Best Corporate Grants for Nonprofits in California

Funding Innovative Research

Cannonball Kids’ cancer Foundation (CKc) prioritizes funding clinical trials, research that is nearing translation to a clinical trial, and young investigator grants.

Grants funded by CKc must be innovative and provide better quality of life or symptom relief than current treatments. 

When possible, CKc will prioritize funding research:

• with a focus on cancers that are under-funded or under-researched,
• with a focus on patient populations who are traditionally underserved.

When possible, CKc will prioritize funding researchers of diverse backgrounds.

For CKc, “innovation” means the invention or application of novel methods or treatments, specifically treatments that have fewer side-effects than standard care, increase a child’s quality of life, and/or create an option for care where there otherwise were few or none (either on primary diagnosis, relapse, or for recalcitrant cancers).

Research Grants

Grant Program: Young Investigator

$100,000 over 3 years

• PI must hold an academic appointment at the instructor level or higher
• PI must be within 5 years of completing a training fellowship in Pediatric Hematology/Oncology or a closely related discipline that has direct clinical contact with pediatric cancer patients
• Research must be within 2-3 years to translation to a clinical trial or already associated with a clinical trial

• Evidence of Mentor's commitment to the PI's career development plan
• Translational potential

The Samuel H. French and Katherine Weaver French Fund provides grants focused on the welfare and education of the elderly, sight-impaired, and young in the San Diego region. Established by a couple committed to community support, the fund prioritizes programs that directly benefit these populations. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and demonstrate project-specific requests rather than general operating support. The fund aims to enhance educational and health services, contributing to the well-being of vulnerable community members.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5412 - Determinants of Workforce Retention in Public-Sector Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Quantify the relative influence of compensation, pension stability, mission alignment, schedule flexibility, leadership support, career development opportunities, and other factors on employee retention in public-sector water utilities.
• Identify and analyze key impediments to retaining talent, including structural, cultural, compensation-related, and organizational barriers.
• Identify and benchmark retention best practices from sectors outside the water industry to assess transferability and develop case studies of high-retention organizations to distill replicable strategies and measurable success factors.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund Scholarship

The Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund is provided in honor of members of the Hillman, Barnett, and Adkins families. The purpose of the Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native vocational, undergraduate, and graduate students enrolled at an accredited not-for-profit college/university, vocational school, or Tribally controlled college or university (TCU) and pursuing degrees with a focus in Fine Arts (studio arts), Performing Arts (music, drama, musical theater, dance), Creative Writing, Art History, Visual Communication, Photography, Culinary Arts, Film (Cinematography, Screenwriting), or Fashion Design & Jewelry Design.

This opportunity is a merit-based award.

The HEAL Initiative aims to combat the opioid crisis through action-oriented research that enhances the translation of addiction epidemiology, prevention, treatment, and recovery services into practice. It prioritizes scalable, evidence-based approaches targeting various levels, including individual and community. The initiative supports a range of methods for research deployment, emphasizing collaboration between researchers and decision-makers to improve outcomes for those affected by addiction and related chronic pain.

The Spencer T. and Ann W. Olin Foundation Wetlands and Waterfowl Research Fellowship supports graduate students in North America conducting research on waterfowl or wetland biology. The fellowship, offering up to $9,500 annually, emphasizes applicant qualifications, research proposal soundness, originality, and potential contributions to conservation efforts. This competitive opportunity is renewable for up to two additional years for PhD students and once for Masters students, pending satisfactory progress reports.

What We Do

At the North Carolina Community Foundation, we bring together generous people and connect them to causes and organizations they care about.

Our mission is to inspire North Carolinians to make lasting and meaningful contributions to their communities.

Our Philanthropic Network

We believe in the power of permanent philanthropy to strengthen our communities and people. By stewarding and growing donors’ gifts, our philanthropic network makes a powerful impact through robust grants and scholarships programs.

Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship Endowment

About Geraldine Mayo Beveridge

Geraldine “Gerry” Mayo Beveridge taught school in Carteret County for 40 years. She was a Home Economics teacher and thought of her students as her children; she and husband “Captain David” had none of their own. Gerry would discreetly provide classroom supplies and clothing items for students in need. She quietly contributed money toward college for capable students who couldn’t afford it.

