The Stockton Urban Forest Fund (SURFF) supports projects that expand and improve urban forestry in disadvantaged and low-income communities throughout San Joaquin County.

Currently Accepting Grant Applications

SURFF Grant Application

What funding opportunities are available through SURFF?

SJCF is offering two funding opportunities through the Stockton Urban Forest Fund:

Urban Forestry Expansion & Improvement Grants: $1,710,000 in available funding.
Workforce Development Grants: $570,000 in available funding.

What is the difference between the two funding opportunities?

Urban Forestry Expansion & Improvement Grants

This opportunity supports projects focused on expanding and improving urban tree canopies through tree planting, maintenance, planting site improvements, community education, and long-term urban forest policy, planning, and management. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, qualifying fiscally sponsored organizations, institutions of higher learning, and eligible local government agencies within San Joaquin County.

Workforce Development Grants

This opportunity supports education, training, and career pathways in urban forestry, including hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, job readiness, and employment opportunities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, including qualifying institutions of higher learning and fiscally sponsored organizations.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the applicable grant guidelines and application questions to determine eligibility and understand the full requirements before applying.

What are the general project requirements?

Projects must directly benefit qualifying disadvantaged, low-income communities in San Joaquin County, with preference given to Stockton. Both funding opportunities require that projects include a tree-planting component with a minimum target of 250 trees planted by the end of the grant period, retain a certified arborist or other qualified urban forestry professional, and include plans for long-term tree maintenance. Projects must also contribute to reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and provide other environmental, economic, and social co-benefits. Applicants should refer to the full list of eligibility requirements outlined in the respective grant guidelines for each opportunity.

Additional requirements specific to each opportunity are outlined in the respective grant guidelines.

How much funding can an organization request?

There is no maximum amount that may be requested; however, awarded amounts may be less than the amount requested in an application. If awarded less than requested, grantees will be asked to revise their project scope and budget to align with the final award amount. Applicants should request a funding amount that reflects a realistic project budget based on the proposed activities, the organization’s capacity to implement the project within the project period, and the anticipated number of trees to be planted. For projects involving partnerships between multiple organizations, one organization must serve as the lead applicant.

When are applications due?

Applications for both opportunities must be submitted by Tuesday, December 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM Pacific Time. All funded projects must be completed by February 27, 2028.

How do I apply?

Applications must be submitted through the SJCF Grants Portal.

Review the appropriate grant guidelines and application questions.
Visit the SJCF Grants Portal and log in or create an account.
Click “Apply” and select the appropriate SURFF funding opportunity.
Complete and submit the online application before the deadline.

Will there be an informational workshop?

Yes. SJCF will host a virtual “How to Apply” workshop on Friday, November 13, 2026, at 10:00 AM.

The webinar will be recorded and made available online as a resource for applicants.

Who can I contact with questions?

For questions regarding program eligibility, project requirements, or proposals, please contact:
Celine Lopez, Program Officer
clopez@sanjoaquincf.org

For technical assistance with the online application portal, please contact:
Alfonso Villalobos, Fund Development Advisor
avillalobos@sanjoaquincf.org

Funding for SURFF is provided by the Governor and Legislature through the 2023–2024 State General Fund, administered by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) Urban and Community Forestry Program.