Best Marketing Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Museum Grant Program, established under California Assembly Bill 716, aims to support museums through competitive grants for projects focused on exhibits, education, and outreach, particularly benefiting historically underserved communities and students. Following the impacts of COVID-19, funding is prioritized for museums significantly affected by the pandemic. This initiative enhances access to cultural resources and promotes the preservation of California's historical and cultural heritage.

The Division of Boating and Waterways offers a Local Assistance Grant Program for the development of non-motorized boat launching facilities in California. Eligible applicants must own or control the project area and commit to operating and maintaining the facility for 20 years. The program aims to enhance public access to waterways, supporting local governments and agencies in improving marina infrastructure. Interested parties should contact the Division to discuss project suitability and application processes.

The Learning Communities for School Success Program (CA) aims to support evidence-based, non-punitive programs that help vulnerable students remain in school. Grant funds are allocated for planning, implementation, and evaluation of activities that enhance local educational agency goals. Activities include establishing community schools, improving attendance, implementing restorative practices, and fostering partnerships with community organizations, all designed to reduce absenteeism and support students' social-emotional needs.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Statewide Sign Grant Program FY26 offers funding for the installation and replacement of signs for previously funded projects. This initiative aims to ensure that signs are up-to-date, safe, and compliant with federal requirements. Grants support the improvement of public access to California's waterways, enhancing safety and user experience for the boating community. Applications are accepted until February 2, 2026, encouraging local agencies to participate in this vital program.

Purpose

The California Department of Food and Agriculture (CDFA) Office of Agricultural Resilience and Sustainability (OARS) 2026 Dairy Plus Program will award competitive grants to California dairy farms for the implementation of advanced manure management practices that address both methane emissions and nitrogen and salt surplus.

Description

The 2026 Dairy Plus Program will provide supplemental funding opportunities for projects in previous and in-progress Alternative Manure Management Program (AMMP) and Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP), and for projects in the process of implementing a system that is equivalent to approved AMMP and/or DDRDP practices (i.e., AMMP-like and/or DDRDP-like practices). 

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5418 - Optimizing PFAS Treatment Systems for Multi-contaminant Removal and Operational Benefits

Project Objectives

About the North Valley Health Education Foundation

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving health through education. Since its founding in 1973, the Foundation has supported students pursuing healthcare careers and strengthened communities across Northern California’s North Valley.

NVHEF serves as a regional connector—bringing together students, educators, healthcare institutions, donors, and community leaders who share a commitment to a strong and sustainable healthcare workforce.

Healthcare Scholarships

The North Valley Health Education Foundation (NVHEF) provides scholarships to students pursuing healthcare careers who are committed to serving Northern California communities. Our focus is on strengthening the regional healthcare workforce by supporting students in medical, nursing, and allied health programs.

Each year, NVHEF awards $20,000–$30,000 in healthcare scholarships to students enrolled in accredited programs who demonstrate academic commitment, community connection, and a passion for healthcare service.

Enloe Junior Volunteer Scholarship

This application is for students who are graduating high school seniors that currently volunteer at Enloe Health and are considering a medical career. 

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Boating Access Grant Program, managed by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to enhance recreational boating access across California's waterways. This program funds various projects, including the construction of access facilities, amenities for boaters, and educational outreach. Grants cover up to 75% of project costs, requiring at least 25% funding from non-Federal sources. Eligible projects include ADA-compliant facilities, launching areas for non-motorized boats, and maintenance of existing boating access.

The Division of Boating and Waterways offers the Boat Launching Facility Grant Program to local agencies in California, aimed at developing and improving public boat launching facilities for motorized vessels. The program funds construction and enhancement of ramps, restrooms, parking, and other necessary infrastructure to ensure better access to California's waterways for recreational boating. Applications are accepted until February 1, 2025, and are open to various local government entities.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) is a federal program administered by the City of San Diego to enhance urban communities through housing, economic opportunities, and public services. This grant primarily targets low- and moderate-income individuals, ensuring their needs are met while also addressing issues like slums and blight. Organizations can apply annually through a structured process to secure funding that supports vital community projects.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

The Traveler's Grant, offered by the Orange County Chapter of the California Native Plant Society, supports individuals attending conferences on California native plant topics. With awards up to $500, this grant helps cover travel, registration, and related costs. Eligible applicants must submit proof of event registration and a summary of their experience for the OCCNPS eNewsletter. This initiative promotes awareness and appreciation of California's native flora through education and engagement.

About Rose

Our Mission, Vision, and Roots

Rose believes that environmental stewardship, community justice, and consumer rights are all inextricably linked.

West Oakland Community Fund

This funding opportunity was initially born out of advocacy by West Oakland residents to draw value from the redevelopment of the old Oakland Army Base. Resident members of the West Oakland Community Advisory Group (WOCAG) shepherded the vision of the West Oakland Community Fund from its inception in 2002 to its eventual creation. This led to an agreement between the City of Oakland and the Port of Oakland to provide resources for economic development projects in West Oakland. The Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment is now administering this funding opportunity to support organizations creating community benefit opportunities in West Oakland, the neighborhood directly affected by the closure of the former Oakland Army Base. WOCAG, the City and the Port directed that the funds shall be spent on the following project categories:

• Workforce Development (2026 grant cycle)
• Business Development (2026 grant cycle)
• Educational Programs (future grant cycle)
• Environmental Programs (future grant cycle)

During this 2026 round we are focusing on Business and Workforce Development though grant projects that include elements from the Education and Environmental categories will be given consideration. (Future rounds may have different subject matter emphases.)

