Best Los Angeles County Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Santa Monica Bay Sailing Foundation (SMBSF) provides equipment grants to support sailing and watersports programs in the Santa Monica Bay area. Established in 1990, SMBSF has raised over $1,000,000 for various sailing initiatives, including competitive teams and summer scholarships. Grants are available for safety equipment and other program needs, with eligibility focused on residents or those affiliated with local yacht clubs. Timely and complete applications are essential for consideration.

The 0-5 Maternal Behavioral Health Grant, funded by the California Behavioral Health Services Oversight and Accountability Commission, aims to enhance behavioral health services for children aged 0-5 and birthing individuals. With a budget of $1,601,000 over three years, the initiative focuses on providing technical assistance to six grantees, promoting integrated care systems, and ensuring access to essential resources. This collaborative approach seeks to improve outcomes, reduce school failures, and support families in navigating developmental and behavioral health challenges.

Durfee Foundation provides Los Angeles County nonprofit leaders with support to pursue innovative, cross-disciplinary inquiries through the Stanton Fellowship. Outstanding individuals with at least seven years of experience in the nonprofit or government sectors may be eligible for funding to tackle complex issues and drive positive change in their communities.

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 California Forests and Watersheds - Wildfires Restoration Grant Program, administered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, aims to restore lands and watersheds in the Angeles National Forest affected by the Copper (2002) and Sayre (2008) wildfires. This competitive grant focuses on increasing restoration efforts, enhancing ecological benefits, and promoting innovative solutions for forest health. The program encourages partnerships and stewardship in managing U.S. Forest Service lands, ensuring sustainable recovery and resilience for future generations.

The Urban and Community Forestry Grants by CAL FIRE aim to create green schoolyards in California to enhance children's health and education while addressing climate change. Funding of $13.5 million will support TK-12 schools in specific neighborhoods, focusing on nature-based solutions to alleviate heat and improve urban environments. Projects must benefit disadvantaged communities and require local educational agency support. This initiative underscores the importance of urban forestry in fostering resilient and sustainable communities.

The Valero Energy Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that align with their mission to improve the quality of life in communities where Valero operates. With a focus on basic needs, health care, education, and civic initiatives, the foundation prioritizes funding requests from 501(c)(3) organizations. In 2019, it provided approximately $40 million to support disadvantaged children and families, emphasizing a commitment to corporate citizenship and community well-being.

About PLTW GatewayPLTW Gateway (6-8) opens paths that create meaningful futures. It connects students to careers in areas they can, and can't, imagine.3M has partnered with PLTW to ensure students and teachers have the tools, resources and knowledge they need to succeed in STEM. 3M inspires the next generation of science leaders through the following goals:

• Increasing STEM exposure in K-12 classrooms
• Supporting experiential learning opportunitiesEnhancing the quality of STEM teaching
• Providing professional development opportunities for students

Program Requirements:

• The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Gateway program.
• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Gateway unit in the 2027-2028 academic year.
• Grantee may implement any PLTW Gateway unit of their choosing.

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

The Los Angeles Trial Lawyers Charities (LATLC) is dedicated to improving the quality of life for individuals in the greater Los Angeles area. Established in 2006, LATLC focuses on supporting education, children, survivors of abuse, those with disabilities, and the homeless through financial grants and volunteer efforts. With over 3,000 supporters and a committed board of 42 attorneys, LATLC aims to make a significant, positive impact on the community.

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 PLTW Launch program, in partnership with the John Deere Foundation, aims to enhance STEM education access for underserved communities. This initiative supports schools in implementing PLTW Launch modules, fostering equitable opportunities for students. With a commitment to enroll at least 50% of students from the Free and Reduced Lunch program, the program focuses on real-world skills development to prepare youth for future challenges. The goal is to empower one million students by 2030.

The NRA Foundation in California offers grants aimed at promoting charitable purposes related to firearms and hunting safety. Eligible organizations include IRS-recognized entities and government bodies. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission to educate the public about firearms and support research on safety. Ineligible organizations include labor unions and private businesses. The funding decisions are made solely by the Foundation based on its criteria.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

The Dow Promise Grant empowers communities by addressing the unique barriers faced by Black youth and adults in the U.S. This program provides grants up to $10,000 for initiatives that promote social, economic, and environmental advancements. Since its inception in 2000, the Dow Promise Program has been committed to fostering equitable opportunities and positive social change, ultimately contributing to long-term community success and a brighter future for all.

The Pasadena Audubon Society offers research grants aimed at supporting students and community organizations engaged in bird-related research and conservation. This funding is focused on projects relevant to Southern California and the Pacific Flyway, encouraging scientific studies and community initiatives that enhance our understanding and protection of avian species.

The Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association Grants support nonprofit and for-profit entities in preserving the historical resources of Long Beach. Founded in 1998, the Association prioritizes projects that honor the contributions of the Long Beach Naval Station and architect Paul Revere Williams. Eligible projects must be publicly beneficial, located within Long Beach, and align with established historic preservation standards. Funding focuses on direct project expenses, excluding endowments or completed projects. The Association encourages collaborative funding efforts.

The Airport Noise Ordinance Neighborhood Impact Fund, established by the Long Beach Community Foundation, allocates fines from airlines violating noise restrictions at Long Beach Airport. This fund supports projects that enhance the lives of residents affected by flight path noise. Eligible applicants include US-based, 501(C)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities in good standing with the IRS, focusing on benefiting the communities under the flight paths.

