Best Transportation Grants in Oregon

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

With a mission to strengthen scalable social impact, this funder provides Oregon transportation and mobility innovators with up to US $300,000 over three years in unrestricted funding or investment capital plus intensive capacity-building support. Early-stage nonprofit and impact-first for-profit entities working in public transit or related systems in priority geographies may be competitive applicants.

Transportation-related and other community-focused nonprofits and schools in Oregon and SW Washington can seek event sponsorships supporting economic opportunity and community vitality initiatives. Focused on community events, Onpoint Community Credit Union invites eligible 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and foundations to request US $100 - US $10,000 for programs such as financial literacy, workforce development, housing stability, and youth development.

Oregon tribes, watershed councils, conservation districts, nonprofits, schools, and public agencies can receive up to US $20,000 for on-the-ground habitat and watershed restoration projects on private lands in Oregon. Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board supports projects that improve water quality and quantity, fish and wildlife habitat, and may benefit transportation-related sites such as roads, culverts, and stormwater systems.

Nonprofits, public agencies, schools, business district associations, and fiscally sponsored community groups in Oregon can receive up to US $5,000 for outdoor, community-led cleanup projects on publicly accessible property within the Metro boundary. Metro’s Regional Refresh Fund supports trash removal, waste reduction, limited graffiti cleanup, and related costs, which may benefit groups improving transportation-adjacent public spaces.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Oregon Housing and Community Services

Oregon Housing and Community Services provides resources for Oregonians to reduce poverty and increase access to stable housing. Our intentional focus on housing and community services allows the agency to serve Oregonians across the housing continuum, including preventing homelessness, providing housing stability supports, financing the building and preservation of affordable housing, and encouraging homeownership.

Youth Emergency Housing Assistance (YEHA) Program

The Youth Emergency Housing Assistance (YEHA) program provides funding to organizations dedicated to supporting K-12 students and their families who are unhoused or facing the risk of homelessness.

The program aims to provide housing-focused services to school-age children and their families to enhance family stability and school success. These services can include (but are not limited to):

• rent and utilities (including amounts owed),
• hotel stays,
• security deposits,
• moving expenses,
• application fees,
• civil legal services,
• pet rent and deposit,
• direct cash transfers,
• housing-related fees,
• work and educational supports,
• furniture and household goods,
• transportation.

This program also aims to establish and promote intentional collaboration between the local education system and housing providers to build a comprehensive family support network and optimize the funding’s impact.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Legal services nonprofits, solo practitioners, and small law firms pursuing impact litigation on economic, environmental, racial, or social justice can apply for recoverable grants of US $10,000 - US $50,000 from the Impact Fund. These grants, available for cases in Oregon and nationwide, cover out-of-pocket litigation costs like expert fees and discovery in systemic transportation-related or other justice cases.

Oregon employers with established employee well-being programs can use this funding to sustain and expand workplace wellness efforts. Focused on occupational health and wellness, Oregon Education Association invites Oregon organizations to apply for one-year Sustainability Grants up to US $10,000 to maintain coordinators, activities, and equipment that support staff well-being, which may benefit transportation-related workplaces.

Focused on basic needs and community vitality, Ameriprise Financial invites U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits to apply for program support that addresses hunger, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, community development, and cultural enrichment. Oregon organizations working on transportation-adjacent services, economic development, or access for underserved residents may be eligible, especially where Ameriprise volunteers are actively engaged.

Focused on urban and community development, Metro invites Oregon cities, counties, urban unincorporated community groups seeking incorporation or annexation, and federally recognized Tribes to plan equitable development and redevelopment inside the UGB. Funding covers planning work such as corridor and station area plans, community visioning, economic development strategies, and related technical and engagement costs.

Health and human service organizations in Eastern Oregon counties can seek funding for one-year projects that improve access to quality care, including telehealth, workforce, and care coordination initiatives. Focused on innovative approaches, Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization invites Oregon providers and community groups to propose new ideas that directly benefit EOCCO members, including projects that may enhance non-emergency medical transportation access.

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.

Organizations such as healthcare providers, community-based groups, early learning hubs, tribal governments, and food banks in Oregon can apply for Eastern Oregon Coordinated Care Organization’s SHARE grants, awarding US $15,000 - US $250,000 for projects addressing social determinants of health. Transportation, housing, food, utilities, safety, and related initiatives in Eastern Oregon counties may be eligible.

Oregon-based 501(c)(3)s, public agencies, schools, hospitals, and fiscally sponsored projects can apply for up to US $25,000 to support community programs and projects. With a mission to build successful citizens and vital communities, Judith Ann Mogan Foundation funds work in arts, youth, health, economic development, environment, poverty alleviation, and gathering places in Coastal Douglas, Coos, and Curry counties.

Eligible Oregon 501(c)(3) organizations, public agencies, schools, hospitals, and fiscally sponsored groups can apply for the Judith Ann Mogan Foundation’s large grants of more than US $25,000 to support arts, youth, health, environment, economic development, or poverty alleviation projects. Programs in Coos, Curry, or coastal Douglas counties that improve access to transportation or related services may be competitive.

Local and tribal governments and other eligible public entities in Oregon can seek major implementation funding to improve transportation safety infrastructure and operations, including for pedestrians, cyclists, transit users, and motorists. With a mission to protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians, Oregon Department of Forestry connects applicants to the U.S. DOT SS4A Implementation Grants, awarding US $2,500,000 - US $25,000,000.

Transportation agencies and local governments in Oregon can seek funding to plan or demonstrate roadway safety projects that reduce deaths and serious injuries for all road users. Focused on safer streets and public transportation, the Oregon Department of Forestry administers competitive SS4A Planning and Demonstration Grants ranging from US $100,000 to US $5,000,000.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Oregon 501(c)(3) and equivalent nonprofits running workforce, job readiness, or entrepreneurship programs can access funding through PGE Foundation’s Career Pathways grants. Awards of US $5,000 - US $25,000 support career-oriented training, wrap-around services, and small business support, which may benefit organizations improving transportation access or services as part of broader economic mobility efforts.

Oregon and Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving low-income residents in the mid-Columbia region can seek $250 to $2,500 for community programs, projects, or events, including transportation-related efforts. Oregon community organizations can access funding via Gorge Community Foundation’s Salvador Fund, with priority for work supporting immigrants, farmworkers, migrants, elders, and caregivers and promoting equity and community building.

Businesses, nonprofits, local governments, and education providers in Oregon’s Eastern Border Region can apply for Oregon Community Foundation’s Ready Workforce Mobilization funding, with awards up to US $100,000 for direct project costs. Eligible uses include equipment, facility upgrades, start-up or expansion costs that mobilize workforce solutions in transportation, housing, childcare, and accessibility.

Organizations, businesses, schools, public entities, groups, and individuals in Oregon can seek funding for arts, heritage, and humanities projects that improve cultural access, awareness, or education in Lane County. Oregon Cultural Trust, via the Lane County Cultural Coalition, offers US $500 - US $2,500 Cultural Opportunity Grants that may cover transportation, tickets, artist fees, or outreach to broaden participation.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations within 15 miles of a TJX location can apply for The Tjx Foundation’s grants to support basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. Oregon groups working on transportation-accessible services for vulnerable families and children may be eligible if they meet the mission, location, and nondiscrimination requirements.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.