Standard Grants Program

2026 Standard Grants Program

The 2026 Standard Grants Program application cycle opens on February 23 and closes on April 24, 2026, 11:59 p.m. (PT).

The Standard Grants Program supports projects that promote safe, clean drinking water, water conservation, flood protection, and environmental stewardship in Santa Clara County. In 2026, a total of $1.87 million in grants is available to fund a diverse range of projects that meet the Implementation Grant eligibility requirements and criteria.

Missed the workshop?

The virtual informational workshop held on March 11, 2026 covered the program guidelines, application process, and tips for preparing a strong proposal. Click below to download the slides and view the recording.

Presentation slides (PDF)
FY 2026 Standard Grant Program Implementation Grants Virtual Workshop Recording

Implementation Grants

Implementation grants provide a significant funding opportunity for public agencies with shovel-ready construction or large-scale capital projects that advance Safe, Clean Water Program priorities in Santa Clara County.

Eligible projects include:

• Creeks and stream restoration
• Water conservation or recycled water infrastructure
• Creating or enhancing wetland, riparian, and tidal marsh habitats
• Protecting species of special status
• Improving fish passage and habitat
• Removing non-native, invasive plant species and planting native species

Eligible Applicants

Public agencies such as:

• Local cities, towns, and counties
• Open space, resource conservation, and special districts

Organizations that are not public agencies may participate as project partners; however, the public agency must apply and serve as the grant recipient.

Key Details

• Funding Amounts: Grant requests must be up to $500,000 per project.
• Funding Categories: Implementation
• Project Timeline: Projects must be completed within five years
• Reimbursement-Based: Up to 90% of costs reimbursed during the project, with 10% reimbursed upon completion.
• Match Funding Requirement: The grantee must match at least 15% of the total project cost.
• CEQA Approval: Projects must have completed the CEQA compliance prior to applying.

Application Dates and Deadlines*

*NOTE: The above dates are subject to change.

How to Apply

1. Review the 2026 Standard Grant Guidelines (PDF) to learn about eligibility and evaluation criteria.
2. Create a Fluxx account. All applications must be submitted online at valleywater.fluxx.io .
3. Prepare your application materials. Include a project summary, budget, schedule, and relevant documentation outlined in the application instructions and 2026 Standard Grant Guidelines.
   The Grant Resources Page offers additional support materials, such as Frequently Asked Questions. Potential applicants are strongly encouraged to meet with Grants Program staff before submitting their application to discuss project eligibility.
4. Submit by the deadline. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. (PT) on April 24, 2026.

For assistance with your application, contact Valley Water’s Grants Program staff at [email protected] or (408) 630-2080. You can also schedule a Zoom meeting with staff directly using this link: calendly.com/2026standardgrants.