Best Ontario Grants for Nonprofits in California

The Community Progress Makers Fund, an initiative by the Citi Foundation, aims to empower local organizations by providing $50 million in unrestricted funding. This program, established in 2015, will support 50 selected community organizations over three years with grants of $1 million each, alongside technical assistance and opportunities for collaboration. The fund prioritizes organizations with strong community ties and a proven impact in areas such as affordable housing, economic development, financial health, and workforce readiness.

The Play 60 Field Day is an initiative by the Los Angeles Rams aimed at encouraging children in grades K-5 to be active for 60 minutes daily, promoting healthy habits to combat childhood obesity. This structured event includes football fundamentals and interactive activities, allowing students to engage in a non-competitive environment. The Rams staff, along with mascots and cheerleaders, facilitate the event, ensuring a fun and impactful experience for young participants.

The University of Redlands Hawai'i Scholarship, established in 1997 by the University of Redlands and its Hawai'i Alumni Club, aims to support Hawai'i residents attending the university. This scholarship fosters connections between the islands and the institution, with awards varying from $1,000 to several thousand dollars, averaging around $6,000. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0, promoting academic success and community engagement.

Taylor Farms Scholarship

This year’s program continues the expanded format, offering three distinct scholarship divisions designed to support both Taylor Farms Employees and their children

Taylor Farms Scholarship : Employee Scholarship

Award: Five (5) applicants will be awarded a $2,500 renewable scholarship. Once awarded, applicants may renew their scholarship for up to three (3) additional years if the below requirements are met.

Animal welfare nonprofits focused on canine care or education in Ontario, California and greater San Bernardino County can seek one-year support for general operations, programs, and small program-related capital needs. The Ethel Frends Foundation funds organizations serving several Southern California counties, with a preference for ongoing programs rather than start-ups.

The Fisheries Restoration Grant Program (FRGP) in California, established in 1981, addresses the decline of wild salmon and steelhead trout populations and the deterioration of fish habitats. Through competitive grants, FRGP has invested millions into various coastal projects, fostering collaboration among federal and local governments, tribes, nonprofit organizations, and private landowners. This initiative aims to restore vital ecosystems and promote sustainable fisheries for future generations.

Working together with IE Nonprofits to Advance Vibrant Health

We support organizations that serve families with children across the Inland Empire. We invest in strengthening nonprofit infrastructure, increasing access to basic needs, and building healthier community environments. Our goal is simple: help trusted local leaders do their work better, reach more people and create lasting change where it’s needed most.

Responsive Grants

As part of our responsive grantmaking strategy, IEHPF offers two types of responsive grants – and. Both grant opportunities allow organizations to submit funding requests for projects and activities that advance Vibrant Health for Inland Empire community members and align with IEHPF’s mission, vision, and priorities.

Healthy Organizations Grant Summary

The Healthy Organizations grants provides funding and support to nonprofit organizations addressing the social drivers of health (SDOH) for Inland Empire community residents who are experiencing the poorest health outcomes in low-income communities, rural or remote areas and/or communities with a Healthy Places Index (HPI) score lower than 25. These investments focus on supporting projects and activities that improve the nonprofit’s internal capacity to work effectively and develop strong programs, finances, leadership and infrastructure that will be sustained beyond the one-year lifecycle of the grant.

Healthy Organizations grants are awarded twice a year and have a one-year grant lifecycle. Awards will range from $5,000 - $20,000, although exceptions may apply. Organizations may only apply once per calendar year and must address at least one of the IEHPF’s priority Vital Conditions.

To apply, organizations will complete a brief Eligibility Quiz to determine eligibility and submit a Letter of Inquiry (LOI) with a brief description of the project or activity they hope to fund with the Healthy Organizations grant. IEHPF staff members will then will review the LOI and determine if the organization will be invited to the full application on a rolling basis, but by the invitation deadline below.

Please note that organizations are encouraged to submit their LOIs early to allow for greater time to complete an application, if invited. However, as long as an organization submits an LOI by the deadline, their project will be considered for funding.

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.

The Desert Conservation Program, administered by the California Wildlife Conservation Board, aims to protect and restore the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, which are vital for biodiversity and cultural heritage. This initiative, established through the California Desert Conservation Act, focuses on land acquisition, restoration, and enhancing public access while also addressing climate resilience and improving air and water quality. Eligible projects include habitat restoration and scientific studies to support endangered species recovery.

The Enbridge Safe Community First Responder Program is designed to support emergency response organizations across Canada and the U.S. by providing grants for safety equipment, training, and educational programs. Launched in 2002, it has invested over $22 million in enhancing community safety. Eligible organizations include fire departments and medical services located near Enbridge operations. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $10,000, helping improve the capabilities of first responders in rural and underserved areas.

High-achieving San Diego County public high school seniors pursuing non-medical STEM degrees can receive $1,000 - $5,000 in TechAmerica Scholarship support from San Diego Foundation. Students planning to attend accredited four-year universities in Southern California, including those serving Ontario, California, may benefit if they meet the GPA, test score, and citizenship requirements.

Working together with IE Nonprofits to Advance Vibrant Health

We support organizations that serve families with children across the Inland Empire. We invest in strengthening nonprofit infrastructure, increasing access to basic needs, and building healthier community environments. Our goal is simple: help trusted local leaders do their work better, reach more people and create lasting change where it’s needed most.

