Proposition 68 LLAR Severely Disadvantaged Communities
🏛 San Gabriel and Lower Los Angeles Rivers and Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Oct 7, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for organizations and communities in severely disadvantaged areas along California's Lower Los Angeles River. The program supports projects that improve community health, economic development, equity, and environmental conditions. Eligible projects align with the Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan and address drought response or long-term water resilience. Applications must be submitted in two phases: a Concept Proposal followed by a Full Application upon invitation.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to contact RMC staff for consultation before submitting. The program specifically targets severely disadvantaged communities as defined by California state criteria. Projects should offer multi-benefit outcomes across community, public, and environmental dimensions.
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Program description
Lower Los Angeles River: The Lower Los Angeles River program area encompasses 1.5 miles on each side of the river’s lower 19-miles, from the City of Vernon to the City of Long Beach. The Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan (LLARRP) describes opportunities for improving the environment of the Lower Los Angeles River. The plan was developed through a watershed-based, equitable, community-driven process and it identified 155 potential multi-benefit projects that would improve community economics, health, and equity; the public realm; and water and the environment along and in the vicinity of the river. The Plan has been incorporated into the watershed (LLARRP) describes opportunities for improving the environment of Lower Los Angeles River. The plan was developed through a watershed-based, equitable, community-driven process and it identified 155 potential multi-benefit projects that would improve community economics, health, equity; public realm; water along in vicinity river. Plan has been incorporated into Los Angeles River Master Plan Update. Funding will support projects in line with the LLARRP, immediate drought response, and long-term water resilience. Funding for the SDAC specific grant program shall support Severely Disadvantaged Communities as defined by the state of California. Applications: Applications will be submitted in two phases: a Concept Proposal and a Full Application. Applicants will first submit a Concept Proposal that will be reviewed by RMC staff for consistency with RMC goals, any specific program priorities, and the strength of the proposed project. In addition, RMC staff will look at all Concept Proposals for location, need, project type, readiness, threats, cost, and cost share. RMC staff will offer applicants feedback regarding alignment with priorities, overall merit, and any ineligible costs. RMC staff will select Concept Proposals to move forward and will invite selected applicants to submit Full Applications. Applicants will be provided the Full Application upon RMC invitation. RMC staff are available to work with Applicants during the preparation of the Full Application, as needed. RMC may request Applicants to revise and resubmit Full Applications, as necessary. It is strongly recommended that prospective applicants contact RMC staff for a consultation prior to submitting a Concept Proposal.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Concept Proposal (first phase submission)
- Full Application (upon RMC invitation)
- Project description and alignment with LLARRP
- Community benefit documentation
- Project timeline and readiness assessment
Program contact
- 📧 info@rmc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-626-815-1019
Funding track record
Past applications & awards under this program (California Grants Portal) — how competitive it is.
By fiscal year
| Fiscal year | Applications | Awarded | Award rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2024-2025 | 1 | 1 | 100% |
| 2025-2026 | 1 | 1 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Organizations and communities in severely disadvantaged areas along the Lower Los Angeles River from Vernon to Long Beach. Applicants should consult with RMC staff before applying.
What types of projects are eligible?
Projects aligned with the Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan that address drought response, water resilience, community health, economic development, equity, or environmental improvement.
What is the application process?
First submit a Concept Proposal. Selected applicants receive an invitation to submit a Full Application. RMC staff reviews for alignment with program goals and project merit.
Is cost sharing required?
No cost sharing is required for this program.
When is the deadline?
The program accepts applications on a rolling basis. Contact RMC staff for current submission windows and timelines.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Contact RMC staff for a consultation before submitting your Concept Proposal. Early feedback improves alignment with program priorities.
- Clearly explain how your project addresses the Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan and benefits the severely disadvantaged community.
- Demonstrate multi-benefit outcomes: combine improvements in community health, economics, equity, environment, and water resilience where possible.
- Be realistic about project readiness and timeline. RMC evaluates readiness as part of the Concept Proposal review.
- Prepare for potential revisions. RMC may request that you revise and resubmit your Full Application based on staff feedback.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when projects don't align with the Lower Los Angeles River Revitalization Plan or miss the SDAC eligibility requirement. Weak Concept Proposals lack clear connection to community need or program priorities. Applicants who skip RMC staff consultation lose valuable feedback before formal review.
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