Gerry’s concern for students continued after retirement. As a member of the Carteret County Retired School Personnel (CCRSP), Gerry convinced members of the importance of awarding a scholarship to a graduating senior in each high school – East Carteret, West Carteret, and later, Croatan. To raise money, she organized bake sales and brought plants and canned foods to sell to members. The scholarships, though small, were a great effort for members and were greatly appreciated by recipients.

Gerry left a considerable sum of money to CCRSP with the expectation that it be managed well and used for scholarships. Today, the Geraldine Mayo Beveridge Scholarship is awarded to qualifying graduating seniors who want to teach Vocational Education, now called Career and Technical Education.

Gerry’s passion for her students and her love of education continues through this scholarship. She was an amazing educator whose philanthropy will last in perpetuity.

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.

The Big Sur Fund, established by the Community Foundation for Monterey County in 2020, focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that enhance community resources in Big Sur. Priorities include health, safety, education, arts, culture, and community stewardship. Grants are awarded annually, targeting impactful projects such as educational programs, sustainable tourism, and community partnerships. Eligible applicants are 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving the Big Sur area, with a commitment to addressing local needs effectively.

About MOHCD and This Funding Opportunity

Our Mission

The mission of the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development (MOHCD) is to support San Franciscans with affordable housing opportunities and essential services that help build strong communities.

Housing Place-Based Services Request for Proposals

Through this RFP, MOHCD seeks nonprofit partners to provide place-based services that help maintain housing stability and reduce displacement among residents of federally subsidized housing properties. These funds will support effective, accessible, and culturally responsive Housing Place-Based Services that advance individual and collective opportunity, support community resilience, and strengthen housing stability.

Services funded through this RFP shall be delivered on-site to extremely low-income residents of federally subsidized affordable housing developments and/or cooperatives.

The Music Therapy Impact Fund Grant offers funding for music interventions aimed at addressing the spiritual, developmental, and physical needs of individuals in Butte County. This grant operates on a first-come, first-served basis, ensuring that anyone who submits a request form can receive support, as long as funds are available. The program focuses on assisting individuals with Parkinson’s disease, hospice and palliative care, and at-promise youth, striving to maintain low or no costs for participants.

The NIDDK High Risk Multi-Center Clinical Study Cooperative Agreement (U01 Clinical Trial Required) invites applications for high-risk clinical trials that involve multiple centers and aim to change clinical practice or public health. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline, with various deadlines set from February 2025 to October 2026. Planning activities must be completed before submission, and consultation with NIDDK staff is advised.

The Basil O'Connor Starter Scholar Research Awards, offered by March of Dimes, support emerging researchers in maternal and child health. With a $150,000 grant over two years, the program prioritizes projects addressing preterm birth and health equity. Eligible applicants must be within four to nine years of completing their clinical training or terminal degree, holding a tenure-track position. This initiative aims to foster impactful research that enhances clinical treatments for serious maternal and newborn health conditions.

The Bloom-Hays Ecological Research Grant and Zembal Wetland Research Grant support ecological research in Southern California, focusing on avian species and coastal wetland habitats. Grants ranging from $250 to $2,500 are awarded to graduate and outstanding undergraduate students, promoting innovative research that benefits native species and habitats. Preference is given to projects directly related to local ecology, ensuring that funding addresses critical habitat issues in the region.

The Special Emphasis Limited Project Grant from the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons aims to address health disparities in colorectal surgery. It focuses on improving care for racial/ethnic minorities, women, LGBTQ+ populations, and individuals with disabilities. Proposals should concentrate on patient-oriented interventions and may explore quality improvement, access to services, and enhancing workforce diversity. Funding of up to $20,000 is available for innovative projects that promote equity in colorectal healthcare.

The Sensata Foundation, established in 2017, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting community development and STEM education across the U.S. With a focus on improving access to STEM resources and empowering youth, the Foundation partners with nonprofits to address food insecurity, homelessness, and environmental sustainability. By fostering community partnerships and providing financial support, Sensata Foundation aims to inspire future leaders and enhance the quality of life for all, particularly in underserved areas.

About Patient Advocate Foundation

Patient Advocate Foundation is the nation’s most comprehensive nonprofit dedicated to helping patients navigate, access, and afford the care they need—while improving the healthcare system for all.

Who we are and our impact

Patient Advocate Foundation provides financial assistance to help patients afford treatment and cost of living needs, personalized case management to navigate complex healthcare and social needs challenges, and a wide array of resources to empower people to take charge of their health. Since our founding in 1996—and joining forces with the PAN Foundation in 2026—we have helped 3.8 million patients navigate and access care, granted over $7 billion in financial assistance, served 350,000 people through personalized case management and elevated the patient’s voice to drive improvements in the healthcare system.

