Best Grants for Global Health in Oregon

The Society for Ecological Restoration Northwest Chapter offers Student Research Grants up to $3,000 to support research that enhances ecosystem restoration in the Cascadia bioregion. Eligible applicants include social or natural science graduate students and upper-level undergraduates. The grant can cover various project expenses, fostering innovative approaches to restore natural systems while promoting the diversity of life in the region.

The Pacific Branch John Henry Comstock Award honors an exemplary graduate student in entomology within the Pacific Branch. This award aims to foster enthusiasm for entomology at the graduate level and encourage participation in the Pacific Branch and ESA Annual Meetings. The winner will present at the Pacific Branch Meeting and receive an all-expenses-paid trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, covering airfare, hotel, registration, and per diem.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

Oregon Housing and Community Services 

Oregon Housing and Community Services is Oregon's housing finance agency, providing financial and program support to create and preserve opportunities for quality, affordable housing for Oregonians of lower and moderate income.

Our Mission: We provide stable and affordable housing and engage leaders to develop an integrated statewide policy that addresses poverty and provides opportunities for Oregonians.

Housing Development Grant Program

The Housing Development Grant Program (HDGP) “Trust Fund” was created to expand Oregon’s housing supply for low- and very low-income families and individuals. HDGP is designed to provide grants to construct, acquire and/or rehabilitate existing structures, or operate affordable rental housing for low-income households in Oregon.

Preference will be given to projects with resident services geared towards the needs of the residents (i.e. daycare, job counseling, emergency assistance, finance management). HDGP dollars are allocated throughout Oregon based on regional unmet needs.

Affordability Requirements

75% of annually allocated HDGP funding is reserved for housing serving very low-income residents. These households earn 50% of the area median income (AMI) or below as determined by the US Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).

The remaining 15% of annual funds may be given to housing that serves residents earning 80% AMI or lower. The project will be restricted to serve at this affordability level for 60 years. Annual compliance reporting will be required to ensure affordability requirements are being met.

The NRP Research Grant Program offers up to $50,000 for healthcare professionals to explore optimal neonatal resuscitation methods. It encourages innovative research addressing gaps in transitional physiology and effective teaching of resuscitation skills. Applications must focus on evidence-based practices and demonstrate potential for meaningful impact in delivery room care. Researchers from Canadian and US institutions are eligible, though applications primarily focused on quality improvement without a research emphasis will not be considered.

The Marine Navigation Improvement Fund Grant (OR) provides essential funding for port projects in Oregon, supporting both federally and non-federally authorized navigation improvements. The program aims to enhance navigation facilities, ensuring they meet safety and operational standards. Eligible projects may receive loans or grants, with funding determined by project type and readiness. Ports interested in applying must adhere to specific criteria and provide necessary documentation to secure funding. This initiative is crucial for boosting local economies and maintaining vital transportation routes.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Oregon Well-Being Trust: Launch Grant offers one year of funding and small group coaching to organizations aiming to develop comprehensive employee well-being programs. This initiative is particularly suited for those in the early stages of addressing staff wellness needs, helping to establish foundational elements such as a wellness coordinator and gathering staff feedback. The grant supports activities that enhance staff engagement and promote sustainable well-being initiatives.

The Transformation Grants program addresses the urgent need for quality, affordable housing for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) in the U.S. By providing funding for innovative, community-based housing solutions, the program aims to enhance the lives of those with IDD. Grants up to $300,000 per year support initiatives that focus on inclusivity and sustainability. Organizations in Oregon and Washington serving this population are encouraged to apply for funding to create impactful housing opportunities.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.

The Oregon Well-Being Trust: Fourish Grant offers multi-year funding and support for organizations to enhance their employee well-being programs. Designed for existing programs, it encourages innovative initiatives such as mini-grants for specific staff needs, stipends for coordinators, and training on various well-being topics. By fostering leadership support and utilizing staff feedback, this grant aims to create sustainable and impactful wellness solutions for employees across Oregon.

Andersen Construction Foundation

Established in 2015, our Foundation was created to intentionally steward and grow our commitment to community service. From the beginning, an endowment was formed to ensure meaningful, sustained giving for the long term. Guided by the belief that service is part of who we are, we have contributed volunteer time, funding, and resources to community organizations and build projects in the places we call home—including Portland, Eugene, Seattle, and Boise—as well as through hands-on initiatives across the country and internationally.

As our organization has grown, our approach to giving back has grown with it. The Foundation now provides a central way for employees across our family of businesses to engage in philanthropy and volunteer efforts. Through this structure, we continue to support the communities where we live and work, reinforcing a long-standing commitment to service.

Andersen Foundation Grant

We fund build-related projects and sponsor community events in Idaho, Oregon, and Washington. Applications for project grants and event sponsorships are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed by our local giving committees. 

