SPARK Funds
Innovative funding to ‘spark’ change in government by supporting pilot programs and high risk expansion that help government work better for residents.
MFLA launched the SPARK grants program in 2017 to support innovation through ‘venture capital’ funding. City departments applied to MFLA for the one-time funding and programs were awarded based on their ability to show great promise, including new approaches to ongoing challenges and risky expansion of current pilot efforts.
Programs awarded funding included:
This door-to-door campaign pilot focused on encouraging Angelenos to say “yes” to housing for the homeless in or near their communities.
An innovative and prosperous city needs protection from the latest threats. With support from MFLA’s SPARK grants, this partnership builds the foundation for the nation’s first-ever city-based cybersecurity lab.
Sparking the arts in a great but underutilized space, a planning process set the groundwork for L.A.’s next cultural hub.
Involvement in the criminal justice system shouldn’t mean an end to all future opportunities. We helped support a free legal clinic for former offenders to get back on their feet and build better lives.
Members of the Mayor’s Youth Council get a chance to interact with law enforcement and explore careers in public service.
This innovative, tech-driven pilot provides young people with new ways to access employers and build long-term career paths, breaking the cycle of poverty.
Key Impact
Issue Area
Partners
Programs Similar to SPARK Funds
An innovative and prosperous city needs protection from the latest threats. With support from MFLA’s SPARK grants, this partnership builds the foundation for the nation’s first-ever city-based cybersecurity lab.
Through a deep dive into LA’s bureaucratic processes and outreach to other cities, the Operations Innovation Team (O-Team) successfully delivered on its mission of aspirational government reform in the areas of wellness and safety, procurement and real estate.
The Mayor’s Fund for Los Angeles is proud to partner with the City of Los Angeles as the host city for the Ninth Summit of the Americas.