Best Fresno Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

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 ALL RISE Mini-Grant Program, initiated by the Aaron Judge All Rise Foundation, empowers youth in Bronx, Fresno, and San Joaquin Counties. Established in 2019, it awards $3,000 grants to organizations fostering youth leadership, citizenship, mental well-being, and community involvement. Projects may include skill-building programs or school activities aimed at enhancing youth development and community engagement, ensuring that children and families receive essential support from various sectors.

The Isnardi Foundation Grant aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in Fresno, California, focusing on education, poverty reduction, health advancements, city beautification, and care for the elderly. The Foundation seeks proposals from qualified nonprofits, but does not fund salaries or employee benefits. This initiative reflects a commitment to community welfare and the advancement of Italian heritage in the region, fostering a better quality of life for all residents.

The PLTW Gateway grant from Chevron aims to enhance educational opportunities in San Ramon, California, by expanding Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in local schools. With over $17 million invested since 2009, Chevron's support has transformed the educational landscape for nearly 250,000 students and 8,100 teachers across multiple states. This funding will facilitate the introduction of new units and training for teachers, ensuring sustainable growth and improved learning outcomes for K-12 students.

The Wildfire & Forest Resilience Directed Grant Program, managed by the California Sierra Nevada Conservancy, aims to enhance community safety and forest health in California. By supporting projects that align with the state's Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, this program prioritizes funding for initiatives that benefit vulnerable populations. With up to $30.9 million allocated from Proposition 4, the program seeks to address urgent wildfire prevention and resilience needs. Proposals will be accepted until January 31, 2026.

Community Finance Initiative 

Advancing the financial resilience of low-income households across the U.S.

This model enables us to engage and support a broad range of organizations across the globe to tackle some of the most pressing social issues of our time.

The Citi Foundation’s 2026 Community Finance Initiative commits $35 million to support programming that bolsters the financial stability, strength and safety of low-income households in the U.S.

Focus Areas

The Foundation seeks to support organizations advancing low-income household financial resilience in the United States across three focus areas:

Stabilize: Programs that help low-income households to build financial skills and confidence to manage daily finances and navigate financial stress.

• Financial coaching on budgeting, credit, debt reduction and savings strategies.
• Digital tools offering personalized financial guidance and product navigation.
• Assistance with public benefits and social safety net programs.

Strengthen: Programs that help low-income households build and repair credit, as well as short- and long-term financial assets.

• Financial products or services for credit building and credit repair.
• Initiatives to increase savings, including emergency funds.
• Support for homeownership, including readiness, preservation and long-term stability (e.g., first-time buyer assistance, preventing displacement and support systems for aging in place resources).

Safeguard: Programs that protect low-income household financial security by preventing and addressing financial losses.

• Education and support for the safe and confident use of digital financial tools.
• Fraud and scam awareness, prevention and recovery initiatives, including protection from identity theft.
• Interventions to help households recover from major financial shocks (e.g., healthcare costs, extended family care, job transitions or natural disasters).

Funding Opportunity

The Foundation plans to award 70 $500,000 (USD) grants (to be disbursed over two years) totaling $35 million to community organizations working in select communities where Citi has a presence.

The grants will be restricted and are anticipated to be disbursed in two annual payments in 2026 and 2027. Proposed projects should be for a term of 24 months, starting no sooner than August 1, 2026 and ending no later than December 31, 2028.

Catholic Extension's Enhancing Pastoral and Social Ministry Grants aim to empower the church to broaden its outreach and foster societal transformation through targeted pastoral and social initiatives. This program supports specific elements of the church's ministerial efforts, including funding for catechetical resources, marriage and family ministries, and social outreach for vulnerable populations. By investing in these areas, Catholic Extension seeks to enhance the church's role in communities, especially following disasters.

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 Albertsons' Companies Foundation - Northern California Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations enhancing community well-being in key areas such as health, hunger, youth education, veterans, and diversity. To apply, organizations must have a local employee sponsor and serve the community where Albertsons operates. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $2,500 for first-time applicants, with a review process taking around six weeks. The Foundation prioritizes inclusivity and does not fund individuals or for-profit organizations.

