Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Oregon

The Miller Foundation offers Arts Grants to support small organizations in Oregon, providing vital funding for artistic programming and operations. These grants enhance community engagement through visual and performing arts, ensuring that arts education is accessible to all children. With a focus on operating support, the foundation aims to strengthen local arts organizations, enriching Oregon's cultural landscape. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) organizations and public entities dedicated to arts and education, fostering creative growth statewide.

OnPoint Community Credit Union offers grants and sponsorships to nonprofit organizations that align with their focus areas of Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality. They support various initiatives including financial education, workforce development, and community development. Funding ranges from $100 to $10,000, with a priority on organizations demonstrating diversity, equity, and inclusion. Applications must be submitted at least 90 days prior to events and organizations must have a 501c3 status or an active fiscal sponsor.

OnPoint Community Credit Union, founded in 1932, is committed to supporting schools through funding for educational programs and direct contributions to public schools, PTAs, and alumni associations. With a focus on Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality, they prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion in their funding initiatives. Grants typically range from $250 to $2,500, supporting organizations that align with their core values within Oregon and SW Washington.

The Ford Family Foundation offers Technical Assistance Grants aimed at bolstering the capacity of organizations serving rural communities in Oregon and Siskiyou County, California. These grants, which can reach up to $5,000, support activities such as staff training, strategic planning, and consulting services. By enhancing internal capabilities, the foundation seeks to improve the effectiveness of nonprofits and agencies that focus on family, education, and community development, ultimately benefiting children and their families.

The Salvador Fund Grant offers financial support ranging from $250 to $3,500 to nonprofit organizations in the mid-Columbia region of Oregon and Washington. It aims to benefit low-income individuals through various programs, projects, or events. The fund prioritizes applications that demonstrate community impact and cultural competency. Nonprofits must be based in Oregon or Washington, and activities must not solely serve church members or involve religious teachings. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Walters Family Foundation Grant focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations that address the needs of at-risk youth, families, and the elderly. The Foundation aims to effect positive change through strategic partnerships, site visits, and grant awards, primarily in Oregon, especially metropolitan Portland. They emphasize energizing nonprofit partners to achieve excellence, ultimately improving the lives of those less fortunate. Eligibility is limited to tax-exempt public charities in good financial standing, with certain exclusions for individuals and non-U.S. entities.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Strategic Projects: Capital Grants by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust offer vital funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest. These grants support transformative projects that enhance community well-being through construction, renovation, and infrastructure investments. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities. The Trust emphasizes projects that demonstrate strong community impact and funding diversification, ensuring sustainable growth and lasting benefits for the communities served.

The Emerging Justice Fund Grant, offered by Social Justice Fund Northwest, aims to support grassroots organizing in communities affected by systemic injustices. With a funding cycle starting in February, the grant prioritizes organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color. Eligible groups can apply for a one-year grant of $10,000, with a final deadline of September 12th. This initiative emphasizes unrestricted funding to empower marginalized communities and foster long-term social justice solutions.

The Spirit Mountain Foundation offers the SMF: General Purpose - Small Grants program, which supports 501c3 nonprofits in 11 Oregon counties. With a maximum funding request of $7,500, this program emphasizes flexibility across various sectors, including education and environmental preservation. Eligibility is limited to organizations that haven't completed previous grants and do not exceed 50% of the total project budget. Priority is given to projects aligning with the foundation's key areas.

The Kinsman Foundation offers conventional grants exceeding $5,000 for projects focused on historic preservation and wildlife rehabilitation in Oregon and southern Washington. These grants support public benefit activities, especially for 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government agencies. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of August 1 for annual review. The Foundation prioritizes architectural preservation and licensed wildlife rehabilitation, while no matching funds are required and there are no limits on reapplications.

The Kinsman Foundation Small Grants program supports projects that benefit the public in Oregon and southern Washington, focusing on historic preservation and native wildlife rehabilitation. Grants, typically under $5,000, are awarded to tax-exempt nonprofits and government agencies without matching fund requirements. Applications are reviewed every 6-8 weeks, with no specific deadlines for inquiries under $5,000. The foundation emphasizes project support while considering general administrative support valuable for nonprofits.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

The Spirit Mountain Foundation offers General Purpose - Large Grants, which support 501c3 nonprofit organizations and government agencies in an 11-county service area in Oregon. Grant amounts can reach up to $50,000 for programmatic work or $100,000 for capital projects. The application process involves a Letter of Inquiry followed by a full application if selected. Priority is given to projects in Education, Environmental Preservation, and Health, aligning with the foundation's funding priorities.

The Reimagine Oregon Economic Opportunity Investment Fund Grant, launched by Prosper Portland, aims to support neighborhood small businesses, particularly those owned by women and minorities. This initiative addresses the economic disparities caused by cannabis prohibition by providing flexible funding to for-profit and non-profit organizations in Portland. The grant encourages innovative proposals for business growth, capital access, and community resilience, ultimately promoting wealth creation in historically marginalized communities affected by systematic racism.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The PCEF Mini Grants program, funded by The City of Portland, offers up to $5,000 for initiatives that promote racial and social justice while tackling climate change. Organizations can apply on a rolling basis, with the next grant cycle expected in April 2026 after a hiatus in January 2026. Eligible applicants include qualified nonprofits and emerging groups with fiscal sponsors. This program aims to support diverse activities including events, training, and grant writing.

The Banner Bank Community Support Program offers grants to nonprofit organizations in Washington, Oregon, California, and Idaho focusing on housing, youth development, financial education, and economic growth. Priority is given to programs aiding low- and moderate-income populations. Organizations applying must not discriminate and should support essential community services. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review period of 45-60 days. However, certain areas, such as individual scholarships and political organizations, are ineligible for funding.

