Best Hayward Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Joseph & Vera Long Foundation offers grants targeted at non-profit organizations in Northern California and Hawaii. With larger grants ranging from $60,000 to $150,000 in the Spring and smaller grants from $10,000 to $40,000 in the Fall, the foundation focuses on supporting community-driven initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant and align with the foundation's priorities, which include environmental conservation, youth development, maternal health, and healthy aging.

The Birding For Everyone Fellowship, offered by the Golden Gate Bird Alliance, aims to empower BIPOC conservation leaders and promote diversity in the birding community. This fellowship provides free access to courses, networking opportunities, and field trips to reduce barriers for underrepresented groups. By nurturing diverse leadership, the program enhances community engagement and environmental stewardship in the Bay Area. With over 200 bird walks annually and a century of conservation efforts, the fellowship continues the legacy of inclusivity and education.

About the Port of Oakland

The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits and environmental innovation, as the Port decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports 98,345 jobs in the region and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees the Oakland Airport (OAK), the Oakland Seaport and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square and a publicly owned utility. 

Community Investment Program

Approved by the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners on July 2015, the Port of Oakland Community Investment Program seeks to add value and best serve our diverse communities within the Port’s footprint. This program provides grants to benefit the communities in the Port’s Local Impact Area (LIA) in Oakland, Alameda, Emeryville, and San Leandro, as well as communities in the Port’s Local Business Area (LBA) in Alameda and Contra Costa counties.

The Port of Oakland provides quarterly grants up to $5,000 to non-profit organizations that align with the following funding priority areas:

• Economic Vitality:

The Port promotes community and economic viability by helping small businesses thrive and create and sustain jobs that support our local community. We proudly support programs that expand access to Port opportunities for small and local businesses, as well as organizations that provide technical assistance to businesses to expand their impact.

• Environmental Sustainability and Healthy Communities:

We are committed to sustaining healthy communities through leading-edge environmental stewardship via our air quality, clean water, and energy conservation programs. We proudly support organizations that promote our environmental programs.

• Workforce Development and Education:

We support programs that prepare individuals to participate successfully in an increasingly global society and to contribute back to the communities in which they live. Specifically, we focus on supporting programs that prepare individuals for careers in port-related industries. Examples include but are not limited to: training and education in construction; trade and logistics; science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education; aviation, and the building-construction trades.

The Bayer Fund Health & Wellness Grant Program aims to support organizations that provide education and resources for patients and caregivers facing cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Grants focus on assisting communities, particularly the African American population, in managing these health issues. Funding covers educational services, disease awareness, and access to care, with all activities to commence post-funding decisions. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and operate within 55 miles of Bayer sites.

The Belonging in Oakland: A Just City Cultural Fund Grant supports Oakland-based, BIPOC-led collaborations aimed at transforming power dynamics through cultural policy. This fund offers $100,000 annually for three years, along with stipends for artists and project documentation. The initiative seeks to empower communities impacted by systemic racism and promote innovative approaches to social justice. Collaborative partnerships are encouraged to redefine problems and solutions, fostering a more equitable Oakland.

The Rapid Response Fund for Movement Building provides urgent financial support to grassroots organizations addressing social justice for low-income residents and people of color. Offering grants of $3,000 to $20,000, projects must show immediate community impact and demonstrate a commitment to racial and economic equity. Applications are processed within 30 days, with projects needing completion within six months. Priority is given to small organizations and collaborative efforts that empower marginalized communities.

The FAITHS Community Partners Grant Program, initiated by The San Francisco Foundation, supports faith-based organizations in advocating for racial and economic equity across five Bay Area counties. This program emphasizes building capacity, promoting civic participation, and addressing community needs such as affordable housing and food insecurity. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations that serve low-income communities and people of color. The initiative aims to empower faith leaders and strengthen interfaith relations through collaborative efforts.

The Kenneth Rainin Foundation's Open Spaces Program funds innovative public art projects that engage communities in Oakland and San Francisco. This initiative supports artist-driven collaborations, emphasizing community involvement, unique partnerships, and artistic excellence. Grants range from $15,000 to $175,000, depending on project stages, with a focus on accessibility and sustainability. The program prioritizes projects that are publicly accessible for at least a month and that demonstrate measurable outcomes and evaluations.

The A to Z Fund Mini-Grant supports Oakland public schools by providing resources for underfunded educational projects, including STEM, art, and music initiatives. With a focus on equity, the fund prioritizes schools serving low-income students and those facing significant challenges. Grants can cover supplies, guest speakers, and project-related expenses, ensuring that all students have access to enriching experiences. This initiative addresses the disparities in funding across schools, aiming to create equal opportunities for all students.

Youth sports nonprofits in Hayward and other Bay Area communities can apply for Olympic Club Foundation grants to support organized athletic programs for ages 5–18. Focused on youth athletics, the foundation funds program costs like uniforms, equipment, coaching, facility rentals, travel, and fees, offering up to US $25,000, with priority for at-risk youth.

