Best Youth Sports Grants in California

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available? 

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms? 

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients? 

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used? 

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

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.

The Urban and Community Forestry- Green Schoolyards grant aims to enhance outdoor environments for nonprofit child care facilities in California, focusing on climate resilience and educational opportunities. This initiative promotes tree planting and the transformation of pavements into green spaces, fostering natural learning environments. With funding ranging from $200,000 to $6,000,000, this program supports projects that mitigate extreme heat and improve urban ecology, benefiting both children and surrounding communities.

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) invites applications for the EDUC 1.5 Funding Opportunity to manage the SPARK Annual Meeting. This initiative aims to support the development and management of the 2026 meeting, promoting advancements in regenerative medicine. With a funding limit of $118,000 for eligible costs, this opportunity seeks a qualified applicant to enhance CIRM's education and training programs, ultimately delivering transformative treatments equitably to diverse communities.

The California Institute for Regenerative Medicine (CIRM) offers funding opportunities for clinical trials focused on regenerative medicine therapies, including stem cell and genetic therapies. This initiative aims to accelerate the development of innovative treatments for unmet medical needs, providing up to $15 million for clinical studies. CIRM emphasizes partnership and resource support to ensure project success, addressing the critical stages of clinical trial development within a 48-month project period.

The DISC5 Awards, funded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, aim to support innovative research in stem cell technologies that enhance patient care. Grants of up to $1.5 million for individual projects and $3 million for team efforts are available, with a project duration of up to three years. These awards encourage collaboration and focus on addressing critical knowledge gaps in regenerative medicine, promoting diversity and inclusivity in research.

The Lunch at the Library program in California supports public libraries in providing summer meals for children and youth. It offers grants and resources to establish USDA meal sites and engage families with sustainable food education. Libraries can also implement Youth Development programs, enhancing community services alongside meal provision. This initiative promotes healthy eating and educational opportunities, aiming to connect families with locally sourced food while addressing food insecurity during the summer months.

The Growing Healthy Kids Grant, funded by The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, aims to support community-based programs that enhance children's nutrition access and health education. With grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, this initiative focuses on hands-on programs that promote healthy habits among children and their families. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates, helping to ensure that the funds directly benefit local communities.

The Virginia H. Glasson Charitable Trust Grant supports Christian charitable organizations and preferred beneficiaries. It funds projects in areas such as education, scientific research, religious activities, and arts and culture. Eligible applicants are nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, located in states such as California, Colorado, Florida, Missouri, North Carolina, and Washington D.C. However, individuals cannot apply for funding.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The Western SARE Local Education and Demonstration Grants aim to promote sustainable agriculture through practical demonstrations and educational activities. This program addresses barriers to adopting sustainable practices by integrating findings from previous research. Projects can last up to three years and receive funding of up to $60,000. Successful proposals involve local demonstrations, trainings, and technical assistance, engaging farmers, ranchers, and agricultural professionals in the process of sustainable agriculture adoption.

The Beneficial State Foundation offers sponsorships to 501(c)(3) organizations in California, Oregon, and Washington, focusing on social justice and environmental work. With a unique business model, Beneficial State Bank reinvests profits back into communities, emphasizing support for existing clients. Organizations must submit requests at least 60 days in advance and cannot use funds for political activities. The foundation prioritizes partnerships, making funding competitive due to high demand.

The Bike Safety and Awareness Grant, offered by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, aims to enhance community education on bike safety and coexistence with vehicles. With a total of $17,000 available, two grants of up to $8,500 each will be awarded. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) designated and promote cycling safety in California. This initiative honors Maggie, a dedicated advocate for bike safety, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to impactful philanthropy.

California Natural Resources Agency

The California Natural Resources Agency oversees and supports more than 26 distinct departments, conservancies, and commissions. Our Agency Executive Team leads efforts to steward California’s natural environment and to advance Governor Newsom’s key priorities.

