Best Youth Sports Grants in California

Zoo Labs Fund, established in 2013, empowers Bay Area artist teams through unrestricted grants and mentorship. With over $910,000 awarded, the program supports culturally-rooted artists facing access challenges. In 2025, the Fund will provide $230,000 in grants, partnering with the Center for Cultural Innovation to enhance economic opportunities and foster a sustainable creative ecosystem. By prioritizing artist-led businesses, Zoo Labs Fund aims to enrich the local economy and preserve cultural expression through innovative support.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Wildlife Management and Research

RMEF funds wildlife management and research to keep big game healthy and thriving, including disease surveillance, big game-friendly fencing, road management, and scientific studies that expand our understanding of big game habitat, movement, interactions, and overall herd health.

RMEF’s 2026 priorities include:

• Research on migration + connectivity, critical habitat + nutrition, big game population trajectories, challenges to big game populations, and big game management solutions
• Big Game-Friendly Fencing

The Division of Boating and Waterways offers a Local Assistance Grant Program for the development of non-motorized boat launching facilities in California. Eligible applicants must own or control the project area and commit to operating and maintaining the facility for 20 years. The program aims to enhance public access to waterways, supporting local governments and agencies in improving marina infrastructure. Interested parties should contact the Division to discuss project suitability and application processes.

The GFO-25-301 initiative by the California Energy Commission seeks to fund innovative technology demonstrations that enhance the integration of distributed energy resources into commercial electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. By addressing barriers to energization and reducing costs for ratepayers, this program aims to foster advanced energy management systems and flexible utility agreements, ultimately benefiting both customers and the grid.

The Empty Glass Beverage Transportation Grant Program aims to enhance the transport of empty glass beverage containers to processing facilities in California via rail. With an annual budget of $1,000,000 from the Beverage Container Recycling Fund, this program supports projects that improve rail transport efficiency, including equipment purchases, construction of new rail lines, and related personnel costs. Eligible projects must ensure operations are conducted by California-based businesses.

The Division of Boating and Waterways offers a Public Beach Restoration Program aimed at the restoration and enhancement of public beaches. This program provides funding for the engineered placement of sand on beaches or in the nearshore environment, covering up to 85% of nonfederal project costs for nonstate beaches. Eligible applicants include public agencies, ensuring support for vital coastal infrastructure and community access to healthy beach environments.

The Division of Boating and Waterways' Shoreline Erosion Control Program addresses beach erosion and shoreline stabilization through strategic sand placement and hard structures like seawalls. Offering up to 50% funding for nonfederal project costs, this program aims to assist public agencies in planning and constructing effective coastal solutions. Key activities include coordinating studies and providing local assistance grants to enhance collaboration among various agencies focused on preserving California’s coastal areas.

The Society for Northwestern Vertebrate Biology (SNVB) offers scholarships of up to $1500 for two students conducting vertebrate research in Northwestern North America. Eligible applicants include undergraduate, masters, and PhD students who are enrolled in accredited institutions and members of SNVB. The scholarships cover research-related expenses such as travel and supplies. Preference is given to proposals from local institutions, and only one award is granted per applicant each year.

The California Garden Clubs Scholarship offers six $2,000 scholarships for the 2025-26 academic year, aimed at students with notable achievements or those who have completed two years of college. This initiative promotes horticulture and environmental conservation while encouraging civic beautification across California. The scholarships reflect the organization's commitment to fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural beauty of the state through education and community involvement.

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Start-Up Subgrant For the Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion of Charter Schools

Purpose and Background

The PCSGP is a subgrant program funded by the federal Charter Schools Program (CSP). The PCSGP is a discretionary grant program. California was awarded approximately $93 million in grant funds for 2024–29. States that are awarded these federal funds distribute them in subgrants to charter school developers, known as PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants in the state of California, to assist in the development and initial operations of newly established or conversion charter schools as well as to assist in the expansion and replication of high-quality charter schools.

PCSGP Start-Up Subgrants identify funding levels and terms into four subgrant types: Planning, Implementation, Replication, and Expansion. For FY 2025, the CDE has an approved pipeline and budget to award approximately 14 subgrants. The actual number and type of subgrants awarded during each RFA competition may vary based on demand. If all authorized awards are not approved for funding, the CDE may open additional RFA competition events for new applicants until all of the allocated funds have been awarded.

The Washington Federal Foundation offers Community Service Micro Grants aimed at supporting nonprofits that assist low- and moderate-income communities. Eligible organizations must have been operational for at least 12 months and be located near a WaFd Bank branch. The grants focus on essential services like housing assistance, financial literacy, and basic needs support, while excluding medical, animal welfare, and arts-related funding unless tied to employment for low-income populations.