HIV, AIDS, and prevention

Help with healthcare costs for HIV, AIDS, and prevention

This TotalAssist fund helps you pay for out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays, coinsurance, and deductibles, health insurance premiums, and other expenses.

About the disease

HIV, also known as human immunodeficiency virus or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, is a virus that attacks the immune system. When left untreated, it can develop into AIDS. HIV is a chronic disease that affects the immune system.

Just One More Grant aims to transform lives by providing financial support to individuals and nonprofit organizations in the U.S. who are overcoming challenges like mental health issues, drug misuse, and educational barriers. The foundation encourages applications from those committed to personal growth and community support. Though current grants are paused for nonprofits, interested individuals with actionable plans are invited to apply. More information and past winners can be found on their website.

The IAF Research Fellowship Program, administered by the Social Science Research Council, aims to support rigorous research on community-led development in Latin America and the Caribbean. The fellowship provides a $20,000 stipend for twelve months, fostering innovative solutions to pressing issues such as economic opportunity, migration, and social inclusion. Researchers are encouraged to explore how community-led models can create lasting impacts and respond to global trends, enhancing local resilience and development.

The Rheum for Kids: Pediatric Skin and Joint Grant, offered by the Arthritis National Research Foundation, is aimed at early-career researchers focused on pediatric joint and skin diseases. This grant provides funding of up to $50,000 for one year to support innovative research projects. It encourages applications from diverse fields to advance the understanding and treatment of rheumatic diseases in children, fostering new insights and potential breakthroughs in pediatric healthcare.

The Crail-Johnson Foundation focuses on enhancing the well-being of children and families in Los Angeles through grants aimed at Health, Human Services, and Education. It supports non-profit organizations that provide essential services, prioritizing communities such as San Pedro and Watts. The Foundation emphasizes mental health, access to care, and innovative programs for disadvantaged youth. Grants are typically one-year, with a focus on systemic change and proven approaches to community health and education.

The William T. Grant Scholars Program provides crucial support for early-career researchers aiming to expand their expertise through innovative research and mentoring. This five-year program focuses on reducing inequality and improving the use of research evidence to benefit young people in the U.S. By emphasizing the development of new disciplines and methods, the program encourages applicants to take bold risks in their research trajectories, ultimately fostering a supportive academic community.

The Robert and Doreen Marshall Fund for Dramatic Arts and Classical Music, managed by the Orange County Community Foundation, supports dramatic arts and classical music programs in Orange County. This competitive grant program prioritizes funding for opera, choral, and symphonic performances, as well as dramatic arts performance groups and arts education for youth. It reflects the Marshall's enduring commitment to enhancing the cultural landscape through the performing arts.

The Kars4Kids Small Grant Program aims to support educational initiatives globally, impacting the lives of children. This program welcomes applications from IRS-recognized nonprofit organizations focused on youth development, mentorship, and education. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on mission alignment and available funds. Kars4Kids, a national Jewish nonprofit, is dedicated to nurturing productive community members through educational and mentoring opportunities.

The Baldwin Hills Conservancy is inviting applications for the year-round Proposition 84 Grant Program, aimed at projects that enhance water quality in the Ballona Creek Watershed and improve access to Baldwin Hills Parklands. With $10 million allocated for such initiatives, eligible applicants include public entities and non-profits. Priority will be given to projects demonstrating urgency, innovation, and community involvement, fostering both environmental protection and public enjoyment of coastal resources.

The SCALE initiative aims to combat injury, violence, overdose, and suicide, the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among individuals aged 0-44. By enhancing implementation and outreach, this funding opportunity seeks to empower organizations to implement effective prevention strategies, especially in underserved communities, including tribal areas. The program encourages collaboration and continuous improvement to achieve sustainable reductions in these critical public health issues.

The McMillen Foundation Grants Program supports research in cardiology, lipids, and organ transplant, along with educational initiatives and social services in Washington and Alaska. With a single grant cycle annually, nonprofits certified under 501(c)(3) can apply for funding, preferably those benefiting children and promoting equity. The foundation emphasizes programs that leverage the arts to foster social change, impacting youth and disadvantaged communities. Applications must be submitted by July 31 to be considered for the current cycle.