Best Grants for Museums in California

The California Advanced Services Fund: Broadband Adoption Account encourages applications for projects enhancing broadband access in underserved communities. Eligible projects include digital literacy training and free broadband access in public spaces. Applications are accepted anytime, with deadlines on January 1 and July 1 until funds are exhausted. Preference is given to initiatives targeting low-income and senior citizen communities, promoting digital inclusion and overcoming socioeconomic barriers to broadband adoption.

Purpose

This work is intended to equip airports across seismically active regions throughout California with EEW technology.

Description

The purpose of the EA Program for Airports is to create a safer California by implementing and integrating the CEEWS statewide in key industries and critical sector

The California Advanced Services Fund's Broadband Public Housing Account Grant aims to provide funding for the development of broadband networks that deliver free internet services to low-income residents. Eligible projects include publicly supported housing and mobile home parks lacking access to broadband. Grants finance up to 100% of installation costs, ensuring that underserved communities receive high-quality internet access, which is essential for education, employment, and social connectivity.

About Community Alliance with Family FarmersOur mission is to build sustainable food and farming systems through policy advocacy and on-the-ground programs that create more resilient family farms, communities, and ecosystems. CAFF’s core values form the foundation on which we conduct our programs and activities. The values support our work, how we interact with each other, and how we fulfill our mission.

About California Underserved and Small Producer ProgramThe California Underserved and Small Producer (CUSP) Program is designed to facilitate support for small and medium scale California agricultural producers, or small and medium scale Socially Disadvantaged Farmers and Ranchers (SDFR’s) through technical assistance with business planning and financial and marketing strategies, and also provides direct farmer grants for drought relief for those same priority groups. Funding:

• Farmers can receive up to $20,000 in CUSP funding in a 12-month period, regardless of the granting organization(s).
• Eligible producers may receive up to $20,000 in CUSP Drought Relief funds as well as up to $20,000 in CUSP Extreme Weather Relief funds (for a total of up to $40,000) within a 12-month period (from date of CDFA approval/verification)

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The Tribal Multifamily Finance Super NOFA provides approximately $50 million in funding aimed at enhancing the living conditions of Indian communities. By facilitating flexible financial options, it seeks to address critical needs related to health, climate, and household stability. All applicants must engage in a pre-application meeting with the Department, and applications will be accepted on an over-the-counter basis until funds are exhausted.

The Workforce Education and Training Peer Personnel Training and Placement program aims to provide essential training for peer personnel on critical issues such as crisis management, suicide prevention, and recovery planning. This initiative emphasizes the inclusion of individuals with lived experience in mental health services, ensuring they receive the necessary support and training. The program outlines a comprehensive framework for recruitment, training, placement, and evaluation to effectively prepare peer personnel for their roles.

The NWS Student Travel Grants, offered by the Northwest Scientific Association, provide financial assistance up to $1,000 for students to attend and present at the 2025 NWSA Annual Meeting in Eugene, OR, on March 18-19. Eligible applicants must be current NWSA student members and engaged in research relevant to the Northwest. The funding covers registration, travel, accommodation, and presentation costs, facilitating scholarly exchange and professional development for students in the region.

About The Department of Industrial Relations

The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) was established in 1927. Its mission is to improve working conditions for California’s wage earners and to advance opportunities for profitable employment in California. DIR has four divisions, the Divisions of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE or Labor Commissioner’s Office or LCO), the Division of Safety and Health (DOSH or Cal/ OSHA), the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). DIR administers and enforces laws governing wages, hours and breaks, overtime, retaliation, workplace safety and health, apprenticeship training programs, medical care, and other benefits for injured workers. DIR also publishes materials and holds workshops and seminars to promote healthy employment relations, conducts research to improve its programs, and coordinates with other agencies to target egregious violators of labor laws and tax laws in the underground economy.

California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP)

The California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP) empowers community-based organizations (CBOs) to be trusted messengers for the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), delivering crucial information on workers’ rights and safety measures to workers, employers, and their communities. At this time, CWOP is in a two-year cycle known as "CWOP 5.0/6.0." 5.0 refers to the fifth year of the project, covering approximately July 2025 – June 2026, and 6.0 refers to the sixth year of the project, covering approximately July 2026 – June 2027, with some exceptions. The present RFA is intended to supplement the current CWOP cohort.

