Best Marketing Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Wildfire Resilience Initiative Grant Program, funded by the Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation, addresses the urgent need for wildfire resilience in Western North America. With increasing threats from extreme wildfires due to climate change and human activity, this initiative aims to transform fire's role from a destructive force to a beneficial element. By supporting research, early interventions, and community preparedness, the program seeks to foster a collaborative approach to enhancing ecosystem health and community safety.

The Steven M. Thompson Physician Corps Loan Repayment Program (STLRP) aims to enhance California's healthcare workforce by providing loan repayments to physicians who commit to serving in medically underserved areas. Established in 2003, the program offers eligible physicians up to $105,000 in loan repayment in exchange for a 36-month service obligation. This initiative seeks to improve access to healthcare in communities that face physician shortages, thereby promoting the retention of primary care physicians.

The Licensed Mental Health Services Provider Education Program (LMH) aims to enhance California's healthcare workforce by offering loan repayments and scholarships to mental health professionals serving underserved areas. Funded through a $20 surcharge on licensing fees, this program seeks to increase the availability of trained mental healthcare providers. Eligible professionals may receive up to $15,000 in loan repayment for a 12-month service obligation, thereby addressing critical gaps in mental health services across the state.

The Bachelor of Science Nursing Loan Repayment Program (BSNLRP) aims to enhance California's healthcare workforce by offering loan repayments to registered nurses who serve in medically underserved areas. Funded through a nominal surcharge, the program provides up to $15,000 in loan repayment for a 12-month service commitment, thereby supporting the delivery of essential healthcare services in qualified facilities across the state.

The Licensed Vocational Nurse Loan Repayment Program (LVNLRP) aims to enhance California's healthcare workforce by providing financial assistance to licensed vocational nurses. In exchange for a 12-month service commitment in medically underserved areas, participants can receive loan repayments of up to $8,000. Funded by the state, this initiative seeks to increase the number of trained nurses delivering essential patient care in qualified facilities across California.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Pumpout/Dump Station Installation Grant FY25 aims to reduce pollution from vessel sewage in U.S. waters. Funded by the Clean Vessel Act, the grant provides up to 75% reimbursement for pumpout and dump station installation costs. Recipients must ensure that facilities remain accessible to all recreational vessels and properly maintain signage regarding usage. This initiative supports California's commitment to clean and safe boating.

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.

The California Department of Pesticide Regulation offers the Sustainable Pest Management Grants Program to support innovative projects that enhance sustainable pest management practices. The program aims to reduce pesticide impacts on human health and the environment, focusing on priority areas such as weed management, rodenticide use, and the use of high-interest pesticides. Projects should align with integrated pest management strategies and contribute to the three sustainability pillars of human health, environmental protection, and economic vitality.

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) offers funding opportunities for clinical trials focused on regenerative medicine therapies, including stem cell and genetic therapies. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of innovative treatments for unmet medical needs, providing up to $15 million for clinical studies. CIRM emphasizes partnership and resource support to ensure project success, addressing the critical stages of clinical trial development within a 48-month project period.

The Proposition 1 Stream Flow Enhancement Program in California aims to improve stream flows for the benefit of fish and wildlife. It provides $200 million in funding for projects that align with the California Water Action Plan, focusing on enhancing water flow in streams supporting anadromous fish and at-risk species. The program facilitates water transactions, conservation projects, and habitat restoration efforts to ensure sustainable water resource management and resilience against climate change.

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) is offering a funding opportunity through EDUC 1.12 to manage the Annual Trainee Network Conference. This initiative aims to support CIRM's Research Training programs by selecting a qualified applicant to develop and oversee the conference scheduled between May and August 2026. This effort aligns with CIRM's mission to promote equitable regenerative medicine advancements and enhance education and training across diverse communities.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare. Focus areas include agriculture, education, fighting hunger, and public safety. Eligible applicants must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and a Taxpayer Identification number. Requests are prioritized for programs directly benefiting communities near Perdue facilities across various states. The foundation emphasizes responsible stewardship and community engagement in all funding decisions.

As You Sow Grants promotes environmental and social corporate responsibility through funding initiatives that focus on toxic exposure and consumer protection in California. With over $2.1 million granted to more than 100 organizations since 1992, the program supports nonprofits dedicated to toxics reduction, environmental education, and community protection. Priority is given to projects that benefit California residents, emphasizing enforcement and education around toxic risks and rights.

Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (CA)

The Dam Safety and Climate Resilience Local Assistance Program (DSCR) provides state funding for repairs, rehabilitation, enhancements, and other dam safety projects at existing state-jurisdictional dams and associated facilities that were in service prior to January 1, 2023. Established in 2023, the program has received a new allocation of $464 million in two rounds of funding through Proposition 4 (The Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024). As a result of this new funding, the program requires new guidelines and a revised solicitation process..

Program Details

DSCR projects should provide some or all of the following public benefits.

They are listed below in order of priority:

• Protection of public safety.
• Restoration of water storage.
• Flood risk reduction.
• Enhancement of water supply reliability.
• Enhancement, protection, or restoration of habitat for fish and wildlife.
• Protection of water quality.

DSCR projects eligible to receive funding under the program include the following:

• Dam repairs to allow water storage to full capacity.
• New spillway and spillway repair projects at existing dams.
• Dam and reservoir seismic retrofit projects.
• Enhancement of water supply and downstream flood risk reduction such as implementation of Forecast-Informed Reservoir Operations.
• One-time projects to remove sediment resulting from wildfires or extraordinary storm events.
• Improvements to appurtenances to address dam safety-related deficiencies identified by the department.

The Rosenberg Foundation is dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers to equity and opportunity for Californians. Through its grantmaking, it focuses on areas such as leadership development, criminal justice reform, and immigrant rights. The foundation supports innovative initiatives, including the 2022-2024 Leading Edge Fellows, who tackle pressing social issues. By fostering civic engagement, the foundation aims to empower underrepresented communities and ensure their voices are heard in policy discussions, ultimately striving for a more just society.

Medtronic is a global leader in medical technology, dedicated to enhancing healthcare access and supporting the communities it serves. Through its Grants and Donations program, Medtronic provides financial assistance for medical education, independent conferences, and charitable events, emphasizing collaboration with healthcare stakeholders. The program aims to alleviate pain, restore health, and extend life, positively impacting millions of patients worldwide. For more information, visit Medtronic's FAQs on grants and donations.

Purpose

The California Air Resources Board is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

Description

The California Air Resources Board (CARB or the Board) is soliciting a Grantee for the implementation of the Clean Truck and Bus Voucher Incentive Project (HVIP) with any appropriated and allocated funds from Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 with an option to renew the Grant Agreement for the following two years (FY 2027-28 and FY 2028-29).

HVIP accelerates market transformation by incentivizing the purchase of zero-emission heavy-duty trucks and buses for California fleets, providing vouchers for purchasers and lessees for eligible vehicles on a first-come first-serve basis. HVIP provides increased incentives for fleets purchasing zero-emission vehicles located in disadvantaged communities with a goal of at least 50 percent of HVIP funding supporting vehicles domiciled in disadvantaged communities. In addition, HVIP incorporates a set-aside for transit vehicles.HVIP stimulates the development, deployment, and commercialization of advanced vehicle technology. These technologies are critical to help California meet its near- and long-term air-quality and climate-change goals. Additionally, the project benefits the citizens of California by providing immediate air-pollution and greenhouse-gas emission reductions. Appropriated and allocated HVIP funds will be administered and implemented through a partnership between CARB and a Grantee selected via this competitive solicitation. 

The Undergraduate & Graduate Grant Program, supported by the Anacortes Salmon Derby, aims to fund research focused on recreationally important fish species in the Pacific Northwest. This initiative prioritizes applicants studying Fisheries Biology or Management, encouraging the conservation of salmon and other marine species. Scholarships and grants are available for undergraduate and graduate students who demonstrate a commitment to ecological research and sustainable fisheries management, ensuring the protection of vital aquatic resources for future generations.

TOT Grant Program

The Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) Grant was established in 2017. It is a project/program based award providing support to non-profit organizations located in Sacramento County that carry out community-based programs and/or services in the areas of arts and culture, community development and services, economic or workforce development​ and health and human services. Once awarded, grant funds are administered on a reimbursement basis upon review and approval of an invoice submission with supporting documentation.

