Best Grants for Museums in Oregon

The Research Start-Up Grants for New Science Faculty program, funded by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, provides financial support to help new faculty positions in natural sciences at private colleges in five states. Grants match institutional funds 1:1, up to $36,000, to assist with start-up costs, including cash and in-kind support, ensuring institutions can attract qualified candidates while enhancing research capabilities.

The NWS Student Travel Grants, offered by the Northwest Scientific Association, provide financial assistance up to $1,000 for students to attend and present at the 2025 NWSA Annual Meeting in Eugene, OR, on March 18-19. Eligible applicants must be current NWSA student members and engaged in research relevant to the Northwest. The funding covers registration, travel, accommodation, and presentation costs, facilitating scholarly exchange and professional development for students in the region.

The Black Student Success Community Network Grants aim to address educational inequities faced by marginalized Black children and families in Oregon through strategic collaboration. This initiative facilitates partnerships among community organizations dedicated to improving Black student success. In 2022, 24 organizations received $20,000 grants to enhance their capacity to engage in network activities and provide essential services tailored to Black students from early learning through post-secondary education.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Community Improvement Planning Grant aims to enhance economic development and workforce capacity in the Border Region. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for projects that improve the area's tax base, competitiveness, and workforce skills. Local governments are eligible to apply, focusing on community improvement planning and leveraging additional funding sources. This initiative seeks impactful projects that significantly benefit education and regional prosperity.

The Sundt Foundation, established in 1999, supports local communities by offering grants and volunteer opportunities for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Focused on youth development, hunger and nutrition, and veteran services, the Foundation prioritizes projects in regions such as the Southwest and Southeast United States. However, they do not fund requests exceeding $25,000 or support multi-year pledges, fundraising events, or political causes. Their mission continues to foster community connections and belonging.

The Inukai Family Foundation, established in honor of Richard Michael “Dick” Inukai, supports nonprofit organizations that enhance community welfare in Oregon, Idaho, and Southwest Washington. With a focus on positive youth development, educational grants, and healthcare support, the foundation promotes Japanese culture and provides scholarships for children of Dick's Auto Group employees. Through initiatives that address needs in education, senior care, and community outreach, the foundation continues to honor Dick Inukai's legacy of hard work and community service.

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 Oregon Media Arts Fellowship Grant honors professional artists in Oregon, providing crucial financial support for film and video projects. This program aims to recognize outstanding talent and commitment to new work creation, fostering artistic growth and innovation. Administered by PAM CUT and funded by the Oregon Arts Commission, the fellowship enables artists to advance their careers while contributing to the vibrant media arts landscape in the state.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – PLAY Grant aims to enhance the lives of underserved youth in Oregon and SW Washington by promoting physical activity. With grants of up to $50,000 over two years, eligible organizations can implement programs that encourage active lifestyles among children and their families. This initiative reflects the Foundation's commitment to community engagement and health, ensuring that all youth have opportunities to thrive through active play.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – LEARN Grant focuses on supporting youth from historically underserved communities in Oregon and southwest Washington. The grant offers up to $25,000 annually for organizations that help youth graduate high school and meet academic benchmarks. After the first year, selected organizations may receive an additional $25,000, totaling $50,000 over two years. This initiative aims to create positive impacts in the lives of young individuals where they live, learn, and play.

The Trail Blazers Foundation Fund – LIVE Greener Grant focuses on enhancing access to outdoor spaces for youth from historically underserved communities in Oregon and SW Washington. This initiative supports organizations that promote environmental education, preservation, and employment opportunities. Grants of up to $25,000 annually are available, with potential for an additional year of funding. Organizations must align with the Foundation's mission to apply, ensuring a positive impact on local youth and their communities.

The C. Giles Hunt Charitable Trust Grant supports charities serving Douglas County, Oregon. Its mission is to honor Mr. Hunt's wish to assist local organizations, focusing on areas such as arts, education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and primarily benefit Douglas County residents. Preference is given to those operating in the county or directly benefiting its residents, ensuring community-focused charitable efforts.

Government Information and Library Services

Government Services provides specialized information services to state government employees and the public and maintains several collections including Federal and Oregon documents.

About LSTA Grants

LSTA grants are one of the many ways the State Library supports library services across Oregon through its federally funded Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Program, administered on the national level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services' Grants to States Program.

What We Fund

LSTA funds are intended to be used for projects that support library services in Oregon, and address at least one of the goals of Oregon's LSTA Five-Year Plan. LSTA monies may not supplant local responsibility or replace lost funding.

LSTA Grants: Enhancing Academic, Special, and Tribal Libraries Mini Grant

The State Library is offering small grants to academic institutions, special libraries, and tribal entities to strengthen their libraries and enable them to more fully support their communities.

