Best Hayward Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Matson Foundation, a corporate entity, emphasizes community involvement through charitable donations. They support a diverse range of areas including maritime conservation, education, human services, culture, and civic programs. Eligible organizations must be qualified non-profits, with a primary focus on community support where Matson operates. The foundation prioritizes projects that engage local communities, ensure sustainability, and demonstrate measurable impact, while adhering to specific eligibility and ineligibility criteria for funding.

The Firedoll Foundation, a private family foundation, focuses on five key areas: Community Development and Entrepreneurship, Immigrant Issues and Human Rights, Environmental Conservation, Middle East Peace, and support for Traumatic Brain Injury survivors. Emphasizing support for vulnerable populations in Alameda and Contra Costa counties, the foundation backs projects that promote social justice and environmental sustainability. With a commitment to providing alternatives to detention and legal aid for immigrants, it aims to empower communities while addressing urgent environmental concerns.

The A to Z Fund Mini-Grant for Professional Development supports educators at Oakland public schools by providing funding for individual projects up to $1,500 or group projects up to $5,000. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities through various professional development activities, including training sessions and conferences. Eligible applicants must have principal approval, and projects should be completed by December 31, 2025. This grant empowers teachers and staff to innovate and improve educational outcomes.

The NRA Foundation: California – North CAN Grants provides funding to organizations that promote charitable purposes related to firearms and shooting sports as defined by the IRS. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) entities, governmental bodies, and recognized nonprofits. The Foundation supports educational programs and activities that enhance firearms safety and marksmanship, while certain projects, such as commercial ventures and fundraising activities, are ineligible for funding. Applications must align with the Foundation's mission and requirements.

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 Krishnan-Shah Family Scholarship, established by Ajay Shah and Lata Krishnan, aims to support financially needy students with strong academic potential and community involvement. This scholarship is open to graduating high school seniors and current community college students from the Silicon Valley region, particularly first-generation college students. It provides essential financial aid to help students successfully complete their undergraduate degrees, fostering educational opportunities and community growth.

The Touchpoint Foundation Grant is dedicated to improving health, social, and independent-living services for older adults in Northern California. By empowering these individuals, the foundation aims to enrich their lives and promote their active participation in the community. Additionally, the foundation supports various social services that benefit Bay Area residents and beyond. Eligible applicants include qualified tax-exempt charitable organizations, with a limit of one grant every 18 months.

The Kuo Family Scholarship, established by the Kuo Family Fund, honors their legacy and supports community impact through grants. It is open to high school seniors and college students in the Bay Area with a GPA of 3.25 or higher and financial need, as determined by FAFSA. This scholarship aims to assist students pursuing full-time education at accredited four-year institutions, fostering educational and cultural growth within the community.

The Latinos in Technology Scholarship, funded by the Hispanic Foundation of Silicon Valley, aims to empower Latino students pursuing STEM careers. Awardees receive up to $6,000 annually for their undergraduate education, with professional development opportunities, mentorship, and internship access. This initiative not only addresses the underrepresentation of Latinos in STEM but also fosters a supportive community to help students transition successfully into the workforce.

The Rella Lossy Award celebrates Rella Lossy’s legacy by recognizing outstanding new full-length plays from emerging playwrights. This award offers $2,500 to the selected playwright and $1,000 to the producing company, supporting the development of fresh voices in theatre. Eligible companies must be based in specific California counties and maintain membership with Theatre Bay Area. This initiative aims to foster new talent and bring diverse narratives to the stage, enriching the cultural landscape of the Bay Area.

The Multicultural Fellowship Program, hosted by The San Francisco Foundation, aims to empower emerging leaders of color to advance racial and economic equity in the Bay Area. This two-year, full-time fellowship offers experiential learning, personal development, and access to a robust professional network. Designed for early-career professionals from diverse backgrounds, the program provides valuable insights into grantmaking and philanthropy while fostering significant social change. Fellows benefit from mentorship and a supportive community, making this a unique opportunity for impactful leadership.

The Samsung Semiconductor Scholarship is dedicated to supporting future innovators in STEM fields. This program targets exceptional undergraduate and master's students who are committed to full-time education at California public universities, with a preference for those in the greater Bay Area. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and have declared a major in a STEM-related discipline. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and innovation, ensuring diverse voices contribute to the future of technology.

