Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC) aims to protect California's agricultural lands from conversion to GHG-intensive uses while supporting climate goals. Through strategic investments, SALC enhances food security and promotes resilient agricultural systems. This program is part of California Climate Investments, which funds initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit disadvantaged communities. Grants are available for agricultural conservation acquisitions, planning, and capacity funding to ensure the preservation of vital agricultural resources.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The CalAgPlate Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, offers funding for agricultural education and leadership initiatives targeting students across K-12, post-secondary, and adult education levels. This program is supported by proceeds from specialized agricultural-themed license plates sold through the DMV, aiming to enhance awareness and engagement in agricultural practices among California's diverse educational communities.

The Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment Grant, administered by the California Department of Public Health, supports nursing home residents by utilizing funds from federal penalties imposed on non-compliant facilities. These funds are reinvested to enhance quality of life through various initiatives, including resident support during facility closures, promoting family involvement, and facility improvement projects. The updated application and budget templates align with CMS guidelines effective September 2023, ensuring proper use of CMP funds.

The Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, administered by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, supports projects that boost the competitiveness of California's specialty crops. This annual grant opportunity is aimed at enhancing various crops including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and horticultural products. Eligible projects can receive funding through a competitive solicitation process, fostering innovation and growth within the state's agricultural sector.

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 Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

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 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

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). 

The FFY 2024 State & Local Cybersecurity Grant aims to aid local governments and federally recognized tribes in enhancing cybersecurity measures. By addressing risks to information systems and critical infrastructure, the program seeks to improve resilience and operational continuity. Funded through the IIJA, the grant focuses on governance, assessment, mitigation, and workforce development, ensuring that organizations are equipped to respond effectively to cybersecurity challenges and threats in their communities.

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) offers support to agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation efforts across the United States. It provides technical and financial assistance to improve grazing conditions, crop resiliency, and wildlife habitat. CSP participants implement tailored conservation plans that promote cleaner water, healthier soil, and improved wildlife habitats. The program also ensures annual payments for implementing practices and incentivizes additional enhancements, making it a vital resource for sustainable agricultural practices.

The CA EQIP High Tunnel Initiative Grant supports farmers in California by providing financial assistance for high tunnel systems, which are structures that extend the growing season and improve crop quality. This program promotes sustainable agricultural practices by improving soil health, conserving water, and reducing the use of pesticides. Farmers can benefit from technical support to implement these practices effectively, ultimately helping to provide local communities with fresh produce year-round.

The Land Acquisition Program, administered by the California Wildlife Conservation Board, facilitates the purchase of real property for wildlife conservation. Following a fair market value appraisal, acquisitions occur on a willing seller basis, with evaluations conducted by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. This collaborative process can take 6 to 12 months, ensuring that biological values are prioritized. For further details, refer to the CDFW regional office linked in the overview.

The Local Parks Grant: Implementation Grants program by Arts in California Parks aims to foster community ties by enhancing local cultural history through art and nature in parks. Eligible projects must engage the public and contribute to community health and well-being, with grants awarded for initiatives in local parks across California. Projects are expected to be executed within a 12-month period, starting in October 2025, and should focus on creating sustainable connections to local heritage.

Community Services Block Grant

​The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) is a federally funded block grant designed to provide a range of services to assist low-income families and individuals attain the skills, knowledge, and motivation necessary to achieve self-sufficiency. CSBG funds services and activities that have a measurable impact on the causes and conditions of poverty in local communities across the state. 

CSBG is a federally funded block grant that aims to reduce poverty in the United States. CSBG is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Office of Community Services. CSD is designated by the Governor as the state agency responsible for administering the CSBG program in California. 

Tribal Capacity Building Program 

Purpose:

The Tribal Capacity Building Program's key objectives are to:

Build Tribal Staff Capacity to Advance and Sustain Climate and Housing Action; Secure Funding to Develop and Implement Tribal-led Climate and Housing Projects; Enhance Peer Learning Relationships Among Tribes

Description:

The Tribal Capacity Building Program provides funding and technical assistance to California Native American Tribes, enhancing staff capacity to advance Tribes’ climate- and housing-related work. The goal of the program is to help Tribes develop long-term capacity to secure funding and implement Tribal-led climate- and housing-related projects. 

Funding Available for Round 2 Awards:

Grantees may receive funding between $350,000 and $420,000 total for the three-year grant term. 

Grant Term Length:

• 36-month period 

Grant Availability Type:

• Competitive 

Match Funding Required:

• No 

The Bachelor of Science Nursing Scholarship Program, managed by the California Department of Health Care Access and Information (HCAI), aims to enhance California's healthcare workforce. Funded by a surcharge on RN licensure fees, it offers up to $10,000 to eligible nursing students in exchange for a 12-month service obligation in underserved communities. This initiative seeks to ensure a sufficient number of trained Registered Nurses provide essential care where it is most needed.

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 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 External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Literacy for Life Grants, funded by the California Foundation for Agriculture in the Classroom, aim to foster agricultural literacy among K-12 students in California. With grants up to $500, educators can initiate or expand projects integrating agriculture into their curriculum. This initiative not only supports educational growth but also recognizes outstanding educators making a significant impact on their students' learning experiences. Explore various project ideas to inspire innovative agricultural education in classrooms.

The Readings & Workshops Mini-Grants provide funding for individual readings and workshops, ranging from $150 to $450 per session. Open to New York State and California organizations, these grants support writers' participation in events. Eligible organizations include colleges, cultural centers, and libraries. Priority is given to those serving diverse audiences and presenting in underserved areas. The application process requires details about the writer and event dates. Grant amounts are capped annually, and matching funds are encouraged.

The Shlemon Quaternary Engineering Geology Scholarship Fund supports graduate students in applied geology. Recipients must be enrolled in accredited institutions, focusing on field studies in Quaternary Engineering Geology. To qualify, students need a minimum GPA of 3.0, AEG membership, and sponsorship from an AEG member or faculty. The fund does not cover equipment purchases or political activities, ensuring that grants are used solely for educational purposes.

The Martin L. Stout Scholarship Fund Grant supports students pursuing environmental and engineering geology at undergraduate and graduate levels. This scholarship, awarded by the AEG Foundation, recognizes outstanding students based on their academic abilities, character, and involvement in professional societies. Recipients are designated as "Martin L. Stout Scholars" and are expected to use the funds for direct tuition costs, fostering the next generation of geology professionals.

Statewide Wildfire Safety & Preparedness Grant

The California Fire Foundation is pleased to announce the 2026 Statewide Wildfire Safety & Preparedness Grant application cycle for California-based fire departments, firefighter associations, nonprofit organizations, and tribal entities.

Focus Areas 

Applicants whose projects focus on wildfire and other climate-related prevention and preparedness efforts are eligible to receive up to $25,000, with requests outside of this range considered on an as-needed basis.

2026 Funding Focus Areas:  

• Vegetation Mitigation & Fuels Reduction 
• Education, Planning, or Community Outreach Campaigns 
• Personal Protective Equipment  
• Specialized Firefighting Equipment 

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.