Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

The Asia-Pacific region, home to over half the world's population, faces challenges due to its development goals, which strain natural resources, communities, and cultural heritage. These issues are exacerbated by adverse environmental changes. While research has shed light on these problems, it's clear that more challenges lie ahead. The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) is well-positioned to generate new knowledge and solutions for these evolving global change and sustainability issues by supporting collaborative research and scientific capacity development activities, particularly those aimed at training the next generation of early career professionals.

APN 2025 Call for Proposals: CAPaBLE Programmes

CAPaBLE, our scientific capacity development programme, aims to enhance the capacity of scientists, policymakers and practitioners to assess global change issues, and explore options to resolve issues towards achieving sustainability. Through CAPaBLE, we support activities that enhance capacity at individual, organizational and systemic levels.

Activities of interest under the CAPaBLE Programme

APN supports CAPaBLE activities that enhance existing capacities of developing countries at three levels of individual-based capacity development; group, organisation, network-based capacity development; and societies, governance, and system level capacity development. APN accepts CAPaBLE proposals that engage 1 or more member/approved countries. Proposals must address one or more of the following activities:

SCIENTIFIC CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES that promote the following approaches related to one or more of the six thematic areas of APN:

• Utilising and strengthening existing capacity, 
• Creating opportunities to use/instil capacity, 
• Developing new capacity through innovative approaches.

AWARENESS-RAISING AND DISSEMINATION activities through policy- and decision-making communities, civil society, and/or the general public.

SCIENCE-POLICY interfacing in the context of the priority topics.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP ACTIVITIES that contribute to the capacity development components of the evolving global change arena, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, IPCC, IPBES, post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the UN Decade of Ocean Science, and ongoing and new global change and sustainability research programmes.

Activities geared towards using SCIENCE COMMUNICATION to disseminate knowledge generated from projects, particularly to non-science audiences.

About PCORI

PCORI funds patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER).

Our Mission

PCORI helps people make informed healthcare decisions, and improves healthcare delivery and outcomes, by producing and promoting high-integrity, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

Broad Pragmatic Studies PCORI Funding

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA), seeking to fund patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. 

Research Initiative Highlights

CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences.

Special Areas of Emphasis

For Cycle 2 2026, PCORI is particularly interested in submissions that address the following Special Areas of Emphasis (SAE) within the BPS funding opportunity. The purpose of identifying these SAEs is to encourage submissions to these areas, rather than limiting submissions to these topics. Applicants addressing one of the below SAEs should identify the area that is best associated with their research approach:  

• Addressing Obesity
• Diabetes Prevention, Care and Treatment
• Management of Urogynecological and Pelvic Pain
• Pain Management for Individuals Living With Sickle Cell Disease

In PCORI-funded research, patients and other research partners are expected to meaningfully contribute their lived experience or professional expertise to ensure studies are patient-centered, relevant and useful for healthcare decision making. Applicants must address PCORI’s Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research — an evidence-based framework supported by tools and resources to guide effective engagement strategies. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to consider the inclusion of a broad range of patient-centered burdens and economic outcomes. 

Broad Pragmatic Studies PFA: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 Study Specifications

PCORI will commit up to $120 million in direct costs through this funding opportunity. This funding opportunity contains three categories for funding:

• Category 1: Category 1 will support research projects with direct costs up to and including $5 million.

• Category 2: Category 2 will support research projects with direct costs greater than $5 million and up to a maximum of $12 million. Applications for funding under Category 2 will be required to provide additional information in the Letter of Intent (LOI) and application to justify the size and scope of the proposed research projects and to explain how additional funds are necessary with respect to the scale, scope and complexity of personnel and material resources needed to address the research question.

• Category 3: Category 3 will support research projects with direct costs up to $12 million that utilize PCORnet® to conduct observational studies and/or pragmatic trials that are national in scale. Category 3 PCORnet Studies® must include two or more Clinical Research Networks and share study progress, performance metrics and best practices with the network to promote continuous learning and improvement. PCORnet Studies® will leverage the PCORnet Common Data Model® as appropriate. Additional details about Category 3 can be found on the PCORI website.  

