Prop 4 – Nature-Based Solutions (NBS)
🏛 San Diego River Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Aug 29, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California organizations seeking to increase affordable housing access and reduce vehicle miles traveled through sustainable transportation. Eligible applicants include public agencies, nonprofits, developers, and community land trusts operating in California. Projects must serve disadvantaged communities, low-income communities, or low-income households. Eligible projects fall into three categories: Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Integrated Connectivity Projects (ICP), or Rural Innovation Project Areas (RIPA).
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Program description
Multi-benefit projects that advance a number of goals, including but not limited to: • Conserving land • Protecting resources • Reducing flood and fire risk • Improving water quality • Protecting and enhancing wildlife habitats and corridors • Completing the San Diego River Trail • Providing public access for the enjoyment of the San Diego River Park and open space, trails, campgrounds and park facilities • Removing invasive plant species from the watershed • Increasing native habitat and promoting the re-establishment of native species • Promoting cultural and tribal preservation, and historical interpretation of the San Diego River and its people
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) application form
- Project narrative and detailed work plan
- Budget and budget narrative
- Letters of support from partners and community representatives
- Environmental review documentation
- Certification of consistency with local plans
- Proof of nonprofit or public agency status
Program contact
- 📧 dustin.harrison@sdrc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-619-390-0571
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-2026 | 9 | 9 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for AHSC funding?
Public agencies, nonprofits, developers, and other eligible entities can apply. Applicants must be able to serve disadvantaged or low-income communities in California.
What types of projects are eligible?
Transit Oriented Development, Integrated Connectivity Projects, and Rural Innovation Project Areas. All projects must increase affordable housing access and reduce vehicle miles traveled.
What can AHSC funds support?
Affordable Housing Development loans, Housing Related Infrastructure grants, Sustainable Transportation Infrastructure grants, and Programs costs. Funding supports both capital projects and operating expenses.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is May 4, 2026. Check with the California Department of Housing and Community Development for exact submission times and any recent updates.
Is there a cost-sharing requirement?
No cost-sharing is required for this program. However, leveraging additional funding strengthens competitiveness.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Demonstrate clear connections between affordable housing and transportation access. Show how the project reduces vehicle miles traveled.
- Engage disadvantaged communities early in project planning. Document community input and local support.
- Develop realistic budgets aligned with California prevailing wage requirements. Factor in ongoing operational costs.
- Align your project with California climate goals and regional sustainability plans. Show connections to broader state priorities.
- Build partnerships with transit agencies, housing developers, and community organizations. Multi-sector collaboration strengthens applications.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications fail when projects lack clear transportation-to-housing connections or cannot document meaningful VMT reduction. Inadequate community engagement and insufficient detail on serving disadvantaged communities weakens competitiveness. Underestimating regulatory complexity and prevailing wage costs leads to budget and timeline problems.
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