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Search Through California Grants for Nonprofits

Find nonprofit grants in California, including opportunities in Los Angeles, San Francisco, and San Diego. Updated listings for 501(c)(3) organizations statewide

400+ grants

$324.5M total

$87.5K median

400+
Available grants

$324.5M
Total funding amount

$87.5K
Median grant amount

Skip the search. Get matched with grants that fit your non-profit.

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Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Charles and Mildred Schnurmacher Foundation, established in 1977, is dedicated to enhancing lives through charitable giving. It supports diverse programs in human services, education, Jewish causes, health, performing arts, scientific research, and animal advocacy. While primarily focused on organizations in the U.S., it also funds global initiatives. Grant requests are reviewed thoroughly, with a preference for program development and project support over general operating expenses, ensuring a significant impact on communities.

Rolling deadline

US $2,500 - US $25,000

The Joan M. Wismer Foundation, established in 2001, honors the legacy of Joan Marilynn Wismer, who was dedicated to charitable work and community service. The foundation focuses on improving lives through education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, and medical research. It primarily supports IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and churches, while emphasizing the importance of sustainable funding and effective financial management in its grant-making process.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Majestic Realty Foundation, established in 2002, champions active philanthropy by addressing critical community needs across eight regions in the U.S. Focused on youth, education, health, family support, and violence prevention, the Foundation fosters sustainable community development. Through initiatives like the Los Angeles Youth Leadership Council, it empowers young leaders while encouraging employee volunteerism. By partnering with local nonprofits, the Foundation strengthens community ties, ensuring lasting impact against challenges such as homelessness and youth violence.

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Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Amgen Foundation Inc focuses on non-healthcare donations and sponsorships that target humanitarian, social, educational, and community programs. They offer support to organizations outside the U.S. healthcare community, particularly those recognized as tax-exempt public charities. Eligible organizations must serve specific Amgen communities throughout the U.S. This initiative aims to enhance health outcomes and address critical societal needs, thereby reducing the burden of disease and improving lives.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation supports nonprofit organizations in Los Angeles County, focusing on enriching cultural experiences, education, health services, and human services. By prioritizing general operating support and capital projects, the Foundation aims to empower local organizations to address diverse community needs, fostering civic engagement and leadership. With a commitment to improving the lives of vulnerable populations, the Foundation plays a crucial role in shaping a brighter future for Southern California.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

Shaw's Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that enhance community well-being, focusing on hunger, youth education, and health. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and serve specific regions like California and Hawaii. An employee sponsor is mandatory for applications in these areas. The grant review process typically takes about eight weeks, and the foundation prioritizes collaborations with local partners to maximize community impact.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The S. H. Cowell Foundation Grant focuses on supporting public and nonprofit organizations in Northern and Central California that address acute poverty and promote racial equity. The foundation prioritizes place-based strategies to fund initiatives that foster child development, family empowerment, and youth leadership. By building on community strengths, it aims to create equitable access to essential services and enhance the overall well-being of families and children, ensuring their voices are integral to program design and implementation.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Sunwest Bank Charitable Foundation Grant aims to foster a philanthropic corporate culture by supporting local nonprofit organizations focused on the welfare of vulnerable children and families. The Foundation prioritizes cash grants to organizations addressing food, housing, health, safety, and education needs in communities served by Sunwest Bank. Eligible nonprofits must align with the Foundation's mission and engage in a transparent application process, with extra consideration given to organizations where Sunwest employees volunteer.

Rolling deadline

Unspecified amount

The Bicycle Hotel Casino offers sponsorship and donation opportunities to support various worthy causes through a structured Board Review Committee. To qualify, organizations must submit a formal request at least 60 days before their event. This includes a Donation Request Form and a letter detailing the organization's purpose and alignment with the casino’s mission. The casino prioritizes requests from registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, ensuring that each project aligns with their philanthropic goals.

Letter of inquiry due May 1, 2026

US $100,000 - US $1,000,000

The Southern California Grant Program, managed by the W. M. Keck Foundation, supports diverse projects that enhance community well-being in areas such as Arts, Health, and Education. It emphasizes initiatives aiding low-income families and special needs populations in Los Angeles County. Grants are awarded twice a year, focusing on innovative solutions with measurable impact. Eligible organizations must demonstrate strong leadership and thorough planning, ensuring a significant long-term effect on the communities they serve.

