Beyond the Dollars: Navigating Governor Newsom’s 2026-2027 Proposed Budget
As we kick off the California budget season, Governor Newsom’s proposed budget reflects ongoing fiscal constraints and fails to address the harsh realities our communities are facing. Despite the $9 billion more in revenue than previously anticipated, the governor’s budget makes it clear that there is little to no room for new investments, leaving the state to still face significant fiscal uncertainty at a moment when communities across the state continue to face fear, rising costs, and increasing demand for public services.
At the same time, federal budget and policy proposals threaten to reduce critical funding streams that California relies on to support health and human services, housing and homelessness programs, food assistance programs, climate resilience as regions continue to rebuild from natural disasters, education, and more. Such federal cuts cause additional pressure on the state budget, at a time when nonprofits and community-based organizations are already stretched thin.
As communities, nonprofits, and philanthropy continue to navigate threats to our work, it remains certain that this is the time to take bold actions. Philanthropy has a critical role to play during this crucial negotiation period. We will explore how funders can support nonprofit partners, amplify community voices, and help advance and advocate for long-term solutions that promote a more equitable and resilient state.
Join Philanthropy California for a timely funder conversation to learn more about the Governor’s proposed budget, key areas of concern and opportunity for the sector, and what is at stake for the state and communities. Together, we will explore how funders can engage strategically during the budget cycle, and partner with advocates and community leaders, especially in the face of mounting federal uncertainty. After hearing an overview of the proposed budget, we will offer funders breakout rooms organized by topics to dive deeper into specific strategies impacting health care, housing justice, SoCal Wildfire Recovery, Climate and Disaster Preparedness, and protecting safety net programs.
SPEAKERS: Chris Hoene, Executive Director of the California Policy & Budget Center
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