Best Columbia County Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion initiative aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in communities served by Burns & McDonnell. This partnership focuses on empowering students through real-world learning experiences, helping them develop essential skills for future careers. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs to foster greater participation and engagement in STEM fields.

The Summer Lea Hillman Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable children, animals, and communities in the Portland metro area. The foundation prioritizes animal health and safety, child and youth development, homeless services, and environmental sustainability. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt public charities. The foundation does not fund individuals, ensuring support is directed towards impactful community initiatives.

The Trust Management Services Grant in the Portland Metro Region invites applications focused on education, community service, arts and culture, youth activities, and historical preservation. Eligible organizations must be IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities located in Columbia, Washington, Multnomah, or Clackamas counties. Special consideration will be given to projects with an educational component. Note that applications can be submitted up to 30 days before the deadline.

The BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland: Gather Grant

Get up to $180 to host an event at the place and with the people you choose

Holiday meals can be larger and therefore more costly. We've got you!

If you are hosting 6-9 folks the subsidy is $120, but if you are hosting 10+ people outside your household, Gather Grants will reimburse you up to $180. 

How to use the Grant

You can spend the Gather Grant in whatever way you need to bring your event to life! Some examples include:

• Food: ingredients, pick-up, or dine out!
• Supplies: decorations, art supplies, books, paper goods,
• Tickets (movies, activities, events)

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

Oregon Jewish Community Foundation ( OJCF) administers and supports RFJE's grantmaking programs. In 2025, OJCF announced and managed the application process for RFJE's ChikChok, Kadimah, Nitzan, and Kulanu grant programs that support Jewish elders in Greater Portland and Southwest Washington. OJCF specifically stated that it is proud to support the administration of these grants.

Nitzan Grants

Nitzan (blossom) grants are designed to support early-stage ideas and modest program expansions. These grants are intended to pilot new concepts with room to grow, expand existing programs in a limited but meaningful way; and bridge the gap between small, rapid-response funding and larger investments.

The Purpose of the Nitzan Grants

Grant awards for this Nitzan cycle will be $5,000-$20,000 per year. There will be two grant cycles per year. We strongly encourage organizations to self-evaluate how they can effectively use grant funds-given existing organizational constraints-ask for funding accordingly.

Collaboration with other aligned non-profit organizations in a joint grant application is encouraged. Funds will be awarded to the lead applicant who will also be responsible for measured outcomes reporting. 

Grant Size and Timeframe Parameters

RFJE will consider funding proposals for up to three years and encourages applicants seeking multi-year support to request reduced funding amounts in the second and third years (“step-down funding”). For approved multi-year grants, RFJE will commit to funding for the full proposed term, contingent on annual reporting requirements and on agreed-upon criteria and conditions established by RFJE and the applicant to assess the program’s progress.  

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

Oregon Jewish Community Foundation ( OJCF) administers and supports RFJE's grantmaking programs. In 2025, OJCF announced and managed the application process for RFJE's ChikChok, Kadimah, Nitzan, and Kulanu grant programs that support Jewish elders in Greater Portland and Southwest Washington. OJCF specifically stated that it is proud to support the administration of these grants.

Kulanu Grants

Kulanu (all of us) grants are designed to support cross-organizational collaboration and create lasting, system-level impact. Kulanu grants support significant program growth, innovation and capacity-building. These grants are intended to fund collaborative, multi-organization initiatives, address systemic challenges and service gaps; and focus on sustainable, communitywide solutions.

The Purpose of the Kulanu Grants

Grant awards for this Kulanu cycle will be $50,000+ per year, with multiyear commitments possible. There will be two grant cycles per year. We strongly encourage organizations to self evaluate how they can effectively use grant funds-given existing organizational constraints-ask for funding accordingly.

Grant Size and Timeframe Parameters

RFJE will consider funding proposals for up to three years and encourages applicants seeking multi-year support to request reduced funding amounts in the second and third years (“step-down funding”). For approved multi-year grants, RFJE will commit to funding for the full proposed term, contingent on annual reporting requirements and on agreed-upon criteria and conditions established by RFJE and the applicant to assess the program’s progress.  

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders

Robison Foundation for Jewish Elders (RFJE) supports community organizations and initiatives by funding programs that enhance the lives of elders in the Jewish community of greater Portland and Southwest Washington by supporting their social, spiritual and physical well-being.

To achieve its mission, RFJE offers funding through four grant track opportunities:

• Nitzan Grants
• Kulanu Grants
• ChikChok Grants
• Kadimah Grants

ChikChok Grants

ChikChok (“fast-track”) grants are designed to support time-sensitive opportunities that benefit elders. These grants are intended to respond to emerging needs or unexpected opportunities, fund short-term programs, events, or pilot activities; and provide quickturnaround support with minimal administrative burden. ChikChok applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with decisions made quarterly.

The Purpose of the ChikChok Grants

ChikChok (“fast-track”) grants are designed to support time-sensitive opportunities that benefit elders. ChikChok applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with decisions made quarterly.

