Marking its first decade, the Service Access & Equity (SAE) Grant Program recently awarded $22 million to reduce barriers and open more paths to services. The 2025-27 grant awardees were posted online on April 1.
Grants were awarded to 48 community-based organizations (CBOs) and regional centers, supporting individuals across California, in 46 different languages.
The grant priorities included:
- Statewide Information and Training
- Increasing Pathways into the System
- Building Caregiver Networks and Supports
- Service Connection Support for Families & Early Start
- Innovative strategies
The SAE Grant Program supports local organizations and regional centers in finding new ways to improve access to services. Since it started in 2016, the program has funded more than 500 projects. Together, they have:
- Provided developmental screenings for over 3,400 children
- Hosted more than 2,400 educational workshops for approximately 45,000 families
- Strengthened advocacy, education, and community networks across California
More Applications Reviewed Than Ever
152 applications were received for the FY 2025-27 cycle. That’s a 37 percent increase from last year, reflecting growing interest in expanding access to developmental services in California.
The review process ran from November 2025 through February 2026. It included partners from across the Department and the broader developmental services network. Each proposal was evaluated for how well it would fit with community needs. This process included different perspectives, and the final awards also reflected the communities the program serves.
FY 25/27 Grant Project Spotlight
Bakersfield American Indian Health Project
About: Central Valley based CBO with experience working with tribal communities
Project: This project will deliver support to tribal communities in Kern County to navigate regional center services, build self-advocacy skills, and strengthen leadership capacity. The project will train regional center staff in cultural competence and provide adapted educational materials, peer advocate support, and community-based outreach to improve access for tribal communities.
Service Area: Kern Regional Center and Central California
Amount Awarded: $250,000
Integrated Community Services
About: Northern California Bay Area-based CBO that provides advocacy and educational training services to underserved individuals
Project: The project will work with Spanish-speaking young adults in Marin County to build connections to regional center and other services through peer navigation and outreach.
Service Area: Golden Gate Regional Center and the greater Bay Area region
Amount Awarded: $290,000
El Sol Neighborhood Educational Center
About: Southern California-based CBO with experience supporting African American, Filipino, Hispanic, Vietnamese communities
Project: The project will deliver multilingual family leadership training sessions led by health workers who reflect their communities. Sessions will increase caregiver understanding of developmental milestones, Early Start eligibility, regional center services, and advocacy strategies.
Service Area: Inland Regional Center and Southern California
Amount Awarded: $400,000