Funders building healthy, equitable, and sustainable communities across California.
Rural Leaders Are Rewriting the North State’s Economic Future
The North State is changing — and local leaders want philanthropy to see the region not only for its challenges, but for the community power already taking shape across 19 rural counties. At our recent Rural Funders Working Group meeting, we heard from leaders of the North State Inclusive Economic… Read More »
Exploring a Fossil-Free Future in California
The Smart Growth California team joined Southern California Grantmakers and local funders on May 29, 2026, for a day of learning, conversation, and exploration in Baldwin Hills. Starting in Kenneth Hahn State Recreation Area, a park just a stone’s throw away from existing oil wells, the gathering focused on one… Read More »
Jul
20
Jul
30
What People Are Saying
“SGC was instrumental in helping us establish the Climate Funders’ Collaborative in the Baja/Imperial/San Diego Region. Their team brings content expertise, network connections and effective engagement practices to our collaborative effort.”
Christiana DeBenedict, San Diego Foundation
“Smart Growth California provides so much value – from policy updates and exposure to innovative projects and organizations to providing a space for philanthropic relationship building and developing co-funding opportunities.”
Lisa Craypo, The Rosalinde and Arthur Gilbert Foundation
“Smart Growth California is one of the few spaces where funders are working across issue areas to address the needs of our most disadvantaged communities.”
Craig Martinez, The California Endowment
“Smart Growth California is an incredibly efficient way for me to connect with and learn from other funders and nonprofit partners so I can stay on top of what’s happening with affordable housing, transportation justice, and equitable development in regions throughout the state.”
Vu-Bang Nguyen, Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Join the Smart Growth California community.
Connect, strategize, and have a greater impact as part of our network of grantmakers.
