Watershed Resilience Conservation Implementation
🏛 Department of Water Resources (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Oct 3, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for California nonprofits, government agencies, and other eligible entities seeking to increase affordable housing for low and very low-income households.
Applicants must serve households at or below 80% of Area Median Income (low-income) or 50% of Area Median Income (very low-income). Eligible program activities include first-time homebuyer programs, owner-occupied rehabilitation, and tenant-based rental assistance.
Funding is available on a first-come, first-served basis for unclaimed 2024 HOME allocations. Awards are made as loans or grants through California's Department of Housing and Community Development.
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Program description
The purpose of this program is to fund the implementation of practical water conservation projects that reduce water demand and improve efficiency at the watershed scale. The program supports grantees in carrying out actions such as irrigation efficiency upgrades, leak detection and repair, water-efficient landscaping conversions, metering and monitoring improvements, and other measures that directly reduce water consumption. A concept proposal will be required ahead of a full applications. We anticipate accepting concepts in 2027.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
- 501(c)(3) Public Charity
- City / Municipal Government
- County Government
- Individuals
- Nonprofits
- Public Authority
- Small Business (SBA-defined)
- Tribal Nation
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- HCD application forms (specific forms vary by program activity type)
- Project narrative describing activities and target households
- Budget and budget narrative
- Proof of nonprofit/agency status
- Evidence of prior affordable housing program experience
- DUNS number and SAM.gov registration
Program contact
- 📧 financialassistance@water.ca.gov
- 📞 1-916-651-9613
FAQ
Who is eligible to apply for this HOME funding?
Nonprofits, state/local government agencies, and other qualified entities that manage affordable housing programs. Applicants must be registered with California HCD.
What activities can this funding support?
First-time homebuyer programs, owner-occupied rehabilitation, and tenant-based rental assistance for low and very low-income households. Activities must serve households at 80% AMI or below.
How does the application process work?
Funding is awarded first-come, first-served as funds become available. Submit applications directly to California HCD according to program guidelines until funds are exhausted.
What is the deadline for applications?
This is a rolling NOFA with no fixed deadline. Applications accepted until the next HOME Activities NOFA opens or all 2024 funds are allocated.
How much funding can my organization receive?
Award amounts vary based on application scope and available funding. Contact California HCD for specific allocation guidelines and award ranges.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Document your organization's capacity to manage HOME funds and comply with federal housing program requirements. Start early since funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Clearly show how your program activities directly serve low-income (80% AMI) or very low-income (50% AMI) households. Include specific numbers of households to be served.
- Develop realistic timelines for completing activities. HOME programs require ongoing reporting and compliance monitoring throughout the grant period.
- Gather all required HCD documentation before submitting, including nonprofit/agency credentials and proof of prior experience with affordable housing programs.
- Align your application with California's broader housing goals. Emphasize how your activities increase affordable housing supply in your target area.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Failing to clearly document target households are at/below required AMI thresholds. Not demonstrating organizational experience managing federal housing funds or meeting HOME compliance requirements. Submitting incomplete applications or missing required HCD documentation forms.
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