Ventura launches $340,000 in community grants for arts, culture, wellness
The city is accepting applications for its revamped Community Grants Program, which offers $340,000 across four categories: Arts Organization Support, Cultural Projects, Individual Artist Projects, and Community Wellness Projects.
The City of Ventura is accepting applications for its revamped Community Grants Program, which will distribute $340,000 across four grant categories to support local arts, culture, and community well-being.
The four categories.
- Arts Organization Support: $120,000 available for general operating support to established arts organizations based in Ventura. Awards range from $5,000 to $20,000.
- Cultural Projects: $75,000 available for organizations proposing projects with a clear cultural focus. Awards range from $3,000 to $15,000, depending on the organization's budget.
- Individual Artist Projects: $15,000 available for artists and creative practitioners proposing arts or cultural projects. Awards range from $3,000 to $5,000.
- Community Wellness Projects: $130,000 available for projects that improve residents' health, well-being, and quality of life by addressing social, environmental, or community needs. Awards range from $3,000 to $20,000.
The refresh. The Community Grants Program brings together the former Community Partnership Grant Program and Cultural Funding Grant Program. Its updated structure was developed with community feedback and consultant guidance to better serve local organizations.
Who can apply. Nonprofits, cultural groups, and individual artists in Ventura can apply. Applicants may apply in one category per funding cycle. All funded projects and activities must take place within the City of Ventura and benefit Ventura residents.
Key dates. Completed applications are due by 5:00 p.m. on October 30, 2026. Requests for a secure online grant portal link, or an alternate submission method, are due by 1:00 p.m. on October 26. Information sessions are being held Oct. 13 and Oct. 22, from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at City Hall. Staff are also available for virtual one-on-one support sessions throughout the week.
More information. Grant applications, guidelines, and frequently asked questions are available at www.cityofventura.ca.gov/CommunityGrantsProgram.
Sources
- City of Ventura news release, Oct. 5, 2026 (Blog IID=180) (city news release)Oct 5, 2026
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