Seventeen organizations were selected to receive a total of $1 million through the 2026 Sacramento Innovation Grant Program to support programs for local entrepreneurs, according to an April 29 announcement. The grant program is managed by the City’s Office of Innovation and Economic Development and was approved by the Sacramento City Council this week.
The purpose of the program is to help entrepreneurs at various stages develop their businesses. Projects that have received funding include incubator and accelerator programs, training initiatives, and other services designed to assist businesses in starting and growing.
“Supporting local entrepreneurs means investing in the long-term economic health of Sacramento and creating more opportunities for businesses to grow here,” said Denise Malvetti, Deputy Director of the Office of Innovation and Economic Development.
This year’s program offers three funding categories: entrepreneur access and education for both early-stage and established business owners; incubator and accelerator support aimed at idea-stage as well as expanding companies; and innovation plus investment readiness focused on commercialization efforts along with customer development and securing funds. Grant amounts range from $15,000 up to $100,000 per recipient.
“Sacramento’s innovation grant will help us expand Momentum’s ASCEND program to support a diverse audience of advanced transportation and mobility sector startups and founders,” said Matthew Hart, CEO of Momentum. “Sacramento ASCENDS will provide the tools to effectively leverage non-dilutive funding to advance demonstration pilots, bring growth capital to the region, and establish critical commercial partnerships.”
The City received 105 applications totaling requests for more than $7 million in funding. Applications were reviewed by City staff members as well as subject matter experts who considered factors such as program design, expected outcomes, organizational capacity, and impact on underserved entrepreneurs. Selected projects are scheduled to begin during the second quarter of 2026 with completion expected within one year.
The initiative aligns with Sacramento’s ScaleUp inclusive economic development strategy which seeks greater economic mobility while increasing entrepreneurship resources available especially for underserved communities.