Projects must address one or more of the following focal areas: collections, staff development, and technology. See our list of Possible Projects (below) for examples in each of these areas.

Funds will be distributed in advance and recipients will be expected to commit to spending the entire grant amount.

Possible Projects

This is a list of ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities; you are not required to choose any of these projects.

Collections:

• Purchase print materials and/or perpetual access e-books that fill gaps in the collection or meet specific community needs.
• Build up course reserve collections.
• Purchase materials in various languages or formats.

Staff Development:

• Organize a learning opportunity for staff.
• Bring in a facilitator to conduct an activity or workshop.
• Have staff engage in an external professional development opportunity, such as a conference or online course.

Technology:

• Lend devices to eliminate barriers to technology.
• Update public and/or staff computer workstations.
• Acquire assistive technology that enhances access for individuals with disabilities.
• Establish a dedicated area for confidential virtual appointments.

Each organization may request funding for one project that fits into one of the focal areas.

Spending must adhere to Allowable Costs. Subscriptions and licenses must fall within the grant period. Entities may include indirect costs in the budget, as outlined in 2 CFR 200.414.

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.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Ready Workforce Mobilization Grant aims to enhance workforce and economic development in the Border Region. Grants up to $100,000 are available for projects that improve education, workforce skills, and competitiveness. Eligible applicants include businesses, nonprofits, and local governments. Matching funds are required, and preference is given to projects demonstrating sustainability and targeting current or potential employees in the region. This grant is a vital resource for fostering regional prosperity.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Scott Fairley Memorial Edge Grant aims to foster economic and workforce development in the region. With a maximum award of $25,000, it supports projects that enhance prosperity, improve the property tax base, and increase workforce availability. Applicants include residents, businesses, and organizations within the Border Region. This grant prioritizes innovative solutions that demonstrate a clear impact on the community's economic vitality.

The Gray Family Foundation offers Environmental Education Grants aimed at enhancing K-12 environmental education through outdoor experiences. In 2025, the foundation will maintain a budget of $705,000 to support programs that engage youth with both natural and built environments. Applications can be submitted after an initial conversation with the Senior Program Officer, starting January 16, 2026, and will be reviewed biannually. This initiative fosters vital connections between youth and nature.

The PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement, a private foundation, is dedicated to promoting health equity since 1992. With a focus on underserved populations in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and parts of Washington, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance access to healthcare and address health disparities. They provide both one-year and multi-year funding, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, to organizations committed to advancing health equity through diverse community-driven solutions.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Van Evera Bailey Fellowship, awarded by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon (AFO), supports the professional development of design and building professionals. With an annual grant of $50,000, since 2001, it encourages individuals to explore innovative ideas that benefit both their careers and the community. Eligible activities include sabbaticals, teaching, collaborations, and research projects that promote creativity and public engagement in architecture.

The Alumni Professional Development Fund, established by Creative West, focuses on supporting alumni of its leadership development programs. It aims to foster personal and professional growth through flexible funding, ensuring that artists can access resources that enhance their skills and contributions to the community. This fund emphasizes equity, storytelling, and the importance of democracy, wellness, and belonging in the creative economy, ultimately strengthening the arts sector nationally.

The Oregon Wildlife Foundation Grants support the conservation of fish and wildlife and the enjoyment of natural resources in Oregon. These small grants are available to the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife, tax-exempt organizations, and qualified individuals for projects focused on habitat restoration, public access improvement, education, pollution reduction, and invasive species control. Priority is given to projects that align with the Oregon Conservation Strategy.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Pence Contractors Diversity in Leadership Scholarship supports underrepresented students in Oregon pursuing construction engineering. Preference is given to residents of Multnomah County, aiming to foster diversity in the field. This scholarship encourages students to achieve their educational goals and prepare for careers in construction, contributing to a more inclusive workforce. It is a valuable opportunity for aspiring engineers to gain financial assistance and promote equity in the industry.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Formula Grant Program, created by the Violence Against Women and Department of Justice Reauthorization Act of 2022 (VAWA 2022), under federal statutory authority (34 U.S.C. §§ 10441, 10446-10451, 10454) from the United States Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) encourages the development and implementation of effective law enforcement and prosecution strategies to combat violence crimes against women. The goal of the program is to encourage states and localities to restructure and strengthen the criminal justice systems response to be proactive in addressing violence against women, drawing on the experience of all the participants in the system, including the advocacy community. This competitive application will fund projects that seek to develop and strengthen effective responses to sexual assault, domestic violence, dating violence and stalking.