The Lawrence Fellowship offers a prestigious postdoctoral opportunity at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, inviting exceptional candidates from various technical disciplines. It emphasizes independent research within a collaborative environment, supported by experienced mentors. Fellows receive a competitive monthly salary of $11,204, fostering innovation in areas crucial for U.S. security and global stability. This fellowship not only provides financial support but also encourages groundbreaking scientific advancements.

The Ross McKee Foundation provides grants to support piano performance and education in the San Francisco Bay Area. It funds nonprofit organizations and individuals involved in piano-related projects, covering expenses such as artist fees and piano rentals. The Foundation also supports educational initiatives through scholarships and grants to institutions like San Francisco State University and the San Francisco Conservatory. However, it does not fund the purchase of pianos or speculative projects.

Tyson Foods Community Giving Grants support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for communities and their members. With a focus on scaling existing effective programs, these grants are aimed at organizations that operate in underserved areas. Eligible nonprofits must have a 501(c)(3) status and local Tyson plant support. Applications are accepted annually, with priority given to projects addressing systemic community issues. Notable past support includes a $25,000 grant to the Arkansas Foodbank Mobile Pantry Initiative.

The Environmental Science Resource Grants, offered by the Philanthropic Ventures Foundation, provide funding up to $1,000 for TK-12 teachers in low-income public schools across several California counties. These grants aim to enhance environmental science curricula through various projects, supplies, and field trips, encouraging innovative learning experiences. Eligible teachers can apply for funding to support activities such as gardening clubs, water testing, and teacher training sessions, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental science among students.

The Harold Johnson Law Enforcement Scholarship honors the legacy of Police Chief Harold "Hal" Johnson by providing financial support to aspiring law enforcement professionals. Established for students in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, it encourages those with a passion for public service and a commitment to criminal justice. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students with a minimum GPA of 2.5, showcasing leadership qualities and financial need, ensuring a new generation of dedicated law enforcement personnel.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) arts and culture organizations can apply for Rocky Mountain Power Foundation grants of US $2,000 - US $5,000 to support performing arts, visual arts, historic preservation, and cross-cultural education. Hayward, California nonprofits within the PacifiCorp service territory may be eligible if their projects benefit communities served by Pacific Power or Rocky Mountain Power.

About StopWasteStopWaste is a public agency serving the 1.7 million diverse residents of Alameda County. Formed in 1976, we work on behalf of 17 member agencies—the County, 14 cities, and 2 sanitary districts—committed to advancing environmental sustainability and building healthy, equitable, climate resilient communities in Alameda County.

Vision: An Alameda County in which people thrive and are empowered to utilize resources and energy in ways that are good for the health of our communities, our local economy, and the planet.About Reusable Transport Packaging GrantsStopWaste provides grants and additional funding opportunities to support waste prevention efforts, strengthen local food systems, and reduce environmental impacts by transitioning from single-use disposable items to reusable systems in Alameda County.

StopWaste offers equipment grants of up to $25,000 to help Alameda County organizations replace single-use transport packaging with durable, reusable alternatives.

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 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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Hayward, California can apply for the Hesed Foundation’s grants, awarding US $250 - US $10,000 for programs in youth and education, health, and community building. Eligible projects must serve underrepresented populations, with funding generally focused on the Boston area, New York City, New Hampshire’s seacoast, and Northern California, including Alameda County.

The Venable Foundation, a corporate funder, provides grants averaging $10,000 to nonprofits focused on human services, legal support, education, workforce development, youth impact, health, environment, and arts. Funding is targeted at organizations in specific regions, including Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, and Denver, reinforcing equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

About

Our History & Vision

The Margoes Foundation was established in 1984 by the will of John A. Margoes. John Margoes envisioned the Foundation to be a resource and catalyst to support imaginative and creative program opportunities that enabled low-income and other disadvantaged youth to obtain a college education and people with mental disabilities to live in non-institutional environments and lead productive lives.

Venture Philanthropy Award

The VP Award supports new or early-stage organizations that are developing innovative programs or services to empower low-income, under-represented students to successfully earn a college degree and enter the workforce. This is a three-year $150,000 grant, payable in $50,000 annual installments.

The Richard Reed Foundation Grant supports small, innovative non-profit organizations in Colorado and Northern California that aim to improve community welfare through initiatives in mental health, child development, environmental impact, and animal welfare. The foundation focuses on organizations with a proven track record, clear goals, and sustainable funding. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000, and the foundation encourages creativity and collaboration to foster significant community change.

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.