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Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in California

Find the perfect Operating grants for nonprofits in California on Instrumentl. 11,000+ Operating grants for nonprofits 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

Lillian A. Jones Scholarship Fund

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

Lillian A. Jones Scholarship Fund

This fund was established in memory of Lillian A. Jones to support academic scholarships for graduate students who are Calhoun County residents. "Often times students finish their undergraduate degree and are in debt or just don't have the funds to continue on to higher degrees," said Lillian speaking about her fund, "There is a real need for these students too."

Education - Higher Education

OREF/Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation Research Grant

Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation
Private
United States
US $100,000

OREF/Musculoskeletal Transplant Foundation Research Grant

Solicits investigator-initiated proposals focusing on research in the science of biologic – reconstruction, bone regeneration, transplantation - allografts, and including stem cells for graft transplantation.

Orthopedics

Rotary Club of Portsmouth Scholarship

Rotary Club of Portsmouth
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Rotary Club of Portsmouth

For more than a century, the Rotary Club of Portsmouth, NH has improved homes, shelters and parks, fed and provided medical aid to those in need, and funded student education — locally and abroad.

Scholarships

Each year the Rotary Club of Portsmouth seeks scholarship applications from high school seniors scheduled to graduate this spring and will be beginning study at a post-secondary institution (either a 2 or 4 year program) in the fall.  

The scholarships are one-time non-recurring awards and are made on a non-discriminatory basis to individuals demonstrating excellence in scholastic, extracurricular, and/or community service activities. A family’s financial need may also be taken into consideration by the reviewing committee. Individuals with special learning circumstances, who have worked to overcome these circumstances, are encouraged to apply for the scholarship.

Once all applications have been received, the Portsmouth Rotary Scholarship Committee will select a pool of finalists to be interviewed individually in April. The scholarships are awarded to the students during a Rotary meeting in May or June.

Education - Higher Education

Methodist Foundation of Mississippi: College Scholarship

Methodist Foundation of Mississippi
Association/Society
United States
Unspecified amount

Methodist Foundation of Mississippi 

The Methodist Foundation of Mississippi was founded in 1967 to provide financial resources and expertise to Wesleyan churches and missions. Since then, we have served nearly 1,110 organizations and 3,500 accounts, while growing the collective investment portfolio to $180 million. This benchmark means more than financial success. It opens the door to a level of opportunity and security not usually available to individual churches and charities.

Thanks to this position, the Foundation is able to offer both short and long-term investment products for churches to maximize returns with greater freedom and lower fees (or no fees) than typical banks or investment firms.

Scholarships We Offer

The Foundation seeks to provide Mississippi Methodist/Wesleyan Heritage students a financial boost to further their educational goals. Our scholarship committee awards scholarships from generous donors and endowments. Eligible students must be Mississippi residents, active in a United Methodist/Wesleyan Heritage congregation or Wesley Foundation in Mississippi. Non-seminary graduate & undergraduate students are eligible for up to four(4) scholarship awards.

College Scholarship 

To be considered for a scholarship through the Methodist Foundation of Mississippi, applicants must meet at least one of the eligibility criteria listed below and submit all required documentation.

All college applicants must submit a Pastor Certification Form signed by a pastor from one of the eligible churches or ministries listed below.

Education - Higher Education

Patrick J. Kiley/Houston AGC Scholarship

Greater Houston Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Patrick J. Kiley / Houston AGC Scholarship

Benefiting employees, dependents of employees, and/or interns of AGC Houston member firms OR students involved in AGC Student Chapters.

Award Amounts

Multiple awards are given each year. Scholarship award amounts will vary for each selected scholarship recipient.

Vocational & Trade Education

Turner-Howard Scholarship

The Marietta Kiwanis Foundationinc
Private
United States
US $2,500

We are about helping children, right here in Marietta!

Kiwanis Club of Marietta members participate in service projects, hold fundraisers, and change children’s lives in our community. In addition, club members contribute to Kiwanis International initiatives helping clubs around the world assist children with education, basic needs, and medical care.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta was chartered March 3, 1930 - Marietta, GA.

The Kiwanis Club of Marietta has proudly established and contributed to several scholarship endowments over the years to support deserving college students in our community. These scholarships are made possible through our club's Flag Project, which places over 1,300 American flags in front of homes and businesses five times each year.

Turner-Howard Scholarship

This is a memorial scholarship established in 1988 by Mr. and Mrs. James L. Howard in memory of their late mothers, Mary Miller Turner and Ellie Morris Howard. 

