The Cycle 4 Fiscal Year 2026-27 Grant Application Period is Now OPEN
SPECIAL EVENT SPONSORSHIP GRANT PROGRAM (SESP)
The City of Vallejo Special Event Sponsorship Grant Program is an application and award process for event support organizers of community events, with a primary goal of fostering events that attract visitors, boost economic vitality, enhance community culture and provide a community benefit. The amount of event support provided will depend on how well the event aligns with the program guidelines and eligibility requirements, as well as the availability of funding.
Who is eligible?
- Have a principal place of business, as well as an address, in Vallejo
- Proof of 501(c)3 non-profit status, IRS Letter of Determination
- In good standing with the California Secretary of State. Check your eligibility here. (Status must be ACTIVE)
- Registered with the CA Attorney General. Check your eligibility here. (Status must be CURRENT)
- Proof of General Liability Insurance, including SAMS coverage when working with minors
- Current Vallejo Business License. Check your status here.
- The event date must take place from January 1, 2027 to July 31, 2028.
Application Timeline
- Application open – April 20, 2026 to May 18, 2027.
- Initial screening to ensure application is complete – May 19, 2026 to June 30, 2026.
- Financial review of proposed budgets - Up to 25% of the projected budget or 100% of the city permit fees (whichever is greater) may be awarded.
- The final amount allocated for the sponsorship program will be confirmed and announced following the adoption of the City's 2026-27 budget in July 2026.
- Grant awardees announced in September-October 2026.
Programmatic Review and Assessment of Applications
The Vallejo City Manager's Office administers the Special Event Sponsorship Program. All applications received by May 18, 2026 12:00pm will be reviewed by a committee composed of community members and 2 staff members.
The results of each review will be used to rank the proposals. The review panel will produce a recommendation for awardees to be presented by staff to the City Council for approval.
For detailed information regarding the program, including eligibility, fund use restrictions, evaluation criteria, application instructions, and checklist, contact [email protected] or call 707-648-8616.
Post Award Phase
Awardees will be required to submit the Grant Progress Report 30 days after the event date. Recipients may receive a site visit by city officials during the event. Recipients may be subject to an audit per the grant agreement. The audit aims to ensure compliance with the grant regulations and evaluate the financial information, including expenses paid for with the City award of funds.