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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

$4.24B

Total funding

$5K

Median grant

11,000+ grants
$4.24B total
$5K median

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10,627 Results based on applied filters

Core / General Operating Support: Cycle 1

Hutton Foundation A Delaware Corp
Private
Santa Barbara County, California
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Hutton Parker Foundation is offering Core/General Operating Support in 2025 to eligible nonprofit organizations in Santa Barbara County focused on Health & Human Services and Arts & Culture. This funding aims to enhance organizational capacity and sustainability by providing unrestricted funds for essential operations. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and have a strong management structure. Priority is given to programs benefiting underserved populations, particularly low-income children, older adults, and individuals facing disabilities or homelessness.
Art & Culture Child Welfare Services Youth Services +7 more

Michael L. Hamaker Memorial Scholarship

Marshall Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Michael L. Hamaker Memorial Scholarship

A scholarship awarded to a graduating senior or previous graduate from Marshall, Olivet or the surrounding area seeking a career in engineering, manufacturing or industrial technologies with programs such as, but not limited to, architecture, construction, drafting, electronics, welding and/or other related technologies. Applicants must demonstrate financial need. GPA is not a qualifying factor; however, transcripts and test scores are requested. Students who receive this scholarship are encouraged to apply for further support in subsequent years.

Architecture Engineering Education - Higher Education +2 more

Partnerships for Advancing Development of Diagnostics for Infectious Diseases

US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
Unspecified amount
The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) aims to enhance the development of diagnostic tests for infectious diseases through strategic partnerships between academia and industry. By fostering collaborations, NIAID seeks to overcome barriers to commercialization, ensuring promising diagnostics reach the market effectively. This initiative aligns with NIH's mission to advance innovative technologies that improve treatment and prevention strategies for infectious diseases, ultimately contributing to public health advancements.
Infectious & Parasitic Diseases Emerging Technology Development Allergies & Allergic Diseases

C. J. Stafford and Dot Stafford Memorial Trust Grant

C. J. Stafford and Dot Stafford Memorial Trust
Private
San Diego County, California
US $5,000 - US $7,500
The C. J. Stafford and Dot Stafford Memorial Trust Grant supports various charitable causes in San Diego County, California. Established in memory of C. J. Stafford and his wife Dot, the trust aims to fund organizations that serve local residents. Key program areas include arts, education, health, and human services. Eligible grantees must be recognized as public charities under IRC section 501(c)(3). The trust continues to impact the community positively by funding essential services.
Art & Culture Education Environmental Conservation +6 more

Maurice J. Masserini Trust Grant

Maurice J. Masserini Trust
Private
San Diego County, California
US $5,000 - US $15,000
The Maurice J. Masserini Trust Grant aims to support diverse charitable causes primarily in the San Diego area. Established in memory of Maurice Masserini, a World War I veteran and passionate investor, this grant focuses on arts, education, environmental initiatives, health, human services, and religious organizations. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, while start-ups and general operating support requests are typically not funded. The Trust prioritizes specific project requests to ensure impactful contributions.
Art & Culture Education Environmental Conservation +6 more

Hirsch Charitable Trust Grant

Gertrude L Hirsch Charitable Trust
Private
United States
US $5,000 - US $10,000
The Gertrude L. Hirsch Charitable Trust, founded in New Jersey, aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations for charitable and educational purposes. It focuses on various program areas including arts, education, environment, health, and human services. Although there are no geographic restrictions, preference is often given to organizations based in New Jersey. Additionally, funds awarded cannot be used outside the United States, ensuring that contributions remain within the country to benefit local communities.
Art & Culture Education Environmental Conservation +6 more

IMA Foundation Grant

IMA Financial Group
Corporate
Adams County, Colorado, Allegheny County, Pennsylvania +75 more
Unspecified amount
The IMA Foundation Grant focuses on empowering communities by supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to workforce development, financial security for families, and enhancing emergency preparedness. With a mission to provide philanthropic assistance, the foundation seeks partners that align with its vision and operational reach. Organizations must be 501c3 nonprofits and serve areas where IMA has offices, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact youth under 26 years of age.
Community Services Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Financial Literacy

Millennium Medical Women in Science and Medicine Scholarship

Bucks County Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount

Bucks County Foundation

Since our founding in 1979, the staff at BCF have been working closely with donors, local leaders, and nonprofit organizations to improve the quality of life in Bucks County. Our work with local charitable organizations helps to improve the health and wellbeing of children and families across the county.

