications are accepted continuously, emphasizing ongoing support for local environmental protection efforts.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

The Project Acceleration Notes and Credit Enhancement Alternatives (PANACEA) Program, funded by an $8 million federal grant, aims to enhance financing for California charter schools' facilities. This initiative supports the purchase, construction, and renovation of such facilities and operates alongside the Charter School Facilities Program. The program is designed to expedite the development of permanent charter school facilities by providing necessary credit enhancements, ensuring broader access to quality education for students.

The Wildfire Resilience Initiative Grant Program, funded by the Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation, addresses the urgent need for wildfire resilience in Western North America. With increasing threats from extreme wildfires due to climate change and human activity, this initiative aims to transform fire's role from a destructive force to a beneficial element. By supporting research, early interventions, and community preparedness, the program seeks to foster a collaborative approach to enhancing ecosystem health and community safety.

The California Department of Housing and Community Development has launched the Permanent Local Housing Allocation Program: Formula Component NOFA, providing ongoing funding to local governments for housing and homelessness initiatives. This program, established under Senate Bill 2, aims to address unmet housing needs in communities by allocating 70% of collected funds. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for eligible projects that enhance local housing solutions.

The Tire Incentive Program (TIP), managed by CalRecycle, incentivizes businesses to incorporate recycled crumb rubber into their products. By offering reimbursement for using crumb rubber instead of virgin materials, the program aims to boost demand for recycled materials and foster innovation in manufacturing. Eligible projects include new or improved products that utilize at least five percent crumb rubber. This initiative not only promotes sustainability but also supports the development of higher-value products in the marketplace.

The Proposition 68: Fish and Wildlife Improvement Grant Program provides funding to enhance fish and wildlife habitats across California. This initiative aims to restore rivers and streams, acquire water resources, and improve wetland conditions. Eligible projects include water transfers, habitat improvements, and land acquisitions that support aquatic and riparian ecosystems. With a total budget of up to $30 million, this program plays a critical role in maintaining biodiversity and resilience against climate change.

The Beverage Container Recycling City/County Payment Program, administered by CalRecycle, allocates $10.5 million for fiscal year 2024-25 to support cities and counties in California. The funding aims to enhance beverage container recycling and litter cleanup efforts through curbside programs, public education, and cooperative regional projects. Eligible applicants include cities and counties, with minimum awards of $5,000 for cities and $10,000 for counties, based on population metrics.

The Practical Support Grant Program, administered by Essential Access Health under the California Department of Health Care Access and Information, allocates $20 million to assist pregnant individuals seeking abortions. This grant provides direct support for services like transportation, lodging, and childcare, ensuring access to reproductive care. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations based in California that aid those facing barriers to abortion services, promoting essential healthcare access for all.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

The Tobacco Grant Program in California, established under Proposition 56, aims to reduce illegal sales and marketing of tobacco products to minors. Administered by the Office of the Attorney General, it has provided about $184.7 million in funding since 2017 to local law enforcement agencies. This reimbursement grant program evaluates funding based on submitted proposals, ensuring financial support for effective tobacco enforcement efforts across the state.

Purpose

The California Air Resources Board is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

Description

The California Air Resources Board (CARB or the Board) is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

HVIP accelerates market transformation by incentivizing the purchase of zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and buses for California fleets, providing vouchers for purchasers and lessees for eligible vehicles on a first-come first-serve basis. HVIP provides increased incentives for fleets purchasing zero-emission vehicles located in disadvantaged communities with a goal of at least 50 percent of HVIP funding supporting vehicles domiciled in disadvantaged communities. In addition, HVIP incorporates a set-aside for transit vehicles.HVIP stimulates the development, deployment, and commercialization of advanced vehicle technology. These technologies are critical to help California meet its near- and long-term air-quality and climate-change goals. Additionally, the project benefits the citizens of California by providing immediate air-pollution and greenhouse-gas emission reductions. Appropriated and allocated HVIP funds will be administered and implemented through a partnership between CARB and a Grantee selected via this competitive solicitation. 