The Charter School Facilities Credit Enhancement Grant Program, managed by the California State Treasurer's Office, aims to support charter schools in California by providing grants that fund debt service reserve accounts. This initiative is designed to lower borrowing costs for charter schools, thereby facilitating the acquisition, renovation, or construction of school facilities. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a strong financial position and utilize funds within six months of approval to ensure effective resource allocation.

The National Cooperative Drug/Device Discovery/Development Groups (NCDDG) program invites applications to foster innovative research in treating mental disorders and substance use issues. This initiative promotes collaboration between academia and industry, supporting diverse, multidisciplinary projects aimed at developing rational therapies and neurostimulation techniques. Applicants are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent 30 days before the proposal deadline to enhance project alignment with funding goals.

The California Advanced Services Fund's Broadband Infrastructure Grant Project aims to provide free broadband service to residents of low-income communities through grants and loans. With a funding allocation of $15 million for the fiscal year, eligible applicants can request up to $150,000 to build broadband networks in public housing and mobile home parks. This initiative seeks to bridge the digital divide by ensuring access to high-speed internet for underserved populations.

CHA/CHIP Development Support Grant

About

The Community Health Assessments / Community Health Improvement Plans (CHA / CHIP) Development Support Grant Program is designed to provide financial and technical support for the completion of CHA and CHIP.

This program responds to the ongoing need for strengthened local public health infrastructure and planning capacity, especially among counties with limited resources. It also aligns with the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) expectations for Medi-Cal managed care plans to engage in meaningful collaboration with Local Health Jurisdictions.

Purpose

The program supports counties in assessing public health needs and developing responsive plans to address them by way of the CHA/CHIP process. This effort encourages joint planning between managed care and public health departments to reduce siloed systems, enhance population health outcomes, and align with the DHCS Quality Strategy and Bold Goals.

The Sprouting School Gardens Grant, provided by the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, supports school-based gardening and cooking programs to foster healthy eating habits in children. Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 help cover program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Eligible applicants include schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas served by Sprouts Farmers Market, promoting meaningful connections between local teams and school gardening initiatives.

The California Library Literacy Services grant provides essential funding for public libraries in California to develop and implement adult literacy programs. By offering free tutoring, this initiative aims to enhance literacy among adults, empowering them to achieve personal and professional goals. Libraries selected for funding will participate in the 2026-2027 project cycle, ensuring continued support for ongoing literacy efforts that enrich the community and preserve the state's unique history.

The NCDDG program supports innovative research aiming to discover and develop new treatments for mental disorders, including substance use and alcohol use disorders. This initiative encourages collaborations between academic and industry partners to advance neurostimulation techniques and drug/device development. Applicants are invited to submit proposals that focus on specific projects utilizing the U01 mechanism, with a clear emphasis on rationally designed candidate agents and cutting-edge technologies. Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the submission deadline.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The Raley’s, Bashas’, and Food City Project Learning Garden Grant Program, supported by the Captain Planet Foundation, offers schools valuable resources for STEAM education through garden-based learning. Schools will receive raised garden beds, a mobile cooking cart, access to online lessons, and professional development for teachers. This initiative promotes hands-on learning and healthy eating, enriching students' educational experiences while fostering a connection to nature. A total package valued at $7,500 will enhance the learning environment for students.

The Joseph W. Tripiano Charitable Fund supports nonprofits dedicated to the care and promotion of horses. Established in memory of Joe Tripiano, it aims to enhance the quality of life for horses through various initiatives. Grant requests are accepted year-round, with a decision anticipated within four weeks of application submission. Eligible organizations must be located in Northern California, hold 501(c)(3) status, and have maintained accurate financial records. This fund prioritizes urgent needs related to equestrian support.

The June G. Outhwaite Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Santa Barbara County, focusing on areas such as medical care, assistance for the disabled, and wildlife preservation. Established by June Outhwaite, the foundation prioritizes projects benefiting Southern Santa Barbara County. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations. The trust aims to strengthen the community by funding diverse initiatives that enhance the quality of life for all residents.

The California Department of Education's Geo-Regional Experts for Multilingual Students initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes for multilingual learners. This competitive grant invites county offices of education to become Geo-Regional Experts (GEMS) by designating full-time experts who provide data-driven support to local educational agencies. The program is designed to foster collaboration among educators, schools, and communities, ensuring that all students receive a world-class education in a multicultural environment.

The Klamath River Fund: Community Impact Grant, initiated by the Humboldt Area Foundation and Wild Rivers Community Foundation, aims to enhance community-led climate resilience and restorative justice in the Klamath River Basin. This grant supports initiatives that prioritize racial equity, youth development, and environmental health. With funding requests starting at $10,000 and an average grant size of $50,000, it encourages partnerships and innovative projects that foster sustainable growth and well-being for local communities.