For Immediate Release: June 1, 2020

SMUD's 2020 Shine program is now accepting applications

Interested nonprofits must apply by July 27

SMUD announced today that the application period for its Shine program is now open. Shine is a community development program designed to improve and revitalize neighborhoods in the Sacramento region.

Shine awards will range from $5,000 to $100,000 and are very competitive. Any nonprofit organization — 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) — within SMUD’s service territory, is eligible to apply. Shine awards are available at three funding levels: Spark (up to $10,000), Amplifier (up to $50,000) and Transformer (up to $100,000). Applications will be accepted through Monday, July 27.

While SMUD will consider a variety of projects, it is primarily interested in proposals in the following areas:

  • Community education related to energy efficiency, renewable energy, health and safety, technology skills, and STEM education (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
  • Neighborhood revitalization or beautification
  • Environmental, energy efficiency, energy conservation or greenhouse gas reduction
  • Services provided to low-income electricity customers
  • Community and workforce development, particularly for diverse and under-served communities
  • Public transit access and safety, access and safety for walkability

SMUD will be holding informational webinars to help nonprofit organizations maximize their submissions. RSVP to Shine@smud.org with the workshop you would like to attend.

  • Friday, June 5: 1 p.m. to 3 p.m.
  • Monday, June 15: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Wednesday, July 1: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.
  • Monday, July 13: 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
  • Wednesday, July 22: 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

In 2019, SMUD awarded nearly $400,000 in Shine sponsorships to 19 local nonprofits. SMUD received a wide range of applications, and the selected projects were able to demonstrate collaboration and broad neighborhood impact.

Each year SMUD contributes approximately $3 million in cash and in-kind services to community-based organizations. SMUD will continue to support healthy, vibrant and economically sustainable neighborhoods for all of our customers with a special eye to improving equity in our region through SMUD’s Sustainable Communities Initiative. For more information and for access to the application, visit SMUD.org/Shine.

About SMUD

As the nation’s sixth-largest community-owned, not-for-profit, electric service provider, SMUD has been providing low-cost, reliable electricity for more than 70 years to Sacramento County and small adjoining portions of Placer and Yolo Counties. SMUD is a recognized industry leader and award winner for its innovative energy efficiency programs, renewable power technologies, and for its sustainable solutions for a healthier environment. SMUD’s power mix is about 50 percent non-carbon emitting. For more information, about SMUD, visit SMUD.org.