Note: See below for the announcement & guidelines for the grant cycle recently awarded. Read about the awardees in our June newsletter.
The Dimond Improvement Association is pleased to announce the 2026 cycle of its Community Grants Program!
The program, launched in 2019, aims to encourage and support community-based projects that advance DIA’s vision “to make Oakland’s Dimond District a vibrant, safe, and beautiful place for everyone to live, work, shop, and play.” Community Grants are awarded to individuals in the community or Oakland based non-for profit groups. Historically, grants ranging from $250-$1,500 have been awarded for a variety of projects including public art installations, beautification efforts, community programs and events, and much more! The grant funding is made possible by proceeds from Oaktoberfest in the Dimond, and DIA membership dues and donations. See below for the Community Grant guidelines, qualifications, and to apply by March 2nd, 2026 via the application form. See the previous Community Grant Awardees here:
- First grant cycle – 2020
- Second grant cycle – 2022-2023
- Third grant cycle – 2024
- Fourth grant cycle – 2025
SCHEDULE OVERVIEW
01/14/26 Application period opens
03/02/26 Application deadline
03/30/26 Applicants notified of awards (on or before this date)
03/30/27 Project completion deadline
GUIDELINES
Eligible applicants:
Oakland-based groups and individuals are eligible. Groups must be not-for-profit, and may be incorporated or unincorporated. Examples: Community groups, neighborhood councils, school groups, faith-based groups, project-specific alliances.
Eligible projects:
Projects may include, but are not limited to, physical installations and improvements, such as art and landscaping; educational, community engagement, and service programs; and events. Projects must be consistent with the visions and mission of DIA, have a clear public benefit, and have a direct impact on the Dimond District. Applicants need to demonstrate a strong likelihood of achieving the purpose of the project.
Physical projects and improvements may take place on public or private property. Approval from the related agency or property owner is required. Projects on private property must be visible and enjoyable by the general public.
Eligible expenses:
Materials and services related to the project are generally eligible for funding. Funds cannot be used for staff, existing obligations or deficits, or general operating expenses. DIA may request that certain proposed expenses, if deemed inappropriate, be funded through other sources. DIA encourages projects that can demonstrate multiple sources of financial support.
Grant amount:
Funding requests may range from $250 to $1,500, per project per year. Multiple applications for the same project will not be considered in the same grant period.
Application process:
Applications must be submitted via the application submission form by Monday, March 02, 2026. Only complete and on-time submissions will be considered. Click on this link to access the application submission form: https://forms.gle/6yc5aaQ46o9Dqfe96
Email communitygrants@dimondnews.org with any questions about the application or application submission process.
Evaluation process:
A committee of the DIA Board of Directors will evaluate all applications and recommend to the full board, for its approval, projects to be funded. If needed, a member or members of the committee may communicate with applicants via email, phone, or in person to discuss the application during the evaluation process. DIA may choose not to award all funds available if it determines that an insufficient number of high-quality applications have been submitted. While all are encouraged to apply, DIA may consider priority to first time applicants. All applicants will be notified of award or denial on or before March 30, 2026.
Receipt of funds:
Fifty percent (50%) of the award amount will be paid within 10 days of award notification or when requested. The remaining 50 percent will be paid upon completion of the project and submission of a final report (form will be provided), including evidence of project completion, results, and photos; final project spending summary; and related expense receipts. Grant awardees will need to furnish W-9 information. A 1099-NEC form will be issued for grants if $600.00 or more of the awarded funds are used for expenses other than materials (based on receipt submission).
How to apply:
APPLY HERE by March 2, 2026
More information or questions:
Please email communitygrants@dimondnews.org
Previous Community Grant Awardees:
- First grant cycle – 2020
- Second grant cycle – 2022-2023
- Third grant cycle – 2024
- Fourth grant cycle – 2025