Scholarships

The Bucks County Foundation is proud to support students throughout Bucks County in their pursuit of higher education and attainment of academic, trade and life skills that translate into economic self-sufficiency. Through the generosity of donors in our region, we manage over 100 scholarship distributions for a wide variety of students with diverse educational journeys.

Millennium Medical Women in Science and Medicine Scholarship

Provides scholarships to students attending high school in Bucks County who are planning to pursue a professional career in a scientific or medical related field such as Pre-Med, Nursing, Biology, Pharmacy, Chemistry, etc.

Education - Higher Education Nursing Medical Education & Professional Training +4 more

Fisheries Innovation Fund: Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program

National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)
Private
United States
US $200,000 - US $500,000
The Fisheries Innovation Fund's Electronic Monitoring and Reporting Grant Program aims to enhance fisheries management through electronic technologies. Administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), this initiative will support U.S. fisheries in implementing electronic monitoring tools to improve data collection, accessibility, and management. The program is open to various fisheries, including commercial and recreational sectors, promoting sustainable practices and fostering stakeholder involvement for better fishery information systems.
Fisheries Data Science & Digital Information Systems Marine / Ocean Conservation +1 more

The NRA Foundation Frontline Heroes Scholarship

The NRA Foundation, Inc
Private
United States
Up to US $10,000

About The NRA Foundation

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

The NRA Foundation Supports Freedom, Family, and the Future of the Shooting Sports

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans.

The heart of The NRA Foundation’s mission is preserving the core of our American values and traditions in our steadfast effort to Teach Freedom.

Established in 1990, The NRA Foundation, Inc. (“NRA Foundation”) is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization that raises tax-deductible contributions in support of a wide range of firearm-related public interest activities of the National Rifle Association of America and other organizations that defend and foster the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding Americans. These activities are designed to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those participating in the shooting sports, and to educate the general public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context. Funds granted by The NRA Foundation benefit a variety of constituencies throughout the United States including children, youth, women, individuals with physical disabilities, gun collectors, law enforcement officers, hunters and competitive shooters.

The NRA Foundation Frontline Heroes Scholarship

The NRA Foundation Board of Trustees has established the Frontline Heroes Scholarship to institute a memorial to this distinguished group of First Responders, Law Enforcement Officers, and Military personnel*, who have served continuously and unselfishly in the highest tradition of our great nation.

The Frontline Heroes Scholarship will give a one-time annual award of up to $10,000** for one eligible candidate.

First Responders Nursing Law +2 more

BIE Science Post Graduate Scholarship Fund

Native Forward Scholars Fund
Association/Society
United States
US $100 - US $30,000
The BIE Science Post Graduate Scholarship Fund offers financial assistance to American Indian and Alaska Native students pursuing full-time degrees in STEM fields at accredited institutions. This need-based award ranges from $100 to $30,000 per academic year, based on financial aid information provided by the institution's Financial Aid Office. Eligible students must demonstrate Tribal affiliation through a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.
Native American Services Indigenous Services Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Sustainable Development Grant Program

The Rockefeller Brothers Fund
Private
Bosnia and Herzegovina, China +3 more
Unspecified amount
The Sustainable Development Grant Program, funded by The Rockefeller Brothers Fund, aims to combat climate change by promoting ecological stewardship, economic viability, and social equity. It supports initiatives that enhance public understanding, implement clean energy solutions, and foster international cooperation. The program prioritizes projects that address the urgent threats posed by climate change while ensuring that development efforts are sustainable and inclusive for future generations.
Sustainability Climate Change Resilience & Equity Environmental Economics

The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship

Silicon Valley Community Foundation
Private
Alameda County, California, Contra Costa County, California +9 more
Up to US $5,000
The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship honors the legacy of Police Chief Harold "Hal" Johnson by providing financial support to aspiring law enforcement professionals. Established for students in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, it encourages those with a passion for public service and a commitment to criminal justice. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, showcasing leadership qualities and financial need, ensuring a new generation of dedicated law enforcement personnel.
Law Education - Higher Education Crime & Justice +2 more

National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) - FY2026/27

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
Federal Government
American Samoa, Guam +4 more
US $50,000 - US $400,000
The National Bycatch Reduction Engineering Program (BREP) for FY2026/27 offers competitive grants aimed at supporting non-Federal researchers. This initiative, governed by the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation and Management Act, focuses on developing innovative fishing practices and gear technologies to minimize bycatch and reduce post-release mortality of non-target species. By addressing bycatch reduction, the program seeks to enhance the sustainability of U.S. fisheries and aquaculture, aligning with the National Marine Fisheries Service's conservation goals.
Sustainability Ichthyology (Fish) Aquaculture +1 more

