The San José Creative Economy Fund offers project grants to small creative businesses to boost cultural vibrancy and economic impact in San José.
Funder: Center for Cultural Innovation
Due Dates: June 26, 2026 (Full application deadline, 11:59 a.m. PT)
Funding Amounts: Up to $8,000 per project; total pool approx. $55,000–$65,000 for 2026; 1-year grant period.
Summary: Project grants for small, arts/cultural/creative-based commercial businesses in San José to foster growth, resilience, and economic impact.
Key Information: Only for-profit, San José-based creative businesses with ≤35 employees; nonprofits and fiscal sponsors ineligible.
The San José Creative Economy Fund provides competitive project grants to small, arts, cultural, and creative-based commercial businesses located in the City of San José. The program is designed to strengthen the city’s creative sector by supporting projects that enhance cultural vibrancy, demonstrate readiness for implementation, promote financial resilience, and generate economic impact (such as attracting visitors, creating jobs, and increasing sales tax revenue). The initiative is administered by the Center for Cultural Innovation in partnership with the City of San José Office of Economic Development and Cultural Affairs, with a focus on supporting the city’s diverse cultural communities and creative business landscape.