As stewards of the “commons,” Local Color aims to support the many logistics surrounding funding for creative projects centered in the South Bay Area. By building collective capacity through “commoning”, we bridge people to resources, enhance accountable practices and assist by being a reliable structure elevating inspiring individuals and collectives.

Commons Members will receive support from skilled individuals during grant submittal, through accounting and reporting, and join a network of local creative professionals able to fill roles needed in sustaining impactful community-driven projects.


Have an idea?

Independent Creators and Collectives have an abundance of ideas. D.I.Y Projects and organizers more often need an equal abundance in funding support.

Fiscal Sponsorship increases eligibility for more significant funding sources able to foster sustainability and equity.

Inquire.

Local Color is committed to supporting the resilient, passionate, artistic, and vibrant communities within San José.

See if you align with the values we share. We want to get to know you too! Please allow 2-3 weeks for our Commons Committee to review your submission.

Find support.

Local Color prioritizes emerging creatives and organizers. Start to apply and find support from funders seeking to make an impact!

First time? Grant writing is a skill that can be sharpened and learned. By describing your efforts the process has already begun. We can assist in the fine-tuning.

Learn and grow.

The Local Commons was co-designed with perspectives from peers and a national network. This program centers on those receiving support.

We are learning in tandem and sharing accountable practices to build trust throughout the layers of our communities.


The core principles of “commoning”

Social Impact Commons is the country’s first incubator and shared resource provider supporting the fiscal sponsorship or commons management community. They support the creation of new fiscal sponsors and support the growth of emerging and established fiscal sponsors. Local Color has been learning alongside a national network of fiscal sponsors since 2020.

Commoning focuses on how resources for communities are managed and collectively shared. Within the Local Commons program, we have adopted practices of peer governance, shared resources, and learning opportunities.

Read more

Get in touch with us!

Carman Gaines, Associate Director and Member Relationship Manager
carman@localcolorsj.org

Contact Local Color

Members of the Local Commons

Support Active Fundraisers!

Learn more about Local Commons!

What’s in the video:

  • Acknowledgments & Introductions

  • What is Fiscal Sponsorship?

  • What is Commoning?

  • Local Commons' mission and offerings

  • Q&A

Click Here for Slide Deck