CWOP Supplemental Funding Request for Applications (RFA)

Supplemental funds will support CWOP 6.0 and be available both for current grantees wishing to expand their deliverables and for new grantees who can address identified gaps and emerging needs as described in the Request for Application (RFA).

These supplemental funds will support the second year of the current cohort and fill identified gaps and emergent needs.

Existing grantees that are on track or surpassing their existing 5.0 grant deliverables and would like to increase their current deliverables as an Activator, Activator Plus, or Regional Lead may request additional funds by filling out this survey instead of going through the RFA process. Organizations must be competitive in their proposed goal changes to be considered for additional supplemental funds.

Applicants may apply for the following types of grants as part of this RFA: 1) Legal Services; 2) Outreach Tools; 3) Communications Support; 4) Activator Role; 5) Activator Plus Role.

Applicants fullfiling identified gaps and emerging needs for CWOP 5.0/6.0 will be prioritized for supplemental funding.

Activator Plus Role Grant

These organizations will be Activators who select at least one additional activity. Additional activities for the Activator Plus role include:

• Coordination of outreach events
• Providing direct support to workers
• Conducting training
• Providing technical assistance

Funding levels are determined by the scope and scale of the activities the applicant describes in their application. Applicants applying for the full amount will need to include a variety of tactics and extensive reach to workers as part of their proposed project.

The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) provides essential funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of violent attacks and hate crimes. With a maximum of $250,000 available per location, nonprofits can submit up to two proposals to enhance their physical security. This initiative, funded by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, aims to strengthen safety measures and support vulnerable communities across the state.

The Illegal Disposal Site Abatement Grant Program aims to provide financial assistance up to $500,000 to public entities for cleaning up illegal dumping sites. This initiative addresses the adverse effects of illegal waste disposal on community health, safety, and economic value. With critical deadlines for proposals and required documentation, the program seeks to restore affected areas and promote environmental stewardship, turning challenges into opportunities for local communities.

The California State Coastal Conservancy is offering grants to support projects that aid the recovery of the southern sea otter along California's coast. These grants, funded by the California Sea Otter Fund, prioritize research and initiatives that evaluate sea otter reintroduction strategies and address critical recovery actions outlined in the Federal Sea Otter Recovery Plan, promoting the health of the nearshore ecosystem.

The Henry L. Guenther Foundation Grants support charitable organizations in California, focusing on improving social conditions and human welfare. Funding is aimed at diverse projects including medical services, youth opportunities, and community programs. Grants are awarded for 12 months, and any unspent funds must be returned. Eligible applicants include qualified tax-exempt organizations, while individuals and changes to grant scopes are not accepted. This foundation enhances the quality of life for Southern California residents by backing impactful initiatives.

The Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program, administered by CalRecycle, offers up to $1 million annually for cleaning illegal solid waste sites on agricultural properties. Eligible sites must be zoned for agriculture and demonstrate a need for cleanup to address public health or environmental threats. Applications must include an EPPP Policy by the specified deadlines to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The Valley Water Community Partnering Sponsorship Program supports local organizations and events that align with its mission of providing safe and clean water in Silicon Valley. This program encourages civic engagement and environmental stewardship by offering sponsorships to public agencies, nonprofits, schools, and community groups. Eligible applicants are those that demonstrate a commitment to regional water policy and positive environmental impact. This initiative underscores Valley Water's dedication to collaborative efforts in fostering a sustainable community.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Grant offers funding for the installation of pumpout and dump stations in California, addressing pollution from vessel sewage. This program, established under the Clean Vessel Act, supports both public and private entities, covering up to 75% of installation costs. Eligible recipients must ensure accessibility to all recreational vessels and provide necessary signage. The initiative aims to promote clean boating practices and enhance public awareness about proper sewage disposal.

Our Mission

East Bay Community Foundation partners with donors, social movements, and the community to eliminate structural barriers, advance racial equity, and transform political, social, and economic outcomes for all who call the East Bay home.

Our Vision

Achieving an inclusive, fair, and just East Bay will require transforming our region’s power structures to promote equity.

We strive to build a foundation that advances justice grounded in principles that are informed by the community and rooted in practices of anti-oppression.

Women’s Catalytic Fund

The Women’s Catalytic Fund (WCF) is an East Bay-based giving circle with a mission to fund California-based organizations working towards gender equity. The fund prioritizes investing in female-identifying, non-binary, and gender non-conforming leaders in primarily BIPOC communities. One of the main goals of WCF, made up of nine members, is to fund smaller organizations with budgets under a million dollars. They are also interested in catalytic projects that may not have received funding from other foundations.  

