Best Monterey County Grants for Nonprofits in California

Teacher teams in Monterey County, California public, charter, or qualifying private schools can seek up to US $30,000 for multi-year professional learning projects that strengthen teaching practice and leadership. Grants from Intrepid Philanthropy Foundation support activities like expert training, learning communities, and tool development that enhance teacher effectiveness and benefit school or district-wide practice.

Judge Efren and Lite Iglesia Scholarship Fund: In Memory of Roger and Pat Freet

These scholarships were established by Judge Efren Iglesia (Ret.) and his wife, Lite Iglesia, to honor the memory of Roger and Pat Freet of Reedley. Roger—-a long-time superintendent of schools in the Reedley area, and his wife, Pat—-were responsible for bringing the then 21-year old Judge Iglesia from the Philippines to the U.S. in 1971, and sending him to college and law school in this country.

Awards:

Reedley High School:

• One $2,000 scholarship for a graduating student
• One $1,000 scholarship for a graduating student

Reedley College:

• One $2,000 scholarship for a graduating student
• One $1,000 scholarship for a graduating student

For Monterey County Youth:

• Three scholarships of $1,000 each for graduating high school seniors.

The Dunspaugh-Dalton Foundation Grant supports nonprofits focused on charitable, educational, and cultural initiatives primarily in Miami-Dade County, Florida, and Monterey County, California. New applicants must submit a Letter of Intent, while returning applicants can directly submit proposals. The foundation prioritizes projects with clearly defined outcomes in areas like arts, education, health care, and community services. Grants are typically awarded for one year, promoting impactful community improvements.

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 Division of Boating and Waterways offers the Sewage Management Education and Outreach Grant Program to educate Californians about proper boat sewage disposal. Established under the Clean Vessel Act of 1992, this program funds pumpout stations and promotes public awareness in targeted regions including the San Francisco Bay Delta and Southern California Coastal Counties. Grants will support education, outreach, and monitoring efforts to ensure safe and environmentally friendly boating practices.

The Radiance Gives Fund Grant, established in 2022 by Radiance Technologies, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in local communities. This employee-run charitable initiative ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to grant awards, enhancing community impact. With no administrative fees deducted, Radiance empowers its employees to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about, fostering a culture of giving and community support.

The California Energy Commission (CEC) has allocated up to $59,484,345 for the GFO-24-603 program aimed at enhancing the reliability of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. This initiative will focus on repairing, replacing, and installing at least 1,302 non-operational charging ports statewide, ensuring they comply with the Federal Highway Administration's guidelines. The program is critical for facilitating broader EV adoption and improving access to charging stations throughout California.

Raley's Community Giving supports impactful community initiatives in areas such as child welfare, food access, and sustainability. They prioritize requests that align with these focus areas and require submissions to be made at least 90 days prior to the need date. Organizations must be located in cities with Raley's stores and can only receive support once per fiscal year. Notably, requests for individual sponsorships or third-party fundraising are not eligible.

Nonprofits, government entities, and state-recognized charities in Monterey County, California can seek US $3,000 - US $5,000 to support firearms safety, shooting sports, hunting safety, and marksmanship programs. The NRA Foundation supports educational, charitable, and research initiatives that promote safe firearms use and shooting sports, including youth and public education efforts.

Asian Cultural Experience of Salinas Jess Tabasa Trust Scholarship Fund

 Award amount: $1,500 for Undergraduate students/ $2,500 for Graduate students per year.

• # of awards: Varies

Open to: Monterey, Santa Cruz and San Benito County currently enrolled high school seniors or undergraduate or graduate students

• Renewable for up to 4 years: undergraduate studies
• Renewable for up to 2 years: graduate studies

 To claim the award funds, the winning student must:

Enroll in an accredited school of higher education including:

• 4-year, bachelor’s degree
• Graduate school
• As a full-time student
• by Fall semester after receiving the award
• Send the Claim Form provided by CFMC along with official proof of his or her enrollment to the Community Foundation.

Nonprofit land trusts and conservation organizations in Monterey County, California can seek funding to protect land and natural resources through purchases, conservation easements, education, and related methods. John S Kiewit Memorial Foundation provides US $1,000 - US $250,000 to preserve open space and agricultural character across the California Central Coast and neighboring regions.

Joel and Dena Gambord Nursing Scholarship

The goal of this scholarship is to attract and support high caliber nursing students who choose to complete their advanced nursing studies in the RN to BSN program at CSU Monterey Bay.

