The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 (Proposition 68) SMMC Grant Program – Prop 68 River
🏛 Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Aug 2, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California Tribal Entities seeking to build affordable rental housing and infrastructure. Eligible applicants must be federally recognized tribes or tribal organizations with projects benefiting lower-income tribal households. Projects can include new construction, rehabilitation, or conversion of permanent and transitional rental housing. The program also funds infrastructure improvements like water, sewer, utility service, roads, transit facilities, and pedestrian improvements.
Funding is available through forgivable loans for housing and grants for infrastructure work. No cost sharing is required. This program is exclusively for tribal applicants and prioritizes projects that serve tribal communities in California.
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Program description
This program supports The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 is codified as Division 45 (commencing with section 80000) and sections 5096.611 and 75089.5 of the public resources code and section 79772.5 of the water code. Prop 68 authorizes $4 billion in general obligation to finance a drought, water, parks, climate, coastal protection and outdoor access for all program. The Santa Monica Mountains conservancy’s (“Conservancy”) Proposition 68 Grant Program Guidelines (“Guidelines”) Specifically pertain to grants funded by proposition 68 and administered by the Conservancy. Prop 68 River
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- Individuals
- Nonprofits
- Public Authority
- Small Business (SBA-defined)
- Tribal Nation
- Tribal Organization
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Proof of tribal entity status and federal recognition
- Project narrative describing housing or infrastructure needs
- Detailed budget and financial projections
- Tribal board resolution or authorization for application
- Project timeline and implementation plan
Program contact
- 📧 grants@smmc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-310-589-2899
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 | 2 | 2 | 100% |
| 2025-2026 | 2 | 2 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Only federally recognized California Tribal Entities and tribal organizations may apply. Non-tribal nonprofits and government agencies are not eligible.
What types of projects are fundable?
Housing projects including new construction, rehabilitation, and conversion of rental units. Infrastructure grants cover water, sewer, utilities, roads, transit, parking, and pedestrian improvements.
Is cost sharing required?
No. There is no cost-sharing or matching requirement for this grant.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is June 30, 2026. Check the California HCD website for any updates or extension announcements.
What is the funding range per award?
The specific award amounts are not disclosed in the NOFA. Contact California HCD directly for typical award sizes.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Demonstrate clear need within your tribal community. Provide data on housing shortage and income levels of households to be served.
- Align your project with California's affordable housing priorities. Show how the project supports lower-income households and tribal self-determination.
- If proposing housing, clarify whether units are permanent or transitional rental. Specify affordability period and rent restrictions.
- For infrastructure projects, explain the connection to housing and community development goals. Show how utilities or roads directly support affordable housing.
- Budget carefully and document all anticipated costs. While no match is required, strong budgets improve competitiveness.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applying as a non-tribal organization. Only federally recognized Tribal Entities are eligible. Proposing projects outside California. This grant is limited to California tribes. Requesting cost sharing or unclear budgets. Strong financial documentation is critical for competitive applications.
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