Nonprofit Partnership Workplan

As a first phase in this effort, ALL nonprofit requests for funding through the City’s FY 2026 Budget outside an existing funding program must submit an application in order to be considered.

Nonprofit Partnership Guiding Principles 

1. Impact-Oriented Focus & Accountability- Ensuring measurable outcomes and responsible financial stewardship. 
2. Service Alignment- Prioritizing programs that align with Council goals and community needs. 
3. Fairness, Open Access, Equity & Inclusion- Maintaining transparent and equitable funding processes. Ensuring accessibility and prioritization of underserved communities. 
4. Flexibility for Special Circumstances- Allowing Council discretion to address urgent needs. 

Phase I-Submittal Requirements for City Budget Funding Requests

As the workplan proceeds, the City is implementing a near-term solution to address nonprofit requests for funding in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 City Budget outside established funding programs such as Human Services Resource Allocation Process (HSRAP), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), or Emerging Needs Programs. The new process establishes submittal requirements and decision-making timeframe for funding available for the term of July 1, 2025-June 30, 2026.

The City Council has established a target of $246,000 for for nonprofit partnership funding.  Actual funding is subject to change based on FY 2026 Budget decisions. Not every funding request may be granted and, funding amounts may vary from requests.

1. Do I need to submit an application?

All nonprofit requests for funding through the City’s FY 2026 Budget outside an existing funding program must submit an application to be considered.

Examples of existing nonprofit funding programs include Human Services Resource Allocation Program (HSRAP), Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), Emerging Needs Grants or any other multi-year agreement with the City.

2. Who qualifies for funding?

All 501 (c)(3) registered nonprofits providing services in Palo Alto are qualified to apply for funding.

3. Can my organization apply if we currently receive funding from the City of Palo Alto through a grant or service/lease contract?

All 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organizations may apply, regardless of current City grant funding status or service/lease contract. 

4. When are applications due?

Applications must be received by May 9, 2025, 3 p.m. at NPW1@paloalto.gov. No late applications will be accepted. Failure to submit a complete application may disqualify the organization for funding consideration. Applicants should receive an automatic reply acknowledging receipt of application.

5. How will my application be evaluated?

The following rubric will be used as a guide to review applications; however, the Policy & Services Committee will be making recommendations for City Council approval.

6. What is the application timeline?

7. How do I apply?

Fill out an application by May 9 at 3 p.m.

*Requests < $5,000 do not need to submit an IRS Form 990 

Applicants should receive an automatic reply acknowledging receipt of application.

If you do not receive confirmation of receipt:

1. Check you junk/spam folder or firewall for blocked emails
2. Contact Lupita Alamos, Lupita.alamos@paloalto.gov, (650) 239-2403.