Applications due May 1, 2026

Approximately US $10,000

The James C. Stewart Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable causes primarily in Tucson, Arizona, and Southern California. Founded by James Stewart, who was dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting the arts, the foundation provides an average grant of $10,000, awarding around five grants annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The foundation emphasizes arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit, continuing Stewart's legacy of generosity.

Letter of inquiry due May 26, 2026

US $5,000 - US $3,000,000

The Del E. Webb Foundation Grant offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $3,000,000 for nonprofit organizations operating in Arizona, California, or Nevada. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and have long-term benefits, particularly in child and health initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent, followed by a formal application if invited.

Applications due Jun 16, 2026

US $2,500 - US $25,000

The Sundt Foundation, established in 1999, supports local communities by offering grants and volunteer opportunities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Focused on youth development, hunger and nutrition, and veteran services, the Foundation prioritizes projects in regions such as the Southwest and Southeast United States. However, they do not fund requests exceeding $25,000 or support multi-year pledges, fundraising events, or political causes. Their mission continues to foster community connections and belonging.

Applications due Jun 30, 2026

More than US $1,000

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

Applications due Jul 1, 2026

Unspecified amount

The Doyle Foundation, Inc. offers grants to 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S., supporting a variety of causes. Founded by Frank and Gertrude R. Doyle, the foundation initially focused on scholarships for local students but has since expanded its reach to nonprofit grants. With no minimum GPA or income cap for applicants, the foundation aims to empower diverse communities by funding educational pursuits and enhancing quality of life. Its mission reflects the Doyles' legacy of opportunity and community service.

Applications due Jul 31, 2026

US $2,000 - US $40,000

The John and Maria Laffin Trust provides funding for education, animal welfare, medical research, and human services to 501(c)(3) organizations. It allocates 20% for education, 30% for animal welfare, 25% for medical research, and 25% for humanitarian efforts. There are no geographic restrictions for medical research and human services grants, and organizations must meet IRS requirements for tax-exempt status. This trust honors the legacy of Valentina Laffin, who was dedicated to community service.

Applications due Jul 31, 2026

US $3,000 - US $7,500

The Teichert Foundation Grant supports organizations in California that enhance community welfare through civic improvement, culture, education, and environmental sustainability. Established by Teichert Construction, the foundation aims to foster a healthier, educated, and more equitable society. Eligible applicants include nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and public agencies in specified counties. The foundation prioritizes projects that address community needs and demonstrate fiscal responsibility, ultimately striving to create lasting impact and better health for all.

Applications due Aug 15, 2026

US $15,000 - US $100,000

The Pacific Life Foundation Grants aim to positively impact communities through strategic funding in areas such as arts, education, and health. Nonprofits with tax-exempt status can apply for grants up to $15,000 for program support or $25,000 to $100,000 for capital projects. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovative solutions to meet community needs while honoring the legacy of Pacific Life and its employees.

Applications due Sep 15, 2026

US $5,000 - US $20,000

The Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation, established in 1963, is dedicated to enhancing life quality in communities linked to California pioneer Henry Mayo Newhall. It funds initiatives in academic enrichment, animal welfare, scholarships, historical preservation, and outreach for the disadvantaged. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 for one year, with potential renewals based on effectiveness. The Foundation prioritizes proposals from nonprofit organizations in specific California regions, emphasizing matching or challenge grants.

Applications due Sep 30, 2026

US $250 - US $10,000

The Hesed Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives that promote social justice through Tzedakah and gemilut hasadim, which emphasize justice and loving kindness. This private foundation focuses on enhancing the welfare of underrepresented communities, particularly in the Boston area, NYC, and Northern California. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and the foundation prioritizes projects related to youth, education, health, and community building.

Applications due Sep 30, 2026

Unspecified amount

The Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation, established in 2010, supports projects that align with Jewish ideals in education, science, and the arts. Based in Indianapolis, this foundation has funded initiatives across the United States, addressing various social issues. They do not impose minimum or maximum grant amounts, focusing instead on the project's merit and alignment with their mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, while general operating funds are not provided.

Pre proposal due Oct 25, 2026

US $1,000,000

The Community Progress Makers Fund, an initiative by the Citi Foundation, aims to empower local organizations by providing $50 million in unrestricted funding. This program, established in 2015, will support 50 selected community organizations over three years with grants of $1 million each, alongside technical assistance and opportunities for collaboration. The fund prioritizes organizations with strong community ties and a proven impact in areas such as affordable housing, economic development, financial health, and workforce readiness.

