About this opportunity
AI summaryThe Richmond Arts and Culture Commission seeks proposals for the Neighborhood Public Art Mini-Grant FY 2026-2027. The program aims to empower local artists and cultural organizations, foster community engagement, and enrich city neighborhoods through diverse, accessible, and innovative public art initiatives. Eligibility is limited to USA onshore organizations, and fiscal sponsors are permitted. Grant awards range from $7,000 to $15,000 for offsite performance. Applicants must submit questions via the BidsOnline system by November 25, 2026. Proposals must be submitted through the City's PlanetBids portal no later than 11:59 p.m. on December 4, 2026. Award recommendations will go to the City Council in January 2027.
Buyer and opportunity details
- Client
- RICHMOND ARTS & CULTURE COMMISSION
Scope of work
- Diverse, accessible, and innovative public art initiatives
- Grassroots arts projects stimulating eligible art forms
- Projects directly benefiting Richmond residents and publicly accessible
- Active community input, engagement, and participation
- Exhibitions or completed public art installations
- Progress reporting including photos and expenditure receipts
- Final reporting and outcomes narrative upon project completion
How proposals are evaluated
| Criterion | Weight / scoring |
|---|---|
| Project Scope, Feasibility & Budget | 1 - 5 points |
| Capacity, Experience & Readiness | 1 - 5 points |
Minimum qualifications
- Eligible entities must be based in Richmond or unincorporated North Richmond.
- Community-based organizations must be tax-exempt under IRC 501(c)(3) or partnered with an eligible fiscal sponsor.
- Mandatory attendance at one of two NPA Mini-Grant Applicant Orientations.
- Projects requiring licensure through CSLB must possess an active license or partner with an appropriately licensed contractor.
Documents to include with your response
- Completed and signed application form
- Mandatory attendance date at Mini Grant Application Workshop
- Projected Expenses/Budget
- Art experience and background narrative (300 words or less)
- Work samples (1-5 images no larger than 10 MB each with corresponding list)
- Additional supporting materials in PDF format (articles, reviews, etc.)
- Insurance documentation, quotations, or certificates (strongly encouraged with application)
- Written permission letter on property owner letterhead (for projects on private property)
- Federal Tax Form W9 (upon award)
- Supplemental Vendor Questionnaire form (upon award)
Key dates
- Questions and General Technical Assistance Due
- November 25, 2026 no later than 5:00 p.m.
- Proposals Due
- December 4, 2026 no later than 11:59 p.m.
- Award Recommendations to Council
- January 2027
How to submit
- Method
- Electronic via the City portal
- Instructions
- Submit via the City's PlanetBids Portal / BidsOnline system. Required documents must be typed and provided in PDF format.
Contract details
- Term
- One year after contract execution
- Estimated value
- $7,000 to $15,000
- Place of performance
- Richmond or unincorporated North Richmond, California
- Insurance and bonding
- Commercial General Liability required. Additional coverages may include Workers' Compensation, Abuse, Molestation, and Sexual Misconduct, Automobile Liability, Contractors Pollution Liability, and Professional Liability. Additional insured and primary/non-contributory endorsements required.