The Sacramento District California In-Lieu Fee Program, established by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, offers a mitigation option for permittees to compensate for authorized impacts to aquatic resources in California. Approved by multiple agencies, this program facilitates the purchase of mitigation credits to meet compensatory mitigation requirements. It employs a watershed approach to evaluate wetland threats, prioritize restoration, and implement mitigation projects, ensuring effective management of aquatic resources across designated service areas.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Smart & Final Charitable Foundation focuses on enhancing community well-being through strategic donations. Committed to Health & Wellness, Education, Hunger Relief, Team Sports & Youth Development, and Disaster Relief, the foundation supports local non-profits in California, Arizona, and Nevada. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)3 registered and aligned with the foundation's focus areas. While the foundation aims to assist various groups, it has specific exclusions, such as for-profit entities and political activities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running hunger relief and food access programs in rural Fresno County, California can apply for US $1,000 - US $20,000 to support local food banks, pantries, meal programs, and community food systems. With a mission to strengthen rural communities, Land O'Lakes Foundation prioritizes projects serving its member-owner dairy regions.

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 Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits, civic groups, and trade organizations in Fresno, California can apply for Community West Bank’s donations and sponsorship support to strengthen local communities. Funding may support financial literacy training, scholarships, grants, events, and other community services, with a preference for efforts outside of capital campaigns within the bank’s Central California lending area.

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 Hesed Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives that promote social justice through Tzedakah and gemilut hasadim, which emphasize justice and loving kindness. This private foundation focuses on enhancing the welfare of underrepresented communities, particularly in the Boston area, NYC, and Northern California. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and the foundation prioritizes projects related to youth, education, health, and community building.

Fresno, California 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public agencies can access funding for specific community programs, projects, and services across areas like education, health, social services, environment, arts, and youth or senior support. Grants from Teichert Foundation range from US $3,000 - US $7,500 and support organizations based in Fresno County and other eligible California counties.

The HAF: Native Cultures Fund Grant supports California Indian culture through initiatives led by Native peoples, fostering the transmission of knowledge, art, and traditions across generations. This partnership includes the Humboldt Area Foundation and aims to preserve and revitalize Indigenous cultures, arts, and languages. Grants are available for projects that reflect California Indian values and practices, ensuring cultural continuity and community engagement.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - California

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

Carlos Vieira Foundation

The Carlos Vieira Foundation is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of families living with autism, mental illness, and addiction. Through our Race For Autism Grant Program, we provide financial assistance for therapy, treatment, and essential services that many families might not otherwise afford. Race 2B Drug Free campaign giving youth the opportunity to stay off the streets and learn the sport of boxing through our 51FIFTY Boxing Clubs. Our Race to End the Stigma campaign brings awareness to the realities of mental health and addiction, encouraging open conversations and providing scholarships to students who advocate for change. By offering direct support, education, and community-driven programs, we strive to uplift and empower families facing these challenges with compassion and hope.

The Carlos Vieira Foundation is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that focuses on the following three campaigns: Race for Autism, Race 2B Drug-Free, and Race to End the Stigma. CVF was built on one man’s dream of helping youth within our local communities. Through local support, CVF is able to assist youth across twenty-one counties within California’s central valley.

Direct Help Grant

Our mission is to provide services, medical necessities, and educational tools to families who live in Central California that are affected by Autism. 

Requested Items to be Purchased by Foundation if Grant is Awarded

If you are interested in additional items to total the allowed grant amount of $500, please email additional items, cost, service provider, vendor, or website/link to buy items to the Carlos Vieira Foundation. A recommendation letter is not required for any items that can be found on or are similar to those found on our approved websites: arktherapeutic.com, autism-products.com, funandfunction.com, pecsusa.com, and nationalautismresources.com

Grant funding provided by The NRA Foundation must meet all NRA Foundation requirements and be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials. Eligibility and funding amount are determined solely by the Foundation.

Grant requests must conform to, and foster the purposes in, The NRA Foundation’s mission statement, such as:

• Promote, advance, and encourage firearms, the shooting sports, and hunting safety.
• Educate individuals, including the youth of the United States, with respect to firearms, firearms history, participation in the shooting sports, hunting safety, and marksmanship, as well as with respect to other subjects that are of importance to the well-being of the general public.
• Conduct research in furtherance of improved firearms safety and marksmanship facilities and techniques.
• Support activities of the National Rifle Association of America, to the extent that such activities are in furtherance of charitable, educational, or scientific purposes within the meaning of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code which includes activities that are charitable, educational, or foster National or International sports competition.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

The Henry Mayo Newhall Foundation, established in 1963, is dedicated to enhancing life quality in communities linked to California pioneer Henry Mayo Newhall. It funds initiatives in academic enrichment, animal welfare, scholarships, historical preservation, and outreach for the disadvantaged. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $20,000 for one year, with potential renewals based on effectiveness. The Foundation prioritizes proposals from nonprofit organizations in specific California regions, emphasizing matching or challenge grants.