The City of San Luis Obispo is offering a total of $150,000 for DEI High Impact Grants for the 2026–27 year. These grants will support projects that help make our community more welcoming and accessible, especially through efforts that address bigger, long-term changes.

Applications must be submitted by August 24 at 5 p.m., and funding will be awarded later this year.

The Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion will provide technical assistance during walk-in sessions on Wednesday, July 29 from 1 to 4 p.m. for applicants who have questions about the grant or application process. Email dei@slocity.org to sign up.

A total of $150,000 is available for nonprofit organizations whose programs or services focus on one or more of the following areas:

• Helping people feel a stronger sense of belonging
• Improving access to resources and opportunities
• Addressing fairness and equity in systems and institutions
• Supporting community health and wellbeing

More information about each funding area, along with examples, is available on the City’s DEI High Impact Grant webpage. Projects can fit into more than one category. If you’re unsure where your proposal fits, you can attend the help sessions or email dei@slocity.org.

During the last funding cycle for its high-impact grants, the City awarded $150,000 to nine organizations for programs that provide connected resources, accessible health care, literacy, school gardens, and more.

Copies of all grant applications are available for review by contacting the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. The next round of DEI High Impact Grant applications will likely open in late July 2026. 

ABOUT THE DEI HIGH IMPACT GRANT
This grant program supports the City’s goals around diversity, equity, and inclusion by expanding access and fostering a sense of belonging for everyone in the community. Programs funded through this grant must be open to all eligible people regardless of race, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, or disability. The City’s Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion runs the program, and applications are reviewed by the Human Relations Commission, which recommends funding amounts to the City Council. For more details, including eligibility requirements for this and other City grants, visit www.slocity.org/Grants.

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Media Contact: Matt Pennon, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Manager, 805.781.7073, mpennon@slocity.org