Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in California

The BJA FY 2026 Intellectual Property Enforcement Program aims to bolster public health, safety, and the economy by combating counterfeit goods and product piracy. This funding opportunity supports the formation or enhancement of law enforcement intellectual property enforcement task forces. It assists various jurisdictions in tackling intellectual property theft and related crimes, while also aiding in the investigation and prosecution of such offenses, thereby addressing the associated violent crime.

The Booker T. Jones Scholarship Fund offers $5,000 to students graduating from MINACT-run Job Corps programs who plan to attend college. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens with a high school diploma or GED, accepted at a four-year historically Black college or university, and have completed technical training at a MINACT Job Corps Center. This scholarship honors the legacy of Booker T. Jones, who dedicated his life to empowering disadvantaged communities through education.

The Bettye Smith Brown Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated advocate for education, offering two $10,000 scholarships annually to high school seniors in Warren County, MS. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens with strong academic records and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship celebrates the legacy of Ms. Brown, who inspired many to pursue their educational dreams, ensuring her commitment to academic excellence continues to impact future generations.

Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship

The Lindsay Lloyd North Korea Freedom Scholarship (supported by the George W. Bush Foundation) provides one or more annual scholarships for up to $10,000 to lawful permanent residents of the United States, U.S. citizens or refugees who were born in North Korea pursuing an educational program in the United States or its possessions. North Korean-born individuals pursuing a degree in accredited colleges and universities in the United States with South Korean citizenship are eligible to apply.

This scholarship may be renewed on an annual basis by completing the scholarship application in full. Renewal applications will be reviewed alongside first-time applicants.

The Grant for U.S.-Japan Community Grassroots Exchange Program aims to foster cultural exchange between the U.S. and Japan by funding grassroots programming initiatives. Eligible projects must include at least ten events within a 12-month period, focusing on various Japan-related topics. The grant, offering up to $30,000, prioritizes innovative outreach and sustainability. Applications are welcome from U.S. universities and nonprofit organizations that promote cultural exchange, ensuring diverse audiences are engaged.

The Valley Water Standard Grants - Planning Grants program supports projects that enhance safe drinking water and environmental stewardship in Santa Clara County. With $1.87 million available, it funds planning activities like feasibility studies and environmental planning. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions. This initiative promotes community engagement and empowers local entities to address water-related challenges effectively, ensuring projects align with Valley Water's mission.

The JFNY Grant for Japanese Studies provides funding of up to $5,000 for U.S.-based institutions with 501(c)(3) status to enhance understanding of Japan through academic projects. Eligible projects include conferences, lectures, and symposia, whether in-person or virtual. The grant covers expenses such as honoraria, travel, accommodation, and research materials. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and submission is required at least three months prior to the project start date.

The JUF Springboard Access Grant aims to make Jewish programming more accessible for teens in grades 8-12 in the Chicago area. This grant covers up to 50% of the tuition costs for first-time participants in multi-day programs organized by approved Jewish nonprofits. It encourages teens to engage with their community and explore new interests while ensuring financial barriers are lowered. Eligible teens are expected to share their experiences with the organization after participating.

The Alexander H. & Helen V. Smith Research Award, presented by the Mycological Society of America, supports research on macrofungi specimens collected by Alexander H. Smith. This award facilitates access to crucial collections at the University of Michigan Herbarium, aiding mycologists and students in advancing their studies. Recipients are encouraged to attend the MSA annual meeting to engage with the mycological community, enhancing collaboration and networking opportunities.

The CSW Mini-Grant Program, run by the County of Santa Clara, aims to fund projects that empower women and girls in leadership, civic engagement, economic, educational, social, and health areas. Organizations can apply once per fiscal year, with a focus on initiatives that benefit women and girls in Santa Clara County. Grants cannot be used for retroactive funding, ensuring support is provided before project commencement.

The Permobil Foundation offers sponsorships and grants to enhance the lives of individuals with mobility limitations. Committed to promoting independent mobility as a basic human right, the Foundation supports organizations that align with its mission through event sponsorships, grant funding, employee engagement, and in-kind donations. Applications are accepted monthly, with an emphasis on initiatives that yield significant community impact. The Foundation prioritizes relationships with Permobil employees and critical community needs.

The Health-Surgical Care Fund Grant, provided by the Orange County Community Foundation, aims to support underfunded, volunteer-driven organizations offering surgical care for various physical or cosmetic deformities. The Fund prioritizes programs with a significant long-term impact, ensuring services are free to the community. Eligible organizations must demonstrate accountability, transparency, and a commitment to serving U.S. citizens, while allocating at least 70% of their budget to direct program expenses.

The Immunology and Immunotherapy SMRT Grant by Pacific Biosciences aims to enhance research through advanced sequencing technologies. This grant offers free sequencing to support innovative projects in immunology and immunotherapy, encouraging researchers to apply their findings to better understand the immune system and develop new therapies. With the opportunity to utilize highly accurate long-read sequencing, winners will gain access to state-of-the-art technology that can accommodate multiple libraries, enhancing their research outcomes significantly.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jay and Linda Casselberry Scholarship

The purpose of the Fund is to provide a scholarship for higher education at accredited institutions including but not limited to: vocational, technical, college, or university levels of education. Assistance is for a graduating senior or a graduate of Henderson County or the surrounding counties served by the Foundation in North Carolina public schools, leading to a degree. The student must have good academic potential, show a need for financial support to continue his/her education, exhibit personal hardship and demonstrate the initiative to better one’s self.

