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Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

Find the perfect Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California on Instrumentl. 11,000+ Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California in the United States.

11,000+

Available grants

$3.61B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

11,000+ grants
$3.61B total
$5K median

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10,797 Results based on applied filters

Catherine Moloney Nursing Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
US $1,000

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Catherine Moloney Nursing Scholarship

A Shelby County resident pursuing a Registered Nursing degree. 

Selection based upon:

  • Financial need; academic ability; demonstrated “empathy which is necessary, the compassion which is required, and the requisite patience in order to enjoy and devote oneself to a long and fruitful nursing career.”

Awards

  • One $1,000 scholarship
Education - Higher Education Nursing

Dan Pheil Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Dan Pheil Scholarship Fund

Created in honor of Dan Pheil, this scholarship awards a deserving graduating high school senior residing in Washington County who plans to major in business.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation

Bruce and Lynn Lindsey Skills Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
US $2,000

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Bruce and Lynn Lindsey Skills Scholarship

Adults or graduating seniors from Lehman Catholic High School, Sidney Christian Academy, and Sidney High School who are enrolling in an accredited adult educational program or trade school or pursuing an Associate’s Degree.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

  • Demonstrated interest and passion for a specific career path, demonstrated work experience, demonstrated community or school service, and recommendations. Preference given to applicants seeking a career in HVAC, plumbing or electrical.

Awards

  • Two $2,000 scholarships
Adult Education Vocational & Trade Education Christianity

Lawrence and Genevieve Martin Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Lawrence and Genevieve Martin Scholarship Fund

This scholarship honors Larry and Geney Martin by assisting a young man or woman graduating from a Washington County, MD public high school who plans to pursue a career in the building industry.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation

Donald E. and M. Jane Kemp Trade School Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
US $3,500

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Donald E. and M. Jane Kemp Trade School Scholarship

Adults or graduating seniors who reside Shelby County, Ohio or in the School Districts of Shelby County, Ohio, who are enrolling in an accredited adult educational program or trade school or pursuing an Associate’s Degree shall be eligible to apply.

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

  • Demonstrated interest and passion for a specific career path, demonstrated work experience, demonstrated community or school service and recommendations.

Awards

  • Four $3,500 scholarships
Education - Higher Education Adult Education Vocational & Trade Education

Full Circle Scholarship

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a sovereign nation and has three main branches of government – Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. One of our most important resources is our people.

Education

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz seeks to provide opportunities for Tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong learning and education.

Full Circle Scholarship

For American Indian and Alaskan Native students pursuing under-graduate and graduate degrees from Tribal colleges, non-profit and accredited schools.

Education - Higher Education Native American Services

Craig Barhorst Memorial Scholarship

The Community Foundation of Shelby County
Private
United States
US $1,000

The Community Foundation of Shelby County

Our Mission

To inspire donor generosity and transform it into meaningful, lasting impact through charitable gifts.

Our Vision

To be the primary partner for donors who want to advance the community’s quality of life and capacity for excellence.

Craig Barhorst Memorial Scholarship

Craig Barhorst Memorial Scholarship

Selection based upon (in order of priority):

Financial need, demonstrated community and school service, academic ability, and recommendations.

Awards

  • One $1,000 scholarship
Agricultural Education Education - Higher Education

Hub City Ravens Roost Inc. #124 “4th and 29” Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation of Washington County Maryland
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

What is a Community Foundation?

We are one of more than 750 similar tax-exempt public charities throughout the United States that work to make their community a better place to live. We are a local organization staffed by residents of the community and led by a board of trustees who have an in-depth knowledge of the issues that shape our County.

This Community Foundation was created by and for the people of Washington County MD, and exists to improve the quality of life for all of our citizens, now and for generations to come, by building community endowments, addressing needs through grant making and providing leadership on key community issues.

Hub City Ravens Roost Inc. #124 “4th and 29” Scholarship Fund

Named for a legendary Baltimore Ravens miracle play, this scholarship recognizes one student’s effort in any area (personal, academic, music, sports, art, etc.) that has led to a brighter future.

