Best King County Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

Seattle City Light's Wildlife Research Grant provides funding for projects aimed at understanding and protecting wildlife resources in the North Cascades ecosystem. Since 1995, the program has supported diverse research initiatives, producing significant academic contributions and informing wildlife management practices. Researchers are encouraged to focus on key priorities such as habitat connectivity and the effects of climate change on vulnerable species. The program seeks projects that complement existing research and adhere to professional standards.

The Human Services Funding Collaborative, supported by the City of Kent, aims to address critical community needs by providing grant funding to organizations delivering direct services. Funding is available for programs that support children, youth, older adults, and housing assistance. Eligible agencies must demonstrate strong proposals and comply with licensing requirements. Grants are announced biannually, with funds dispersed quarterly over two years to enhance community well-being and reduce inequities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and eligible public entities in King County, Washington can seek US $2,500 - US $10,000 to support education, hunger relief, health and wellness, disaster relief, and environmental programs. With a mission to strengthen communities, International Paper Company Foundation provides funding in areas where it operates, prioritizing signature causes and projects engaging its employees.

With a mission to support community-focused education and sustainability, Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation provides King County, Washington nonprofits and eligible schools with direct grants for STEM and manufacturing education, sustainable construction, workforce development, and affordable housing projects. Organizations located where Saint-Gobain employees live and work may also build long-term partnerships that include employee expertise and volunteer support.

The Norman Archibald Charitable Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Northwest Washington, focusing on enhancing the quality of life through community services. Established in 1976, the Foundation prioritizes funding for education, the arts, and hunger relief agencies. Grants are awarded primarily to organizations with tax-exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) and limited assets, ensuring that funds reach those most in need. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with specific deadlines before quarterly board meetings.

The ESRP Regional Pre-Design Projects aim to enhance ecosystem restoration in Puget Sound through strategic investments. By identifying ecological needs and uncertainties, these projects guide the selection and development of effective restoration initiatives. Through scientific analysis, they help address complex issues related to nearshore and salmon recovery. Funded by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, these projects are crucial for improving restoration outcomes in diverse ecosystems, including delta, beach, and embayment environments.

Impact 100 Seattle empowers women to make a difference through collective grantmaking. We focus on transformative change by supporting community-based organizations in the Puget Sound area. Our trust-based philanthropy approach allows us to address root causes of social issues while building strong relationships. With a commitment to funding diverse initiatives in Arts, Health, Education, Environment, and Families, we aim to create lasting impact through our grants, including a major grant of $100,000.

The King County PSTAA General Child Care Facilities Fund (GCCFF) aims to enhance educational outcomes in early learning and child care by providing up to $2 million in funding. This initiative focuses on expanding and preserving early learning facility capacity, addressing critical childcare access issues, and supporting community partnerships for new facility construction. With an estimated eight awards available, the program seeks to empower local providers and foster resilience and upward mobility in the community.

King County, Washington 501(c)(3) nonprofits conducting medical research or serving low income children’s healthcare needs may be eligible for this program. With a mission to strengthen community health, Seattle Foundation provides approximately US $40,000 for research equipment and capital, renovation, or equipment projects benefiting children in need.

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.

The Lucky Seven Foundation

Manson and Frances Backus created "Lucky Seven" with the hope of giving back and improving the community where they lived and prospered for so many years. Since 1996, the Lucky Seven Foundation has provided grants to nonprofit organizations which have included, but were not limited to, those that benefit health, welfare, education, arts, and the environment. As the next generation, we aim to continue their mission.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and public entities serving King County, Washington communities with programs in areas like affordable housing, youth development, environmental stewardship, or human services may be eligible for more than US $1,000 in funding. Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund prioritizes locally driven projects in its operating communities with broad impact and strong community backing.

The Bayer Fund: Food & Nutrition Grant supports high-quality programs that combat malnutrition and improve access to nutritious foods, particularly for underserved communities and families with young children. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government units. The fund prioritizes long-term behavioral change towards healthy eating and nutrition, with grants typically not exceeding 25% of an organization's operating budget. International requests start at $25,000, fostering sustainable food security and education initiatives.

Puget Sound Chapter

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of Boeing Puget Sound is a pooled fund consisting of recurring payroll contributions from generous Boeing employees. It funds local nonprofits that help thousands of families and individuals in the Puget Sound region where Boeing employees live and work.

ECF focus areas

ECF makes grants to 501(c)(3) Health & Human Service nonprofits such as food banks, job-training programs, shelters, transitional housing, mental health services, and low-income medical clinics. ECF seeks the direct client benefit of each grant to ensure that our employees’ contributions directly help those in need.

Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington is a public charitable organization dedicated to strengthening communities across Southwest Washington by connecting people, resources, and philanthropic goals. The Foundation works to inspire giving, steward charitable funds, and invest in programs and initiatives that address local needs and opportunities. Through donor-advised funds, scholarships, grants, and community partnerships, the Foundation supports education, economic opportunity, health, and quality of life throughout the region. Guided by values of integrity, collaboration, equity, and long-term impact, the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington serves as a trusted partner for donors and nonprofits committed to building resilient and thriving communities.

Dave Chamberlain Scholarship

This scholarship awards a total of $5,000 annually in varying amounts and is not renewable. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors from a high school in the Evergreen School District who plan to enroll in a public or private college, university, technical, or career school in the upcoming academic year. Preference is given to students who demonstrate significant financial need, plan to pursue studies in communication, technology, marketing, or education, and show a strong sense of community involvement.