Marv VandenBosch Scholarship

Grand Haven Area Community Foundation
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Marv VandenBosch Scholarship, established by Sandra VandenBosch and her children in memory of Marv VandenBosch, supports Tri-Cities students pursuing careers in criminal justice or law enforcement. This scholarship considers financial need and requires applicants to have a minimum GPA of 2.5. The Grand Haven Area Community Foundation administers the scholarship through a competitive process, ensuring that each applicant is thoroughly reviewed to promote academic achievement and community involvement.
Education - Higher Education Educational Access & Equity Law +2 more

Boomer Esiason Foundation: Academic Scholarship

Boomer Esiason Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $45,000
The Boomer Esiason Foundation Academic Scholarship provides crucial financial support to students with cystic fibrosis. This scholarship not only alleviates educational expenses but also recognizes students who exhibit resilience and academic excellence. Annually, the foundation awards scholarships to deserving candidates, ensuring they can pursue their educational goals without overwhelming financial stress. Eligible applicants must demonstrate strong character and leadership while maintaining academic achievement. With awards up to $30K for undergraduates and $45K for graduates, this scholarship is pivotal for affected students.
Cystic Fibrosis Academic Scholarship Programs Education - Higher Education

Alex O Santillanes Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Alex O. Santillanes Scholarship, administered by the Community Foundation of NCW, honors the legacy of Alex O. Santillanes, a dedicated youth advocate in the Yakima Valley. This scholarship supports Hispanic high school seniors from the region pursuing higher education in Washington. Eligible applicants must have a minimum GPA of 2.0 and demonstrate resilience against social and economic inequities, particularly those from single-parent families. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Junior Hamilton Memorial Baseball Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Junior Hamilton Memorial Baseball Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports graduating seniors from Wenatchee, Eastmont, or Westside High Schools. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 2.85 and have participated in a high school baseball program for at least two years. This scholarship honors Junior Hamilton's legacy, empowering student-athletes and mariachi students to pursue higher education and achieve their dreams.
Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs Baseball & Softball +1 more

Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship

Community Foundation of North Central Washington
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Kathryn Lodge Mhatre Creative Writing Scholarship honors the memory of Kathryn Lodge Mhatre, a passionate writer and compassionate individual who tragically lost her battle with mental illness. Established by her parents, this scholarship supports students from Chelan or Douglas County pursuing creative writing. Eligible applicants must have a minimum 3.0 GPA and provide a writing sample, reflecting Kathryn's dedication to learning and her love for storytelling.
Education - Higher Education Education - High School Academic Scholarship Programs +1 more

Viola Pfaff Bowman Memorial Scholarship

Hamilton County Community Foundation Inc
Private
United States
Unspecified amount
The Viola Pfaff Bowman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Hamilton County Community Foundation, supports high school students in Hamilton County, particularly those from Hamilton Heights, Noblesville, Sheridan, and Westfield High Schools. Candidates must be pursuing a degree in communications or business and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship honors Viola Pfaff Bowman, a dedicated alumna who inspired many through her involvement in school media. It encourages students with media program experience to apply.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment Education - High School +2 more

Allen Butler Minority Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund

Boreal Waters Community Foundation
Private
United States
Up to US $1,000
The Allen Butler Minority Law Enforcement Scholarship Fund, established by the Duluth African American Men’s Group, supports young people of color from Duluth pursuing law enforcement training at post-secondary institutions. This initiative honors Allen Butler, a dedicated Duluth police officer. The scholarship aims to empower eligible applicants who have graduated from local high schools or earned GEDs, demonstrating a commitment to community engagement and academic achievement in Criminal Justice or Law Enforcement.
Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Crime & Justice +1 more

The Barbara Owen Research Grant

Westfield Center for Historical Keyboard Studies
Association/Society
United States
US $2,000

About Us

Mission Statement

The Westfield Center for Historical Keyboard Studies offers a unique environment for the study, appreciation, use, and promotion of a wide range of keyboard instruments. To serve an increasingly diverse audience, the Center presents keyboard-related conferences, workshops, concerts, masterclasses, educational programs, and publishes scholarly work at regular intervals; longstanding priorities have included the intersections of historical practices and technologies with larger social and artistic developments. In its activities and governance, the Center seeks to foster inclusion and equity among artists, builders, scholars, educators, students, enthusiasts, and partner organizations.