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation

Pepsi – Craig Whitehead Scholarship

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians
Federal Government
United States
Unspecified amount

Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians is a sovereign nation and has three main branches of government – Judicial, Executive, and Legislative. One of our most important resources is our people.

Education

The Confederated Tribes of Siletz seeks to provide opportunities for Tribal members to reach potential, establish independence and improve quality of life through lifelong learning and education.

Pepsi – Craig Whitehead Scholarship

Pepsi, Inc. donates scholarship funds to the Siletz Tribe and has asked that this be the Pepsi-Craig Whitehead Scholarship in honor of Craig Whitehead, Tribal member and Pow-Wow Coordinator at the time of his death in 2004.

Craig was also the Tribal Whip Man for Pow-Wows, coordinated a dance troupe that visited schools and was the Peace Keeper for the Citizen’s Advisory Board (CAB). He was a dear friend and loved by all who knew him.

This scholarship is open to any field of study.

Education - Higher Education Native American Services

Bernard and Jerene Lemmen Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation Of The Holland Zeeland Area
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Bernard and Jerene Lemmen Memorial Scholarship

Allegan or Ottawa County graduating senior, graduating early college student, current college student, or adult returning to school.

Education - Higher Education Adult Education Vocational & Trade Education

Journalism Internships

Scripps Howard Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

The Scripps Howard Fund, a public charity established by The E.W. Scripps Company is dedicated to creating informed and engaged communities through journalism education, childhood literacy and local causes. At the crossroads of the classroom and the newsroom, the Fund is a leader in supporting journalism through scholarships, internships, minority recruitment and development and First Amendment causes. The Scripps Howard Awards stand as one of the industry’s top honors for outstanding journalism.

Students with internship experiences are more likely to find employment upon graduation than those without, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. During the past decade, more than 500 students have honed their skills in newsrooms across the country, thanks to Scripps Howard internships. The Scripps Howard Fund created the internship program in 2023, in partnership with the Institute for Nonprofit News (INN), aimed at giving students an equal opportunity for high-quality, hands-on experience. INN leads a network of more than 500 independent newsrooms across North America. 

Apprenticeship & Internship Programs Journalism

Torrington UNICO Scholarships

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Torrington UNICO Scholarships, offered by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, provide financial assistance to students in Northwest CT pursuing higher education. Available to U.S. citizens and permanent residents in the service area, these scholarships cater to graduating seniors and college students with various eligibility criteria. With over half a million dollars awarded, the foundation aims to enhance the educational opportunities for local students, reflecting its commitment to community support and development.
Education - Higher Education Adult Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Benny Summerlin Scholarship Fund

Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia
Private
United States
Approximately US $1,000
The Benny Summerlin Scholarship Fund, managed by the Community Foundation Serving Western Virginia, offers financial assistance to deserving students from Franklin County High School pursuing undergraduate degrees. Established to support capable individuals, this scholarship emphasizes academic potential and financial need. The foundation, active since 1988, administers various scholarships to uplift the educational aspirations of local youth. For more information on eligibility and application processes, interested students should contact the foundation directly.
Education - Higher Education Vocational & Trade Education Academic Scholarship Programs

Diane and Jeff Johnson Scholarship

Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation
Private
United States
Approximately US $3,500
The Diane and Jeff Johnson Scholarship, established by the Northwest Connecticut Community Foundation, supports Goshen residents pursuing higher education. With an average award of $3,500, this scholarship aims to ease the financial burden of education, allowing recipients to focus on their academic goals. Importantly, academic excellence is not a criterion for selection, ensuring accessibility for all qualified applicants. This initiative reflects NCCF's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in Northwest Connecticut through educational support.
Adult Education Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

