Arts & Cultural Organization General Operating Relief
Can you apply?
This grant is for airport development and planning projects in California. Eligible applicants own or operate public-use airports. Projects must be included in the State Capital Improvement Plan. Projects cannot begin until the State issues a notice to proceed.
The State reimburses up to 5% of federal AIP grant costs. Maximum reimbursement is $150,000 per project. This grant supports airport infrastructure, operations, and planning work.
⚖️ Cost sharing / matching required — applicants must contribute their own funds.
Program description
This grant supports the well-being of California’s cultural vitality by helping sustain a robust and diverse arts workforce and infrastructure. Funds may be used to support any eligible expenses associated with the general operations of an arts or cultural organization, including but not limited to rent, utilities, and staff salaries. Applying for this grant does not restrict an organization from applying for other CAC project-based grants. General Operating grants are intended to support the applicant organization in carrying out its mission. Funding is not intended to support a specific project. Arts Organizations Defined An arts and cultural organization is defined as an entity with a primary purpose of providing arts, creative, or cultural programming/services. Assessed by CAC staff, this purpose is determined by the organization’s mission, purpose statement, and/or by its summary of core organizational programs and services.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
How to apply
Application links
Key dates & requirements
Required documents
- Standard application form for California Airport Improvement Program
- Proof of State Capital Improvement Plan listing
- Detailed project budget and cost breakdown
- Evidence of federal AIP grant award or application status
- Written authorization from airport governing board
Program contact
- 📧 genopsgrant@arts.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-322-6555
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2021-2022 | 569 | — | 0% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who can apply for this grant?
Public airport owners and operators in California. Your airport must be eligible for federal AIP funding.
How much can we receive?
Up to $150,000 per project. The State reimburses up to 5% of your total AIP grant costs.
What projects are eligible?
Projects must be listed in California's State Capital Improvement Plan. Airport development and planning activities are supported.
When is the deadline?
This is a rolling program with no fixed deadline. Applications are reviewed as received.
Can we start work before approval?
No. You must wait for the State to issue a notice to proceed before beginning any project work.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Verify your project is already in the State Capital Improvement Plan before investing effort in an application. Projects not on the plan are ineligible.
- Coordinate early with CalTrans airport staff to understand the reimbursement process and timelines.
- Document all costs carefully. This is a reimbursement grant, so strong invoices and receipts are essential.
- Submit applications well before your project start date. Waiting for State approval can delay your timeline.
- Clarify whether your AIP grant qualifies for this matching reimbursement with the administering agency.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications proposing projects not listed in the State Capital Improvement Plan are rejected immediately. Applicants who begin work before receiving a notice to proceed lose eligibility for reimbursement. Poor cost documentation makes reimbursement claims difficult to process.
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