In so doing, this merit-based program will provide CSU Monterey Bay and the College of Health Sciences and Human Services with the opportunity to ensure the development of high-quality nursing expertise in the region.

The Scholarship fund provides financial support to eligible students for tuition assistance in the nursing program.

Scholarship finalists are selected on the basis of academic performance, financial need, demonstrated leadership and participation in community service in the healthcare field, work experience, passing an open book civics test, and a statement of career and educational goals and objectives.

Priority consideration will be given to working RN’s who want to receive their BSN.

Monterey County, California nonprofits and public entities running food access and nutrition education programs can access funding through Bayer Fund to address malnutrition and hunger. Eligible, established 501(c)(3)s, schools, and government units in this legacy-Monsanto community may be invited to apply for comprehensive, behavior-change initiatives and food security efforts serving underserved families and young children.

Graduate students in phycology can apply for the Hannah T. Croasdale Fellowship to help cover tuition, travel, room, and board for phycology courses at biological field stations, including in Monterey County, California. Awards up to US $2,250 support students seeking to broaden their phycological training beyond their home institution.

Nonprofits, schools, school districts, and public agencies in Monterey County, California can receive US $500 - US $5,000 for transportation costs to MPRPD parks and preserves. Community Foundation for Monterey County’s fund supports recreational, environmental, and cultural education field trips on MPRPD properties for organizations with an MPRPD permit or MOU, including youth-serving and faith-based groups.

The Southern Monterey County Foundation Grants, established in 2014, aim to inspire philanthropy and strengthen communities in Southern Monterey County. Grants support nonprofit organizations addressing community needs, particularly in King City and surrounding areas. Priority is given to projects with measurable impacts and community program expansions. Funding may cover facility costs, matching grants, and personnel expenses. Locally based organizations with demonstrated community support are preferred, ensuring small grants can create significant local change.

The Northern Monterey County Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to support nonprofit organizations addressing community needs in Northern Monterey County. Grants are available for program, operating, and capital support, with a focus on projects that demonstrate sustainability and impact. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits and public programs. The grant prioritizes initiatives benefiting local communities like Castroville and Pajaro, while excluding funding for political, religious, or individual efforts.

The William Simes Research Fund, managed by UC Berkeley, supports graduate and postdoctoral research at the Hastings Natural History Reservation. Established in 2017, the fund honors Frances Simes Hastings and her husband, who donated the land in 1937. The fund provides multiple annual awards of $2000 to offset costs related to extended field research, including housing and supplies, fostering scientific inquiry in diverse habitats of California.

The Sustainable Recreation, Tourism, and Equitable Outdoor Access Directed Grant Program (2025-2027) supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing sustainable recreation and tourism in the Sierra-Cascade region. Key goals include improving public access to nature, mitigating overuse impacts on resources, and fostering sustainable recreation economies. Projects eligible for funding must focus on climate resilience, equitable access, or landscape-scale assessments, all ensuring multiple benefits for community education and environmental protection.

The Neighborhood Grants Program, managed by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, provides funding from $3,000 to $5,000 to community-led initiatives that enhance local quality of life. Open year-round, this program prioritizes applications from underserved areas and encourages projects that demonstrate community involvement, leadership, and measurable impact. Since its inception in 1997, over $1 million has been awarded to support grassroots efforts across Monterey County.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Catholic dioceses and parishes in Extension dioceses, including those serving Monterey County, California, can seek funding to construct, expand, or renovate Catholic churches and related facilities. Grants from Catholic Extension help under-resourced Catholic communities address urgent facility needs, from minor repairs and furnishings to major building projects, with awards up to US $100,000.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

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.

The Will Glickman Award, presented by Theatre Bay Area, honors the best new play premiering in the San Francisco Bay Area each year. Established in 1984, this award celebrates excellence in playwriting, recognizing outstanding original works that enrich the local theatre community. It not only highlights the playwright's achievements but also encourages the development and production of new plays. Submissions are accepted year-round, emphasizing the commitment to fostering diverse and inclusive artistic voices.

The CA$H Theatre Grant, provided by Theatre Bay Area, supports individual artists and small theatre companies in the San Francisco Bay Area. This grant program fosters the development of artistic and capacity-building projects, focusing on those not tied to fully-produced performances. With an emphasis on equity and inclusion, it aids in script development, workshops, and organizational improvement, ensuring a vibrant arts community where diverse voices can thrive.

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.