It Gets Better: Change Makers Grants

IT GETS BETTER
Private
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $500 - US $10,000
The It Gets Better Project is offering 50 grants of up to $10,000 each to public and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance inclusivity for LGBTQ+ youth. Schools can propose projects such as enhancing library resources, artistic installations, or establishing support groups. The initiative aims to empower LGBTQ+ students and foster a supportive environment, ensuring that every school can participate in uplifting their communities and promoting equality.
Sexuality & LGBTQIA+ Rights LGBTQIA+ Services

Charter Fund: Scale Funding

Charter Fund Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Charter Fund: Scale Funding supports nonprofit organizations that operate high-performing public charter schools. It seeks leaders dedicated to expanding their impact, aiming to serve an additional 1,000+ students over the next 3-5 years. The fund offers grants and low-interest loans starting from $750,000, alongside strategic partnerships and community-building initiatives to help schools navigate growth challenges, enhance educational quality, and foster collaboration among charter leaders.
Education - K through 12 Educational Access & Equity

Charter Fund: Seed Funding

Charter Fund Inc
Private
United States
US $250,000 - US $750,000
The Charter Fund: Seed Funding program supports nonprofit organizations operating high-performing public charter schools that aim to expand their reach by serving 250 to 1,000 additional students within two years. Eligible applicants must demonstrate proven leadership, strong academic performance, and a commitment to underserved communities. The fund offers general operating grants ranging from $250,000 to $600,000 to assist leaders in opening new schools, providing vital resources and cohort-based learning opportunities to foster growth and innovation.
Educational Access & Equity Education - K through 12

Russell & Berni Schelkopf Ag Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

Russell & Berni Schelkopf Ag Scholarship

The Schelkopf family created this scholarship in 2022 to honor their parents, Russell and Berni, and their contributions to the agricultural industry. This scholarship is designed for a college student majoring in an ag-related field of study. One, $2,000 scholarship will be awarded annually to a sophomore, junior or senior in college.

Education - Higher Education Agricultural Education

Raymond & Frances Katz Ag Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

Raymond & Frances Katz Ag Scholarship

Established in memory of Raymond & Frances Katz, this scholarship is open to students enrolled at the University of Illinois as an Agricultural and Consumer Economics (ACE) major (accounting, agribusiness, farm management, finance, consumer economics, environmental economics, or policy). One $2,000 scholarship will be given annually to a sophomore, junior or senior at Illinois.

Education - Higher Education Agricultural Education

Orville A. Olson Ag Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $1,200

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

Orville A. Olson Ag Scholarship

Established in memory of Orville A. Olson, this scholarship is available to college juniors and seniors majoring in an agriculture-related degree and seeking a career in a field of agriculture. One $1,200 ag scholarship will be awarded.

Education - Higher Education Agricultural Education

Leonard & Vivian Nelson Ag Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

Leonard & Vivian Nelson Ag Scholarship

Family members established this scholarship in memory of Leonard and Vivian Nelson to benefit agricultural students. One $2,000 scholarship will be awarded to a student majoring in an agriculture-related field of study in their sophomore, junior or senior year of college.

Education - Higher Education Agricultural Education

DeKalb Ag Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $1,200

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation

Mission – The Foundation’s mission is to broaden awareness and understanding of agriculture through outreach and education.

Scholarships

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture is proud to offer numerous scholarships for high school seniors and college students. Preference will be given to applicants of Farm Bureau members or their children with certain eligibility requirements.

College Students Scholarships 

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in college. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s school of choice. The scholarship award will be sent directly to the recipient’s school to be applied toward college costs. 

DeKalb Ag Scholarship

The DeKalb Ag Scholarship was established in tribute to the DeKalb Ag company which originated in DeKalb, Illinois. Initial donations to this scholarship were provided by the DeKalb Ag Alumni Association and members. This $1,200 scholarship is for college students in their sophomore, junior, or senior year with an agriculture-related degree and eventually a career in agriculture.