Responsive Grants

As part of our responsive grantmaking strategy, IEHPF offers two types of responsive grants – and . Both grant opportunities allow organizations to submit funding requests for projects and activities that advance Vibrant Health for Inland Empire community members and align with IEHPF’s mission, vision, and priorities.

Healthy Communities Grant Summary

Healthy Communities grants provide funding and support to nonprofit organizations, collaboratives or networks addressing regional health needs, social drivers of health (SDPH) and systems change efforts for Inland Empire community residents who are experiencing the poorest health outcomes in low income communities, rural or remote areas and/or communities with a Healthy Places Index (HPI) score lower than 25. The grant focuses on supporting projects and activities that improve the organization or network’s capacity to effectively advocate for better health policies, strengthen regional workforce development efforts (especially in health, social services and for the purposes of Medi-Cal retention) and focus on improving population health outcomes that can be sustained beyond the one-year lifecycle of the grant.

Healthy Communities grants are awarded twice a year and have a one-year grant lifecycle. Awards will range from $20,000 - $75,000, although exceptions may apply. Organizations may only apply once per calendar year and must address at least one of the IEHPF’s priority Vital Conditions.

Nonprofit organizations and public entities improving community health and healthcare access in Ontario, California and surrounding service areas may be eligible for funding to support programs for children, families, and vulnerable residents. BHHS Legacy Foundation supports initiatives that increase access to healthcare, improve community health, expand Arizona’s healthcare workforce, and strengthen communities in its designated regions.

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.

Vibrant Health Fundraising Training Program

The Vibrant Health Fundraising Training Program (2026 Spring) is designed to equip nonprofit fundraising leaders and staff who have experience in donor development with the tools and knowledge to improve their donor cultivation and stewardship skills and processes necessary for increasing financial resources available for advancing Vibrant Health.

The goals and objectives of the program include the following:

Training Participants

Organizations will be able to select (1) staff member to participate in a 7-session enhanced fund development training program and one 2-hour individual coaching session.

In total, 20 organizations will be selected for this training opportunity. This is not a grant with direct funds but is a no-cost training program valued at $2,500 per person.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

Tyson Foods Community Giving Grants support initiatives that enhance the quality of life for communities and their members. With a focus on scaling existing effective programs, these grants are aimed at organizations that operate in underserved areas. Eligible nonprofits must have a 501(c)(3) status and local Tyson plant support. Applications are accepted annually, with priority given to projects addressing systemic community issues. Notable past support includes a $25,000 grant to the Arkansas Foodbank Mobile Pantry Initiative.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

501(c)(3) nonprofits serving children and youth impacted by abuse or neglect in Ontario, California can apply for In-N-Out Burgers Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $50,000 for aligned programs or general operating support. Eligible organizations must operate in San Bernardino County, have a $100,000+ budget, and at least two years of service history.

The Pasadena Art Alliance Grant supports contemporary visual arts in Southern California by funding innovative projects and educational programs. Established in 1955, this independent organization prioritizes grants for unconventional institutions and champions diverse artistic expressions. With over $8 million awarded since 1976, the PAA fosters community engagement and understanding of contemporary art. Preference is given to organizations located in the San Gabriel Valley, ensuring a focused impact on local art initiatives.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Preserve Route 66 Grant Fund offers financial support to public agencies, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations aiming to preserve historic places along Route 66. This initiative prioritizes projects that enhance underrepresented narratives, including those related to diverse communities. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with a focus on activities that restore, rehabilitate, or educate about significant historical sites, ensuring that this iconic American highway's legacy is maintained for future generations.

The Zurn Foundation Grant supports community well-being through financial contributions and volunteer efforts. With a focus on Basic Needs, Education, and Environment, the Foundation aims to enhance quality of life by providing essentials, promoting STEM education, and protecting natural resources. Organizations applying for this grant should align with these pillars to foster positive community impact. Applications must be submitted by May 1 for the July meeting or by November 1 for the January meeting.

The Lakers Youth Foundation offers quarterly grants aimed at empowering underserved youth through education, health, wellness, and sports programs. Grants range from $1,000 to $20,000, and applicants must detail how funds will be utilized. Eligible organizations must have operated for at least two years and cannot exceed 50% of the project's budget in requested funding. The Foundation excludes funding for individuals, private foundations, and new programs.

Nonprofit organizations serving education, arts and culture, health, human services, or civic needs in Ontario, California may be eligible for community support if they are located where the company has a facility. A O Smith Foundation supports charitable initiatives in San Bernardino County and other operating communities on a rolling basis.

The Desert Tortoise Recovery Partnership aims to restore and protect the Mojave desert tortoise populations in California's western Mojave Desert. Formed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and various military and environmental agencies, this initiative seeks to address urgent conservation needs and enhance habitat through a funding opportunity of up to $1 million. The partnership exemplifies a collaborative effort to balance species recovery with military operations, ensuring both ecological and operational sustainability.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Ontario, California working on health, education, hunger relief, youth sports, youth development, or disaster relief may be eligible for support. Focused on community well-being, Smart & Final Charitable Foundation invites local groups in San Bernardino County to request donations that nourish and strengthen the communities they serve.