California Consulting Community Newsletter

Edition 129/ October 2026

California Consulting Proudly Sponsors

City of Yucaipa Secures $1.5 Million SAFER Grant to Strengthen Emergency Response

California Consulting is proud to congratulate the City of Yucaipa on securing a $1.5 million Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response (SAFER) Grant to support the community’s fire and emergency response capabilities.


The award provides important resources to help strengthen emergency response services and support the dedicated first responders who serve the Yucaipa community. Investments through the SAFER Grant program help local fire departments address critical staffing and operational needs while enhancing their ability to respond to emergencies and protect residents.


California Consulting Project Manager Terez Sarkisyan collaborated closely with the City of Yucaipa’s administration throughout the grant process, working together to develop and advance the funding application. Her partnership with the City helped position Yucaipa to successfully compete for this significant federal award.


The $1.5 million award represents an important investment in Yucaipa’s emergency response capabilities and the safety of the community. Funding opportunities such as SAFER allow local agencies to strengthen essential services while addressing the resources needed to effectively serve their residents.


California Consulting congratulates the City of Yucaipa on this significant grant award and is proud to support the City in securing funding that strengthens its ability to serve the community.

Proud Bronze Sponsor of CSBA

California Consulting, Inc. is proud to be a Bronze Sponsor of the California School Boards Association (CSBA)! We value our partnership with CSBA and share a commitment to supporting strong school boards and thriving communities throughout California.

Strengthening Digital Security: City of Vallejo Secures $250,000 in Cybersecurity Funding

The City of Vallejo is taking steps to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities with $250,000 in grant funding through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) FFY 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP). As local governments increasingly rely on technology to deliver essential services, protecting digital infrastructure has become an important part of maintaining reliable and resilient communities.


Investing in Advanced Security and IT Expertise

The grant will support the City’s implementation of Managed Detection and Response (MDR) and Security Operations Center (SOC) systems. These resources are designed to strengthen security monitoring and threat detection while helping the City improve the ability to identify and respond to potential cyber threats.


The project also incorporates training for the City’s IT team, with an emphasis on developing the technical expertise needed to effectively manage and operate these systems. Combining security technology with staff training will help build a stronger foundation for the City’s ongoing cybersecurity efforts.


Protecting Essential Community Services

Beyond strengthening technology infrastructure, Vallejo’s cybersecurity initiative supports the continuity and resilience of public services. Reliable municipal systems are especially important for residents who depend on essential services, including people with disabilities, older adults age 65 and above, and individuals and families in low-income communities.


The project aligns with at least five recommended elements and objectives of the SLCGP, supporting broader efforts to improve cybersecurity preparedness and safeguard critical infrastructure.


California Consulting Congratulates Vallejo

California Consulting, Inc. is proud to recognize the City of Vallejo for securing this funding and advancing an important investment in digital security.


Congratulations to the City of Vallejo and Project Manager Michelle Ferguson on this award!


Grant at a Glance

  • Award Amount: $250,000
  • Grant Program: FFY 2024 State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (SLCGP)
  • Funding Agency: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)
  • California Consulting Project Manager: Michelle Ferguson


California Consulting works with public agencies throughout California to identify funding opportunities and secure resources for projects that address local priorities, strengthen infrastructure, and support the communities they serve.


City of Irwindale Awarded $87,616 for Cybersecurity Enhancements

California Consulting, Inc. is pleased to congratulate the City of Irwindale on securing $87,616 through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program.


The funding will support the City’s efforts to strengthen cybersecurity capabilities through the acquisition of cybersecurity tools and penetration testing. These resources will help the City assess potential vulnerabilities, identify areas for improvement, and enhance its ability to protect critical systems and digital infrastructure.


As cybersecurity continues to be an important priority for local governments, investments in security tools and vulnerability assessments can help municipalities better understand the risks and strengthen preparedness against potential cyber threats.


California Consulting is proud to support the City of Irwindale in securing funding for this important initiative. Congratulations to the City of Irwindale on this award!