The Rose Grant is a competitive funding opportunity aimed at supporting Oregon-based nonprofits with operating budgets over $250,000. Grants typically range from $25,000 to $35,000 annually, with possible awards between $10,000 and $75,000. Organizations are encouraged to demonstrate a commitment to diversity and financial readiness. The grant application is shared with the Daffodil Grant program, and funding decisions are expected within 3-4 months after the application period closes.

The Metro Nature in Neighborhoods Community Stewardship and Restoration Grants offer funding for projects aimed at enhancing local ecosystems and promoting community engagement in the Portland area. With a total funding pool of $750,000, grants support initiatives that restore fish and wildlife habitats, foster partnerships, and address environmental justice. Priority is given to projects led by historically marginalized communities, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for sustainable environmental stewardship.

The Betty Kinsman Fund supports arts in Oregon and southern Washington, focusing on theatre, literary arts, and photography. Grants prioritize smaller organizations and aim to celebrate individual artists and innovative presentations. The fund does not support physical improvements, arts education, or activities aimed at specialty audiences. While all proposals are considered, preference is given to project support over general operating expenses. This initiative honors Betty Kinsman's passion for the arts while ensuring a public benefit.

Tenant and Housing Justice Grant

Social Justice Fund Northwest (SJF) is pleased to announce the 2026 Tenant & Housing Justice Grant, open to grassroots organizations in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and/or Wyoming.

Grant Awards:

• Maximum one-year grant award of $25,000

Focus:

• Tenant and housing justice organizing in Idaho, Montana, Oregon, Washington, and Wyoming

Description

This grant seeks to support organizations working to undo and/or create alternative solutions to exploitative housing systems which were built and are sustained by capitalism, colonialism, classism, racism, xenophobia, and ableism. This grant will fund organizations that meet SJF’s community organizing framework and prioritize communities underrepresented in traditional grantmaking.

Tenant and Housing Justice community organizing work can include, but is not limited to:

• Collective power building among tenants to dismantle and push against the current oppressive housing systems and structures 
  • Examples: rental and utilities assistance, tenants’ rights training, eviction prevention and intervention, etc.
• Local and statewide tenant and housing systems/policy change 
• Tenant leadership development
• Creating collective, cooperative housing structures
• Re-entry organizing by and for folks who were recently incarcerated to provide housing and resources, influence and set policy, etc.
• Disability justice organizing focused on affordable, accessible, and supportive housing for disabled folks and elders
• Survivor-led organizing for people transitioning out of abusive situations

The Wood Family Charitable Trust Grant, established in 2007, aims to provide support for educational, human services, and healthcare programs targeting underserved populations in Vale, Oregon, and nearby areas. The trust encourages grant requests for general operating support, while also considering program support and small capital expenses. Most grants are typically for one year, with occasional multi-year support available, making it a valuable resource for local nonprofit organizations.

The BECU Foundation's People Helping People Awards honor exceptional nonprofit work in communities served by BECU. Each year, BECU members can nominate organizations for grants up to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be active 501(c)(3) organizations with a direct impact in Idaho, Oregon, South Carolina, or Washington. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and encourages members to recognize local heroes making a difference.

PGE Foundation

The PGE Foundation, an independent philanthropic organization, aligns its grantmaking with Portland General Electric’s commitment to the communities it serves.

Founded in 1997, the Foundation was created through an endowment with the purpose of improving the quality of life for all Oregonians.

Since our inception, more than $33 million in investments has helped community-based organizations expand access to education, creative expression, and career pathways that strengthen long-term economic prosperity.

Climate Resilient Communities Fund

The PGE Foundation is pleased to announce the launch of its new Climate Resilient Communities Fund. Opening in March 2026, the Climate Resilient Communities Fund will help strengthen community preparedness, protect vulnerable populations, and support long-term environmental and economic vitality across Oregon. This new investment builds on extensive engagement with community partners and reflects the growing urgency of climate-related risks facing Oregon communities today, particularly those historically under-resourced.

Record-breaking wildfires, extreme heat, and other climate-related disasters are challenging our communities like never before—especially those in historically underinvested areas. We support locally driven, community-based programs that address some of the most pressing climate challenges facing Oregonians. We believe solutions rooted in local leadership are best informed by the needs and lived experiences of the communities most affected.

We prioritize organizations and programs that demonstrate elements of the following:

Core Mission

The mission of the organization prioritizes:

• Wildfire Hazard and Preparedness: Supporting community-driven strategies to reduce wildfire hazards, enable preparedness and response, and build long-term recovery capacity in fire-prone areas before fire comes.
• Nature-based Solutions: Investing in community stewardship through habitat restoration, tree canopy, and green infrastructure projects that cool communities, improve water and air quality, and protect ecosystems
• Parks and Public Spaces: Expanding, enhancing, and sustaining equitable access to safe, climate-resilient outdoor community gathering spaces where people connect and find refuge.

Outcomes

The proposed project will result in:

• Increased local community capacity and ongoing stewardship for resilience (especially for small and rural organizations)
• Measurable improvements in wildfire preparedness, canopy cover, restoration and green infrastructure
• Greater access to climate-resilient public spaces
• Stronger collaboration and learning networks across sectors

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.

The PGE Foundation's Career Pathways Grant Program aims to enhance economic mobility for Oregonians by providing support for programs that facilitate access to family-wage jobs and entrepreneurship. This initiative prioritizes nonprofit organizations focused on skill development, mentorship, and wrap-around services. The foundation is particularly interested in proposals that address barriers faced by underrepresented communities, including BIPOC and women-owned businesses, and encourages collaborative efforts among nonprofits to achieve measurable outcomes.