Mini-Grant Program

Applications are open!

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-Grant Program is available through the Safe, Clean Water and Natural Flood Protection Program, which Santa Clara County voters approved in November 2020.

Mini-Grant Virtual Workshops

We hosted two workshops in October 2025 where participants learned tips on creating a strong Mini-Grant application. The sessions included an overview of the program and a Q&A to help applicants prepare their submissions. The recordings are available to watch on YouTube via the links below.

Funding Overview

• Grant Award Amount Limit: Up to $10,000 per project.
• No Matching Funds Required: Makes it easier for organizations of all sizes to apply.
• Annual Budget: $100,000 per fiscal year (July 1 to June 30).
• Application Period: Applications are accepted year-round or until funds run out for the fiscal year.
• Funding Structure: 50% of the awarded amount will be provided upfront, and the remaining 50% will be released upon submission of the final documentation to Valley Water for review and approval following project completion.
• Priority will be given to organizations that are submitting their first application for the fiscal year. Valley Water aims to encourage a wide range of projects and ensure that multiple organizations have the opportunity to receive funding.

Eligibility Requirements

We are accepting applications from the following organization types and groups that work/provide services within Santa Clara County:

• 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).

Eligible Projects

All projects must provide free public access or demonstrate a significant public benefit to the residents of Santa Clara County. 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.

Please note that project activities may only begin once an agreement has been executed.

Examples of Past Projects

The Mini-Grant Program has funded community gardens, outdoor classrooms, water conservation workshops, watershed education field trips, and habitat restoration. To find out more about past projects, click here. 

Why partner with Valley Water?

• Align with our mission: You’ll contribute to safe, clean water, flood protection, and environmental stewardship initiatives that benefit Santa Clara County.
• Community benefits: Our grants are intended for projects that benefit communities within Santa Clara County.
• Applicant support: Our team will help guide you through the entire process, from application to project completion. For assistance, schedule a one-on-one meeting with us at any time.

Ready to Apply?

Visit Fluxx to complete your registration and start your application today!

Learn More

Are you interested in staying in touch? Sign up for our mailing list to receive emails on future funding opportunities.

You can also schedule a meeting with staff using the  following link:

• Schedule a 30-minute meeting

Valley Water offers additional funding opportunities beyond the Mini-Grant Program. Explore our Refill Station Grants, which provide $5,000 per water bottle refill station, and our Standard Grants, which can fund larger projects with up to $1.4 million available each year.

Resources

Valley Water offers several resources to help you learn more about our Mini-Grants Program. For more information, please visit our resource page.