  • Grant Award: $87,616
  • Funding Program: State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
  • Funding Agency: California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES)
  • California Consulting Project Manager: Ilya Malinsky, Senior Project Manager


California Consulting, Inc. works with cities, counties, school districts, and other public agencies to identify grant opportunities and secure funding for projects that benefit their communities. We are proud to help our clients pursue resources that support essential services, strengthen local infrastructure, and advance their community priorities.

California Consulting Featured in Upcoming California City News Podcast Episodes

California Consulting, Inc. is pleased to be featured in Episodes 3 and 4 of the weekly California City News Podcast, highlighting grant funding, municipal projects, and the resources available to help local governments move their communities forward.


CEO Steve Samuelian joins Senior Project Managers Ilya Malinsky, David Marquez, and Shari Edghill in these upcoming episodes. Together, they bring valuable perspectives on grant funding and California Consulting’s work supporting cities and public agencies across California.


Stay tuned for the upcoming episodes to hear from our team and learn more about how grant funding can help communities turn important projects into reality!


Listen to the Podcast

Don’t miss the upcoming episodes! Listen to the California City News Podcast on Spotify, YouTube, or your favorite podcast platform. Tune in to hear from the California Consulting team and discover how grant funding helps communities move important projects forward.

Grant Lists

Coastal Waterways Grants

Housing Grants

Fire Grants

USBR Water Smart Grants



Education Grants

Municipal Grants

Police Grants

Park Grants


Education Grants You Don't want to Miss

USDOJ: Students, Teachers, and Officers Preventing (STOP) School Violence Program

Deadline: grants.gov 10/30/26, JustGrants 11/6/26

Amount: Up to $1 million (80 awards nationwide)

Duration: 36 months starting on January 1, 2027

Matching requirements: None Education for Homeless Children 

Link: https://bja.ojp.gov/program/stop-school-violence-program/overview



CDE: College and Career Access Pathways Grant

Deadline: October 30th 

Amount: Up to $100,000

Match: No

Eligibility: Local Educational Agencies for 9, 10, 11, 12 Grade

If your LEA received funding in a previous round of the MCEC or CCAP grant, the LEA is not eligible for round three funding unless it is for a high school that has not previously received funding.

Link: https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/profile.asp?id=6338



CA Dept of Education Funding: Middle College and Early College Grant

Deadline: October 30th 

Amount: $250,000

Match: No

Eligibility: All LEAs interested in starting a new, autonomous middle college high school or new early college high school, in expanding an existing middle college high school or early college high school or in starting a new early college high school within an existing school are encouraged to apply. LEA must show evidence of an existing or planned partnership with an institution of higher education for the creation of a dual enrollment program.

If your LEA received funding in a previous round of the MCEC or CCAP grant, the LEA is not eligible for round three funding unless it is for a high school that has not previously received funding.

Link: https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/profile.asp?id=6339


California Community Schools Partnership Program (CCSPP)

Deadline: LEAs seeking CCSPP funding for the 2026–27 school year must opt in by November 1, 2026 

Amount: Up to $500,000 per campus per year

Duration: 5 years 

Matching requirements: At least one-third of total grant amount

Link: https://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/profile.asp?id=6159



California Natural Resources Agency: Youth Community Access Grant Program

Deadline: November 4th, 2026

Amount: $30,000-$300,000

Eligibility: Local, state, and federal agencies; nonprofit organizations; and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must provide youth (kindergarten to age 26) from low-income and disadvantaged communities with direct access to natural or cultural resources. 

Link: https://resources.ca.gov/grants/youth?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery


California Department of Education – Career Technical Education Facilities Program (CTEFP)

Deadline: opens October 15th, and closes Dec. 1, 2026 at 5pm

Amount: Up to $3 million for new construction projects; up to $1.5 million for modernization projects 

Match: 1:1 local match (no waivers allowed); match may be paid over time

Eligible Applicants: Local educational agencies (LEAs) and joint powers authorities (JPAs) operating CTE programs on comprehensive high school sites.