Over 25,000 Californians work within our Agency all across the state to meet our mission to protect, manage, and restore the state’s environment and its vast natural, cultural, and historical resources. We advance this work with science as our foundation and inclusion and collaboration as our guiding principles.

Urban Greening Grant Program

Funding Purpose

The Urban Greening Grant Program will fund projects that use nature-based solutions to mitigate the urban heat island effect, rising temperatures, and extreme heat impacts in urban areas.

Nature-based solutions include all the ways land can be managed to boost the health and resilience of natural systems, helping them store carbon and protect against climate change impacts, including extreme heat. Nature-based solutions that address extreme heat impacts use natural cooling strategies to limit temperature increase and urban heat islands. Examples include planting trees that provide strategic shade, expanding green spaces that serve as places of refuge during heat waves, and increasing tree canopy cover in cities, communities, and schoolyards.

Successful projects will green and cool communities and offer multiple benefits including sequestering carbon, limiting stormwater runoff, providing habitat and preserving biodiversity, protecting public health during extreme heat, increasing equity, and expanding economic and workforce opportunities. Funded projects are expected to advance the goals of the State’s Extreme Heat Action Plan and Nature-Based Solutions Climate Targets. 

AgWest Farm Credit offers the Rural Community Grants program aimed at enhancing the economic and social well-being of rural communities in the western United States. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants up to $5,000 for various community projects, such as facility improvements and equipment purchases. Applications are reviewed monthly, and a letter of support from an AgWest employee or customer is required. The program is committed to fostering innovative solutions for rural challenges.

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.

In just one application, our Common Scholarship Application provides students access to more than 150 scholarship opportunities with awards ranging from $1,000 to more than $5,000.

In 2025, San Diego Foundation awarded a record-breaking $5.5 million in scholarships to nearly 1,400 students.

Witt Matheny Scholarship

Plan to enroll full-time at an accredited community college or licensed career/technical school in California in fall.

Depending on the scholarship, it may pay for tuition, room and board, books, fees and/or other related educational expenses. This will be outlined in your award notification.

Cathy Hopper Memorial Scholarship

Cathy Hopper was a long-time educator and resident of San Diego County. She received her Master of Arts in Education from San Diego State University. She was a teacher in the social studies classroom of Gompers Middle School and then Taft Middle School. She became Vice Principal at Madison, then Patrick Henry High which she helped open. Cathy became Principal at Wright Brothers Career High, then Bell Jr. High and was the first Principal at University City High, being one of only two women high school principals at the time. Cathy then served as Assistant Superintendent of Operations for the San Diego Unified School District. She was one of the administrators during the tumultuous integration movement and worked tirelessly to allay fears and helped make for a peaceful transition. Upon her retirement, Cathy helped inaugurate the Aaron Price Fellows Scholarship Program.

This scholarship may be used for tuition, books, and fees room & board, and other educational expenses.

The scholarship may be renewable (depending upon available funds) for up to two years total, provided the student maintains a minimum 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale, good citizenship record, and continues to have financial need.

• Average number of awards: 7-9
• Average amount of award: $5,000

The College Women’s Club of Pasadena Scholarship, established in 1921, provides financial assistance to full-time female students in California, particularly those from select local colleges. The scholarship aims to support women who are sophomores or above, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, and who plan to enroll full-time in the upcoming academic year. Managed by the Pasadena Community Foundation since 2016, it has awarded over $1.3 million to help more than 660 women achieve their educational goals.

The Los Angeles Rams Foundation supports local charitable organizations by providing autographed memorabilia for fundraising events. Each organization can request one donated item per year, with priority given to requests from the Los Angeles area. Although the Rams cannot fulfill requests for autographing merchandise, their contributions help raise significant funds through auctions and raffles, making a positive impact in the community. Please allow at least six weeks for processing.

