Navigating Grantmaking
Navigating the City and County of San Francisco’s social service grantmaking process can feel complicated—whether you’re a City staff member trying to translate your department’s program vision into a Request for Proposal (RFP), or a grantseeker hoping to partner with the City. You’re not alone if you’ve ever wondered, “What are the different steps to submit a grant application?” or “Who is supposed to do what here?” The Grant Process Guide is designed to help you answer those questions and more.About the Grants Process Guide
The Grants Process Guide is a practical, plain‑language resource to demystify the social service grant procurement lifecycle. The guide walks readers through each phase of the grant lifecycle — from early planning, to applying for funding, to finalizing agreements — and explains what to expect at every step. This document aims to make the process more transparent, predictable, and easier to understand for both City staff and grantseekers.
In the guide, you’ll find:
- Plain‑language explanations of what happens at each grantmaking stage
- Information on common City requirements
- Helpful definitions of procurement terms
- How to prepare
- Why certain steps exist
This guide is designed for:
- Grantseekers interested in applying for City funding and looking for a clear overview of what to expect during the process.
- City staff who want a better understanding of procurement steps, timelines, and requirements for grantmaking.
View the Grants Process Guide
Downloadable files
Grants Process Guide June 2026