Link: CDE CTEFP Website



CA Dept of Education: Specialized Secondary Programs (SSP) Grant 2024-25

Deadline: January 27, 2027

Amount: Up to $100,000

Match: No

Eligibility: The proposed SSP must be new to the identified school site(s) and will provide students with advanced instruction and training in high technology fields and in the performing arts in grades nine through twelve. All California public high schools, county offices of education, consortium of local educational agencies (LEAs), and direct-funded charter schools are eligible to apply.

Link: http://www.cde.ca.gov/fg/fo/profile.asp?id=6195



JJ Watt Foundation

Deadline: Rolling, apply based on sport start season

Sports Starting in:                              Apply during:

Fall (Aug, Sep, Oct)                             Jan 16 – Apr 15, 5pm CST

Winter (Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb)*               Apr 16 – Sep 15, 5pm CST

Spring (Mar, Apr, May)                       Sep 16 – Jan 15, 5pm CST

Amount: Varies depending on ask (reimbursement for equipment)

Match: No

Eligibility: 6-8 grade

Link: https://jjwfoundation.org/request-funds/

Municipal Grants to Keep on Your Radar

Caltrans: Local Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) 

Due: Monday, November 2, 2026 

Amount: min $100k - max $10 m

Match: No

Eligibility: Must be a city, a county, or a tribal government federally recognized within the State of California. 

Link:https://dot.ca.gov/programs/local-assistance/fed-and-state-programs/highway-safety-improvement-program



OHMV: Recreational Trails Program (motorized)

Deadline: November 2nd. 2026

Amount: No minimum or maximum grant request

Match: Yes - 12%

Eligibility: Cities, counties, districts, state agencies, federal agencies and nonprofits with management responsibilities of public lands 

Link: https://ohv.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=24881

 


California Natural Resources Agency: Youth Community Access Grant Program

Deadline: November 4th, 2026

Amount: $30,000-$300,000

Eligibility: Local, state, and federal agencies; nonprofit organizations; and federally recognized Native American tribes. Projects must provide youth (kindergarten to age 26) from low-income and disadvantaged communities with direct access to natural or cultural resources. 

Link: https://resources.ca.gov/grants/youth?utm_medium=email&utm_source=govdelivery



California Fire Foundation: Proposition 4 Wildfire Prevention & Firefighter Safety Grant Program

Deadline: APPLICATION PERIOD WILL OPEN OCTOBER 19, 2026; Applications must be submitted through the portal before 11:59 PM on November 16, 2026. 

Amount: Up to $1M

Match: No

Eligibility: Local fire departments, firefighter associations, nonprofit organizations, and partners

Link: https://www.cafirefoundation.org/what-we-do/for-grant-seekers/funding-opportunities/california-fire-foundation-proposition-4-grant



Governor's Office of Business & Economic Development: Cannabis Equity Grants Program for Local Jurisdictions

Deadline: December 2, 2026

Amount: $15,000,000 total estimated available funding

  • Applications for Funding Request Type 1 are subject to a maximum request of $75,000
  • Applications for Funding Request Type 2 are subject to a maximum request of $3,500,000 and will be allocated grant funds using a point-based scoring system and funding formula

Match: In-kind contributions may not be counted as matching funds, except for the value of the wages and benefits of local jurisdiction staff performing local equity program services. Wages and benefits of staff must be prorated unless 100% of the employee’s time is dedicated to the jurisdiction’s local equity program. 

  • Funding Request Type 2 grant awards in excess of $750,000 will require 1:1 matching funds from the local jurisdiction during the grant term (for the amount in excess of $750,000). 
  • Funding Request Type 2 grant awards of up to $750,000 will not require any matching funds from the local jurisdiction during the grant term. 

Eligibility: 

  • Public Agency – Must be a California city, county or city and county
  • A local jurisdiction (a city, county, or city and county) that demonstrates an intent to develop a cannabis equity program or that has adopted or operates a cannabis equity program

Link: https://business.ca.gov/cannabis-equity-grants-program-for-local-jurisdictions



California Parks: Statewide Park Development and Community Revitalization Program (SPP)

Deadline: December 17th, 2026

Amount: up to $8.5m

Match: No

Link: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=29939



California Department of Parks and Recreation: Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF)

Deadline: January 14th, 2027

Amount: Up to $6 million. $27.5M total available Statewide.