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

Lillian S. Edelstein Scholarships

Up to two students receiving these scholarships hail from or will be attending college in Washington, Idaho, or Oregon.

The Eastern Oregon Border Board Education and Workforce Training Grant aims to enhance economic development and workforce training in the Border Region. Grants of up to $100,000 are available for local educational service providers to implement programs that improve workforce skills, property tax base, and regional competitiveness. Priority is given to projects that leverage additional funding and significantly impact the local economy, ensuring a sustainable growth strategy for the community.

The ARF Competitive Grants Program aims to enhance Oregon's agricultural productivity and resource management through research funding at Oregon State University. It supports both emerging and established scientists in launching new research initiatives. By providing catalytic grants, the program encourages innovative approaches in agriculture and natural resource studies. Faculty members at OSU with relevant research interests are invited to apply, contributing to the advancement of sustainable practices in Oregon's agriculture.

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.

The National Forest Foundation's Matching Awards Program connects communities to forests by funding stewardship activities that promote engagement with National Forests and nearby public lands. This program aims to create lasting impacts, ensuring that all communities can benefit from the rich resources of these natural areas. By supporting various projects, the program fosters a deeper relationship between people and the environment, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts and community well-being.

The 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities program, funded by the Oregon Department of Transportation, supports public transportation initiatives aimed at enhancing mobility for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This program provides financial assistance for capital projects, purchased services, and preventive maintenance. With a federal funding structure that emphasizes local contributions, it aims to improve accessibility and service delivery in rural and small urban areas, ensuring that these populations have reliable transportation options.

The Rocky Mountain Power Foundation supports arts and culture organizations through grants typically ranging from $2,000 to $5,000, with a focus on enhancing community vitality. Eligible organizations include nonprofits dedicated to performing arts, visual arts, and historic preservation. The foundation operates on a quarterly grant cycle, ensuring careful review of applications. Grants are limited to tax-exempt organizations, and the foundation does not fund projects outside its service areas in Utah, Wyoming, Idaho, Oregon, and California.

The First Interstate BancSystem Foundation focuses on strengthening communities by providing grants primarily to nonprofits assisting low- and moderate-income individuals. In 2023, they awarded $9.2 million across their footprint, emphasizing projects with significant community impact. Grants are recommended by local First Interstate Bank branches and are evaluated based on the nonprofit's leadership, financial stability, and community benefit. Areas of ineligibility include individual projects and those that do not demonstrate a substantial community impact.

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.

Wayne D Kuni And Joan E Kuni Foundation

Wayne and Joan Kuni were known for their quiet yet profound commitment to community service. Their philanthropy touched countless individuals throughout the Pacific Northwest and included financial support and hands-on volunteer efforts to support medical, educational and human services organizations. Both had their own unique approach to service and a commitment to long-term impact that resonates today through the work of the Kuni Foundation.

We advance the promise of human potential by investing in cancer research and accelerating the inclusion of individuals experiencing intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Discovery Grants for Cancer Research: Advancing Innovation

We embrace cancer research that takes a bold, collaborative and equity-focused approach, and we consider risk a necessity. We also recognize the importance of research that continues to refine and improve existing approaches. Discovery Grants fund both early and established cancer research in the quest for improved detection, treatment and outcomes.

Discovery Grants funding can be utilized for:

• Research that builds a greater understanding of cancer development and growth
• Research on the cusp of the “next stage” including early research or late-stage research ready for clinical trial
• Research activities seeking to reduce disparities by targeting improved access, treatment and outcomes for marginalized communities
• Research that identifies and dismantles barriers to underserved communities to increase the diversity of clinical participants, population cohorts, and clinical samples
• Research focused on rare forms of cancer or cancer research that is traditionally under-resourced and has seen little development in a decade or more

Projects that demonstrate collaboration and data sharing across a range of institutions and/or disciplines are highly encouraged. However, the principal investigator(s) must be located in Washington or Oregon.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The EMSWCD's Partners in Conservation Grant supports community-led projects aimed at enhancing soil health, improving water quality, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative also focuses on education programs related to outdoor and gardening activities, as well as restoration of fish and wildlife habitats. The grant prioritizes communities facing environmental health disparities, ensuring equitable access to conservation benefits.

