The Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 (Proposition 1) SMMC Grant Program
🏛 Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy (California)
✓ Free, no account · Source: California Grants Portal · Last verified Sep 12, 2026
Can you apply?
This grant is for federally-recognized tribes in California and nonprofits serving tribal governments. Eligible applicants must focus on increasing disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation capabilities. Tribes and nonprofits can apply independently, together with other tribes, or in partnership with local nonprofits to deliver disaster preparedness resources to tribal communities.
The funding supports activities that strengthen disaster management and community resilience in California tribal communities.
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Program description
The Water Quality, Supply, and Infrastructure Improvement Act of 2014 (Proposition 1) iscodified as Division 26.7 of the Water Code. Proposition 1 authorizes $7.545 billion in generalobligation bonds for state water projects, including surface and groundwater storage,ecosystem and watershed protection and restoration, and drinking water protection. TheSanta Monica Mountains Conservancy’s (“Conservancy”) Proposition 1 Competitive GrantProgram Guidelines (“Guidelines”) specifically pertain to competitive grants for multibenefit ecosystem and watershed protection and restoration projects pursuant to Water CodeSection 79731(h), and for projects to protect and enhance an urban creek pursuant to WaterCode Section 79735(a).In addition to the purposes defined in Proposition 1 and outlined further below, projectsfunded by Proposition 1 must carry out at least one of the three objectives of the CaliforniaWater Action Plan (“Water Action Plan”). Together, Proposition 1 and the Water ActionPlan represent tremendous strides in the State’s ability to address the current challengesposed by drought and create a sustainable strategy for managing its water resources andsupply. The priorities and strategies identified will help protect our natural resources fromsevere dry periods and create a more sustainable water infrastructure and supply to betterserve our growing population.
Who can apply
Eligible applicants
Demographic focus
How to apply
Application links
Required documents
- Application form
- Project narrative or proposal
- Budget and budget narrative
- Evidence of tribal recognition (if tribal government applicant)
- Evidence of service to tribal governments (if nonprofit applicant)
- Letters of support or partnership agreements (if applicable)
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 | 6 | 6 | 100% |
Source: California Grants Portal
FAQ
Can my nonprofit apply if we serve tribal governments?
Yes, nonprofits that serve tribal governments are eligible. Tribes must be federally recognized and located in California.
Can we partner with other organizations?
Yes. Tribes and nonprofits can work independently, with other tribes, or with local nonprofits on joint projects.
What activities does this grant fund?
Disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation activities. Focus is on providing disaster preparedness information and resources to tribal communities.
What is the typical award amount?
Individual awards typically reach around $125,000, though amounts may vary based on proposal scope and available funding.
When is the deadline?
The deadline is April 8, 2025. Check the program website for any updates or rolling submission periods.
💡 Tips for applicants
- Tailor your proposal to California tribal communities specifically. Show understanding of local disaster risks and tribal preparedness needs.
- Build partnerships early. Collaborations between tribes, nonprofits, and local organizations strengthen competitiveness and expand reach.
- Focus on sustainable, community-centered approaches. Demonstrate how resources will create lasting preparedness improvements, not just one-time activities.
- Detail how tribes will access and use materials. Be concrete about distribution methods and community engagement strategies.
- Include evaluation measures. Show how you will track preparedness improvements and document lessons learned from your activities.
⚠️ Common mistakes
Applications lack clear tribal community focus. Spell out which tribes benefit and their specific disaster vulnerabilities.
Vague activity descriptions. Generic preparedness plans without concrete timelines or measurable outcomes hurt competitiveness.
Insufficient partnership detail. If collaborating, clearly define each partner's role and contribution.
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