Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Grants: Mini-Grants

The Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Mini-Grants program by Valley Water supports community-led projects in Santa Clara County focused on safe drinking water, conservation, and flood protection. With grants up to $10,000 and no matching funds required, the program aims to empower diverse organizations to implement impactful projects. Recent updates streamline the application process and expand eligible costs, making it easier for community members to contribute to environmental stewardship and public benefit.

Valley Water’s Mini-Grant Program provides funding to support small and impactful projects promoting safe, clean drinking water, water conservation, flood protection, and environmental stewardship in Santa Clara County. These grants allow community members and organizations to lead projects that build awareness and support lasting change.Funding for the Mini-Grants Program is available through the Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Program, which Santa Clara County voters approved in November 2020.We’re excited to announce new updates to make the program more accessible and effective for our community.
What’s new in the Mini-Grant Program
Increased Funding: Eligible projects can now receive up to $10,000 per project, which means more resources for projects to create meaningful change.No Matching Funds Required: We’ve removed the 25% match requirement, making it easier for organizations of all sizes to apply.Streamlined Application: We’ve launched a new online application through the Fluxx Grants Portal. The process is much simpler and user-friendly.Expanded Eligible Project Costs: Grant funding now covers insurance costs, adding flexibility to your project budget.
Projects must focus on at least one of the following:

• Water Conservation
• Implement water-saving technologies, run water conservation workshops, or prevent pollution in waterways.
• Flood Protection
• Support creek cleanups or flood preparedness outreach.
• Environmental Stewardship
• Projects like restoring habitats, promoting native species, and organizing environmental education programs.
• Examples of Past Projects
• The Mini-Grant Program has funded community gardens, outdoor classrooms, water conservation workshops, watershed education field trips, and habitat restoration.

Eligibility

Public agencies, such as cities, towns, and county agencies.Nonprofit organizations with a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.Nonprofits without a 501(c)(3) but can demonstrate that they are an affiliate of a nonprofit organization that possesses a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status Schools, community colleges, and public and private colleges/universities.Open space, resource conservation, and special districts.For-profit organizations.Organized community group with an established structure (must identify an individual responsible for signing the agreement, insurance, etc.).Individuals (must meet insurance requirements).All projects must provide free public access or demonstrate a significant public benefit to the residents of Santa Clara County.