Best Grants for Charities in Oregon

The Native Voices Endowment Grants, managed by the Endangered Language Fund, support the preservation of endangered languages associated with Native American tribes that interacted with the Lewis and Clark Expedition from 1803-1806. Grants are available for language documentation, revitalization, and educational projects, fostering cultural heritage through various initiatives. Eligible applicants include tribal members and language programs, ensuring the continuation of linguistic traditions and community involvement in revitalizing native languages.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

The CHS Foundation offers funding for innovative projects in precision agriculture and data analytics. This annual grant program supports colleges and universities focusing on enhancing agronomy and ag mechanics curriculum. Applications are accepted from April 15 to May 31, with priority given to initiatives that foster hands-on learning and technology development. Eligible projects should emphasize data analysis and improve students' understanding of agricultural technology, while adhering to funding guidelines.

The Community Arts & Culture: Project Grants provide funding for short-term arts and culture initiatives in Hillsboro, supporting organizations with budgets under $100,000. Grants range from $500 to $3,000 and aim to enhance access to the arts for underserved populations, foster collaboration, and promote community engagement through diverse projects such as performances, workshops, and cultural festivals. Applicants are encouraged to consult with Cultural Arts staff to ensure eligibility.

The NRA Foundation: Oregon Grants aim to support educational and public service programs related to shooting sports. The foundation provides funding for projects that promote firearms safety, educate individuals about firearms, and conduct research for improved safety practices. Eligible organizations include IRS recognized entities and government bodies. The foundation does not fund commercial ventures or activities requiring NRA membership. This initiative fosters community engagement and enhances skills in marksmanship and safety for all participants.

The Student Support and Academic Enrichment (SSAE) Grant, authorized by the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), aims to enhance academic achievement for all students. It focuses on providing access to a well-rounded education, improving school conditions for learning, and enhancing technology use to boost digital literacy. This initiative aligns with Oregon's educational goals to ensure equitable access to quality education, empowering students with essential skills and experiences necessary for success.

The Community Grants Program - Spring Cycle, led by The Oregon Community Foundation, aims to empower small rural and culturally responsive organizations across Oregon. With a commitment to philanthropy, this initiative focuses on fostering impactful community change. The 2026 Spring Cycle invites eligible organizations to apply, ensuring their missions align with the program's goals. For those not fitting this cycle, a second opportunity will be available later in 2026, promoting inclusivity in funding.

The Autzen Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations improving Oregon through social services, arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) registered or government entities and provide services to Oregon or southwest Washington residents. Organizations must have been tax-exempt for at least two years and can submit only one grant request annually. The Foundation does not fund individuals, fundraising events, or multi-year grants, ensuring a focused impact on community needs.

The Oregon Community Foundation's Community Grants Program provides vital funding to nonprofits addressing pressing community needs across Oregon. With a commitment to equitable access, the program supports innovative solutions that foster connection and belonging among diverse populations. The initiative prioritizes funding for new and expanding projects, capacity-building, and small capital improvements, empowering organizations to create lasting impact. This responsive approach has been shaped by local voices and aims to enhance community resilience and address systemic inequities.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

About

Mission

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

Vision

We aspire to co-create diverse, meaningful and innovative charitable giving that yields an exponential positive impact within local communities and beyond.

Scholarships

Tom & Pat Gallagher Endowed Scholarship

The Tom and Pat Gallagher Endowed Scholarship Fund assists sophomore students at Oregon State University who graduated from a Benton County high school. Tom and Pat place a high value on education. “Without the financial assistance I received at a crucial point in my life, Pat and I might not have had the opportunities we have enjoyed,” said Tom. The couple hopes the scholarship fund will improve educational opportunities for OSU students who possess the intellectual ability, but not all of the financial resources, required to succeed.

Wegmans Family Foundation Inc focuses on cultivating healthy communities through support for hunger relief, health initiatives, education, and youth programs. They prioritize collaborations with local nonprofits to enhance community well-being, offering assistance in key areas like economic mobility and youth engagement. Despite their wide-ranging support, they have specific ineligibility criteria, such as not accommodating personal requests or solicitation on their property, aiming to direct resources effectively where they are needed most.