Coover/Rural Schools Partnership Celebrate Rural Schools Grant Program

The Louis L. and Julia Dorothy Coover Foundation, a partnership between Community Foundation of the Ozarks and The Commerce Trust Company is proud to offer the Celebrate Rural Schools grant program, which will support projects that celebrate, strengthen, and elevate the unique identity of rural schools and the communities they serve. This grant supports projects that celebrate the unique culture, achievements, and identity of rural schools and their communities. It encourages districts to amplify local voices, showcase student success, and strengthen community connections. 

• Eligible applicants must be a member of the CFO's Rural Schools Partnership program.
• Total amount to award is $100,000.00.
• This is a single year grant program with final reports due in May 2027.
• Applicants may apply for up to $5,000 in funding for this grant cycle. 

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks and its Rural Schools Partnership Program are committed to supporting rural schools. In awarding grants, the CFO and its affiliates will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status. As part of the grant process, all grantees will be required to affirm that, in providing services funded in whole or in part by a CFO grant, the grantee will not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, religion, national origin, age, ability, sexual orientation, gender identity or veteran status either in its employment practices or in its policies and procedures concerning access to services. 

The San Diego Foundation

We enable donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

For 50 years, donors, nonprofits, communities, government and civic leaders have trusted San Diego Foundation to transform lives and have partnered with us for lasting change that moves our region forward.

As San Diego’s largest regional community foundation, it’s our job to understand the pulse of our local communities better than anyone, enabling donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

Community Scholarship Program

Since 1997, the Community Scholarship Program has awarded $59.5 million to more than 15,400 students, making our program the largest non-university scholarship provider in San Diego County. By offering financial assistance, the program helps students dedicate more time to their studies, stay enrolled and complete their degrees.

The Scholarship Foundation Inc of California Retired Teachers Association of North San Diego County

The Scholarship Foundation Inc of California Retired Teachers Association of North San Diego County applicants should:

• Be graduating high school seniors from a public high school in North San Diego County
• Plan to attend full-time a public community college or university in California majoring in education OR
• Be students who have entered or have been accepted into their fifth year of full-time schooling at a public university in California with the goal of achieving a teaching credential in the state of California
• Have a minimum unweighted GPA of 3.0 on a scale of 4.0
• Have shown a commitment to their community through meaningful community service

The Illegal Disposal Site Abatement Grant Program aims to provide financial assistance up to $500,000 to public entities for cleaning up illegal dumping sites. This initiative addresses the adverse effects of illegal waste disposal on community health, safety, and economic value. With critical deadlines for proposals and required documentation, the program seeks to restore affected areas and promote environmental stewardship, turning challenges into opportunities for local communities.

The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) provides essential funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of violent attacks and hate crimes. With a maximum of $250,000 available per location, nonprofits can submit up to two proposals to enhance their physical security. This initiative, funded by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, aims to strengthen safety measures and support vulnerable communities across the state.

The San Diego Foundation

We enable donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

For 50 years, donors, nonprofits, communities, government and civic leaders have trusted San Diego Foundation to transform lives and have partnered with us for lasting change that moves our region forward.

As San Diego’s largest regional community foundation, it’s our job to understand the pulse of our local communities better than anyone, enabling donors and nonprofit partners to tackle the most critical needs facing San Diegans.

Community Scholarship Program

Since 1997, the Community Scholarship Program has awarded $59.5 million to more than 15,400 students, making our program the largest non-university scholarship provider in San Diego County. By offering financial assistance, the program helps students dedicate more time to their studies, stay enrolled and complete their degrees.

The Lischewski Family Fund for Aspiring Collegians

The Lischewski Family Fund for Aspiring Collegians applicants should:

• Have resided in San Diego County for at least one year
• Be graduating high school seniors
• Plan to enroll full-time at a community college in California with the intent to earn an Associate of Arts or similar accreditation within two years
• Have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale
• Be engaged in their community through their involvement in extra-curricular, volunteer activities or work experience
• Have a demonstrated financial need.

The California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), Clean Vessel Act Education and Outreach Grant Program provide grants to support programs that educate California boaters and increase public awareness about boat sewage management and proper disposal. The goal of this grant program is to reduce recreational boater sewage from being discharged into California waterways.