Best Grants for Native Americans in California

The CA Emergency Watershed Protection Program (EWP) Grants provide essential technical and financial support to local communities in California facing imminent threats from natural disasters like floods and wildfires. This program assists eligible sponsors, including local government and tribal organizations, in implementing crucial conservation practices to safeguard life and property. By enabling recovery projects and floodplain easements, EWP fosters resilience and sustainable management of vital watershed resources for the benefit of all communities.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Proposition 1 Stream Flow Enhancement Program in California aims to improve stream flows for the benefit of fish and wildlife. It provides $200 million in funding for projects that align with the California Water Action Plan, focusing on enhancing water flow in streams supporting anadromous fish and at-risk species. The program facilitates water transactions, conservation projects, and habitat restoration efforts to ensure sustainable water resource management and resilience against climate change.

The Public Access Program Grants, established by the California Wildlife Conservation Board, aim to enhance public access to natural areas, promoting wildlife-oriented recreation and supporting projects that encourage hunting, fishing, and equitable access for underserved communities. By funding planning, implementation, and community outreach initiatives, the program fosters a connection between individuals, families, and the environment, ensuring that all Californians can enjoy the benefits of nature while becoming stewards of the land.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Sustainable Agricultural Lands Conservation Program (SALC) aims to protect California's agricultural lands from conversion to GHG-intensive uses while supporting climate goals. Through strategic investments, SALC enhances food security and promotes resilient agricultural systems. This program is part of California Climate Investments, which funds initiatives that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and benefit disadvantaged communities. Grants are available for agricultural conservation acquisitions, planning, and capacity funding to ensure the preservation of vital agricultural resources.

The CA Wildfire Prevention Grants Program, managed by CAL FIRE, offers funding for projects aimed at reducing wildfire risks in vulnerable communities. It prioritizes activities like hazardous fuels reduction, wildfire prevention planning, and educational initiatives that focus on enhancing public safety and environmental sustainability. Projects are evaluated based on their potential to mitigate wildfire threats, with additional consideration given to disadvantaged communities and initiatives that demonstrate carbon benefits. Competitive selection ensures effective use of resources.

The Maternal Smoking Cessation Initiative (MSCI) aims to support research on culturally-tailored tobacco cessation interventions for pregnant individuals, particularly those from BIPOC and AIAN communities. This initiative includes two award mechanisms: the Partnered-MSCI Award for collaborative research projects and the Single Investigator-MSCI for studies on smoking behaviors and societal stressors. The program emphasizes innovative approaches to improve health outcomes and generate valuable data for future tobacco control strategies.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Dairy Digester Research and Development Program (DDRDP) by the California Department of Food and Agriculture provides competitive grants to dairy operations in California for implementing digesters that significantly reduce methane emissions. With a budget of $48 million from the 2022 Budget Act, the program supports environmentally sustainable practices. Eligible participants include existing milk producers and dairy digester developers located in California, ensuring that funds are directed to improve local environmental conditions.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Senate Bill 1 Sea Level Rise Tribal Cultural Resources Funding Program aims to support California Native American tribes in addressing the challenges posed by sea level rise (SLR). This initiative provides funding for tribes to assess and plan for the impacts on their ancestral lands and cultural resources, ensuring the preservation of their identities and practices. Eligible projects include community visioning, data collection, and the development of strategies to protect culturally significant sites threatened by SLR.

The Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program, managed by the UC Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education Program, aims to enhance the resilience of California’s food systems. It supports projects that promote environmentally regenerative practices, improve access to healthy foods, and strengthen community connections. Priority is given to initiatives benefiting disadvantaged communities and socially disadvantaged groups, ensuring inclusivity in agricultural development while addressing ecological and economic challenges.

The UC SAREP Sustainable Agriculture & Food Systems Small Grants Program aims to support California's farmers and communities by promoting environmentally regenerative practices and enhancing food system resilience. It offers funding for projects that benefit diverse stakeholders, including education and outreach initiatives, applied research, and planning grants, all with a focus on cultural responsiveness and social equity. Grants range from $10,000 to $20,000, targeting priority groups and fostering collaboration.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

California Department of Public Health

The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) works to protect the public’s health and shape positive health outcomes for individuals, families and communities. Public health is for everyone; not just in emergencies but in everyday life — from heart health and mental wellness to food safety and the prevention of infectious and chronic diseases. Our programs and services, in collaboration with local health departments, state, federal and private partners, touch the lives of every Californian and visitor, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

The California Tobacco Control Branch

The California Tobacco Control Branch leads statewide and local health programs, services and activities that promote an environment truly free of tobacco. ​

Statewide Priority Population Coordinating Center 

Purpose

This Request for Application (RFA) seeks to fund one (1) Statewide Priority Population Coordinating Center (PPCC), to coordinate and foster interactive and integrative collaboration and communication among California Department of Public Health, California Tobacco Prevention Program (CDPH/CTPP)-funded projects, as well as other state, regional, and local partners to address tobacco-related disparities. The PPCC will focus on each of the following population groups starting July 1, 2026: 1) African American/Black; 2) Asian American/Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI); 3) Latino; 4) Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer or Questioning (LGBTQ+); 5) Rural communities. Starting July 1, 2027, the PPCC will also incorporate collaboration and communication with American Indian and Alaska Native populations.

The City of Berkeley's Community Festivals Grant supports diverse cultural events that engage the community and enhance Berkeley's reputation as a vibrant destination. Grants up to $7,000 are available for one-time festivals that are free and accessible to the public. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and artist collectives. The grant encourages projects that celebrate cultural heritage and foster community involvement, while ineligible costs include administrative expenses and ongoing programming.

The Local Parks Grant: Implementation Grants program by Arts in California Parks aims to foster community ties by enhancing local cultural history through art and nature in parks. Eligible projects must engage the public and contribute to community health and well-being, with grants awarded for initiatives in local parks across California. Projects are expected to be executed within a 12-month period, starting in October 2025, and should focus on creating sustainable connections to local heritage.

 Preservation & Accessibility of California’s LGBTQ+ History

The Preservation & Accessibility of California’s LGBTQ+ History grant opportunity provides funding for California organizations to support the preservation and public accessibility of LGBTQ+ archives. Funds are provided by the State of California.

This opportunity is targeted at archives, and organizations with archival collections, for projects that preserve and make publicly accessible collections relevant to the LGBTQ+ movement, culture, experience, and/or history in California. This opportunity aims to preserve and make accessible materials demonstrating the significant role of LGBTQ+ Californians and the LGBTQ+ movement in this state. By preserving and making these resources available to others, funded projects will help provide a more comprehensive and inclusive view of California’s history. 

Funding

Minimum funding request: $5,000. Maximum funding request: $200,000.

The Tribal Nature-Based Solutions Climate Bond 2026 Solicitation aims to support California Native American tribes by funding the return of ancestral lands, habitat restoration projects, and enhancing wildfire resiliency. With approximately $9.2 million available, this program encourages multi-benefit initiatives such as land acquisition and local assistance. Funds may be allocated for various purposes, including contracts and grants, promoting sustainable solutions that benefit both the environment and indigenous communities.