This undergraduate or graduate scholarship is available to a student who is entering or attending an accredited college or university AND who is either a staff member of the Cobb County Schools or the Marietta City Schools or who is a dependent of such a staff member. Selection emphasis will be placed on academic achievement and character.

Education - Higher Education

Pediatric Hidradenitis Suppurativa Challenge Grant

Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $50,000

Pediatric Hidradenitis Suppurativa Challenge Grant

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a devastating chronic inflammatory disease that manifests as recurrent painful nodules under the skin in the intertriginous areas of the body. It is associated with significant impacts on quality of life, psychosocial well-being, and long-term health outcomes of patients as well as consequences for families and caregivers. HS is prevalent, affecting between 1 and 4% of the population beginning in adolescence and persisting into adulthood. Despite the impact of HS, it remains underdiagnosed, undertreated, and understudied particularly in the pediatric and adolescent populations. Contributing to this dynamic are unknowns related to a complex disease etiology, stigma associated with HS symptoms (e.g., sweating, itching, and scarring commonly in the genital region), and limited treatment options to date with even fewer available for children under the age of 12.

To address the needs of children and adolescents living with HS, the Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA), HS Connect, and the HS Foundation are offering the 2026 Pediatric HS Challenge Grant to support an early-to-mid career investigator for a one-year project focused on a high-priority, patient-centric research topic.

Focus

Proposals should address one or more of the following high-priority research topics:

  • Predicting treatment effectiveness and risk utilizing real world evidence and/or experience
  • Early disease and factors involved in severe disease development
  • Optimizing surgical and procedural approaches to minimize pain, shorten healing time, and reduce recurrence
  • Improving recruitment of diverse and representative populations for clinical studies, trials and advanced therapeutics

Funding:

  • Up to $50,000 to support one year of research
  • One award anticipated for this funding cycle
Children’s Health & Pediatrics

Harry and Carol Kuzmick Scholarship

Scranton Area Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to an individual who is a resident of Northeastern Pennsylvania, and who intends to pursue a degree from a college or university.

Education - Higher Education

PLTW Launch - New Program (John Deere)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $10,000
The PLTW Launch program, in partnership with the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education access for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in implementing PLTW Launch modules, fostering equitable opportunities for students. With a commitment to enroll at least 50% of students from the Free and Reduced Lunch program, the program focuses on real-world skills development to prepare youth for future challenges. The goal is to empower one million students by 2030.
STEM / STEAM Education

PLTW Gateway - New Program (John Deere)

Project Lead The Way Inc
Private
Barnes County, North Dakota, Black Hawk County, Iowa +22 more
US $20,000
The PLTW Gateway program, supported by the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education access for underserved communities. By 2030, they intend to assist 1 million youth through inclusive educational opportunities. Schools within 40 miles of John Deere facilities can apply for grants to implement PLTW Gateway units, promoting real-world skill development. Priority is given to schools that demonstrate need and ensure student enrollment in these programs, fostering a strong foundation for future success.
STEM / STEAM Education

John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund

Battle Creek Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Every Battle Creek area resident shall have the resources to access post-secondary education and training.

Your dreams matter — and we want to help you achieve them. Whether you’re a graduating high school senior, an adult returning to school, or a graduate student pursuing advanced education, we’re here to support you by opening doors to opportunity.

Beyond tuition, many funds support total cost of attendance — books, fees, equipment, and in some cases childcare or transportation.

Checks are made payable to the educational institution indicated on the follow-up and mailed directly to the educational institution. Checks are typically mailed in early August.

John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund

The John "Jack" and Jo Schils Scholarship Fund was established by the Schils family in 2020 as a memorial tribute to John "Jack" Schils, a multi-sports coach, athletic director, teacher, principal, father, grandfather, husband and friend to many. This fund supports students from the Battle Creek Public Schools District where Jack was employed from 1958 until his retirement in 1986.

Education - Higher Education

Emily Stover Memorial Scholarship

Community Foundation for Nantucket
Private
United States
US $1,000 - US $10,000
The Emily Stover Memorial Scholarship offers $2,000 annually to support outstanding members of the Nantucket community. This scholarship is aimed at individuals who are dedicated to helping others and are pursuing careers that reflect this commitment. Eligible applicants must be Nantucket residents attending accredited colleges or universities, demonstrating a passion for community service and a desire to make a positive impact.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Arden & Dorothy Baie Scholarship

DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation for Agriculture
Association/Society
United States
US $2,400

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. 