The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowships provide financial support for U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies in various fields at accredited institutions. The fellowships cover tuition and offer an annual stipend of $18,000 for living expenses. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and have an outstanding undergraduate record. Applications are submitted through the dean of the university, with deadlines in January and notifications by mid-June. This program honors Dolores Zohrab Liebmann's legacy of supporting education.

The Ecosystems Scholarship, established by Rollin Geppert, supports students pursuing degrees in natural resources and land use planning. The Community Foundation of South Puget Sound has provided over $29 million in grants since 1989, fostering education and community development. Eligible applicants must be enrolled as sophomores or higher, with a minimum GPA of 3.0, at select Washington universities. This initiative honors the legacy of education and aims to empower future leaders in environmental stewardship.

The Neighbor to Neighbor (N2N) Grant, managed by the Seattle Foundation, empowers grassroots organizations in South Seattle, White Center, and Kent to enhance community engagement and influence. Established in 1991, this program prioritizes efforts addressing poverty and racial disparities. With grants up to $7,500, N2N focuses on initiatives led by diverse communities. Applicants must demonstrate fiscal responsibility and a commitment to equity, seeking to strengthen community networks and enhance local support systems.

The MMS Giving Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals and communities in the Pacific Northwest through support for education, arts, and community programs. Focused on the Puget Sound region, the Foundation prioritizes funding specific tasks or projects that address pressing needs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) public charities in good standing that are located in King County or neighboring areas. The Foundation does not fund religious or political activities.

South Seattle College Foundation: Student Emergency Grants

The South Seattle College Foundation, coupled with the Gates Endowed Emergency Grant, provides emergency fund grants to support student success, retention, and completion, enabling students to overcome temporary financial barriers.

Applicants meet with Emergency Fund Committee members. 

Emergency Funds can be used for the following:

• Housing
• Transportation
• Family/household emergencies
• Childcare
• Medical
• Food
• Books and supplies
• Please note: Tuition, books, and fees may also qualify if they would cause a student to withdraw.

Purpose

Our program’s purpose is to support South Seattle College students through unexpected financial circumstances so that our students will be able to focus on graduating. Our process involves equity to each student’s application. The intention of emergency funds are to help relieve some financial hardship that would prevent a student’s academic success.

The Arc Artist Fellowship provides $12,000 in unrestricted funding to support artists in King County, Washington, allowing them to address crucial expenses and develop their creative practices. This fellowship particularly focuses on Indigenous, Aboriginal, and Native artists of diverse international ancestral lands. Recipients will also engage in community presentations and planning for future funding cycles, ensuring that the fellowship evolves alongside the artists it supports.

The 4Culture: Open 4Culture Grants provide funding up to $2,500 for projects in Arts, Heritage, and Preservation within King County. This initiative aims to support underserved communities and encourage public benefit through compelling events. Eligible applicants include individuals, groups, and small businesses new to 4Culture. The grant prioritizes equity and the advancement of cultural access. Applications are accepted for projects occurring between January 1 and December 31, 2026, with deadlines two months prior to the event.

The 4Culture Equipment for Organizations grant provides funding of up to $15,000 to support the purchase and installation of essential equipment for arts, heritage, historic preservation, and science organizations in King County. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, public agencies, and fiscally sponsored groups. The funding can cover fixed assets like computers and machinery, with a minimum request of $1,000. Organizations should ensure their projects align with the grant criteria to qualify.

The 4Culture Building for Equity: Cultural Facilities Grants aim to enhance cultural work in King County by providing $1,100,000 for building, remodeling, and purchasing specialized facilities. This initiative emphasizes racial equity and requires applicants to demonstrate a commitment to anti-racism practices. Eligible organizations must have at least a two-year operational history and meet specific criteria related to financial stability and site control. Projects under $10 million are prioritized, fostering a racially equitable cultural landscape.

The Building for Equity: Capacity Building Grants support organizations in enhancing their long-term facility needs with funding up to $25,000. This initiative prioritizes projects that aid in advocating, planning, and constructing spaces for cultural programming, particularly for underserved communities in King County. Through a competitive evaluation process, grants aim to foster sustainability and community benefit, emphasizing cultural equity and access across the region.

Seattle Foundation

Seattle Foundation is an agent of change, igniting powerful, rewarding philanthropy to make Greater Seattle a stronger, more vibrant community for all.

At Seattle Foundation, we believe that community is more than a place. It’s the shared understanding that our joy and well-being are tied to one another. Every day we work with nonprofits, philanthropists, and partners like you to strengthen community by igniting powerful philanthropy and advancing long-term solutions. Because it takes all of us to create a joyful region where every person can thrive.

Yuri and Tatsuo Nakata Scholarship

The purpose of this scholarship is to honor and to give financial support to students of Asian heritage currently enrolled at Roosevelt, Cleveland or Franklin High School in Seattle, Washington.

The 4Culture Operating Support: Heritage Sustained Support Grant provides essential funding to heritage organizations in King County for two years. This grant aims to enhance public access to heritage programs, support diverse communities, and promote the preservation of local history. Eligible organizations can use funds for operational expenses, staffing, and community outreach initiatives, ensuring that all residents can benefit from cultural resources and programs.