The California Drought, Water, Parks, Climate, Coastal Protection and Outdoor Access for All Act of 2018 (Proposition 68) SMMC Grant Program – Prop 68 River San Fernando Valley
🏛 Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Nov 1, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California early education programs participating in Quality Rating and Improvement Systems (QRIS). Eligible applicants are local QRIS systems and California State Preschool Programs (CSPP) that serve low-income children. Funding supports program quality improvements, staff training, and infrastructure to help young children prepare for kindergarten and beyond. Geographic scope is limited to 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 San Fernando Valley
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- RFA application form
- Project narrative/proposal
- Budget and budget narrative
- Organizational capacity documentation
- Letters of support from partners
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 | — | — | — |
| 2025-2026 | 4 | 4 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this grant?
Local QRIS systems and California State Preschool Programs serving low-income children are eligible. Your organization must participate in or implement a QRIS.
What is the deadline for this grant?
The deadline is March 14, 2025. The award period covers fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27.
What can grant funds support?
Funds support program quality improvements, staff training, equipment, and systems to increase participation in high-quality preschools for low-income children.
How much funding is available?
$50 million in annual Proposition 98 funding is available statewide through the QRIS Block Grant.
Can we reapply if rejected?
Typically, yes—you may reapply in future funding cycles. Check the RFA for specific guidance on reapplication eligibility.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Clearly explain how your QRIS or CSPP currently serves low-income children and your quality improvement goals. Focus on measurable outcomes for child readiness.
- Provide detailed budget with specific costs for staff development, quality improvements, and program infrastructure. Show how you'll use funds strategically.
- Demonstrate organizational capacity to implement QRIS or CSPP services effectively. Include staffing, experience, and partnerships with local programs.
- Align your proposal with California's early learning priorities. Reference state standards and alignment with kindergarten readiness frameworks.
- Build strong letters of support from partner schools, community stakeholders, and families. Show community buy-in for quality improvements.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Weak connection between proposed activities and demonstrated need for quality improvement. Vague goals that lack measurable outcomes for child readiness or program quality gains. Incomplete budget detail or failure to show cost-effectiveness of proposed investments.
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