The Behavioral Health Scholarship Program, administered by the California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), aims to enhance the pipeline of trained behavioral health professionals. By offering scholarships up to $35,000 for students pursuing degrees in behavioral health, the program addresses the urgent need for direct care providers in underserved communities. Participants must fulfill a 12-month service obligation, ensuring their skills benefit those who need it most. This initiative fosters diversity within the healthcare workforce.

The Ralph J. Torraco Food Bank/Shelter Fund Grant, offered by the UNICO Foundation Inc., aims to combat hunger and provide shelter for the homeless and indigent. Eligible applicants include registered non-profit food pantries, soup kitchens, and shelters in 13 U.S. states. The grant focuses on direct services, ensuring that all funds are used for food and shelter, not for operating expenses, thereby promoting effective community support for vulnerable populations.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Computer Science Studies, awarded by the UNICO Foundation, offers four scholarships of $1,000 each to full-time students pursuing a degree in Computer Science at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible applicants must reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor, be U.S. citizens aged 18 or older, and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. Preference is given to those demonstrating financial need.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Seminarian Studies, funded by UNICO Foundation Inc, offers four scholarships worth $1,000 each to full-time seminarians attending accredited Catholic seminaries in the U.S. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and either reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor. This scholarship supports the educational journey of seminarians, reflecting UNICO's commitment to serving the community and promoting Italian American heritage.

The Inserra Scholarships, provided by the UNICO Foundation, aim to support students of Italian descent pursuing higher education. Two scholarships of $2,500 each are awarded annually to eligible candidates who are U.S. citizens attending accredited colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to empowering the Italian American community through education.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Veterinary Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for students pursuing veterinary studies at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This opportunity supports diverse applicants and emphasizes community service, reflecting UNICO's commitment to Italian American heritage and educational advancement.

The Ralph J. Torraco Fine Arts Scholarship, offered by the UNICO Foundation, awards two $2,500 scholarships to U.S. students studying Fine Arts, including Performing, Visual, or Technical Arts. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with a minimum GPA of 3.0, enrolled full-time in an accredited college, and planning to continue their studies into the 2025-2026 academic year. This scholarship aims to support and promote Italian American culture and heritage through the arts.

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Start-Up Subgrant For the Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion of Charter Schools

Purpose and Background

The PCSGP is a subgrant program funded by the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP). The PCSGP is a discretionary grant program. California was awarded approximately $93 million in grant funds for 2024–29. States that are awarded these federal funds distribute them in subgrants to charter school developers, known as PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants in the state of California, to assist in the development and initial operations of newly established or conversion charter schools as well as to assist in the expansion and replication of high-quality charter schools.

PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants identify funding levels and terms into four subgrant types: Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion. For FY 2025, the CDE has an approved pipeline and budget to award approximately 14 subgrants. The actual number and type of subgrants awarded during each RFA competition may vary based on demand. If all authorized awards are not approved for funding, the CDE may open additional RFA competition events for new applicants until all of the allocated funds have been awarded.

21st Century California School Leadership Academy, Cohort 3

California Education Code Section 44690(c)(1) directs the California Department of Education (CDE), the State Board of Education (SBE) and the California Collaborative for Educational Excellence (CCEE) to select providers of professional learning for administrators and other school leaders. The professional learning through the 21CSLA will be free of charge to local educational agencies that receive federal Title II funds.

Description:

The CDE, SBE, and CCEE will select one awardee to serve as the 21CSLA Center and up to seven awardees to serve as 21CSLA Regional Academies. Please note that the Center application is a renewal. Only the current 21CSLA Center may apply. Awardees, supported by the CDE, CCEE, and SBE, will work collaboratively within the Statewide System of Support (SOS) to build the capacity of educational leaders statewide through professional learning aligned to the California Professional Standards for Education Leaders (CPSEL) and the Quality Professional Learning Standards (QPLS). A goal of this program is to have a Regional Academy located in each of the seven Geographic Lead Agency boundaries.