About the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC)

The CPUC regulates privately owned electric, natural gas, telecommunications, water, railroad, rail transit, and passenger transportation companies, in addition to authorizing video franchises.

Our five Governor-appointed Commissioners, as well as our staff, are dedicated to ensuring that consumers have safe, reliable utility service at reasonable rates, protecting against fraud, and promoting the health of California's economy.

Clean Energy Access (Phase 2): LA County TECH (CEA-LAT) Grant

Purpose

The CEA-LAT Grant will provide up to $200,000 in funding to Community Based Organizations (CBOs) in Los Angeles County that perform outreach and education on the Technology for Equipment and Clean Heating Clean Initiative (TECH Clean CA). It focuses on building decarbonization, healthy homes, electrification technologies, and health-related impacts.

CEA-LAT Grant projects must be in LA County, and priority will be given to organizations located in the Aliso Canyon Disaster Area and/or the San Fernando Valley. Successful applicants for the CEA-LAT Grant will have a demonstrated background in advocating for their chosen target community in these areas. 

Examples of Eligible Activities

• Outreach and Education
• Evaluating Impact of Strategic Outreach and Education
• Staff Training
• Collaboration with Existing Program Implementer
• Program Participant Support

Focused on community development, the Ralph M. Parsons Foundation invites Los Angeles County nonprofits to apply for funding across civic and cultural engagement, education, health, and human services. Organizations serving local residents through direct programs or capital projects may benefit from general operating or project-specific support.

The Conrad N. Hilton Foundation's Good Neighbor Program supports local organizations in Westlake Village, California, with grants of $10,000 aimed at general operating support. This initiative streamlines the application process to enhance flexibility for grantees. Title 1 schools can apply for project-specific funding, capped at $5,000, ensuring that assistance is directed where it's most needed. The program emphasizes community engagement and supports nonprofits addressing the needs of disadvantaged individuals.

The Doheny Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations in Greater Los Angeles that align with its mission and four focus areas: Social Welfare, Health and Wellness, Education, and Religion. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations and can only apply once per year. The Foundation emphasizes initiatives that enhance the lives of vulnerable populations and promote economic self-reliance, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as political activities or work outside the U.S.

The IMA Foundation Grant focuses on empowering communities by supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to workforce development, financial security for families, and enhancing emergency preparedness. With a mission to provide philanthropic assistance, the foundation seeks partners that align with its vision and operational reach. Organizations must be 501c3 nonprofits and serve areas where IMA has offices, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact youth under 26 years of age.

The Variety Sunshine Coach Grant Program aids children with special needs in Southern California by providing essential resources for mobility, education, and healthcare. Celebrating over 30 years, this initiative offers specially equipped Sunshine Coaches to transport children to necessary services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) and demonstrate a commitment to serving children aged 0-18. By removing barriers, the program ensures inclusivity and opportunity for every child in the community.

Project Lead the Way inc.

School and district leaders need a solution that cultivates confidence and career readiness—and PLTW checks all the boxes. As a nonprofit organization founded by educators and driven by education leaders, we've spent more than 28 years equipping students with the technical knowledge, transferable skills, and career confidence they need to thrive—through programs that integrate real-world industry partnerships, best-in-class teacher training, and our proven activity-, project-, problem-based (APB) instructional model. At PLTW, we're on a mission to create a transformative learning environment and empower students to develop in-demand knowledge and skills necessary to thrive in an evolving world. 

PLTW Gateway

PLTW Gateway (6-8) opens paths that create meaningful futures. It connects students to careers in areas they can, and can't, imagine. Through explorations of skilled trades, coding and robotics, flight and space, human body systems, and more, PLTW Gateway fuels students’ passion for discovery. As they engage in hands-on, collaborative problem solving focused on real-world challenges, students use and stretch their imaginations in brand-new ways that connect their learning to life. All the while, students step into roles spanning the career landscape—a crucial experience during this transitional time in their lives, long before they enter their degreed or skilled trade professions. 

PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion (3M)

3M forms lasting partnerships with communities and provides resources to help them succeed and grow – ensuring a more interconnected and thriving world. 3M inspires the next generation of science leaders through the following goals:

• Increasing STEM exposure in K-12 classrooms
• Supporting experiential learning opportunities
• Enhancing the quality of STEM teaching
• Providing professional development opportunities for students

3M has partnered with PLTW to ensure students and teachers have the tools, resources and knowledge they need to succeed in STEM.

The Proposition 68 grant aims to enhance the Lower Los Angeles River and its tributaries, focusing on urban recreation and habitat restoration projects. It prioritizes workforce development and access for diverse populations, with a funding range of $300,000 to $2,000,000. The program allocates 80% for implementation, 10% for planning, and 10% for technical assistance, ensuring that 20% of funds serve disadvantaged communities, fostering sustainable development in the region.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative neurocognitive research and mental health initiatives, offering funding between $25,000 and $250,000. Organizations should be 501(c)(3) and focus on healthcare solutions for brain-related ailments. Applications are accepted via a rolling letter of inquiry, followed by a detailed application if interested. The Foundation prioritizes projects based in Southern California and Greater Boston, aiming to advance understanding of mental health through cutting-edge research and technologies.