For Immediate Release: June 1, 2021

SMUD's 2021 Shine program is now accepting applications

Interested nonprofits must apply by July 30th

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

Shine awards will range from $5,000 to $100,000 and are very competitive. Any incorporated nonprofit organization 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 Friday, July 30, by 5 p.m.

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
  • Inclusive and equitable clean energy solutions, including energy efficiency, energy conservation and greenhouse gas reduction
  • Services provided to low-income electricity customers
  • Community and workforce development, particularly for diverse and under-served communities
  • Public transit, and walkability access and safety

SMUD will hold six informational webinars to help nonprofit organizations maximize their submissions.

  • Monday, June 7; 1–3 p.m.
  • Wednesday, June 16; 9–11 a.m.
  • Friday, June 25; 3–5 p.m.
  • Wednesday, July 7; 1–3 p.m.
  • Friday, July 16; 9–11 a.m.
  • Monday, July 26; 3–5 p.m.

A registration link can be found on smud.org/Shine.

In 2020, SMUD awarded $600,000 in Shine award funding to 29 local nonprofits. SMUD received a wide range of applications and then selected projects that were able to demonstrate collaboration and broad community 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 toward improving equity in our region through SMUD’s Sustainable Communities program. For more information and 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 to Sacramento County for nearly 75 years. 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.