Since its founding in 1979, the Center has sponsored over one hundred events, including workshops, research conferences and symposia, tours to historic instruments, solo recitals and early music concerts, and educational programs designed to interest the general public in keyboard instruments and their repertoire.

Members include highly acclaimed artists, noted scholars, some of the world’s greatest instrument builders, and music lovers.

The Barbara Owen Research Grant

A lifelong member of the Westfield Center, Barbara Owen made immense contributions to our understanding of the organ and its music. She was especially known for her scholarship on the American organ and organists, and she co-wrote the Grove Dictionary article on the organ, a standard reference work. To honor her memory, the Westfield Center will award a $2000 grant for research into historical keyboard instruments (organ, harpsichord, clavichord, fortepiano). The research may culminate in a scholarly article or other format for presenting the information.

Music Classical Music

David E. Rogers Student Fellowship Award

New York Academy Of Medicine
Private
United States
US $4,000
The David E. Rogers Student Fellowship Award, offered by the New York Academy of Medicine, aims to enhance the educational journey of medical and dental students through impactful community health projects. This initiative supports research endeavors during the summer, providing stipends of $4,000 for up to five selected projects. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens or authorized residents, pursuing research that addresses health disparities and the needs of underserved populations.
Dental Health Medical Education & Professional Training Epidemiology & Public Health +2 more

Lam Research Core Values Scholarship

East Bay Community Foundation
Private
United States
US $10,000
The Lam Research Core Values Scholarship, offered by the East Bay Community Foundation, supports high school seniors from specific districts in California and Oregon. Recipients are awarded $10,000 over four years, promoting educational success. Eligible students must exemplify Lam's Core Values, maintain a GPA of 2.7 or higher, and plan to attend a college or technical school. This scholarship aims to empower diverse youth in their educational pursuits and foster community development.
Education - Higher Education Academic Success & Enrichment Academic Scholarship Programs +2 more

Rappahannock Industrial Academy Alumni Association Scholarship

The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond
Private
United States
US $1,500

Our Story

Established over 50 years ago, our founders redefined local philanthropy, fostering connections around a shared sense of place and purpose. As Virginia's largest community foundation, we bring people together to pool resources, co-create solutions and align actions for impactful change in the Richmond region.

Scholarships are offered to students living in the Richmond region and other Virginia locations. Each scholarship was established by a generous individual, family, or organization with a desire to assist high school students, recent high school graduates, and adult learners to continue their education. 

Rappahannock Industrial Academy Alumni Association Scholarship

Rappahannock Industrial Academy Alumni Association Scholarship Fund was established in 2004 by the Academy’s alumni to provide educational scholarships to qualifying African American students residing in one of the following counties: Essex, King and Queen and Middlesex. Students may attend public or private school.

Recipients will be encouraged to use this educational opportunity to enrich the lives of others in their home community. The Rappahannock Industrial Academy opened its doors on January 1, 1902 to provide secondary education for African American residents in the area. The Alumni Association has for many years awarded scholarships to students from Essex, Middlesex, and King and Queen Counties. 

Education - Higher Education Career / College Preparation Black American Services +1 more

PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship

Architecture Foundation of Oregon (AFO)
Association/Society
United States
Up to US $20,000
The PAE Diversity in Engineering Scholarship offers a renewable $5,000 award for undergraduate students from marginalized ethnic backgrounds or genders pursuing engineering at a U.S. university. Established in 2024 in partnership with PAE, the scholarship aims to enhance diversity in engineering fields, focusing on candidates committed to climate justice. Awardees benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities with industry professionals, fostering both academic success and community impact.
Academic Scholarship Programs Black American Services Indigenous Services +1 more

Family Medicine Chapter Alliance Chapter Engagement Grants

American Academy of Family Physicians Foundation
Corporate
District of Columbia, Guam +3 more
US $750
The AAFP Foundation offers Family Medicine Chapter Engagement Grants to support the philanthropic initiatives of its constituent chapters. Each chapter or chapter foundation can receive $750 to highlight programs focused on Student/Resident education, Member Outreach, or Public Health. This initiative not only showcases the impactful work being done at the chapter level but also aids in fundraising efforts, fostering stronger community connections and improving health outcomes.
Primary Health Care Epidemiology & Public Health Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid +1 more

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: November 2, 2026. Next update: December 6, 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

37 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
27.8%
Q2
26.4%
Q3
22.9%
Q4
22.9%

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
$2,121,130 $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

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