The TOT Grant funding support is designed for, but not limited to:

• Training, development, and education; 
• Programs, projects and events that support tourism;  
• Projects that address a community issue or problem; and/or
• Projects that extend the reach of services to underserved populations.

Annually the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors dedicates $1,000,000 of the County's Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) revenue to be allocated to the TOT Grant Program through a competitive application process. Fiscal Year (FY) 2026-27 is the tenth TOT Grant funding cycle which will be approved during the June Recommended Budget hearings on June 2026.  

The California Career Technical Education Incentive Grant (CTEIG) aims to enhance career technical education for students from kindergarten through grade twelve. This initiative, supported by the California Department of Education, focuses on equipping students with essential skills for employment and further education. By fostering collaboration among educators and community partners, CTEIG seeks to improve educational outcomes and workforce readiness, ensuring that students thrive in a diverse and interconnected society.

The Karen Colina Wilson Foundation Grant supports programs for children, youth, and women, enhancing their health and well-being through education, art, literature, and music. Established in 2006, the foundation aims to make a positive difference in their lives, particularly in Southern and Western Wayne County, Michigan. Grants typically range from $500 to $10,000, often as matching funds, fostering broader fundraising efforts by local nonprofit organizations.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Community Resilience Centers Round 2

The California Strategic Growth Council (SGC) is pleased to announce the availability of approximately $55 million in funding from the Safe Drinking Water, Wildfire Prevention, Drought Preparedness, and Clean Air Bond Act of 2024 for Round 2 of the Community Resilience Centers (CRC) Program through this Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA). 

Program Summary

The CRC Program will offer Planning Grants and Implementation Grants. Unlike Round 1, the CRC Program will not offer a separate Project Development Grant type. Instead, Round 2’s Implementation Grant will offer a new, funded “Pre-Development Phase” that will support Lead Grantees’ project readiness before implementation. The Pre-Development Phase will last no more than one year from grant execution.

Implementation Grants

Grant Purpose

Implementation Grants will fund new construction and retrofits of facilities to serve as Community Resilience Centers, as well as programs and services that build overall community resilience.

Examples of Eligible Activities

Construction, retrofits, and other upgrades to the CRC Facility itself; Campus Amenity improvements; programs and services; community engagement.

Project Area

CRC applications must be community focused. All CRC Implementation Grant applicants are required to define a Project Area. The Project Area must encompass the physical location of the CRC Facility (the CRC Site), Campus Amenities connected to the CRC Facility, Partner Sites and any programs and services based out of the CRC Facility or Partner Sites.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits and environmental innovation, as the Port decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports 98,345 jobs in the region and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees the Oakland Airport (OAK), the Oakland Seaport and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square and a publicly owned utility. 

Community Investment Program

Approved by the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners on July 2015, the Port of Oakland Community Investment Program seeks to add value and best serve our diverse communities within the Port’s footprint. This program provides grants to benefit the communities in the Port’s Local Impact Area (LIA) in Oakland, Alameda, Emeryville, and San Leandro, as well as communities in the Port’s Local Business Area (LBA) in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

The Port of Oakland provides quarterly grants up to $5,000 to non-profit organizations that align with the following funding priority areas:

• Economic Vitality:

The Port promotes community and economic viability by helping small businesses thrive and create and sustain jobs that support our local community. We proudly support programs that expand access to Port opportunities for small and local businesses, as well as organizations that provide technical assistance to businesses to expand their impact.

• Environmental Sustainability and Healthy Communities:

We are committed to sustaining healthy communities through leading-edge environmental stewardship via our air quality, clean water, and energy conservation programs. We proudly support organizations that promote our environmental programs.

• Workforce Development and Education:

We support programs that prepare individuals to participate successfully in an increasingly global society and to contribute back to the communities in which they live. Specifically, we focus on supporting programs that prepare individuals for careers in port-related industries. Examples include but are not limited to: training and education in construction; trade and logistics; science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education; aviation, and the building-construction trades.

The Therapeutic Giving program by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding initiatives that enhance patient access to treatment and advance health equity, particularly in immunology. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for support aimed at improving health outcomes through innovative programs. The initiative prioritizes measurable impacts over fundraising activities, emphasizing the importance of addressing healthcare disparities and promoting disease awareness efforts for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.