Culturally rooted artist teams with music-focused businesses in the Bay Area, including Hayward, California, can access funding to start or grow their ventures. Grants from ZooLabs help teams of two or more with at least one culturally rooted artist member secure US $5,000 - US $50,000 plus mentorship and business training support.

The East Bay Fund for Artists Grant Program, initiated by the East Bay Community Foundation, supports individual artists and arts organizations in low-income communities of color. Since 2003, it has partnered with over 300 local artists and secured nearly $3.1 million in funding. The program aims to advance racial justice and social equity through new artistic works. It prioritizes diversity in artistic practices and ensures that BIPOC communities have access to culturally relevant art, promoting resilience and community empowerment.

Nonprofit organizations and public entities running food access and nutrition programs in Hayward, California can access funding via Bayer Fund to address malnutrition and hunger. Eligible, established 501(c)(3)s, schools, and government units in Alameda County may be invited to apply for education, behavior-change, and food security initiatives serving underserved families and young children.

The Berkeley Film Foundation is proud to announce the Narrative Short Film Grant, providing vital funding for local filmmakers. This prestigious grant supports projects that creatively explore themes of social and environmental justice. With a focus on originality and technical skill, the foundation aims to uplift innovative narratives. This year, a special Saul Zaentz Award of $25,000 will be given to select films, furthering the foundation's commitment to impactful storytelling in the film community.

The Berkeley Film Foundation's Narrative Short Grant Program supports local filmmakers by providing funding for narrative short films. With a focus on social and environmental justice themes, the program aims to foster creativity and originality. Grants are available for all stages of film production, including pre-production, production, post-production, and distribution. This initiative addresses the growing need for short fiction film funding in the region, ensuring that innovative storytelling can thrive.

The Boston Scientific Foundation focuses on improving health and educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly in communities where its employees reside. Its health programs target diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular conditions, emphasizing disease prevention, awareness, access, and quality of care. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and serve specific geographic areas while adhering to non-discrimination policies. However, the foundation does not support certain areas, including dental health and political campaigns.

The Amgen Foundation, established in 1990, focuses on enhancing science education and strengthening communities. It supports nonprofit organizations that align with its mission, emphasizing teacher development and hands-on science experiences. Grants are awarded annually, with a commitment of $180 million to impactful programs. Eligible organizations include public schools and libraries, while ineligible requests involve individual support, religious organizations, and political activities. This approach aims to inspire the next generation of innovators through quality educational opportunities.

The Foot Locker Foundation Community Empowerment Program supports nonprofit organizations that empower youth in underserved communities, addressing racial inequities and promoting wellness. Grants range from $25,000 to $100,000 and are available for youth programming and capital improvement projects. Eligible organizations must serve low-to-moderate income communities, have diverse leadership, and engage local Foot Locker teams in volunteer efforts. This initiative aims to enhance opportunities for youth by connecting them with essential services and mentorship.

The URA-Sandia Graduate Student Summer Fellowship for Summer 2026 is now open for applications until November 30, 2025. This fellowship offers STEM research opportunities at Sandia National Laboratories, focusing on national security projects. Selected candidates will work alongside experienced mentors and receive stipends based on their academic progress. A total of $2,000 is also available for travel expenses. Full-time graduate students and U.S. citizens are eligible to apply.

The Harbor Point Charitable Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for underserved adults and children in the Bay Area. With a focus on innovative organizations addressing health crises and supporting educational, arts, and nutritional programs, the Foundation has distributed over $4.6 million in grants. Their mission emphasizes community engagement and advocacy, ensuring that funds support nonprofit organizations exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, particularly those benefiting Marin County residents.

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 Boston Scientific Foundation aims to enhance health and educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly in STEM fields. Their grant program focuses on K-12 students, requiring at least 50% of participants to be at or below 185% of the poverty line. The foundation seeks evidence-based proposals that can measure improvements in STEM learning, and it prioritizes applications serving communities near Boston Scientific locations, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in service.

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 Joseph R. & Mercedes McMicking Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for children and families in the San Francisco Bay Area. It focuses on charitable giving, supporting educational programs in arts, technology, education, and science. The foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, promoting access to resources and tuition assistance for local pre-K-12 schools. This initiative strengthens community ties and nurtures the next generation's growth through diverse educational opportunities.

The KLA-Tencor Foundation's Education Opportunity Fund aims to enhance educational access, promote emotional well-being, and improve educational systems, particularly for under-resourced K-12 students. Grants between $50,000 and $250,000 are available for innovative projects that eliminate barriers to education and foster sustainable partnerships. Applicants must be nonprofit organizations with a significant impact in communities served by KLA, focusing on systemic change rather than direct student assistance.

The Y & H Soda Foundation Grant Program supports organizations in the East Bay focused on equity and social change. Prioritizing immigrant rights and economic justice, the foundation seeks initiatives that address systemic barriers and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The foundation emphasizes advocacy and local solutions that empower marginalized voices, aiming for lasting impact in promoting inclusivity and prosperity for all residents.

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.