Perenchio Foundation
Perenchio Foundation

NEXT OPEN CALL BEGINS APRIL 30

Instructions for how to submit a Letter of Inquiry will be made available at that time. We encourage you to review these materials when they are released for further clarity.

Perenchio Foundation

NOW ACCEPTING PROJECT GRANT REQUESTS FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENTS

Project Grant for Capital Improvements Overview

At the Perenchio Foundation, we recognize that powerful artistic experiences require robust infrastructure. Behind every transcendent performance, engaging exhibition, or transformative workshop lies essential physical and digital systems that must function flawlessly to support creative excellence.

Our Project Grants for Capital Improvements provide targeted funding for organizations with demonstrated impact in arts programming throughout Los Angeles County. These strategic investments address critical infrastructure needs—from facility renovations and technical equipment upgrades to digital systems that enhance operational capacity. We view these improvements not merely as repairs or replacements, but as foundational investments in organizational sustainability and artistic excellence.

The most compelling projects demonstrate both immediate problem-solving and strategic vision for long-term organizational development. When preparing your application, consider questions such as:

  • How might a renovated space increase community accessibility and engagement?
  • Could upgraded sound equipment enhance artistic quality while generating new rental revenue streams?
  • How might digital infrastructure improvements streamline operations and allow more resources to flow toward programming?
  • Will facilities enhancements improve energy efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, or create more flexible usage opportunities?

We welcome applications from non-arts organizations based in LA County that maintain robust, year-round arts programming and seek to strengthen their arts-related infrastructure. 

Guidelines

    Each organization may submit one proposal for a single, clearly defined project—a focused effort that addresses one specific operational need within your organization. Proposals that include multiple distinct improvements that could function as standalone projects will be considered too broad for this grant.

    • What we mean by “single project”: A focused effort with interconnected components that collectively address one well-defined need—such as upgrading your donor database system, replacing your roof, or renovating one performance space.
    • What’s too broad: Multiple distinct categories of improvements that could each stand alone as separate projects. For example:
      • Technology system upgrades AND studio renovation (two separate projects)
      • New office furniture AND donor database upgrade (two separate projects)
    • Key test: If you can logically separate your proposal into independent projects that would require separate contractors, timelines, or budgets, choose only one for your application.
    • Need help deciding? Check our FAQ for additional examples of single versus multiple projects, or focus on the single most essential improvement that addresses your organization’s highest priority need.
    • These funds are intended to support operational enhancements and are not for a single production, exhibition, or event.
    • Eligible projects include facilities upgrades, repairs, small-scale renovations, or the purchase of equipment, supplies, office furnishings, or technology.
    • All projects must be completed within 18 months.
    • For organizations that are not exclusively arts-focused but have a strong track record of ongoing arts programming, the request must clearly demonstrate how the project will support and enhance your visual and performing arts-related work.
      • Please see the FAQ for additional guidance.
    • For facilities improvements projects:
      • Projects must be well-advanced in planning and capable of being completed within 18 months of funding being awarded. Award notifications will take place in September and December, based on when proposals are received.
      • We do not fund projects that are in the early conceptual stages or where planning is just beginning.
      • We strongly encourage applicants to have permits secured or already in process before applying. Permitting delays—especially related to wildfire recovery—may affect your ability to complete the project within the required 18-month grant term. Having permits in hand or already being processed by your local municipality is preferred.

    Project Examples

    Types of projects supported by this grant include:

    Facilities Improvements

    Completing small-scale renovations or upgrades to improve building infrastructure and increase functionality for programming

    Examples:

    • ADA compliance and accessibility-related upgrades, such as seating enhancements or sensory-friendly design
    • Sustainability-related improvements, such as solar panels or energy-efficient HVAC system
    • Roof repairs
    • New flooring or stage
    • Restrooms
    • Security fencing

    Equipment

    Purchasing or repairing hardware for programs or administrative needs

    Examples:

    • Accessibility-related equipment, such as assistive listening devices or captioning displays
    • Cameras
    • Computers
    • Production printer
    • Audio/visual equipment
    • Lighting
    • Fans, space heaters

    Artistic or Programmatic Supplies

    Purchasing or refurbishing supplies or furnishings for ongoing programming

    Examples:

    • Drafting tables, kiln, instruments, music stands
    • Exhibition-related vitrines, pedestals, cabinets, and other furnishings
    • Marley flooring
    • Folding tables and chairs, other seating
    • Supplies storage cabinets or carts, fireproof cabinets