Match: Yes - 50%

Eligibility: Cities, counties, tribal governments, JPAs, park districts, and special districts with authority to acquire, operate and maintain public park and recreation areas 

Link: https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=21360


California Consulting Heads to the MMASC Annual Conference

We’re excited to attend the MMASC Annual Conference, October 28–30, 2026, at the Rancho Bernardo Inn in San Diego!


🌟 Visit us at Booth #4!


Our team looks forward to connecting with city leaders, municipal professionals, and colleagues from across California. Stop by to say hello, network with our team, and learn how California Consulting can help your city identify grant opportunities and pursue funding for community projects.

With more than 20 years of experience helping California communities secure grant funding, we’re ready to talk about opportunities that can help move your city’s priorities forward!


📍 Rancho Bernardo Inn | San Diego, CA

📅 October 28–30, 2026

📌 Booth #4


We look forward to seeing you there!

Washington, D.C. Update: Federal Grant Opportunities Continue to Advance

California Consulting is keeping a close eye on upcoming federal grant opportunities that could help California communities move important projects forward. In our latest D.C. Update, Federal Grants Coordinator Caitlin Williams shares highlights from meetings with Representative Josh Harder’s office and the National School Boards Association, along with a look at anticipated federal funding opportunities for infrastructure, education, transportation, water, and economic development.


Discover what’s ahead and explore funding opportunities that could benefit your community! Read the full article here.

Congratulations to Dr. Robert Lennox for Receiving the ICMA Credentialed Manager Designation

California Consulting, Inc. proudly congratulates our client, the City of Carson, and Dr. Robert Lennox, Assistant City Manager for the City of Carson and Chief Operating Officer for the Carson Reclamation Authority, on earning the prestigious Credentialed Manager designation from the International City/County Management Association (ICMA)!


With more than 26 years of local government executive and public service experience, Dr. Lennox has demonstrated an outstanding commitment to professional excellence, ethical leadership, and continued professional development.


This distinguished credential recognizes his dedication to advancing effective local government management and serving communities with integrity and expertise.


We celebrate this well-deserved achievement and congratulate Dr. Lennox and the entire City of Carson team on this exciting milestone!


👏 Congratulations, Dr. Lennox!

Welcome to the Team:

California Consulting Interns

Welcome to the Team!

California Consulting is excited to welcome our new interns Nikki Sanglimsuwan, Liana Jin, Trevor Wong, and Roman Rodriguez!


We’re happy to have you on board and look forward to seeing your contributions as you learn, grow, and gain valuable experience with our team.


Join us in giving them a warm welcome!

Welcome New Clients

Cal Consulting is excited to welcome the County of Shasta, Junction Elementary School District, Irvine Valley College, City of San Joaquin, San Bernardino County, AV Economic Development and Growth Enterprise, City of Tracy, South Whittier School District, the Hollenbeck Police Activities League, and the City of Hermosa Beach for grant-writing services. We are excited to secure funding for your projects.  

Celebrating Our Renewal Clients

California Consulting is proud that the Whittier Union High School District, the City of Marina, the Kern High School District, Morgan Hill Unified School District, the City of Hermosa Beach, the Sonoma County Library, and the City of Ojai v have renewed their contract for grant writing services. We greatly appreciate your continued trust in our services and look forward to building on the successes we’ve achieved together.

California Consulting in the News

Thank you to all of the media outlets that feature California Consulting in their publications.

California Consulting is at MMASC!

San Benito High School District Receives Almost $500 K for CDE Learning Communities for School Success Program

Cal Consulting Publishes Municipal Grant Opportunities





California Consulting Representatives

in your Area

California Consulting is proud of our Business Development Associates across the state.

The State's Premiere Grant Writing Company

 www.californiaconsulting.org * 323-728-9002

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