[Santa Barbara Foundation](https://sbfoundation.org)

Up to $6,000 per grant; project period up to one year.

Supports Santa Barbara County nonprofits to strengthen organizational capacity via development, planning, training, and strategic projects.

Only one application per organization per calendar year; highly competitive program.

--- ## Description The Small Capacity Building Grant Program is designed to help nonprofits serving Santa Barbara County enhance their organizational capacity and effectiveness. The program funds projects such as organizational development, strategic planning, staff and board training, program evaluation, campaign feasibility studies, collaborative learning, and small capital expenditures. The intent is to help organizations improve their strategy, leadership, operations, and communications, leading to better programmatic outcomes and long-term sustainability. Grants are not intended for ongoing program expenses or staff salaries, but rather for projects that build the infrastructure and capacity of organizations. --- ## Due Dates - May 13, 2025 - July 15, 2025 - September 9, 2025 - February 10, 2026 - May 12, 2026 - July 14, 2026 - September 8, 2026 Applications must be submitted by the listed deadlines; decisions are made within 6–8 weeks after each deadline. --- ## Funding Amount - Maximum award: **$6,000** - Project period: **Up to one year** from the award date - Only one grant application per organization per calendar year --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be certified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code or apply through a fiscal sponsor with 501(c)(3) status. - Public entities (e.g., schools, universities, libraries) may apply through an affiliated or supporting 501(c)(3) organization. - All applicants must serve communities within Santa Barbara County. Organizations based outside the county must demonstrate knowledge of the local landscape and are encouraged to engage local partners. - Fiscal sponsors may submit one application for their own organization and one as a sponsor per year. - Only one application per organization per calendar year for this program, regardless of the number of sites or branches. - Projects must not discriminate on any protected basis. - Faith-based organizations may apply for secular projects open to all. - Not eligible: Individuals, for-profit entities, general operating expenses, staff salaries, fundraising events, endowments, debt, reimbursement for past expenses, or single-use/disposable items. --- ## Application Process - Applications must be submitted through the [Santa Barbara Foundation’s online grants portal](https://santabarbarafoundation.us-1.smartsimple.com/s_Login.jsp). - Registration on the portal is required; organizations must complete an Organization Profile before accessing applications. - Only online submissions are accepted—paper applications are not permitted. - Supporting documents (e.g., consultant proposals, strategic plans, equipment quotes) are encouraged to substantiate the funding request. - A thoughtfully prepared budget is required. - Applicants will receive an automatic email receipt upon successful submission. - Final reports are required within 13 months of the grant award, preferably within 30 days of project completion. --- ## Additional Information - Grants are highly competitive; proposals with clearly stated needs, readiness, and commitment are most successful. - Projects should focus on building long-term capacity, not supporting ongoing programs. - Applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation to discuss proposal suitability before applying. - For more details on eligibility and program guidelines, review the [Eligibility Criteria & FAQs](https://sbfoundation.org/nonprofits/eligibility-criteria-faqs/). --- ## External Links - [Grant Guidelines & Application](https://sbfoundation.org/nonprofits/grant-opportunities/scb-grant-guidelines/) - [Eligibility Criteria & FAQs](https://sbfoundation.org/nonprofits/eligibility-criteria-faqs/) - [Santa Barbara Foundation Grants Portal](https://santabarbarafoundation.us-1.smartsimple.com/s_Login.jsp) - [Helpful Tips for Submitting an Application](https://sbfoundation.org/nonprofits/helpful-tips-for-submitting-a-small-capacity-building-grant-application/) --- ## Contact Information | Name | Email | Phone | |---------------------------|-----------------------------------------|-----------------| | Maria Caudillo, Community Engagement Coordinator | [mcaudillo@SBFoundation.org](mailto:mcaudillo@SBFoundation.org) | (805) 963-1873 | | General Inquiries | [info@sbfoundation.org](mailto:info@sbfoundation.org) | (805) 963-1873 | For specific questions about eligibility or the application process, contact Maria Caudillo or the Community Engagement Team.

Small Capacity Building Grant Program

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