Mini-Grant Program

Upcoming Workshops

Join us for an upcoming virtual workshop where you'll learn everything you need to know about Valley Water's new Mini-Grant Program and how to create a successful application.

The Grants and Partnerships team will walk you through our new Mini-Grant Program, share application tips, and answer your questions. Register for a workshop today!

Applications are open!

Valley Water’s Mini-Grant Program provides funding to support small and impactful projects promoting safe, clean drinking water, water conservation, flood protection, and environmental stewardship in Santa Clara County. These grants allow community members and organizations to lead projects that build awareness and support lasting change.

Funding for the Mini-Grants Program is available through the Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Program, which Santa Clara County voters approved in November 2020.

We’re excited to announce new updates to make the program more accessible and effective for our community.

What’s new in the Mini-Grant Program

• Increased Funding: Eligible projects can now receive up to $10,000 per project, which means more resources for projects to create meaningful change.
• No Matching Funds Required: We’ve removed the 25% match requirement, making it easier for organizations of all sizes to apply.
• Streamlined Application: We’ve launched a new online application through the Fluxx Grants Portal. The process is much simpler and user-friendly.
• Expanded Eligible Project Costs: Grant funding now covers insurance costs, adding flexibility to your project budget.

Funding Overview

• Eligibility: The project must benefit Santa Clara County residents.
• Grant Award Amount Limit: Up to $10,000 per project.
• Annual Budget: $100,000 per fiscal year (July 1 to June 30).
• Application Period: Open year-round on a rolling basis until funds run out for the fiscal year.
• Funding Structure: 50% of the awarded amount will be provided upfront, and the remaining 50% will be released upon submission of the final documentation to Valley Water for review and approval following project completion.
• Priority will be given to organizations that are submitting their first application for the fiscal year. Valley Water aims to encourage a diverse range of projects and ensure that multiple organizations have the opportunity to receive funding.

Eligibility Requirements

We are accepting applications from the following organization types and groups that work/provide services within Santa Clara County:

• Public agencies, such as cities, towns, and county agencies.
• Nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
• Nonprofits without a 501(c)(3) but can demonstrate that they are an affiliate of a nonprofit organization that possesses a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
• Schools, community colleges, and public and private colleges/universities.
• Open space, resource conservation, and special districts.
• For-profit organizations.
• Organized community group with an established structure (must identify an individual responsible for signing the agreement, insurance, etc.).
• Individuals (must meet insurance requirements).

Eligible Projects

Projects must focus on at least one of the following:

• Water Conservation: Implement water-saving technologies, run water conservation workshops, or prevent pollution in waterways.
• Flood Protection: Support creek cleanups or flood preparedness outreach.
• Environmental Stewardship: Projects like restoring habitats, promoting native species, and organizing environmental education programs.

All projects must provide free public access or demonstrate a significant public benefit to the residents of Santa Clara County.

Examples of Past Projects

The Mini-Grant Program has funded community gardens, outdoor classrooms, water conservation workshops, watershed education field trips, and habitat restoration. To find out more about past projects, click here. 

Why partner with Valley Water?

Here’s why you should apply for a mini-grant and partner with Valley Water:

• Align with Our Mission: By partnering with us, you’ll contribute to safe, clean water, flood protection, and environmental stewardship initiatives that benefit Santa Clara County.
• Inclusive and Equitable: Our grants prioritize accessibility for diverse organizations, ensuring projects benefit the entire community.
• Staff Support: Our team will help guide you through the entire process, from application to project completion. For assistance, schedule a one-on-one meeting with us at any time.

Ready to Apply?

Visit Fluxx to complete your registration and start your application today!

Learn More

Are you interested in staying in touch? Sign up for our mailing list to receive emails on future funding opportunities.

You can also schedule a meeting with staff using the  following link:

• Schedule a 30-minute meeting

Valley Water offers additional funding opportunities beyond the Mini-Grant Program. Explore our Refill Station Grants, which provide $5,000 per water bottle refill station, and our Standard Grants, which can fund larger projects with up to $1.4 million available each year.

Resources

Valley Water offers several resources to help you learn more about our Mini-Grants Program. For more information, please visit our resource page.