As a group of women who are passionate about intersectional feminism, WCF aims to provide funding for work happening at the grassroots level. Each biannual grant cycle, they allocate one-time $15,000 grants that can be put to use immediately, enabling innovative, experimental, and transformative work in California. They believe in supporting the many incredible individuals and organizations that are working to improve gender justice in their communities. 

By providing funding opportunities to those who may not have access to traditional philanthropic resources, the members of the Women’s Catalytic Fund strive to give these community-driven projects resources that can help them succeed.

Our intention is to give directly to frontline organizations when and where resources are most needed. To be considered for funding, initiatives, projects, actions or events must:

• Address gender-based inequity, gender-based violence, patriarchy, or transphobia. We define this as responding to the needs, or developing talent and leadership or independence of female-identifying, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming members of targeted communities.
• Be catalytic. We define this as having the potential to serve as a model or to have a ripple effect, accelerate change, be inventive or experimental
• Be intersectional and collaborative. We define this as crossing boundaries between organizations, issues, and identities in order to create change.
• Prioritize low-income women, women of color, or immigrant women, inclusive of all those identifying as female, and led by and representative of the community being served.

GFO-25-303 - Improving Net Load Forecasting Models by Integrating Data on Behind-the-Meter Resources

Purpose

The purpose of this solicitation is to fund research that improves the accuracy and operational value of tools used to forecast Behind-the-Meter (BtM) resources. These improvements will enable grid operators and electricity market participants to more effectively plan their generation reserves, capacity, and real-time operations, supporting a more reliable, efficient, cleaner, and cost-effective energy system for California ratepayers.

About The Department of Industrial Relations

The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) was established in 1927. Its mission is to improve working conditions for California’s wage earners and to advance opportunities for profitable employment in California. DIR has four divisions, the Divisions of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE or Labor Commissioner’s Office or LCO), the Division of Safety and Health (DOSH or Cal/ OSHA), the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). DIR administers and enforces laws governing wages, hours and breaks, overtime, retaliation, workplace safety and health, apprenticeship training programs, medical care, and other benefits for injured workers. DIR also publishes materials and holds workshops and seminars to promote healthy employment relations, conducts research to improve its programs, and coordinates with other agencies to target egregious violators of labor laws and tax laws in the underground economy.

California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP)

The California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP) empowers community-based organizations (CBOs) to be trusted messengers for the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), delivering crucial information on workers’ rights and safety measures to workers, employers, and their communities. At this time, CWOP is in a two-year cycle known as "CWOP 5.0/6.0." 5.0 refers to the fifth year of the project, covering approximately July 2025 – June 2026, and 6.0 refers to the sixth year of the project, covering approximately July 2026 – June 2027, with some exceptions. The present RFA is intended to supplement the current CWOP cohort.

CWOP Supplemental Funding Request for Applications (RFA)

Supplemental funds will support CWOP 6.0 and be available both for current grantees wishing to expand their deliverables and for new grantees who can address identified gaps and emerging needs as described in the Request for Application (RFA).

These supplemental funds will support the second year of the current cohort and fill identified gaps and emergent needs.

Existing grantees that are on track or surpassing their existing 5.0 grant deliverables and would like to increase their current deliverables as an Activator, Activator Plus, or Regional Lead may request additional funds by filling out this survey instead of going through the RFA process. Organizations must be competitive in their proposed goal changes to be considered for additional supplemental funds.

Applicants may apply for the following types of grants as part of this RFA: 1) Legal Services; 2) Outreach Tools; 3) Communications Support; 4) Activator Role; 5) Activator Plus Role.

Applicants fullfiling identified gaps and emerging needs for CWOP 5.0/6.0 will be prioritized for supplemental funding.

Legal Services Grant

Recipients will be required to provide legal consultation and support to workers on workplace issues under the California Labor Code. Under this category, legal consultation and support include initial intake, assessment and consultation, assisting workers with preparing initial claims/complaints, or providing limited presentation to the worker. Deliverables under this category include the number of workers directly supported with legal consultation and support. Recipients may also provide legal advice or consultation to CWOP grantees, counted as hours of technical assistance provided.