The scholarship is renewable.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jan F. and Harry J. Nolan Women’s Educational Scholarship

Applicant must be a female resident of the Henderson County area who wishes to pursue a college education. Applicant must be twenty-two years of age or older.

PLTW Gateway

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an initial investment of $150,000 to support grants for middle schools in Arizona, California, the Northeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Texas to implement or expand the PLTW Gateway program.

PLTW is one of seven strategic partners named this year, with support focused on increasing diversity in STEM fields while increasing middle school students' awareness of semiconductors.

PLTW Program Status

Program Expansion

The Grant and Bridget Daugherty Nursing Scholarship, administered by the Coral Gables Community Foundation, offers financial assistance to Coral Gables High School seniors pursuing a Nursing major. The scholarship ranges from $1,000 to $5,000 for one academic year. Recipients must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and submit transcripts annually to retain funding. This initiative supports students committed to academic excellence and a career in healthcare.

About Community Foundation of Henderson County

• Mission: Helping people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter.
• Vision: Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

About Eleanor M. Kutchoodon Scholarship

Applicants must demonstrate need and have a strong desire for higher education in the field of nursing.

This is a renewable scholarship.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Jane and Tom Davis Scholarship

The applicant must be a graduating senior or graduate of a Henderson County public school and demonstrate financial need. The student must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or better who is seeking an education beyond high school.

The scholarship is renewable.

PLTW Gateway

onsemi is a leading semiconductor manufacturer serving tens of thousands of customers across several markets with intelligent power and sensing technologies.

The ON Semiconductor Foundation, an onsemi Giving Now program, has named PLTW a strategic partner and made an initial investment of $150,000 to support grants for middle schools in Arizona, California, the Northeast, the Pacific Northwest, and Texas to implement or expand the PLTW Gateway program.

PLTW is one of seven strategic partners named this year, with support focused on increasing diversity in STEM fields while increasing middle school students' awareness of semiconductors.

PLTW Program Status

New Program

The Artist's Resource Trust (A.R.T.) Fund supports mid-career visual artists in New England, providing unrestricted fellowships to those who demonstrate financial need. Established in 1996, it aims to enhance artists' creative abilities through grants for supplies, rent, and travel. Eligible artists must reside in the region for at least two years and have a minimum of ten years of active practice. A.R.T. is building an endowment to ensure its support continues indefinitely.

The Johnson Ohana Charitable Foundation offers grants for art and music education, primarily focused on community involvement in Santa Barbara and Hawaii. Recognized 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding that ranges from $2,500 to $20,000 for specific programs or general operating expenses. The foundation seeks innovative projects that engage youth and provide environmental or community benefits, currently emphasizing sustainable local food systems. Applications are by invitation only.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Maria's Scholarship

Applicant must be a resident of Henderson County who demonstrates financial need for assistance to attend an accredited college or university.

Community Foundation of Henderson County

Community Foundation of Henderson County was incorporated in 1982 by a group of fourteen dedicated and compassionate local leaders with the immediate need to manage two funds - the William C. Armstrong Scholarship Fund and the Charlie Renfrow Scholarship Fund, in addition to providing a permanent vehicle for citizens to give back to their community.

Our Mission is to help people who care make lasting contributions to causes that matter. The Community Foundation of Henderson County is a highly visible, philanthropic leader directed by an engaged and committed board, staffed by qualified employees, empowering donors at all levels to invest in professionally managed charitable funds that address community needs.

Lula and Levi Wilson Scholarship

Applicant must be an African-American student with financial need who wishes to pursue his or her education.

The Visionary Women Grants support nonprofit organizations and initiatives that enhance the status of women and girls in the Greater Los Angeles area. Focus areas include the arts, education, economic empowerment, and social services, targeting programs that foster participation, improve academic outcomes, and provide essential services. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status, operate for at least three years, and serve predominantly women and girls. This funding aims to create impactful changes in the community.

The AAUW Community Action Grants provide up to $75,000 to support nonprofits and educational institutions that empower girls in grades K–12 to succeed in STEM fields. By fostering hands-on learning, mentorship, and family involvement, these grants aim to build confidence and skills among girls, especially those from underrepresented communities. AAUW believes that immersive STEM environments and relatable role models can inspire lasting interest and help close the gender gap in leadership and careers.

The Leadership Development Grants for Young Women, offered by Presbyterian Women, empower women aged 18-30 to enhance their leadership skills through participation in educational events. With grants of up to $2,000 for the Commission on the Status of Women and $1,000 for the Ecumenical Advocacy Days, this program fosters personal and community growth within the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Eligible applicants must be active in PC(USA) and meet specific grant requirements.