Local nonprofits looking to fund a community project have a major opportunity this summer. SMUD has officially opened the application period for its annual Shine Awards, with grants ranging from $5,000 all the way up to $100,000.
The application window is open now and runs through July 31.
The Shine program is designed to spark neighborhood revitalization and support projects that align with SMUD’s Clean Energy Vision to eliminate carbon emissions from the power supply by 2030. Any incorporated nonprofit organization within SMUD’s service area is eligible to throw their hat in the ring.
Funding Tiers: Spark, Amplify, and Transform
The awards are highly competitive and are broken down into three distinct funding levels based on the scale of the project:
- Spark: Up to $10,000
- Amplifier: Up to $50,000
- Transformer: Up to $100,000
What Kind of Projects is SMUD Looking For?
While SMUD considers a wide variety of ideas, they are primarily looking for proposals that hit close to home on sustainability, equity, and education. Winning projects should focus on:
- Clean Energy & Efficiency: Programs that promote energy conservation and greenhouse gas reduction, particularly in diverse and under-resourced neighborhoods.
- Workforce Development: Training programs geared toward zero-carbon and green jobs.
- STEM Education: Clean energy education and hands-on learning related to Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math.
- Economic Development: Projects that build up community resiliency and local neighborhood affordability.
Last year, SMUD awarded over $524,000 in Shine funding to 25 local nonprofits that demonstrated strong community collaboration and impact.
How to Apply and Get Help
If your Rio Linda or Sacramento-area nonprofit has an idea but needs help with the paperwork, SMUD is hosting multiple technical assistance webinars to guide applicants through the process.
To register for a webinar, view past winners, or submit an application before the July 31 deadline, head over to smud.org/Shine.
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