Best Grants for International Development in California

The AWWA Hazen Scholarship supports graduate-level candidates dedicated to improving water quality and resources. Awarded by the American Water Works Association, this scholarship aims to empower future leaders in the water industry. Candidates must demonstrate commitment to addressing critical challenges in drinking water, water reuse, and sustainable practices. This initiative reflects AWWA's mission to invest in the next generation of water supply professionals, ensuring a sustainable future for water resources.

Tree Research and Education Endowment Fund (TREE Fund)

TREE Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit whose mission is to support scientific discovery and dissemination of new knowledge and best practices in the fields of arboriculture and urban forestry.

TREE Fund’s research and education programs shape industry best practices, improve workforce safety and contribute to the long-term sustainability of our communities in the following crucial ways:

• Improving the quality of nursery grown trees and overall tree survival through the development of hardier, drought- and disease-resistant species.
• Stopping diseases and pests while reducing pesticide use with the evolution of integrated pest management programs.
• Enhancing public and workforce safety with advanced tree risk assessment techniques and greater knowledge about why and how trees fail.
• Quantifying the benefits of trees which makes it easier for governments and businesses to project their return on tree care investment.
• Revolutionizing global best practices for growing strong, healthy landscape trees.
• Connecting youth with nature to promote environmental stewardship in the next generation and inspire them to consider careers in green industries.

Lucas Tree Experts Integrated Vegetation Management Endowed Research Fund

Since 1926, John Lucas Tree Expert Co. has worked with investor-owned utilities, electric cooperatives, municipalities, railroads, and pipeline customers throughout the United States and Canada. Innovation has always been a core value, and Lucas remains committed to innovation that makes the industry safer, greener, and more efficient. The Lucas Tree Experts Integrated Vegetation Management Endowed Research Fund is a new endowment fund of Tree Research and Education Endowment (TREE) Fund created to support research in Integrated Vegetation Management in the United States and Canada.

This fund program was created in 2026 to help celebrate Lucas Tree’s 100th anniversary. Lucas Tree’s anniversary marks a century of innovation, safety, and stewardship in utility vegetation management.

Projects are expected to be completed within one to three years. No project may receive more than one award from this program.

Application Requirements can be found here.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Carollo Engineers Bryant L. Bench Scholarship, offers a $10,000 award to graduate students dedicated to advancing their careers in the water consulting engineering field. Established in honor of Bryant L. Bench, this scholarship aims to support future leaders who will enhance drinking water quality through innovative engineering solutions. The American Water Works Association emphasizes the importance of investing in students to secure the future of the water industry.

The AWWA Abel Wolman Fellowship, established in 1984, supports highly qualified students conducting meaningful research in water supply through doctoral programs. Named after Dr. Abel Wolman, this prestigious award recognizes excellence and creativity in the water sector. The fellowship provides up to two years of financial support, with an initial award of $30,000 for the first year, aimed at fostering the next generation of water professionals in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

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.

5432 - Validating Reverse Osmosis Conductivity Profiling for Pathogen Log Reduction Value Credit

Grant Information

• Validate conductivity profiling against pathogen removal by establishing the relationship between conductivity-profile response and MS2 bacteriophage removal under intact and controlled membrane integrity-defect conditions.
• Demonstrate the robustness and applicability of conductivity profiling across representative reverse osmosis conditions, including new and aged membranes, different defect types and severities, operating conditions, variations in feedwater quality/composition/salinity, and temperature.
• Develop a validation implementation framework that defines testing procedures, log removal value calculation methods, sensitivity and performance criteria, continuous monitoring, alarm/response thresholds, and operational requirements needed to support regulatory pathogen log removal values credit for reverse osmosis.

The Philadelphia Chromosome Negative Myeloproliferative Neoplasms (MPN) Grant, offered by the Patient Advocate Foundation, provides crucial financial assistance to patients facing this cancer type. It covers out-of-pocket healthcare costs, including medication copays and insurance premiums, ensuring those affected can access necessary treatments. With a focus on personalized case management, the foundation has supported millions in navigating their healthcare needs, emphasizing the importance of timely and affordable care for patients diagnosed with MPN.

The Dean John A. Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for early career professionals to engage in marine and Great Lakes science and policy within the U.S. government. This one-year, paid fellowship encourages graduate students from accredited programs to explore impactful coastal resource issues. Interested applicants should connect with their local Sea Grant program or the National Sea Grant Office for guidance, especially if they are from Massachusetts, to ensure a competitive application.

The Strengthening Services to Prevent the Infectious Disease Consequences of Drug Use initiative aims to enhance prevention services for infectious diseases among people who use drugs (PWUD). It encompasses two components: a biennial survey to assess service gaps and capacity, and increased support for testing and treatment services. The initiative seeks to improve data utilization in service provision, ultimately increasing testing for HBV, HCV, and HIV, and ensuring more PWUD engage in treatment and care.

The Seneca Foods Foundation Grant supports philanthropic initiatives focused on empowering youth and strengthening communities. Since 1988, it has provided funding for education, community assistance, and internships. The Foundation prioritizes organizations connected to Seneca employees, located near its operational facilities, and those that align with its mission. It requires documented performance results and considers only one request per organization annually, ensuring that grants foster measurable impact within the communities served.

The National Girls and Women in Sports (NAGWS) Legacy Award, established by SHAPE America, honors exemplary contributions to increasing opportunities for women in sports. This annual award recognizes current SHAPE America members who submit impactful proposals related to women's sports, with a monetary prize of $1000. The award will be presented at the National Convention & Exposition, with a special deadline of November 1st. Nominations can include various initiatives aimed at empowering women in sports.