Education - Higher Education Agricultural Education

DTA Foundation: Dental Scholarship

Dental Trade Alliance Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000
The DTA Foundation: Dental Scholarship aims to support dental students halfway through their education who show a commitment to community service. With over 20 years of experience in enhancing oral care, the foundation, backed by generous donations, empowers the next generation of dental professionals. In honor of Robert J. Sullivan, $125,000 was established to improve dental education across the U.S., with scholarships awarded to deserving students who embody the foundation's mission.
Academic Scholarship Programs College Success / Persistence

J&B Family Scholarship Fund

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000
The J&B Family Scholarship Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing degrees in Science, Engineering, Technology, or Math. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and current college students under 40 with a minimum 3.0 GPA from Bexar County. The scholarship offers funding for tuition and other educational expenses for one student annually, fostering educational advancement and community development. This renewable scholarship can greatly assist those demonstrating financial need.
Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs STEM / STEAM Education

Child Protection Compact Annual Program Statement (362907)

US Department of State: Office to Monitor and Combat Trafficking in Persons
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $5,000,000 - US $10,000,000
The Child Protection Compact Annual Program Statement invites proposals aimed at combating child trafficking through collaborative efforts between the United States and other countries. This initiative focuses on enhancing the capacity to prosecute traffickers, providing care for victims, and implementing preventive measures. Organizations interested in applying must align with the objectives of the CPC to ensure comprehensive support and effective intervention against all forms of child trafficking.
Child Welfare Services Human Trafficking

Ida V. Holland Educational Scholarship

San Antonio Area Foundation
Private
United States
US $1,500
The Ida V. Holland Educational Scholarship, offered by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports full-time students pursuing various degrees. Eligible candidates must be Bexar County residents facing financial challenges. The scholarship, renewable for up to three years, aims to assist parentless or low-income students, ensuring they receive the necessary educational funding to thrive. Since its inception in 1964, the foundation has significantly impacted the community through grants and scholarships.
Vocational & Trade Education Education - Higher Education Academic Scholarship Programs

WGPF: National Regsiter Signage Grant Program

William G Pomeroy Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The WGPF: National Register Signage Grant Program, administered by the William G Pomeroy Foundation, aims to support public properties and historic districts in the U.S. that are listed on the National Register of Historic Places. By providing grants for signage, the program helps these sites commemorate their historic significance and share their achievements with the community, fostering awareness and appreciation for the nation's heritage.
Historic Preservation Historical Records & Archives Community Culture & Heritage

Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California Highlights

Looking for large grants for nonprofit organizations in California?


Read more about each grant below or start your 14-day free trial to see all large grants for nonprofit organizations in California recommended for your specific programs.

Last updated: October 5, 2026. Next update: November 1, 2026.

Grant Insights : Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

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

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

200+ Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California over $25K in average grant size

200+ Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California over $50K in average grant size

38 Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California supporting general operating expenses

300+ Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California supporting programs / projects

400+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid

600+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Food Access & Hunger

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Large grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
28.5%
Q2
25.8%
Q3
23.3%
Q4
22.4%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California?

Grants are most commonly $100,000.

$0 $0 Min.
$100,000 $100 K Median
$2,149,932 $2.1 M Average
$150,000,000 $150 M Max.

Average Grant Size

What's the typical amount funded for California?

Grants are most commonly $145,539.

$145,539

Total Number of Grants

What's the total number of grants in Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California year over year?

In 2024, funders in California awarded a total of 256,564 grants.

2022 237,186

2023 236,635

2024 256,564

Top Grant Focus Areas

Among all the Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California given out in California, the most popular focus areas that receive funding are Education, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations, and Human Services.

1. Education

2. Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations

3. Human Services

Funding Over Time

How is funding for Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California changing over time?

Funding has increased by -1.38%.

2022 $34,364,756,699

2023 $37,770,770,141
9.91%

2024 $37,247,795,891
-1.38%

California Counties That Receive the Most Funding

How does grant funding vary by county?

Los Angeles County, San Francisco County, and San Mateo County receive the most funding.

County Total Grant Funding in 2024
Los Angeles County $10,841,756,858
San Francisco County $5,409,542,294
San Mateo County $5,358,878,304
Santa Clara County $3,811,026,208
Alameda County $3,749,322,182

Related Grants in California

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