    Office Furnishings

    Purchasing furnishings for office space to support administrative needs

    Examples:

    • Desks, office chairs
    • Conference tables
    • Storage solutions

    Digital Technology

    Upgrading digital infrastructure, such as database or other software platforms

    Examples:

    • Donor management software or platform
    • Collections management software or platform
    • Event management software or platform
    • Digitization of collections or archive for public access
    • IT or cybersecurity upgrades

    Two-Step Process for Submitting a Funding Request

    To ensure that applicants align with our mission and that proposed projects are within the scope of this grant, we have implemented a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) as the first step in this open call. LOIs will be reviewed as they are received, and only the most competitive will be invited to submit a full proposal.

    If invited to move forward to complete a proposal, the following requirements also apply:

    • For requests under $50,000:
      • A minimum of 2 bids/cost estimates to inform your request
      • 5% of the total cost of the project in allocated, identified, or secured funds
    • For requests of $50,000 to $149,999:
      • A minimum of 3 bids/cost estimates to inform your request
      • 10% of the total cost of the project in allocated, identified, or secured funds
    • For requests of $150,000 to $249,999:
      • A minimum of 3 bids/cost estimates to inform your request
      • 15% of the total cost of the project in allocated, identified, or secured funds
    • For requests of $250,000 or more:
      • A minimum of 3 bids/cost estimates to inform your request
      • 20% of the total cost of the project in allocated, identified, or secured funds

    Grant amounts are anticipated to range from $10,000 to $500,000 per project. Requests may include up to 10% of direct expenses to cover staff implementation costs.

    Before proceeding, please review our Pre-LOI Checklist to ensure your organization is ready to submit.

    Eligibility Requirements

    To qualify for a Capital Improvements Grant, your organization must meet ALL of the following requirements:

    Basic Requirements:

    • Be physically located in and serving Los Angeles County communities
    • Operate as a 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored organization with at least five consecutive years in LA County
    • Maintain an annual operating budget of at least $350,000
    • Employ at least three paid full-time staff members (excluding fiscal sponsor staff)
    • Have an active Board of Directors and/or Advisory Council

    Arts Programming Requirements:

    • Demonstrate year-round, ongoing arts programming accessible to LA County residents
    • Show a consistent track record with arts as a core organizational priority
    • Maintain established, meaningful partnerships with historically underfunded communities in the arts

    Important Notes for Previous Grantees:

    • Current General Operating Support grantees may apply
    • Previous Capital Improvements grantees may apply only if:
      • Your prior project is fully completed and formally closed by the Foundation
      • Your new request is for a different project than previously funded
    • Organizations with active (uncompleted) Capital Improvements Grants are ineligible

    NOT Eligible:

    • Organizations with new, inconsistent, or seasonal arts programming
      National or statewide organizations
    • Arts service organizations
    • Educational institutions (K-12, universities, degree-granting programs)
    • Government agencies or departments
    • Regranting organizations

    Please Note: As part of our commitment to expanding support across the Los Angeles arts community, we aim to fund a diverse range of organizations. All applications meeting our requirements will be thoroughly evaluated based on project merit, organizational readiness, and alignment with our funding priorities. In this competitive process, priority consideration will be given to first-time applicants who have not previously received Foundation funding.

    • Eligibility Requirements for Arts Organizations

      To be eligible to submit an LOI, your organization must meet the following criteria:

      • Be a 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored visual and/or performing arts organization
      • Have a mission fully dedicated to the arts
      • Have active and ongoing programming, activities, and/or direct services performed, exhibited, or provided in LA County
      • Have staffing and operational capacity necessary to manage project, with at least three (3) paid full-time staff members for the current fiscal year
      • Have been established and operating as a 501(c)(3) or fiscally sponsored organization for at least five (5) consecutive years
      • Have an annual operating budget of less than $10 million
      • Have a Board of Directors and/or Advisory Council
      • Partner with, support, and/or represent communities that have been historically underfunded in the arts
      • Have received a minimum of 2 bids/cost estimates to inform budget request for project if under $50,000, or a minimum of 3 to inform request of $50,000 or over
      • Project that capital improvements can be implemented in less than 18 months

      Ineligible organizations include:

      • Organizations whose primary mission is not arts-related (for example: therapeutic and social services, entertainment, healthcare, housing, sports, and living collections). To be eligible, all programming and/or services must be dedicated to the arts
      • National and/or statewide arts organizations
      • Educational institutions that lead to a degree or diploma
      • Municipal or County government agencies and departments
      • Regranting organizations
    • Timeline

      Application Submissions Window: January 19 – June 8, 2023

      • Application Opens: Thursday, January 19, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. PST
      • Application Closes: Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 12:00 p.m. PST
      • Please be mindful of the noon deadline, as we cannot guarantee an extension beyond this time.

      Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis until June 8, 2023. We encourage organizations to submit early and not wait until the final deadline.

      We strongly recommend submitting the application at least 3 working days prior to the deadline to allow ample time to troubleshoot and resolve any technical or system errors.

      Review Process: March through September 2023

      As part of our review process, we may conduct virtual meetings and/or in-person site visits. Those who applied before the end of April will receive a notification in late July. All later applicants will be notified in late October.

    • Contact Our Team

      For questions about your organization’s eligibility to apply for this grant, read through our Eligibility Requirements above before submitting a question.

      For technical issues or questions about the application process, read the Questions and Answers section below. If your question is not addressed there, contact our team.

      If you are unsure whether your capital improvements project fits into the scope of this grant or have a request that is under $10,000, provide the following in your question to receive guidance on whether to proceed with an application:

      • A brief summary (2-3 sentences) of what your project entails
      • The grant amount you would like to request from the Perenchio Foundation

      Ask a Question

    • Apply Now

      Start Application

    Timeline

    LOI Opens

    Wednesday, April 30, 2025 - 10:00 am PT

    LOI Deadline

    • For consideration for a September grant decision: MONDAY, MAY 19, 2025 – 3:00 PM PT
    • For consideration for a December grant decision: MONDAY, AUGUST 4, 2025 – 3:00 PM PT

    Select Organizations Invited to Submit Proposal

    LOIs will be reviewed as they are submitted, and invitations to complete a proposal will be sent on a rolling basis within 4 weeks of LOI submission.

    Proposal Submission Deadline

    • For consideration for a September grant decision: MONDAY, JULY 7, 2025 – 3:00 PM PT
    • For consideration for a December grant decision: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 29, 2025 – 3:00 PM PT

    Grant Decisions

    By late September or late December 2025

    *Based on date of submission and complexity of project

    Evaluation Criteria

    LOIs and proposals should be clear, concise, and free of jargon or repetition. We ask organizations to describe who they are and the core of what they do in a way that would be easily understood by anyone reading about their work.

    All organizations will be evaluated on their alignment with Perenchio Foundation’s values of quality, accessibility, and permanence. In addition to clarity and overall values alignment, the following criteria will be taken into consideration:

    • Project Need & Feasibility
      • Is there a clear description of how the proposed project will address a need and help the organization operate more effectively?
      • Can the proposed project be feasibly implemented within 18 months and for the projected total cost?
      • Will the proposed project help the organization work toward operational sustainability?

    • Artistic & Community Focus
      • Does the proposal include all the following in a clear description of the organization’s anchor arts programs?
        • Programming (what the organization does and who you are)
        • Practices (how you do you work)
        • Purpose (why you do your work)
        • Community (whom you define as your community served)
      • Does the organization’s artistic practice demonstrate high quality and a commitment to pursuing excellence?
      • Are working artists—particularly those based in Los Angeles County—part of the core delivery of programs?
      • Does the organization have a track record of long-term, deeply engaged partnerships with historically underfunded communities in LA County?
      • Is the organization’s work informed by feedback from their community members?

    • Leadership, Capacity & Track Record
      • Does the organization have sound governance structure and financial management practices?
      • Does the organization have a formalized practice of assessment and organizational learning for continuous improvement?
      • Does the team have the staffing and capacity to support the project and manage grant funds?
      • Does the organization have other consistent sources of funding that increase the likelihood of raising additional dollars needed for the project?

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • About Project Grants for Capital Improvements

      What if our project includes multiple elements and we are unsure which category to select?

      We recognize that some projects may naturally require multiple related components. In such cases, you may include multiple items under a single project if they are essential and directly related to addressing the same area of need. For instance:

      • A media arts organization requesting computers and cameras as part of a comprehensive digital arts upgrade
      • An arts education program seeking both instruments and storage solutions to support its curriculum expansion
      • A comprehensive equipment upgrade for a studio serving a specific purpose or medium

      Please select the category you believe best aligns with the overall nature of your project. No need to get caught up on this, as our team will reach out if we have clarifying questions.

