Explore the Coast
Can you apply?
This grant is for California-based public agencies, federally recognized tribes, California Native American communities, and nonprofits that help people access the coast. Projects should serve "ETC Priority Communities," including low-income individuals, people with disabilities, people of color, immigrants, and foster youth. Activities should remove financial, physical, or social barriers to coastal access. Geographic scope is limited to California's coast and coastal communities.
Eligible applicants must demonstrate commitment to serving communities historically excluded from coastal recreation. Projects might include transportation, accessible infrastructure, educational programming, or community-led initiatives. All work must promote equitable coastal access without financial burden to participants.
This grant is for California-based public agencies, federally recognized tribes, California Native American communities, and nonprofits that help people access the coast. Projects should serve "ETC Priority Communities," including low-income individuals, people with disabilities, people of color, immigrants, and foster youth. Activities should remove financial, physical, or social barriers to coastal access. Geographic scope is limited to California's coast and coastal communities.
Eligible applicants must demonstrate commitment to serving communities historically excluded from coastal recreation. Projects might include transportation, accessible infrastructure, educational programming, or community-led initiatives. All work must promote equitable coastal access without financial burden to participants.
Program description
The California State Coastal Conservancy (Conservancy) announces the availability of grants to public agencies, federally recognized tribes, California Native American communities, and nonprofit organizations that facilitate and enhance the public’s opportunities to explore California’s spectacular coast. The ocean, coast, and beaches have long been recognized and used as spaces of joy, relaxation, and healing for many Californians. The ability to experience the coast without fear of financial cost, physical barriers or feelings of not belonging, is crucial to how people cultivate their own lifelong connections with the coast. The Explore the Coast grant program seeks to provide enjoyable coastal experiences for people and communities who face challenges or barriers to accessing the coast (“ETC Priority Communities”). ETC Priority Communities include but are not limited to lower-income individuals and households, people with disabilities, people of color, immigrant communities, and foster youth, among others.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
Details
This grant is for California-based public agencies, federally recognized tribes, California Native American communities, and nonprofits that help people access the coast. Projects should serve "ETC Priority Communities," including low-income individuals, people with disabilities, people of color, immigrants, and foster youth. Activities should remove financial, physical, or social barriers to coastal access. Geographic scope is limited to California's coast and coastal communities.
Eligible applicants must demonstrate commitment to serving communities historically excluded from coastal recreation. Projects might include transportation, accessible infrastructure, educational programming, or community-led initiatives. All work must promote equitable coastal access without financial burden to participants.
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Completed application form
- Project narrative describing barriers addressed and priority communities served
- Organization budget and financial documentation
- Letters of support or partnership agreements
- Proof of nonprofit status or agency authorization (if applicable)
- Accessibility and equity plan
Program contact
- 📧 taylor.samuelson@scc.ca.gov
- 📞 1-510-286-4182
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for Explore the Coast?
Public agencies, federally recognized tribes, California Native American communities, and nonprofits can apply. For-profit organizations are not eligible. Your organization must serve priority communities facing coastal access barriers.
What activities does this grant support?
Projects that remove barriers to coastal access for underserved communities. Examples include transportation programs, accessibility improvements, cultural programming, and community engagement initiatives. Free or low-cost experiences are preferred.
What is the typical award amount?
Award amounts are not specified in the guidelines. Individual grants up to $100,000 are typical, but verify current funding levels before applying.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is January 30, 2026. Verify this date on the Coastal Conservancy website, as deadlines can change.
Is cost-sharing required?
No cost-sharing or matching funds are required. However, leveraging additional resources strengthens your application.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Center your proposal on serving priority communities with documented barriers to coastal access. Use data showing who you serve and what barriers exist.
- Demonstrate how your project removes financial, physical, or social obstacles. Address transportation, disability access, language barriers, or cultural comfort explicitly.
- Partner with community organizations when possible. Collaborative proposals from public agencies and nonprofits often score higher.
- Focus on sustainability and longevity. Show how the project will continue beyond the grant period or build toward permanent change.
- Use clear language and avoid jargon. Reviewers come from diverse backgrounds and appreciate straightforward explanations of your coastal vision.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Focusing on general coastal recreation instead of serving priority communities facing specific barriers. Failing to demonstrate understanding of equity challenges or centering non-priority populations. Proposing one-time events without sustainable impact or community input on design.
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