Letter of inquiry due Jan 16, 2027

US $5,000 - US $10,000

The Papé Family Foundation seeks to positively impact communities where its members reside, emphasizing family unity, service, and stewardship. It funds small capital projects, building improvements, equipment needs, and operational requests for new programs (under two years old) but does not cover salaries. Eligible organizations must be within 50 miles of trustee-residing cities, including locations in Arkansas, California, Idaho, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Wyoming.

Letter of inquiry due Feb 4, 2027

Unspecified amount

The S. Mark Taper Foundation, established in 1989, is a private family foundation committed to improving lives through support for nonprofit organizations in Southern California. It funds projects in arts, education, health, and more, with grant sizes ranging from $50,000 to over $100,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and serve specific counties. Notably, those receiving funding in the past three years are ineligible to apply.

Applications due Apr 24, 2027

Unspecified amount

The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in 11 markets, providing $225,000 to support local programs addressing community issues. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a revenue exceeding $100,000 and must operate in one of the specified television markets. The grants aim to empower youth through education, promote diverse storytelling, and enhance community engagement. This initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to fostering inclusion and equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

Showing 27 of 400+ results.

California Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

California grants for nonprofits provide funding to support education, environmental protection, technology innovation, and public health. The following grants empower organizations to tackle challenges, promote equity, and foster sustainability throughout the state of California.

Search Instrumentl's California Grants Database

Find 400+ funding opportunities for nonprofits in California, with $324.5M available. Instrumentl connects local organizations to tailored grants, offering tools for tracking deadlines, customized searches, and insights to support transformative work across California.

Top Searched California Grants for Nonprofits

California Grants for Nonprofits from Private Funders

California Grants for Nonprofits over $20k

California Grants for Nonprofits for Projects & Programs

California Grants for Nonprofits from Government Funders

Grant Insights : California Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Common — grants in this category appear regularly across funding sources.

400+ California grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

200+ California grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

100+ California grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

37 California grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

300+ California grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Health & Medicine

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for California grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the second quarter.

25.4%

27.1%

25.1%

22.4%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for California Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $87,500.

$0 $0 Min.

$87,500 $87.5 K Median

$1,357,716 $1.4 M Average

$46,000,000 $46 M Max.

Frequently Asked Questions

What grants are available in California?

Many grants are currently open for applications in California, including over 200+ individual grants with an average award of over $25k. The median grant amount funded within California is $87,500. As for specific grant focus areas, over 2,000+ available grants in California target health & medicine and 3,000+ focus on education. Additionally, over 300+ grants target specific programs or projects, and 37 grants aim to support general operating expenses.

What types of grants are available for nonprofits in California?

Grants in California are funded by a variety of sources, including state, local, and federal government agencies, private foundations, corporate funders, and associations. Here’s a breakdown of where you'll find the largest number of grants:

State & Local Government: Currently, 192 grants are available from California state/local government agencies. Focus areas across these grants typically include habitat and ecosystem restoration, land and freshwater conservation, and farming. State/local government agencies make up the largest category of funders.
Private Foundations: 119 grants in California are funded by private foundations targeting a wide range of categories, from environmental conservation to education to health and medicine.
Corporate Funders: 26 corporate grants are open in California. These grants often focus on environmental education, human and social services, and art and culture.

Given the large number of state and local government grants offered in California, nonprofits should stay up-to-date on funding availability in their areas.

When is the best time to apply for grants in California?

Based on currently available data, the best time to apply for grants in California is in Q2, when 27.1% of all grant applications are due. Q1 has a similar rate at 25.4%. Applying for grants during these quarters will offer the most opportunities to secure funding.

What is the overall funding landscape in California?

The nonprofit funding landscape for grants in California has shown increasing activity over the last few years. Based on IRS funding reports, overall grant funding grew from ~$30.7 billion in 2021 to ~$33.6 billion in 2022 — a 9.61% increase. The largest focus areas for funding included single-organization support, professional societies and associations, and private grantmaking foundations. Los Angeles County, San Francisco County, and Santa Clara County received the most funding during this time.

If you'd like to dive deeper, explore our in-depth California Private Grants Landscape insight report, which explores the top funders and grantees as well as more recent data.

How can Instrumentl help nonprofits find and win more grants in California?

If you want to start finding more grants, Instrumentl simplifies the entire grant process. You can find grants in California while also researching funders, managing deadlines, and keeping on top of everything in our all-in-one platform.

Is your nonprofit struggling to decide how much to request in a grant application? Learn how to calculate the right amount with our grant request sizing guide.