Arden & Dorothy Baie Scholarship

This scholarship was established in memory of Arden and Dorothy Baie. The Baie Scholarship is available to college sophomores, juniors and seniors pursuing any field of study. One, $2,400 will be awarded to a deserving student.

Education - Higher Education

Keisling Family Scholarship

Scranton Area Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating senior from a Lackawanna County High School.

Education - Higher Education

George W. “Bill” and Ann Marie Stanley 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. 

George W. “Bill” and Ann Marie Stanley Scholarship

To honor Bill and Ann Marie Stanley, family members created this scholarship in their memory. This scholarship is for sophomores, juniors and seniors in college majoring in any field of study. One, $2,000 scholarship will be awarded annually.

Education - Higher Education

Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship

Watson Brown Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $3,000
The Watson-Brown Foundation Scholarship offers need and merit-based financial assistance to students from Georgia and South Carolina attending accredited four-year colleges. Established in 1970, the foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged youth, awarding over $2.4 million annually. Eligible students can receive up to $3,000 per semester to cover educational expenses, supporting their academic journey while encouraging responsible scholarship and historic preservation.
Education - Higher Education

DeKalb County Farm Bureau High School Senior 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.

High School Senior Scholarship

The DeKalb County Farm Bureau Foundation endeavors to recognize students for their academic, school and community performance while in high school. The recognition is in the form of a scholarship to the student’s college of choice. 

Senior Scholarship

The Senior Scholarship recognizes students for their academic performance, school activities, leadership, and community service. The $1,200 scholarship is available to high school seniors pursuing college degrees in any field of interest. Up to ten scholarships will be awarded.

Education - Higher Education

Armstrong Foundation Grants

Armstrong Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Armstrong Foundation, established in 1949, focuses on funding educational initiatives that promote the significance of the U.S. Constitution. To be eligible, organizations must provide an IRS determination letter confirming their 501(c)(3) status. This foundation aims to enhance public understanding and appreciation of constitutional values through various educational mediums.
American History

JSF Scholarships for Economically Disadvantaged Students

Theodore R And Vivian M Johnson Scholarship Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, United States
Unspecified amount
The JSF Scholarships aim to empower economically disadvantaged students by providing financial assistance for their education. This initiative addresses barriers to education and employment, enabling students to achieve academic success and meaningful careers. The Foundation supports various scholarship programs, partnering with schools and universities, and focusing on areas such as financial need and mentorship. By fostering educational opportunities, the JSF Scholarships contribute significantly to community development and individual empowerment.
Academic Scholarship Programs

Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship

Frazier Family Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000

Frazier Family Foundation

Lynn Frazier, together with his two sons, Garrett and Derrick, created The Frazier Family Foundation in 2018 with the mission to provide resources, education, and opportunities to foster on-ramps of excellence for future generations of innovators and creators.

The Frazier Family Foundation empowers young innovators and creators through grants, scholarships, and partner programs. Committed to its mission, the foundation partners with entities that make immediate, meaningful, and measurable impacts. Each year, the Frazier Family invests in initiatives that develop on-ramps of excellence at every stage of life.

Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship

The Frazier Family Foundation Scholarship is designed to provide "on-ramps of excellence" for the next generation of leaders, innovators, and thinkers in the Coastal Bend area by providing essential financial support to those with the grit and vision to succeed. Aimed at high school seniors and college students in Nueces County, this scholarship seeks to reduce the barriers to higher education and foster a community of driven individuals who are eager to push boundaries and exceed expectations. With a commitment to nurturing local talent and enhancing educational opportunities, the Frazier Family Foundation is dedicated to cultivating a legacy of empowerment and success in South Texas.

Eligible recipients can receive a scholarship up to $10,000 for tuition, books, registration, transportation, meal plan supplement, lab fees, and supplies.

Education - Higher Education

Haynes Foundation: Archival Grants

John Randolph Haynes And Dora Haynes Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
Unspecified amount
The Haynes Foundation offers Archival Grants to support cataloging and archival projects at libraries in Los Angeles. These grants focus on materials relevant to Southern California and public policy, considering factors like rarity and completeness. Notable past recipients include The Huntington Library and the Japanese American National Museum. Partial funding is typically provided, and preference is given to applicants securing matching funds from other sources. Interested applicants should notify the Foundation before submitting a proposal.
Historical Records & Archives

Margaret Ford Smucker and Lloyd K. Smucker Scholarship Fund

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
More than US $500

Margaret Ford Smucker and Lloyd K. Smucker Scholarship Fund

The fund was established in memory of Margaret Ford and Lloyd K. Smucker by their son, John L. Smucker. Margaret and Lloyd Smucker lived most of their adult lives in Medina County, and Margaret Smucker taught in the Medina County public schools for many of those years. This fund provides scholarships annually to assist economically disadvantaged graduates of high schools in Medina County, Ohio to continue their education through college.

