Best Grants for Science Research in Oregon

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture in Oregon can seek support through the Community Possible Grant Program. Focused on equitable, high-impact community development, US Bancorp Foundation prioritizes organizations in designated U.S. Bank communities, including those led by people of color, which may include science-related workforce or education initiatives.

Oregon 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting children, education, and health and human services can seek program funding that may complement science-related work. Focused on community impact, the Costco Foundation invites applications for monetary support, evaluated on documented need, measurable outcomes, collaboration, and a broad base of financial backing, with reviews typically completed within 4–6 weeks.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations conducting youth-focused science, environmental, or clean air and water programs in Oregon can seek up to US $15,000 to support research, education, and enrichment. The Dan Paul Foundation funds projects that advance the health, education, development, and welfare of children and youth worldwide, including science-related initiatives.

With a mission to support early-stage social impact ventures, nonprofits and impact-first for-profits in Oregon and beyond can access Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation’s funding and intensive capacity-building for scalable solutions. Awards up to US $300,000 over three years support organizations tackling major social or environmental challenges with measurable impact on underserved communities.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Oregon organizations and social enterprises improving education, health, or family economic stability for urban low‑income children and youth can access funding through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation for project support or scaling efforts. Eligible entities include nonprofits, schools, governments, and other mission-driven organizations, with awards starting at more than US $50,000 for work in the U.S., India, or South Africa.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations improving health, education, or disaster relief can seek support for marginalized communities worldwide, including Oregon. Semnani Family Foundation provides funding for healthcare access, women and children’s health, humanitarian aid, literacy, and related human services projects that prioritize vulnerable populations and deliver meaningful, cost-effective impact.

Oregon science research organizations that are 501(c)(3) public charities can access funding via Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for charitable, scientific, medical, or educational projects carried out in the U.S. Eligible nonprofits must be tax-exempt under federal law, with funds supporting well-managed programs that significantly benefit their target populations and general welfare.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oregon can apply for sponsorship support for community-focused programs such as housing, workforce development, basic needs, arts and culture, environment, and inclusion initiatives. Bank of America Charitable Foundation provides regional U.S. sponsorships that may benefit Oregon groups advancing economic mobility, social progress, and vibrant community life.

Southern U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations active for over three years can seek support for programs in areas like education, health, poverty relief, disaster response, and conservation. Grants from Robinson Foundation help eligible nonprofits, including those with science or environmental research components in Oregon’s broader region, demonstrate tangible, meaningful impact and show fiscal responsibility and diverse funding.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified local government entities supporting education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, or environmental programs in Oregon communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities may be eligible for this funding. The Georgia-Pacific Foundation prioritizes projects within 30 miles of its manufacturing communities that enhance long-term well-being and sustainability, which can include science education or research-related initiatives.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

Nonprofit scientific and educational organizations conducting health-related research in Oregon can seek funding for basic science, clinical studies, public health investigations, and limited professional health education. Collins Medical Trust offers up to US $40,000, with preference for Oregon-based projects and early-career investigators whose work has appropriate IRB, IACUC, or IBC approvals.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. working on basic needs, community development, or cultural enrichment may be eligible for Ameriprise Financial’s community grants, including groups based in Oregon. Focus areas include hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, neighborhood revitalization, arts education, and access to arts and cultural programming.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Oregon libraries, health organizations, and other NNLM Region 5 member institutions can use this funding for professional development that strengthens health information and education services. Grants from the National Library of Medicine help cover U.S.-based conferences, workshops, classes, and trainings on health literacy, data science, public health, emergency preparedness, citizen science, and related topics.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing community programs such as economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, or disaster relief may be eligible for project, operating, or capital support, including those serving Oregon communities. With a mission to improve quality of life, O'Reilly Automotive Foundation supports organizations benefiting underserved and underrepresented individuals and families.

Oregon 501(c)(3) public charities with programs in safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Giving Program; awards US $5,000 - US $30,000 for local projects. Eligible projects must primarily benefit communities on the Union Pacific service list and show strong need, impact, and DEI commitment, which may include science-related environmental or STEM initiatives.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Oregon-based 501(c)(3)s, public agencies, schools, hospitals, and fiscally sponsored groups can seek up to US $25,000 for community programs and projects, including STEM education and health initiatives, in Coastal Douglas, Coos, and Curry counties. With a mission to develop successful citizens, Judith Ann Mogan Foundation supports work across seven community-focused priority areas.

Oregon 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public agencies, schools, hospitals, and fiscally sponsored projects serving Coos, Curry, or coastal Douglas counties can apply for the Judith Ann Mogan Foundation’s Large Grant Program, requesting more than US $25,000 for one-year projects. Eligible work includes STEM education, community health, environment and natural resources, economic development, arts, public spaces, and poverty alleviation.

Oregon BIPOC-led nonprofit organizations serving youth ages 6–18 with programs in athletics, culture, or education can access funding through Charlotte Y Martin Foundation, including general operating support. Eligible organizations must be headquartered in Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, or Alaska and run youth initiatives such as STEAM learning, cultural experiences, or expanded sports access.

Oregon 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and community organizations can seek funding for community enhancement and environmental respect projects, including science-related initiatives. Grants from PacifiCorp/Pacific Power/Rocky Mountain Power Foundation help support affordable housing, libraries, science centers, parks, natural resource conservation, and related efforts in communities served by Pacific Power and Rocky Mountain Power.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant, including those in Oregon conducting relevant science-based or evidence-informed programs, can apply for Gupta Family Foundation’s grants; awards US $5,000 - US $250,000 for humanitarian and social services work. Eligible applicants are typically 501(c)(3) entities or qualifying foreign organizations operating in listed countries with revenues between $300,000 and $3,000,000.