      Our proposal has multiple elements, but they all serve one space or address a single operational need across programs. Would this be considered one project?

      We evaluate these situations based on whether the components truly address one specific, well-defined need—such as completely outfitting one room, renovating one performance space, or upgrading one integrated system.

      However, if your proposal includes multiple distinct categories of improvements that could each function as standalone projects, you will be asked to narrow your request to one primary capital improvement. When submitting your Letter of Intent, focus on the single most essential or foundational element that addresses your organization’s highest priority.

      Key guideline: If you can logically separate your proposal into independent projects that would each require separate contractors, timelines, or budgets, choose only one for your application.

      Examples:

      • One project: Theater seating replacement (including removal, installation, and flooring updates needed specifically for the new seating)
      • Two separate projects: Theater seating replacement AND HVAC system installation
      • One project: Kitchen renovation (appliances, plumbing, electrical, and ventilation working together)
      • Two separate projects: Kitchen appliances AND building security system upgrades

      If invited to submit a full proposal, be prepared to demonstrate how all elements of your request are essential components of addressing one clearly defined operational need.

      Are capital campaigns for site acquisitions and/or large building renovations eligible for this grant?

      No. Project Grants for Capital Improvements are meant to support short-term projects that can be completed within a 18-month window. While this may include targeted renovation projects (e.g., restrooms, ADA compliance upgrades, roof repair/replacement), the funding is not intended to be a resource for complete building overhauls or for purchasing property.

      Are ongoing costs (e.g., software subscriptions) covered by this grant?

      No, ongoing maintenance or operating costs (e.g., software subscriptions like Word or Zoom, or monthly internet service) are not covered. The grant supports one-time implementation costs, such as setting up a new CRM, collections or archive platform.

    • Eligibility

      Are organizations that have received funding from the Perenchio Foundation eligible to apply?

      Yes, previous grantees are eligible. However, priority will be given to organizations that have not yet received a grant or those that have not received support for capital improvements.

      If your organization has already received a Capital Improvements Grant, any new requests must be for a different, unrelated project. Additionally, if your organization has an active Capital Improvements Grant and you have not received a formal closure confirmation email from the Foundation. To be competitive, returning applicants should focus on projects that address urgent, time-sensitive needs.

      Do you accept LOIs from arts service organizations?

      No, arts service organizations are not eligible to apply at this time. However, we do support capacity-building efforts for LA County-based arts service organizations through an invitation-only process to help them better serve the local arts sector.

      How do I know if you would consider my organization as having a strong track record in the arts?

      We recognize that some organizations may not be exclusively arts-focused, but may operate robust, year-round arts programming as a core part of their mission. We welcome these applicants and will consider the following criteria to determine whether your organization demonstrates a strong track record in the arts:

      • Clarity and Centrality of Arts Programs: A clear description of your anchor arts programs, their objectives, and their importance to your organization’s mission and identity.
      • Longevity and Continuity: A history of sustaining arts programming over time—whether year-round or recurring (e.g., annually during the summer)—that demonstrates consistency and a lasting commitment to the arts.
      • Demonstrated Capacity: Sufficient staffing, physical space, and/or strong strategic partnerships that enable your organization to consistently manage and deliver high-quality arts programming.
      • Artistic Excellence: Evidence of high-quality programming and a commitment to artistic integrity and excellence.
      • Inclusion of Working Artists: Working artists—especially those based in Los Angeles County—are meaningfully involved in the design, delivery, or facilitation of your arts programs.
      • Responsiveness to Community: Your programming is informed by and responsive to community needs and participant feedback, especially from historically underfunded communities in LA County.
      • Visibility and Public Representation: Your arts programs are prominently featured on your website and public materials as a key aspect of your work, not as a peripheral or occasional offering.
    • Fiscally Sponsored Organizations

      Should fiscally sponsored organizations start a LOI under their own name or under the name of their fiscal sponsor?

      A fiscally sponsored organization that is not in the IRS database should click “Entering an Organization Name” and enter their name there. Then, they should enter their fiscal sponsor’s information when prompted within the LOI.

      What information will fiscally sponsored organizations need to provide about their fiscal sponsor?

      If you are a fiscally sponsored organization, you will need to provide:

      • Name, address, and Tax ID of your fiscal sponsor
      • Contact at the fiscal sponsor organization
      • Memorandum of understanding (MOU) or letter of agreement between your organization and your fiscal sponsor

      How should fiscally sponsored organizations answer the staffing and budget-related questions in the LOI?