The James W. Caughy and Florence L. Caughy Verbeek Vacaville High School Memorial Service Award Fund, managed by the Solano Community Foundation, honors students who demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to community service. This scholarship is specifically for Vacaville High School graduates with a minimum GPA of 3.0, planning to attend a four-year college in California, and who have engaged in community volunteer work for at least two years.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

Background

The purpose of DR-ACCEL is to address projects with funding gaps so they may move into construction. Funding available under this Project Solicitation is derived from CDBG-DR funds. No bond sale or similar financial arrangements are involved.

HUD requires that 80 percent of CDBG-DR funding be spent within areas designated as Most Impacted and Distressed (MID areas). HCD will spend 100 percent of the 2023 DR Allocation, including the mitigation set-aside, in the HUD MID areas for DR-4683. Data sources relating to these MID counties are further explained in the Unmet Needs Assessment section of the Action Plan.

Low-and moderate income (LMI) renters receive the least amount of resources after disasters yet face the largest need for housing. The housing programs were allocated based on data from Disaster Case Manager Providers (DCMPs). Based on data provided by DCMPs, the largest group of LMI populations impacted by DR-4683 are renters, who plan on continuing renting.

The following counties constitute the MID areas for DR-4683: Merced, Santa Cruz, San Joaquin, San Luis Obispo, and Ventura. Data sources relating to these MID counties are further explained in the Unmet Needs Assessment section of the Action Plan.

One of the prioritization criteria is distance to DR-4683 flooded areas. Projects closest to DR-4683 and not in 100-year flood plain areas will receive more points for this program.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Michelson Spark Grants aim to enhance affordable, equitable, and high-quality educational experiences through the use of Open Educational Resources (OER). This funding initiative focuses on addressing digital discrimination and promoting digital equity, particularly in underserved communities in California. By supporting impactful projects that leverage OER, the grants seek to foster innovation in education, ensuring that all students have access to valuable learning materials and opportunities.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

We work side-by-side with local donors and nonprofits to tackle the most important challenges our Valley faces.

Our Board and staff are completely dedicated to the people and causes of Napa Valley and represent communities from American Canyon to Calistoga. They share skills, perspectives and the collaborative spirit that define our Napa Valley diversity.

Skilled Trades Scholarship

The Skilled Trades Scholarship benefits graduating high school seniors, GED recipients and current community college students pursuing training and certification in Career Education or Career Technical Education Pathways at Napa Valley College, Santa Rosa Junior College, or Solano Community College. Recipients of the scholarship will receive funding for up to two years while working to complete their certification or degree.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The Increased Recycling of Empty Glass Beverage Containers Grant Program in California aims to enhance glass recycling efforts by funding regional pilot programs. Eligible applicants, including restaurants and retail establishments, can receive between $500,000 and $2,000,000 annually to implement collection initiatives. With a total funding pool of $4,000,000 available each fiscal year, this program encourages sustainable practices and aims to improve recycling rates statewide.

Napa Valley Community Foundation

We work side-by-side with local donors and nonprofits to tackle the most important challenges our Valley faces.

Our Board and staff are completely dedicated to the people and causes of Napa Valley and represent communities from American Canyon to Calistoga. They share skills, perspectives and the collaborative spirit that define our Napa Valley diversity.

Healthcare Scholarship Fund

The Healthcare Scholarship is made possible by Queen of the Valley Foundation and benefits Napa County residents enrolled in nursing and respiratory therapy programs at Napa Valley College or Pacific Union College. Previous recipients are eligible to reapply in subsequent years for additional funding while completing their studies.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

The Jonathan O. Davis Fellowship, offered by the Desert Research Institute, supports exceptional Masters and PhD students conducting research in Quaternary geology, geomorphology, and geoarchaeology within the Great Basin. Awards of up to $2500 for Masters students and $5000 for PhD students are available. This fellowship honors Jonathan O. Davis, a dedicated Quaternary scientist, and aims to foster significant research contributions to understanding this critical geological period.

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

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

The Volunteer Fire Capacity (VFC) Program offers crucial funding to California's rural fire departments for essential firefighting equipment and training. This federally funded initiative supports local agencies in acquiring personal protective equipment and improving training capabilities to ensure safety and compliance with national standards. With grant awards ranging from $500 to $20,000, the program emphasizes a dollar-for-dollar match requirement, allowing departments to enhance their firefighting resources and effectiveness in serving communities with populations of 10,000 or less.

Tribal Capacity Building Program 

Purpose:

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

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

Description:

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

Funding Available for Round 2 Awards:

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

Grant Term Length:

• 36-month period 

Grant Availability Type:

• Competitive 

Match Funding Required:

• No