By Sara Beth Williams–
The Sacramento Municipal Utility District’s annual SHINE Awards grant program is now seeking applications.
The SHINE Awards program provides financial support for community-based projects that help revitalize and improve local neighborhoods. Eligible nonprofits can apply for awards ranging from $5,000 to $100,000, depending on the scale and scope of their proposals
Funding will prioritize initiatives that focus on zero-carbon workforce development, environmental justice and equity, inclusive economic development, and STEM education, in alignment with SMUD’s Clean Energy Vision.
Nonprofits must be incorporated and located within SMUD’s service area to be eligible.
If awarded, nonprofits must match funds for their project, at 25, 50, and 100 match based on the funding tiers below. Funding tiers include:
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Spark Awards – up to $10,000
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Amplifier Awards – up to $50,000
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Transformer Awards – up to $100,000
Due to the program’s competitive nature, SMUD is offering multiple technical assistance webinars to help guide applicants through the process.
In 2024, SMUD invested more than $580,000 in local projects through the SHINE awards program, according to a March 2024 press release.
The 2025 Shine Awards application period runs from June 1 and close on July 31, 2025.
Interested organizations can find the registration link and application materials at smud.org/Shine.
