Best Renewable Energy Grants in California

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Roger Arliner Young (RAY) Fellowship Program, managed by the Environmental Leadership Program, aims to foster conservation and clean energy careers for emerging leaders of color. This two-year paid fellowship provides recent graduates with professional development, mentorship, and networking opportunities. Ideal candidates are those with a passion for social and environmental justice, who identify as part of historically marginalized groups, and are committed to community engagement. The program emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in the environmental sector.

The Matson Foundation, a corporate entity, emphasizes community involvement through charitable donations. They support a diverse range of areas including maritime conservation, education, human services, culture, and civic programs. Eligible organizations must be qualified non-profits, with a primary focus on community support where Matson operates. The foundation prioritizes projects that engage local communities, ensure sustainability, and demonstrate measurable impact, while adhering to specific eligibility and ineligibility criteria for funding.

Edison International's Community Grants Program partners with local nonprofits focused on education, the environment, public safety, and civic engagement. With a commitment to supporting underserved communities, the program has contributed $20 million to initiatives that improve air quality, enhance disaster preparedness, and promote diversity. The grants prioritize educational programs emphasizing STEM and environmental sustainability, aiming to empower diverse populations and foster community resilience in Southern California.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The SLOCCF General Grant Program, managed by the San Luis Obispo County Community Foundation, provides unrestricted funding to local nonprofits serving the community. This competitive grant process involves a thorough review by an external committee focused on enhancing access to opportunities and dismantling disparities. Eligible organizations must primarily benefit San Luis Obispo County residents and hold a valid 501(c)(3) status. Grants are available for arts, environment, health, and services for seniors and individuals with disabilities.

The Entergy Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting initiatives that foster thriving communities through education, poverty solutions, and environmental programs. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities. Key areas include education development, innovative poverty solutions, and environmental restoration efforts, such as coastal wetland preservation. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least three months before funding is needed, ensuring timely support for impactful community projects.

The Roy A. Hunt Foundation's Environment Initiative Grants aim to support projects that enhance ecological health and sustainability. With an annual budget of approximately $3.4 million, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote responsible environmental practices, clean energy, and waste reduction. Grants between $25,000 and $75,000 are available for projects at various levels, focusing on innovative solutions that foster community partnerships and address root causes of environmental challenges.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.

The Laird Norton Family Foundation, based in Seattle, prioritizes grants that reflect family values in arts education, climate change, human services, and watershed stewardship. Their approach emphasizes equitable educational opportunities, carbon sequestration, support for youth at risk of homelessness, and long-term ecological health. They focus on organizations that address social justice and community needs, particularly in King County, WA, and the West Coast. Note: No unsolicited applications are accepted.

The SMUD's Shine Award Program aims to foster inclusive community partnerships by providing equitable support to enhance neighborhoods. It focuses on social well-being, healthy environments, and economic prosperity while prioritizing funding for projects that promote clean energy solutions, energy efficiency, and community education. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations within SMUD’s service territory. The program offers various awards to support impactful initiatives that can be quickly implemented or require longer-term investments.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative provides funding for energy efficiency projects in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative cultural leadership. Grants up to $25,000 support institutions in evaluating energy mitigation opportunities, enhancing efficiency, and reducing emissions. Eligible applicants include museums and visual arts schools across the U.S. The initiative encourages sustainable practices while assisting organizations in understanding their energy needs and planning for effective interventions within a project timeline of 18 months.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative offers implementation grants aimed at enhancing energy efficiency in visual arts museums, addressing climate change through innovative projects. With deadlines extended for those affected by the LA Fires, eligible institutions can apply for funding ranging from $50,000 to $100,000. This initiative supports museums of all sizes, helping them reduce emissions and operational costs while promoting sustainable practices in the arts sector.

The Alternative Fuel Foundation Grant aims to support educational institutions in developing programs focused on renewable energy and environmental sustainability. Grants typically range from $250 to $500, with larger amounts considered on a case-by-case basis. Eligible applicants include public or private K-12 schools and universities. The foundation encourages projects that promote alternative fuels and community involvement, with a preference for initiatives that can be completed within a year.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The Oak Foundation Grant supports not-for-profit organizations worldwide aiming to create a safer, fairer, and sustainable future. With a commitment to social justice, the foundation encourages innovative approaches and long-term partnerships. Grants range from USD 25,000 to USD 10 million, focusing on projects that address root causes, ensure sustainability, and foster collaboration. The foundation emphasizes inclusivity and flexibility, aiming to build resilient organizations capable of making lasting impacts.

The Equity and Access Grant Program: Clean Energy Access in LA County provides up to $200,000 for Community Based Organizations (CBOs) to enhance outreach and education on the TECH Clean CA initiative. This program focuses on building decarbonization and health impacts, particularly in underserved areas like the Aliso Canyon Disaster Area. It aims to connect communities to clean energy resources, increasing awareness and participation in sustainable practices while addressing public health and environmental challenges.

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative's Catalyst Grant supports organizations in the visual arts sector to take quick, impactful actions toward sustainability. Since 2021, the initiative has awarded over $10 million, fostering a shift to carbon-neutral operations. Eligible applicants include nonprofit entities that prioritize visual arts, aiming to reduce environmental impact through clean energy, efficiency improvements, and innovative practices. This grant promotes a greener future while enhancing the importance of arts education and ecological stewardship.

The Mayer and Morris Kaplan Foundation Environment Grant aims to support initiatives that combat climate change, prioritizing efforts to reduce fossil fuel consumption and enhance climate education for young adults. The foundation emphasizes innovative solutions and partnerships to address both immediate and long-term environmental challenges. Areas of focus include climate and clean energy policy, as well as providing scientifically accurate climate change education. By leveraging data and research, the foundation seeks to empower organizations dedicated to creating impactful change.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

HCLTech Grant Edition II focuses on impactful climate action by investing $5 million over five years to support NGOs in the Americas. This initiative aims to enhance sustainable projects that align with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). With a history of significant contributions in India, HCLTech is committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2040 and fostering innovative solutions to address pressing climate challenges. The grant encourages collaboration and aims to transform communities through effective climate action.