Grant funds will be used to address the following priority needs:

• Respond to emerging needs or unexpected opportunities
• Fund short-term programs, events, or pilot activities
• Provide quick-turnaround support with minimal administrative burden

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 PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The PCC Architecture + Interior Design Scholarship offers $5,000 to first-generation students pursuing degrees in Architectural Design and Drafting or Interior Design at Portland Community College. This scholarship, supported by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon, aims to enhance access to these fields. It prioritizes students enrolled in at least six credits, ensuring that dedicated learners can advance their education and career opportunities in architecture and interior design.

The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.

The RE/MAX Equity Group Foundation Grant aims to support small, local, and grassroots charitable organizations in the Portland metro and SW Washington areas. With contributions ranging from $500 to $2,500, the foundation focuses on tangible needs such as food, clothing, and medical services. Priority is given to organizations that support children and families, demonstrating low operating expenses and direct community engagement to maximize impact.

The Holzman Foundation Grant supports arts, education, humanitarian, and religious organizations in the Portland Metro area, continuing the philanthropic legacy of the Holzman family since 1990. Grants typically range from $500 to $10,000, focusing on nonprofit organizations within the community. The foundation upholds a commitment to charitable giving, providing essential funding to enhance local initiatives while fostering a culture of philanthropy among its family members.

The Community Development Block Grants (CDBG) Program, administered by Business Oregon, aims to enhance urban living conditions for low and moderate-income individuals. By providing funding and technical assistance, the program supports various projects, including public infrastructure, community facilities, and housing rehabilitation. Eligible applicants include non-metropolitan cities and counties in rural Oregon, while urban areas and specific counties are excluded. Grant amounts vary based on project needs, with maximums reaching up to $2.5 million for public works.

Cascades Donations and Sponsorships focuses on building sustainable partnerships in education, entrepreneurship, and amateur sports. They support community organizations, promote healthy lifestyles, and recognize student engagement through grants. Cascades prioritizes projects in its operational regions and encourages initiatives that address climate change and foster inclusivity. Their funding approach is rooted in creating lasting positive impacts and supporting the next generation of leaders while adhering to their values and philosophy.

Purpose

The STIF Formula Fund is intended to expand, improve, and maintain public transportation services in Oregon.​​​​  

Eligible Projects

STIF funding may be used to finance investments and improvements in public transportation services, except for light rail capital expenses. STIF may be used for public transportation purposes that support the effective planning, deployment, operation, and administration of public transportation programs.

STIF moneys are not intended to supplant local funding sources to maintain existing services. A STIF Plan that proposes to use STIF funding to replace local funding to maintain an existing service may result in denial of the funding request.​

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Computer Science - New Program In Partnership With Lam Research

The Lam Foundation supports schools implementing or expanding a PLTW program in or near several of their U.S. communities. Schools seeking support for PLTW Gateway or PLTW Engineering will receive priority. The Lam Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Lam Research, a leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor industry.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Computer Science program. Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Computer Science course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Computer Science courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Computer Science - Program Expansion In Partnership With Lam Research

The Lam Foundation supports schools implementing or expanding a PLTW program in or near several of their U.S. communities. Schools seeking support for PLTW Gateway or PLTW Engineering will receive priority. The Lam Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Lam Research, a leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor industry.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's expansion of student access to the PLTW Computer Science program. Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Computer Science program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Computer Science course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Computer Science courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2027-2028 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

The Portland Arts Project Grant Program, administered by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, aims to enhance artistic development and community engagement in Portland, Oregon. This program supports individual artists and organizations with funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for projects that foster public participation in the arts. Eligible applicants must reside or operate within Portland city limits. The program prioritizes investment in under-represented communities, ensuring equitable access to the arts.

The PGE Foundation's Career Pathways Grant Program aims to enhance economic mobility for Oregonians by providing support for programs that facilitate access to family-wage jobs and entrepreneurship. This initiative prioritizes nonprofit organizations focused on skill development, mentorship, and wrap-around services. The foundation is particularly interested in proposals that address barriers faced by underrepresented communities, including BIPOC and women-owned businesses, and encourages collaborative efforts among nonprofits to achieve measurable outcomes.

The Portland Rotary Charitable Trust Community Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the Portland Metro area that empower underserved youth. Grants, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000, focus on capital expenditures, ensuring inclusivity without discrimination. Organizations must refrain from non-capital expenses, operational costs, and religious requirements. This initiative fosters equal opportunities, addressing disparities in access to resources and promoting community development.

OnPoint Community Credit Union offers community grants aimed at supporting organizations aligned with their focus areas of Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality. Established in 1932, OnPoint is Oregon's largest credit union and is committed to community engagement through grants for programmatic and general operating support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located within the OnPoint region of Oregon and SW Washington. One grant request per organization is allowed annually.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The OR Forest Legacy Program, managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry, aims to protect privately-owned forestlands from conversion to non-forest uses due to development pressures. By providing funding for conservation easements and fee-title acquisitions, the program promotes sustainable management of forest resources. Projects supported by this initiative strengthen local communities through collaboration among various stakeholders, ensuring that forest conservation values are maintained for future generations.