The City of San José recognizes that a strong and healthy arts community is an essential aspect of a community’s vitality. Operating Grants subsidize the routine operations of nonprofit arts organizations, but many organizations struggle to locate flexible funds for projects that impact long-term viability and lead to stronger financial health.

The goal of the Capitalization and Sustainability (CAPSUS) Grant is to support the resiliency of San José’s nonprofit arts and cultural organizations through significant projects that will improve an organization’s capitalization and long-term sustainability.

CAPSUS grants are intended to be one-time catalytic investments that improve the capitalization and sustainability of an organization.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS AND AVAILABLE FUNDING

The CAPSUS grant is targeted at arts and cultural organizations currently receiving operating grant support in recognition of the City’s significant financial investment in organizations that offer year-round programs to broad audiences and employ professional artists, technicians, and administrators.

CAPSUS grants are highly competitive. The total CAPSUS funding available is $200,000. The maximum grant award will be up to $40,000, but all grants may not be funded at the maximum amount. Grant funding is for 2 years.

2026-2028 CAPSUS GRANTS

APPLICATION DEADLINE: To Be Announced

2026-2028 CAPSUS Grant Guidelines

PRE-APPLICATION WORKSHOP (REQUIRED)

A required CAPSUS pre-application webinar will be scheduled online via Zoom. Date and time to be determined.

• View the 2026-2028 CAPSUS Webinar Zoom Recording
• View the 2026-2028 CAPSUS Webinar PowerPoint Presentation

Additionally, applicants are strongly encouraged to view the webinar presented by Nonprofit Finance Fund titled, "Capitalizing a Vibrant San José Arts Sector: A Virtual Workshop with Nonprofit Finance Fund on Full Cost".

Proposed 2026-2028 CAPSUS Grant Awards will be presented at the San Jose Arts Commission Meeting scheduled for recommendation to the City Council.