The Mendocino County Fire Safe Council (MCFSC) is launching its fifth annual Micro-Grant Program, continuing its commitment to supporting community-led wildfire preparedness efforts throughout Mendocino County. This year, at least $100,000 in funding will be distributed through grants ranging from $2,000 to $12,500 for Neighborhood Fire Safe Councils (NFSCs), Firewise Communities, and local fire agencies.

The Micro-Grant Program is designed to strengthen wildfire resilience from the ground up. By supporting locally driven projects, the program encourages neighbors, volunteers, and fire professionals to work together on practical solutions that reduce wildfire risk. In addition to funding, the grants help spark community organizing, increase volunteer engagement, and build lasting partnerships among neighbors and responders.

*McNab Ranch Firewise Community volunteers work to install a new 5,000 gallon water tank reducing emergency response time to its location by at least thirty minutes.*

Eligible applicants include Mendocino County fire agencies, NFSCs, and Firewise Communities that were established prior to March 1, 2026. Neighborhoods interested in forming a new Fire Safe Council can find guidance and resources at firesafemendocino.org/nfsc.

In the previous funding cycle, MCFSC awarded 20 Micro-Grants to a mix of 11 Neighborhood Fire Safe Councils, four Firewise Communities, and five fire agencies. Funded projects addressed a wide range of local needs, including invasive broom removal, installation of water tanks, reflective address signage, radio and communication equipment purchases, bulk materials for home hardening, and other efforts that strengthened both safety and community connection.

Funding priority will be given to projects that clearly advance wildfire preparedness, mitigation, and long-term resilience. Competitive proposals will demonstrate strong leadership and relevant experience, incorporate volunteer time and collaboration where possible, and produce shareable outcomes such as photos, stories, or quotes that highlight community impact.

The application period opens March 1 and closes March 31, 2026. Grant awards will be announced by April 30, 2026, and all funded projects must be completed by March 30, 2027.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to review the Micro-Grant Guidelines prior to applying. Guidelines and application materials are available by clicking the button below. Questions or requests for the Guidelines and Application Form may be directed to Eva King at king@firesafemendocino.org.

This program is made possible through the support of the Mendocino County Fire Safe Council, Measure P funding, and the ongoing generosity of its members and donors.

Micro-Grant Guidelines, Application, and Forms