Some $250,000 is available to support arts, nonprofits, and community events such as the one here where young kids are presenting a stage performance. (Courtesy photo)
Some $250,000 is available to support arts, nonprofits, and community events for underserved communities. (Courtesy photo)

Santa Barbara is accepting applications for its Cultural Arts Grants, a program that will distribute nearly $250,000 to provide free arts access for underserved communities, increase the sustainability of local arts organizations, and produce local events and festivals.

Deadline to apply is 5 p.m. Aug. 15. For more, visit sbac.ca.gov/city-grants.

“For decades, this program has helped ensure that everyone in our community can access the arts,” said Darrell McNeill, chair of the City Arts Advisory Committee. “It’s a powerful reminder that public investment in the arts strengthens connection, creativity and equity.”

Funding will support projects and programs taking place from Jan. 1, 2026-June 30, 2027. Organizations must have nonprofit 501(c)(3) status or a nonprofit fiscal sponsor and attend an informational workshop to be eligible to apply.

The next workshop will be 3:30-5 p.m. Aug. 5 via Zoom. For workshop registration, grant guidelines, eligibility requirements, and the online application portal, visit sbac.ca.gov/city-grants.

Eligible nonprofits may apply for one of the following programs: 

  • Community Arts (CA): Serving youth and underserved communities, with a maximum request of $6,000. 
  • Organizational Development (OD): Strengthening the capacity of nonprofit arts groups, with a maximum request of $15,000. 
  • Community Events & Festivals (EF): Catalyzing events that enhance Santa Barbara’s cultural and economic vitality, with a maximum request of $15,000. 

The Cultural Arts Grants are funded and supported by the city of Santa Barbara.

Applications are reviewed by the Arts Advisory and Community Events & Festivals committees. Grant administration is facilitated by the County Office of Arts and Culture.

For more than 30 years, both governments have shared resources and staff to maximize support for Santa Barbara arts and culture institutions, programs, initiatives and projects.