California State Parks Launches $2.5 Million Grant Programs for Community and Tribal Organizations
SACRAMENTO – In a significant initiative to foster art, culture, and community engagement, California State Parks and Parks California have announced the rollout of two grant programs aimed at nonprofit, community, and tribal organizations. The new Arts in California Parks and Santa Cruz Community grants are now open for applications, with a collective funding pool of up to $2.5 million.
These grant opportunities aim to empower local leaders, amplify community voices, and ensure that California’s state parks serve as inclusive and vibrant spaces that reflect the diverse cultures, histories, and creativity of the communities they support.
Art in California Parks Grants Program
Grantees from 2024-25 included Semillas Sociedad Civil’s Anawakalmekak, known for its innovative land-art installation.
Initiated in 2024, the Arts in California Parks grants program was created in collaboration with California State Parks, the California Arts Council, and Parks California. This initiative provides funding for place-based art projects led by tribes, culture bearers, and local nonprofits to create immersive experiences that resonate with community identity and foster a deeper connection to nature.
“The Arts in California Parks program showcases how art can forge stronger connections between communities, artists, and parks,” stated Armando Quintero, Director of California State Parks. “These grants will bolster essential programs to elevate community voices, celebrate diverse histories, and curate memorable experiences in our parks.”
The program has already:
- Invested over $5.4 million statewide.
- Supported 61 projects throughout California.
- Awarded grants to more than 60 organizations.
- Facilitated over 200 free public art events in its first year.
The 2026-27 grant cycle will be the final year in this three-year pilot program. For this cycle, only proposals for implementation projects will be accepted, with a total funding of up to $2.5 million available.
Applications for the Arts in California Parks grants must be submitted by Friday, March 13, at 5 p.m.
Santa Cruz Community Grants Program
The 2025 grantee Saved By Nature organized a guided walk for community members to actively engage in inclusive park planning at Rancho del Oso, situated within Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
Launched in February 2024, the Santa Cruz Community grants program empowers local organizations to lead engagement efforts that shape the future of state parks and beaches in the Santa Cruz area, particularly following the impact of recent storms and wildfires.
Managed by Parks California in partnership with California State Parks, this program focuses on inclusive park planning across affected areas such as Big Basin Redwoods State Park, Seacliff State Beach, and Rancho del Oso.
“The Santa Cruz Community grants program allows every resident, especially those from underserved communities, to take part in shaping what local parks and beaches offer,” remarked Geoff Kish, Vice President of Programs at Parks California. “By funding community-led engagement, we help parks to truly reflect the needs and stories of Santa Cruz residents.”
Funding, coordination support, and engagement tools will be provided to help organizations bring community residents to state parks, facilitate conversations, and gather feedback essential for guiding park rebuilding and long-term planning. This program is anticipated to allocate up to $88,000 in funding, with grants capped at $10,000 per organization.
Applications for the Santa Cruz Community grants are due by Friday, March 6, at 5 p.m. PT.
About Arts in California Parks
Arts in California Parks aligns with statewide initiatives such as Governor Gavin Newsom’s Outdoor Access for All and the California Natural Resources Agency’s Outdoors for All. This program champions artists, cultural bearers, and California Native American tribes in crafting artistic expressions and cultural programming within state and local parks. The initiative acts as a catalyst for fostering sustainable community connections, health, and wellness, all under a partnership between California State Parks, the California Arts Council, and Parks California.
For those interested in receiving news updates, subscribe to California State Parks News via e-mail at NewsRoom@parks.ca.gov.
California State Parks is committed to preserving the diverse biological landscape and cultural heritage of California. The organization strives to enhance opportunities for high-quality outdoor recreation while maintaining the health and education of its citizens.