Education - Higher Education

CCF: Centinela Valley Medical & Community Funds – Integration, Collaboration, Advocacy

California Community Foundation
Private
Los Angeles County, California
More than US $100,000
The CCF: Centinela Valley Medical & Community Funds grant aims to enhance health access and policy advocacy for immigrants in South L.A. The California Community Foundation invites nonprofits to apply for funding that promotes integrated health services and addresses health disparities. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations serving Los Angeles County and ensure non-discrimination in their services. The program targets residents in specific zip codes, fostering collaboration among local health entities.
Immigrant Services

Kenneth B. Creasy Speech and Debate Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $5,000

Kenneth B. Creasy Speech and Debate Scholarship

The scholarship was created to honor the late Kenneth B. Creasy, who died unexpectedly in June of 1992. Mr. Creasy was a former social studies teacher and speech and debate coach at Olentangy and Hayes high schools in Delaware County, Ohio.

Award Amount:

  • One $5,000 scholarship for a graduating high school senior. 
  • One $5,000 scholarship for a current college student.
Education - Higher Education

Ingram-White Castle Team Member Scholarship

The Columbus Foundation
Private
United States
US $2,500 - US $3,500

Ingram-White Castle Team Member Scholarship 

The Ingram-White Castle Foundation established its scholarship in 1989 to honor founder Billy Ingram’s core belief in the importance of investment in learning and education. The scholarship may be used for any educational expenses for full-time or part-time study at any accredited public or independent college or university in the United States.

Award Amount:

  • $2,500 to $3,500
Education - Higher Education

West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C. Scholarship

Community Foundation for Muskegon County
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Community Foundation for Muskegon County

At the Community Foundation for Muskegon County, we work with donors, grantees, and advisors to address key community issues.

The mission of the Community Foundation is to engage donors and connect them with opportunities to make a lasting impact, build community endowment, provide leadership on key issues, and make grants that reflect the communities we serve.

Scholarships

Our scholarship funds seek to empower and encourage Muskegon County residents to pursue their dreams, hone in their gifts, and give back to our community.

If you’re a high school or homeschooled senior, current college student, early college senior, or adult learner, the Community Foundation for Muskegon County may have a scholarship for you. We manage one of the largest scholarship programs in our area, with over $1 million committed to students in over 500 new and renewed scholarships awarded each year.

West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C. Scholarship

This scholarship has been made possible by the generosity of West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P.C., who established the West Shore Cardiology Consultants, P. C. Scholarship of the Community Foundation for Muskegon County. The five partners, Dr. Carl Gebuhr, Dr. Ralph Ryan, Dr. Mark Meengs, Dr. John Skallerup, and Dr. Gregory Bernath, felt they "...wanted to give something back to the community," and therefore chose a scholarship fund because of a strong commitment to education and its impact on an individual's success. Awards are for Muskegon County students with merit and financial need.

Education - Higher Education

Alpha Delta Pi Foundation: Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Endowment

Alpha Delta Pi Foundation Inc
Private
Canada, United States
US $2,000 - US $10,000
The Alpha Delta Pi Foundation, a private funder, established the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Endowment to support local RMHC Chapters in the U.S. and Canada that lack adequate backing from Alpha Delta Pi collegiate or alumnae associations. Since 1979, over $22 million has been contributed to RMHC, with grants ranging from $2,000 to $10,000 available for houses, renovations, and family room expansions, fostering a strong philanthropic partnership.
Real Estate & Housing

Operating Grants for Nonprofits in California Highlights

Looking for operating grants for nonprofits in California?


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

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

Grant Insights : Operating Grants for Nonprofits in California

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

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

400+ Operating grants for nonprofits in California grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

200+ Operating grants for nonprofits in California over $25K in average grant size

200+ Operating grants for nonprofits in California over $50K in average grant size

38 Operating grants for nonprofits in California supporting general operating expenses

300+ Operating grants for nonprofits in California supporting programs / projects

3,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Education

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Health & Medicine

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Operating grants for Nonprofits 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 Operating Grants for Nonprofits 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 Operating Grants for Nonprofits 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 Operating Grants for Nonprofits 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 Operating Grants for Nonprofits 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

Browse Other Nonprofit Operations & Capacity Grants in California

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