      For organizations that are fiscally sponsored, be sure to include your own organization’s information in all staffing budget-related questions, not your fiscal sponsor’s.

    • Letter of Inquiry Guidance

      How do you suggest that I be concise while also sharing a comprehensive snapshot of my organization?

      A few things to consider:

      • Please spell everything out before using abbreviations.
      • Use numbering, bullet points, italics, and bolding to organize information and direct the reader’s attention.
      • Provide background as needed to define terms.
      • Share data points, research, and/or specific examples to illuminate how feedback and patterns inform your approach.
      • Prioritize clarity when describing who you are, your objectives, and how you do your work.
      • We value brevity where possible. We ask that you limit responses to no more than 400-500 words. However, the system will not cut you off if you need to write more.
      • If you are invited to submit a full proposal, there will also be sections in which you will have the option to upload materials and/or visuals to highlight the project.

      Are there examples of responses that can help me understand the level of the detail requested?

      In the file linked here we have included a few questions from the LOI form with sample responses to illustrate how we hope applicants will be succinct and clear, while still providing details to help us understand the organization’s work.

      While the full proposal will have different questions, the sample responses provide guidance for succinctness and clarity of information that extends throughout the process.

      Please note: These responses were written by our team and are not meant to convey a singular organizational perspective. They are simply examples for reference.

    • How to Use GivingData

      How do I create and access my profile on your grants portal?

      Click HERE to start the LOI.

      • On the right side of the screen, you will see a “Sign In” box and an option to create a new account. Click “Create an account” and enter your email address. This will be your username on the grants portal.
      • Look for an email from Perenchio Foundation in your inbox, and check your spam folder if you do not see it. Click “Activate Your Account” to set up your password.
      • You will now be able to start a new LOI, enter your organization’s name, and take the eligibility questionnaire.

      Can I start my LOI and come back to it later?

      Yes, the system autosaves so you can come back to it anytime. However, if you are at the end of a page, please take a few seconds to let your responses fully load before clicking into the next page.

      Can I print the LOI form prior to, during, or after filling it out?

      Yes, you can print the LOI at any time, and it may be printed with or without your answers.

      Will I receive confirmation that my LOI was received?

      Yes, when you submit your LOI, you will receive an auto-response email to confirm that it was received. If you do not receive one, check your spam folder. If the confirmation is not in your spam folder, please reach out to us HERE.

      My fiscal year does not align with the financial information requested in the LOI. What should I do?

      Financial information and attachments should be entered into the LOI based on the year in which your fiscal year ends. (For example, the LOI will ask you to enter your operating budget for the fiscal year ending in 2024.) This should allow you to enter your financial information regardless of what month your fiscal year begins and ends.

    • Review Process

      What does the review process entail?

      Our review process has multiple stages. We are starting with the LOI form to ensure that only competitive and aligned projects move forward to a full proposal.

      Beyond the eligibility requirements and evaluation criteria noted above, an invitation to submit a proposal will be determined based on an equity-centered review process.

      An invitation to submit a complete proposal after the LOI stage is not a guarantee of a grant award.

      Will you conduct site visits as part of the review process?

      We may conduct in-person site visits and/or virtual meetings for the Foundation team to get to know your leadership and understand more about the project. If needed, we will reach out accordingly.

      How do I check on the status of my request?

      Please refrain from emailing or calling about the status of requests. The Foundation will contact you via email if more information is needed. Otherwise, all organizations that have submitted an LOI will hear from us no later than four (4) weeks from the submission date. Organizations invited to proceed to a full proposal will be informed of grant decisions in September or December, based on the date of the submission and the complexity of the request.

    • How to Contact Us

      How can I submit a question to your team?

      If you have a technical issue or a question about the process that is not addressed on this page, please thoroughly review the guidelines and Frequently Asked Questions before reaching out. Many common inquiries are answered there.

      To submit a question, please click the “Ask a Question” button below. Do not email individual staff members—all inquiries must go through this form for our team to respond.

      Please note: We cannot guarantee responses to questions submitted on the final day for LOI submissions. To avoid last-minute issues, we strongly recommend submitting your LOI at least 2 business days before the deadline to allow time for troubleshooting.

    Stay Connected

    Perenchio Foundation: 800 E. Colorado Blvd., Suite 840, Pasadena, CA 91101