Grants are awarded in the $2,500-$10,000 range for construction repairs and infrastructure needs. Applicants must have 501(c)3 status.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Safe Drinking Water Revolving Loan Fund's Emerging Contaminants Program in Oregon provides low-cost financing for public water systems to improve drinking water quality. Funded by the EPA, it focuses on addressing emerging contaminants like PFAS and prioritizes projects in disadvantaged communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with funding contingent on available grants and eligibility criteria. This initiative highlights a commitment to enhancing public health and ensuring safe drinking water access for all communities.

Restoration Grants

Restoration grants are for watershed projects that protect or restore watershed functions.

Eligible Restoration Projects by Habitat and Activity

The list of eligible project types below is not an exhaustive list.

• Instream Habitat
  • Improving fish passage
  • Enhancing channel complexity to improve habitat and function​
  • Reconnecting historic side channels and floodplain
  • Protecting or increasing flow
  • Improving water quality
  • ​Restoring proper functioning condition
• Riparian Habitat
  • Enhancing riparian vegetation communities
  • Treating invasive weed species
  • Reconnecting the floodplain
  • Moving roads out of riparian zones
  • Exclusion fencing
  • ​Improved livestock management
• Upland Habitat
  • Vegetation management
    • Prairie restoration, juniper removal, oak enhancement, aspen protection, mahogany enhancement, and forest health
    • Invasive plant and weed species control
  • ​Rangeland improvements that benefit native grassland habitat
  • Road closures or drainage improvements
• Wetland or Estuarine Habitat
  • Restoring tidal wetlands by channel creation or enhancement
  • Improving fish passage by removing or upgrading tide gates and culverts
  • Removing constrictive dikes, levees, and roads and improve hydrology
  • Enhancing or establishing wetland plant communities
  • Excluding livestock access for habitat protection
  • Treating invasive weeds

The Oregon Well-Being Trust Sustain Grants provide essential funding to organizations seeking to maintain established employee well-being programs. With tiered funding of up to $10,000, these grants support various initiatives, such as wellness activities, equipment maintenance, and staff wellness coordinators. This grant aims to enhance workplace wellness by addressing specific needs identified by staff, ensuring a healthier and more engaged workforce for the coming year.

The TourWest Grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, aim to support presenters and organizations in the Western region by providing flexible funding for touring artists. This competitive grant encourages community engagement and outreach, fostering collaboration between artists and local communities. It prioritizes accessibility to the performing arts, especially in underserved areas. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or local government units and demonstrate a commitment to community needs through their projects.

The Cow Creek Umpqua Indian Foundation, established by the Cow Creek Band of Umpqua Tribe of Indians, aims to enhance community well-being through strategic grants up to $15,000. Focused on youth education, health, and basic needs, the foundation serves nonprofit organizations in several Oregon counties. Organizations must apply by March 1 or September 1. The foundation encourages impactful projects and requires a final report from grantees before reapplication, while also emphasizing that it will not be the sole funding source for projects.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Schlesinger Family Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Oregon and SW Washington, emphasizing contributions to medical research, higher education, and environmental conservation. Founded in 1981 by Ralph and Bunny Schlesinger, the foundation has a rich legacy of funding reputable organizations and promoting community welfare. To apply, interested parties must submit a letter of inquiry detailing their funding needs. This grant aims to enhance the future prosperity of the region through collaborative efforts.

The Roundhouse Foundation offers small grants to support innovative, grassroots projects that benefit rural Oregon communities. With a focus on creativity, sustainability, and community connection, this grant program encourages organizations to explore new approaches and collaborate effectively. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated non-profits or government entities dedicated to enhancing rural life. The foundation values partnerships that demonstrate community support and a commitment to equity, aiming to stimulate economic resilience and foster long-term growth in the region.

The Restore Grant, funded by Zero Foodprint and supported by the USDA National Resources Conservation Service, aims to sequester atmospheric carbon through improved soil health. By incentivizing regenerative agricultural practices, the program promotes climate resilience and enhances nutrient density in food systems. It facilitates equitable funding distribution while engaging the public in climate action. Through competitive grants, it empowers farmers and ranchers to adopt sustainable practices, thereby contributing to regional food security and environmental benefits.

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 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 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 Roundhouse Foundation invites proposals for its Open Call for Proposals, focusing on enhancing rural communities in Oregon. Grants, typically ranging from $20,000 to $50,000, support projects in arts, education, environmental stewardship, and social services. Eligible organizations must demonstrate community impact and innovative approaches. Applications are reviewed by external panels, with funding decisions announced within 6-8 weeks. Organizations are encouraged to connect with the Foundation for guidance prior to submission.

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.