Best Multnomah County Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

Multnomah County, Oregon artists, arts organizations, arts businesses, and other nonprofits can access funding through the Portland Arts Project Grant Program to create and share artistic work with community impact. Administered by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, this program offers US $1,000 - US $5,000 for programming, events, presentations, or artistic development that engages the public.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The June & Julian Foss Foundation, established in 1997, prioritizes support for children and young adults, especially those facing mental illness or physical disabilities. With a mission to foster healthy, responsible adults and promote family philanthropy, the Foundation emphasizes family strength, diversity, and self-worth. Grants typically do not exceed $5,000 and are directed towards programs that enhance self-sufficiency and recognize individual capabilities, while upholding values of integrity and respect.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities in Multnomah County, Oregon can apply for Georgia-Pacific Foundation’s grants to support education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment initiatives. Eligible applicants must be within 30 miles of a Georgia-Pacific manufacturing community and serve communities where the company operates.

The Howard Wallis Irwin & Dorise Carlyon Irwin Foundation Grant aims to support youth, families, education, and the elderly. Established in 1992, the foundation focuses on social service projects that promote independence and self-reliance, primarily in the Portland Metropolitan area. Funding is limited to organizations with 501(c)(3) status, with an emphasis on efforts that enhance economic participation and community vitality. The foundation does not support medical research or grants to individuals.

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.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation Direct Grants program provides support to non-profit organizations in focus areas including STEM education, sustainable construction, and workforce development. The foundation aims to foster community development and environmental stewardship. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions in the U.S. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships that allow employee involvement and volunteer support, aiming to build meaningful relationships with grantees.

The PCEF Mini Grants program, funded by The City of Portland, offers up to $5,000 for initiatives that promote racial and social justice while tackling climate change. Organizations can apply on a rolling basis, with the next grant cycle expected in April 2026 after a hiatus in January 2026. Eligible applicants include qualified nonprofits and emerging groups with fiscal sponsors. This program aims to support diverse activities including events, training, and grant writing.

The Community Livability Grant (CLG) Program, funded by Prosper Portland, supports community-based organizations in creating healthy and resilient neighborhoods. Grants, ranging from $10,000 to $300,000, aim to benefit historically underserved communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and neighborhood associations in specified districts. Projects should improve access to jobs, support small businesses, and enhance cultural diversity. Applications require a concept plan and must adhere to strict timelines for project initiation and completion.

Multnomah County, Oregon anatomy educators at accredited colleges or universities can access funding through the American Association for Anatomy’s Henry Gray Distinguished Educator Award, which provides US $2,000 for travel to the AAA Annual Meeting. Full-time or emeritus faculty who are AAA members, with nominations and recommendation letters, may be considered.

The Division for Translational and Clinical Pharmacology Early Career Awards recognize outstanding contributions from early career scientists in translational and clinical pharmacology. Awardees receive support for travel expenses, up to $700, to attend the ASPET Annual Meeting, where they can present their research and network with peers. This initiative aims to foster professional development and collaboration within the pharmacology community.

The Gresham Community Enhancement Grant, initiated in 2017, supports various projects aimed at improving neighborhood appearance, enhancing public safety, and preserving local wildlife. Funded by Metro's solid waste collection fees, it prioritizes initiatives that benefit under-served populations and promote community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and local government entities, making it a vital resource for enhancing livability in Gresham.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The ASPET Division for Toxicology Career Award honors exceptional research contributions in Toxicology by established investigators. This annual award includes a $500 honorarium, a commemorative plaque, and partial travel expenses for the winner to attend the ASPET Annual Meeting. Candidates must be ASPET members and can self-nominate. Notably, current division chairs and council presidents are ineligible for the award during their tenure. The award emphasizes excellence and originality in toxicology research.

The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.

The Pharmacology Educators Award aims to enhance participation in the ASPET Annual Meeting and support career development for pharmacology educators. This award offers financial assistance for attending the meeting and encourages recipients to engage in future educational activities. It includes a commemorative plaque and reimbursement of up to $1,000 for registration and travel expenses. Eligibility encompasses all faculty ranks with significant teaching roles in pharmacology, and preference is given to DPE members and those submitting educational abstracts.

With a mission to support education, H.E.L.P. The Charity provides Multnomah County, Oregon schools and other U.S.-based nonprofit, tax-exempt entities with grants for academic success and educational access programs. Public schools, bands, athletic teams, and similar groups in communities served by participating Figaro’s Pizza locations may be eligible.

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 PGE Foundation offers an Education Grant aimed at enhancing educational outcomes through community collaboration. The foundation prioritizes programs that connect students with real-world experiences, foster essential skills, and promote diversity and inclusion. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and based in Oregon, focusing on communities historically facing barriers. By supporting innovative education initiatives, the foundation strives to create pathways to higher education and career opportunities for young people.

The PGE Foundation offers Creative Expression Grants aimed at enhancing educational outcomes through arts programs. These grants support organizations that foster critical thinking and socio-emotional skills via arts engagement. Priority is given to nonprofits based in Oregon that collaborate with the community and address systemic barriers to equity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations focused on youth development and integrated arts curricula, while ensuring compliance with non-discrimination policies.

Multnomah County, Oregon 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations raising funds for community services or environmental causes can benefit from this coupon-based fundraiser. Grants from Abby’s Legendary Pizza Foundation help eligible groups partner with local restaurants to distribute discount coupons and receive $1 back for each redeemed coupon to support their programs.

The Division for Cardiovascular Pharmacology Early Career Award recognizes early career investigators in cardiovascular science. Presented biennially by the American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET), it aims to honor individuals who are primary members of the division. The award includes a $250 honorarium, a plaque, travel expenses up to $1,500 for the ASPET Annual Meeting, and a two-year Executive Committee membership, fostering professional development and contributions to the field.

Brilliance Labs offers microgrants to entrepreneurs aiming to create positive change in their communities, particularly in Portland. Prioritizing projects that address under-resourced areas, the funders seek innovative ministry ventures that embody values such as collaboration and dignity. Grants typically average $5,000, with the possibility of repeat funding for past recipients. Eligible applicants include registered non-profits and grassroots initiatives demonstrating neighborhood impact.

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.

Christian young adults pursuing higher education or vocational training in Multnomah County, Oregon and nearby eligible counties can receive $1,000 - $1,500 through the Church at the Grove Scholarship. With a mission to strengthen communities, Community Foundation for Southwest Washington provides renewable awards supporting college preparation, persistence, and degree completion for students active in qualifying churches.

Students pursuing vocational, technical, trade, or business education in Multnomah County, Oregon can access funding through the Jack and Carol Kelly Scholarship. Community Foundation for Southwest Washington supports graduates of eligible local high schools or descendants of Instrument Sales & Services employees who will attend accredited colleges, universities, career or technical schools, or apprenticeship programs.