Technical assistance includes consultation on interpreting laws, regulations, or guidelines, identifying what workers may need to advocate with employers and suggesting actions to support workers. All applicants must demonstrate substantial and extensive experience by the number of years and depth of work that overlaps with this category. Applicants applying for the full amount will need to support at minimum 100 unique workers with legal consultation and support.

The Virginia H. Glasson Charitable Trust Grant supports Christian charitable organizations and preferred beneficiaries. It funds projects in areas such as education, scientific research, religious activities, and arts and culture. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, located in states such as California, Colorado, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, and Washington D.C. However, individuals cannot apply for funding.

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Golden State Pathways Program - Implementation Funds for Planning Grant Pathways

Funding Description

The purpose of the California Golden State Pathways Program is to provide local educational agencies with the resources to promote pathways in high-wage, high-skill, high-growth areas, including technology, health care, education, and climate-related fields that, among other things, allow pupils to advance seamlessly from high school to college and career and provide the workforce needed for economic growth.

About The Department of Industrial Relations

The Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) was established in 1927. Its mission is to improve working conditions for California’s wage earners and to advance opportunities for profitable employment in California. DIR has four divisions, the Divisions of Labor Standards Enforcement (DLSE or Labor Commissioner’s Office or LCO), the Division of Safety and Health (DOSH or Cal/ OSHA), the Division of Workers’ Compensation (DWC), and the Division of Apprenticeship Standards (DAS). DIR administers and enforces laws governing wages, hours and breaks, overtime, retaliation, workplace safety and health, apprenticeship training programs, medical care, and other benefits for injured workers. DIR also publishes materials and holds workshops and seminars to promote healthy employment relations, conducts research to improve its programs, and coordinates with other agencies to target egregious violators of labor laws and tax laws in the underground economy.

California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP)

The California Workplace Outreach Project (CWOP) empowers community-based organizations (CBOs) to be trusted messengers for the Department of Industrial Relations (DIR) and the Labor and Workforce Development Agency (LWDA), delivering crucial information on workers’ rights and safety measures to workers, employers, and their communities. At this time, CWOP is in a two-year cycle known as "CWOP 5.0/6.0." 5.0 refers to the fifth year of the project, covering approximately July 2025 – June 2026, and 6.0 refers to the sixth year of the project, covering approximately July 2026 – June 2027, with some exceptions. The present RFA is intended to supplement the current CWOP cohort.

CWOP Supplemental Funding Request for Applications (RFA)

Supplemental funds will support CWOP 6.0 and be available both for current grantees wishing to expand their deliverables and for new grantees who can address identified gaps and emerging needs as described in the Request for Application (RFA).

These supplemental funds will support the second year of the current cohort and fill identified gaps and emergent needs.

Existing grantees that are on track or surpassing their existing 5.0 grant deliverables and would like to increase their current deliverables as an Activator, Activator Plus, or Regional Lead may request additional funds by filling out this survey instead of going through the RFA process. Organizations must be competitive in their proposed goal changes to be considered for additional supplemental funds.

Applicants may apply for the following types of grants as part of this RFA: 1) Legal Services; 2) Outreach Tools; 3) Communications Support; 4) Activator Role; 5) Activator Plus Role.

Applicants fullfiling identified gaps and emerging needs for CWOP 5.0/6.0 will be prioritized for supplemental funding.

Outreach Tools Grant

Applicants may propose the development and adaptation of outreach tools that can be used to support outreach planning and delivery for the cohort. Examples include, but are not limited to, tools that:

• automate the calculation of wages owed and potential penalties associated with those owed wages,
• automate the development of documents that workers can use to redress workplace complaints, and/or
• facilitate the understanding of workers of their rights under the Labor Code and options to resolve their complaints.

By applying under this category, the tools created must be made available to CWOP grantees at no additional cost.

The California Deaf and Hard of Hearing Grant aims to provide essential employment and training services tailored for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. By enhancing access to specialized counseling, interpretive services, and job placement opportunities, the program ensures equitable support in job readiness and retention. It targets those actively seeking employment, facilitating their integration into the workforce while upholding a commitment to effective communication and advocacy.

The Climate Adaptation Planning Grant, part of California's Sustainable Transportation Planning Grants, provides $3 million to support local and regional efforts in addressing climate vulnerabilities in transportation infrastructure. This grant encourages the development of adaptation plans that aim to mitigate damage from climate change and extreme weather. Open to applicants with ongoing or new adaptation efforts, it fosters strategic planning for roads, railways, and other critical transport systems across the state.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.