The NALMS Achievement Awards: Secchi Disk Award recognizes outstanding contributions to lake management by its members. NALMS aims to unite citizens, scientists, and professionals to ensure the protection and management of lakes and reservoirs. This prestigious award is open to NALMS members, with nominations encouraged from any individual or entity. However, current board and committee members are ineligible. The award celebrates those who significantly advance NALMS's goals and objectives in fostering lake ecosystem awareness and management.

The Jim Flynn Outstanding Corporation Award, presented annually by NALMS, honors the corporation that has made significant contributions to advancing lake management goals. This award emphasizes the importance of facilitating information exchange, promoting public awareness of lake ecosystems, and supporting management programs at all levels. Eligible nominations can come from any individual or entity, focusing on achievements in lake and reservoir management. Notably, current NALMS board members and awards committee members are excluded from eligibility.

The Chemical Countermeasures Research Program (CCRP) Initiative aims to support vital research on the harmful effects of acute exposure to Ultra-Potent Synthetic (UPS) opioids, including fentanyl and its combinations. This funding opportunity encourages studies that enhance understanding and mitigation strategies for these substances, focusing on both immediate and long-term health impacts. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent accepted 30 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The Park Foundation Grants: Media support public interest media that raises awareness of critical environmental and social issues. They prioritize funding for investigative journalism, media policy, public broadcasting, and documentary films to promote a better-informed citizenry. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified, and funding is aimed at projects that ensure diverse perspectives and community engagement. The foundation is committed to fostering a robust democracy and independent media, reflecting its mission to advance a just and sustainable society.

The Quadratec Cares 'Energize The Environment' Grant Program is dedicated to supporting individuals and organizations in the U.S. focused on environmental improvement. With two grants of $3,500 awarded annually, the program encourages initiatives like trail restoration and community educational projects. This grant aims to empower passionate individuals to enhance environmental awareness and stewardship, ensuring a healthier planet for future generations.

The David Moses Bridges Scholarship honors the legacy of a renowned Passamaquoddy artist and activist, providing essential support for individuals dedicated to the preservation of Wabanaki culture, traditional arts, and environmental stewardship. This scholarship aims to foster connections between master artists and apprentices, promote research on David's impactful life and work, and protect culturally significant natural spaces. It empowers artists and scholars to continue the vital work of preserving indigenous knowledge and practices for future generations.

The Mosaic Company Foundation Community Investment Grant aims to create a lasting impact in communities by supporting initiatives in three key areas: Food, Water, and Local Community. With an annual investment of approximately $12 million, the foundation addresses food security, promotes water conservation, and enhances community sustainability. Eligible applicants must be recognized charitable organizations, primarily in North America, committed to improving quality of life through innovative solutions and partnerships.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Proposition 1 and 68 Small Grants Program in California offers funding between $50,000 and $300,000 for projects that prioritize jump-start initiatives, project planning, and technical assistance for disadvantaged communities. Applications are evaluated quarterly or biannually, with competitive criteria requiring an average score of 70 percent or better. This program aims to support small design-build projects and secure matching funds, contributing to the enhancement of regional water quality and community resilience.

The Proposition 1 and 68 Very Small Grants Program in California offers funding of less than $50,000 to support disadvantaged communities. This program prioritizes technical assistance, project planning, and high-need project implementation through a simplified application process. Grants are evaluated quarterly or biannually, with projects scoring 75% or higher being competitive. The initiative aims to enhance community resilience and secure matching funds for impactful projects.

Sun Life’s Health Access Grant Program aims to enhance access to health services, specifically targeting diabetes and oral health in local communities. With funding options ranging from $25,000 to $100,000, this program supports 501(c)(3) charities focused on diabetes prevention, management, and oral health care. By fostering access to essential health services, Sun Life is committed to building healthier communities and addressing health disparities faced by underprivileged populations.

The Proposition 68 Technical Assistance Program (TAP) provides crucial support to local communities in California, helping under-resourced applicants access funding for parks and open space projects. TAP offers annual assistance through outreach, mentoring, and resources to facilitate project development, grant writing, and community engagement. By allocating up to 10% of funds for technical assistance to disadvantaged communities, TAP promotes equity in funding access, ensuring that all applicants have the necessary tools to succeed.

The Cancer-Related Behavioral Health Fund, established by the HealthWell Foundation, provides financial assistance to individuals diagnosed with cancer for behavioral health treatments. This fund covers costs associated with prescription drugs, counseling services, and transportation. Aiming to alleviate financial burdens, it ensures that underinsured patients can access necessary care without delay. In 2024, the foundation awarded over $1.2 billion, emphasizing its commitment to improving health outcomes for cancer patients across the United States.

Headstream Accelerator 2026

Accelerator Application Cohort VI

The Headstream Accelerator supports entrepreneurs from all backgrounds in scaling digital solutions that improve the mental well-being of teens at risk, with a focus on the education and healthcare sectors. Our four-month, virtual-first program is designed for early-stage innovators, helping them strengthen their business models, refine their value propositions, and build the foundation for sustainable growth and meaningful impact.

Benefits:

• $30,000 non-dilutive stipend 
• Partnership with youth from Headsteam’s Youth Co-Creator Club to gain insights on cultural relevance, age-appropriateness, and user experience, ensuring your solutions resonate deeply and effectively with the next generation 
• Access to a network of expert advisors, connect with a community of founders, and engage with potential investors and capital providers 
• Access to one-on-one and group coaching sessions with our partner, FounderWell

Participant Expectations:

• Attend all activities, including virtual cohort and youth co-creation sessions, advisor calls, and an in-person kickoff event from July 28–30, 2026
• Commit 2–5 hours weekly during the program, including virtual sessions, advisor network office hours, guide calls, and more
• Embed youth voices throughout your product development

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.