The Scholarship for Academic Excellence offers fourteen $2,500 awards for graduating high school seniors in Idaho Power’s service area. Eligible students must have a minimum 3.75 GPA and plan to enroll full-time in accredited STEM or business programs in Idaho or Oregon. Applications open on January 1, 2025, and awards are one-time grants for the following school year. This scholarship aims to support aspiring students in pursuing higher education.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

The Slave 2 Nothing Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing human trafficking and substance abuse in states with In-N-Out Burger locations. Their mission is to empower individuals to overcome enslavement by providing essential resources and support. The foundation follows a rigorous vetting process for grant applications, emphasizing the importance of impactful solutions and community engagement. They encourage eligible nonprofits to apply annually, promoting sustainable support for vital services aimed at healing and freedom.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Ford Scholarships provide significant financial support, up to $40,000 per year, for promising high school seniors and recent graduates from Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. This renewable scholarship aims to assist those facing barriers to higher education, regardless of GPA. The program offers comprehensive support, including personal guidance and a lifetime connection to a dedicated alumni community, ensuring that scholars are well-equipped to succeed in their academic pursuits.

The Dr. Ernest Hartzog Founder’s Scholarship aims to empower Black/African American high school graduates in Oregon by providing financial support for their educational pursuits. The Oregon Community Foundation, dedicated to philanthropy, administers this scholarship to enhance the lives of all Oregonians. Preference is given to students who are committed to giving back to their communities and fostering the next generation. This initiative exemplifies the transformative impact of strategic giving in diverse communities across Oregon.

The Gray Family Foundation Camp Maintenance fund aims to enhance outdoor school camp facilities across Oregon, investing over $500,000 annually since 2014. This initiative focuses on vital repairs, including weatherproofing, roofing, and plumbing systems, ensuring safe and accessible environments for children. Applications are open to non-profit organizations without invitation, emphasizing inclusivity and diversity in selection. However, capital projects for new construction and recreational maintenance are excluded from funding.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Arts Build Communities Grants, offered by the Oregon Arts Commission, aim to enhance arts engagement in communities, particularly for underserved populations. This program supports innovative projects that foster partnerships, improve access, and integrate arts with community goals. Emphasizing flexibility in project implementation during challenges such as COVID-19, it welcomes diverse initiatives that may include new program development and cultural tourism, thus promoting local capacity building and artistic involvement.

Rural Veterans Healthcare Transportation Program

Bridges gaps and resolves barriers between Oregon's veterans living in rural areas and the healthcare benefits they've earned.

This program uses lottery funds from the Oregon Department of Veterans' Affairs dedicated by the Oregon Legislature. ODOT cannot use these funds for maintenance or agency operations.

Funding

• ​Total amount available: up to $1.109 million

Match Requirements

​There is no local match required for this program. Coordinated applications between STIF Agencies or through purchased services contracts with common providers is encouraged.

The WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

Geraldine Stephenson Scholarship

The Geraldine Stephenson Continuing Education Scholarship Endowment, administered by the Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Volunteers, provides a yearly grant of no more than $10,000 to an individual/s in a medically-related field. Geraldine "Gerry" Stephenson was a charter member of the Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center Auxiliary and served as bookkeeper for the Gift Shop for 15 years. In memory of Gerry and her ideals, this endowment has been established. It is intended to support and encourage those who lack the opportunity or means to continue an education. Its purpose is to provide assistance to those who wish to continue to work toward a vocational or undergraduate degree and who, due to 1) financial need and 2) current or past family responsibilities and/or other personal disabilities have had their higher education interrupted for an extended period of at least five years or more or have been unable to complete their education due to hardship.

This scholarship will enable candidates to pursue their education by providing funds to help cover the cost of tuition, books and other school-related fees as long as they meet academic standards of a 3.0 GPA.