The City of Santa Maria held a CDBG Pre-Application Workshop on October 3, 2025, aimed at guiding local organizations through the application process for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding for the fiscal years 2025-26 and 2026-27. The workshop focused on the necessary components of the application, particularly the budget tab, which is crucial for applicants seeking financial support for their proposed programs.

The meeting began with a detailed explanation of the application requirements. Participants were instructed to provide an explanation of their programs, including the units of service and the number of units per person served. The discussion then transitioned to the CDBG budget tab, where attendees learned how to structure their budget proposals.

Column A of the budget tab is designated for the fiscal year 2025-26 budget, while Column B is for the fiscal year 2026-27 budget. Column C is reserved for the specific amount requested for the program. It was emphasized that applicants should only include funding related to services provided in Santa Maria, excluding any countywide or agency-wide budgets.

A visual representation of the budget tab was shared, illustrating both the revenue and expenses sections. Applicants were encouraged to break down their requested amounts, providing specific details on how funds would be allocated. For example, if an organization requested $20,000, they should specify how much would go toward salaries versus direct assistance to individuals. Additionally, a budget narrative section allows applicants to explain their line items, detailing the purpose of each expense.

The workshop concluded with a reminder for participants to reach out to ZoomGrants technical support for any application-related issues. Attendees were also encouraged to utilize office hours for further assistance with their applications.

Overall, the workshop provided essential guidance for local organizations seeking CDBG funding, ensuring they understand the application process and budget requirements.