Los Angeles continues to offer funding opportunities and grants that support artists, nonprofits, and small businesses. From cultural initiatives to health equity programs, these resources help strengthen local communities and promote innovation across the city. Below is a curated list of eight grants and funding opportunities available in 2026 for residents and organizations across Los Angeles County.
Los Angeles offers diverse funding opportunities that support creativity, equity, and community growth.
Los Angeles remains one of the most vibrant and diverse cities in the United States, where creativity, entrepreneurship, and community initiatives thrive.
However, for artists, nonprofit leaders, small business owners, and community advocates, securing financial support can often be the key factor in turning ideas into impactful projects.
Fortunately, several local and national organizations currently offer grants and funding opportunities designed to empower Angelenos, promote equity, and support cultural and economic development across the region.
Below is a curated list of eight valuable grants and funding resources available in late 2026 for individuals, organizations, and businesses in Los Angeles County and beyond.
1. Culver City Performing Arts Grant Program
The Culver City Performing Arts Grant Program provides funding for artists and organizations presenting dance, music, and theatre performances.
Its mission is to make performing arts accessible to the community while strengthening the city’s cultural landscape.
Key details
• Supports dance, music, and theatre productions
• Encourages public cultural engagement
• Open to artists and performing arts organizations
2. Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA)
The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs (DCA) offers multiple opportunities for artists, performers, and cultural organizers.
Many programs support community-based cultural projects, including those connected to cultural programming leading up to the 2028 Olympic Games.
Highlights
• Cultural programming support
• Opportunities for artists and event organizers
• Projects related to the LA 2028 Olympics
3. LA County Arts & Culture Internship Program (AIP)
The Arts & Culture Internship Program (AIP) provides grants to nonprofits, municipalities, and social justice organizations offering arts programming.
These grants fund paid internships for college students, allowing them to work 400 hours gaining hands-on experience in arts organizations.
Key benefits
• Paid internships for undergraduate and community college students
• Supports emerging talent in the arts sector
• Strengthens nonprofit cultural programming
4. UCLA & Kaiser Permanente Health Equity Community Grants
The UCLA and Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Equity funds initiatives addressing health disparities among underserved populations in Los Angeles County.
Community organizations can receive grants of up to $5,000 to support projects improving health outcomes and equity.
Focus areas
• Health equity
• Community-based health initiatives
• Support for underserved populations
5. U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) Discretionary Grants Dashboard
The DOT Grants Navigator helps communities identify and apply for infrastructure and transportation funding opportunities.
It is particularly useful for municipalities, nonprofits, and local agencies working on projects involving public works, mobility, and transportation safety.
What it supports
• Infrastructure improvements
• Transportation safety initiatives
• Community mobility projects
Now is the perfect time for artists, nonprofits, and small businesses to apply and make a positive impact.
6. GEICO Philanthropic Foundation Grants
The GEICO Philanthropic Foundation distributes $6–8 million annually to support initiatives focused on education, community engagement, and social equity.
Programs often emphasize diversity, financial literacy, and environmental sustainability.
Supported initiatives
• Education and STEM programs
• Community engagement projects
• Financial literacy initiatives
• Environmental conservation
7. Healthy Eating Research (HER) Grants
The Healthy Eating Research (HER) program offers funding of up to $50,000 for research projects examining the impact of nutrition policies and programs.
The goal is to understand how policy changes influence nutrition, health outcomes, and economic stability, particularly in low-income and diverse communities.
Funding focus
• Nutrition policy research
• Public health outcomes
• Economic impact studies
Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted.
8. Cal eProcure – State of California Business Resources
Cal eProcure serves as the State of California’s central procurement portal, offering resources for small businesses and disabled veteran business enterprises.
Through this platform, companies can access government contracting opportunities, certification programs, and training to sell products and services to the state.
Opportunities include
• Government contracting bids
• Business certification programs
• Training for procurement processes
Conclusion
From arts funding and health equity initiatives to government contracting and research grants, these programs represent a wide range of opportunities for artists, nonprofits, researchers, and small businesses in Los Angeles.
For professionals and organizations seeking to expand their impact and strengthen their communities, now is an ideal time to explore these funding opportunities.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for these grants?
Most grants are aimed at nonprofits, community organizations, artists, and small businesses located in Los Angeles County. Some programs also support research institutions and municipalities.
Can individuals apply for any of these opportunities?
Yes. Programs such as the Culver City Performing Arts Grant and opportunities offered by the Department of Cultural Affairs may accept applications from individual artists and performers.
Do applicants need to live in California?
In most cases, yes. Many programs specifically target Los Angeles County or California-based applicants, although some national foundations accept applications from across the U.S.
Are these grants competitive?
Yes. Most programs receive many applications, so applicants should submit clear proposals, demonstrate community impact, and meet all deadlines.
Where can I learn how to write a grant proposal?
Local nonprofit resource centers, city cultural offices, and community colleges often provide free or low-cost workshops on grant writing and funding applications.