The Institute for Cultural Initiatives Scholarship, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, supports bi-lingual (Spanish/English) Latino students attending Oregon community colleges. This scholarship is designed for residents and graduates of Oregon high schools who enroll at least half-time. Award amounts vary, and prior recipients must reapply to renew their scholarships for up to four years. This initiative underscores the importance of education as a vital investment in Oregon's future.

The Western SARE Farmer/Rancher Grants support agricultural producers in developing innovative, sustainable practices through research and outreach. Eligible applicants include farmers or ranchers who collaborate with technical advisors to implement projects focused on addressing specific agricultural needs. Grants can provide funding up to $25,000 for 1-2 producers and up to $29,900 for larger collaborations. The program aims to enhance profitability, environmental quality, and community well-being while sharing knowledge among producers.

The Western Society of Malacologists offers Student Research Grants in Malacology to support research in the study of mollusks. Grants of up to $1000 are available for full-time students engaged in relevant projects. Applicants from all countries are welcome, with no citizenship restrictions. This initiative encourages students to present their findings at WSM meetings, promoting academic growth and collaboration within the malacological community.

The Ball Foundation Skilled Trades SkillPointe Scholarship offers $2,500 for educational or training programs in Arizona and Oregon, addressing the skills gap in America. With a mission to upskill workers without requiring a four-year degree, the program has funded over 1,000 scholarships nationwide, resulting in a 95% training completion rate and a median income increase of $32,000 in the first year post-training. This initiative empowers individuals and strengthens the economy.

The Oregon Arts Commission offers Career Opportunity Grants to support artists at all stages in taking advantage of unique opportunities that enhance their careers. Grants ranging from $500 to $2,000 help cover costs, ensuring artists can participate without financial strain. These grants are awarded based on the potential for significant career impact, such as introducing work to new audiences or developing new skills through various activities. Additional funding may be available for established visual artists.

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.

The OWEB Small Grant Projects support local restoration initiatives across Oregon, offering up to $20,000 for on-the-ground projects that enhance water quality, aquatic species, and wildlife habitats. This competitive program encourages community engagement and prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate watershed benefits and adhere to specific project guidelines. Eligible applicants include tribes, watershed councils, and local agencies committed to sustainable practices that align with the Oregon Conservation Strategy.

About

Mission, Vision & Values

To enhance our community through philanthropy.

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

Holmes Family, Mater Family, Timothy Vevoda Family ROTC Scholarship

About the fund

This fund is a collaboration of families and former service members who donated to honor their loved ones and to support young people who wish to serve their country.

Michael D. Holmes and Kathleen C. McHarness Holmes contributed to this Endowed ROTC Scholarship Fund to honor members of their family who have served in the military and to support and encourage members of Oregon State University ROTC who have chosen the same path. Michael’s and Kathleen’s families have a long history of military service to our country dating back to the American Revolution.

Through three generations, the Mater family has proudly served our country. Milton Mater and his son, Scott Mater, served their country with honor and followed that service with distinguished civilian careers. Scott’s son, Josh Mater, followed his grandfather and father in military service. Josh was commissioned a second lieutenant after graduating from Oregon State University.

The legacy of support to the military is not confined to the Mater men only. Dr. Jean Mater served on the Defense Advisory Committee on Women in the Services in the 1970s and has continued to support military men and women through the Military Officers Club of Corvallis. The ROTC program has played a significant role in the lives the Mater family. It is appropriate that they be honored and remembered with this Endowed ROTC Scholarship Fund.

Timothy A. Vevoda recognizes that the strength of our future rests upon the shoulders of dedicated young people who understand and are active in service to their communities and to their country. This scholarship offers educational support and respect for these well deserving and honorable young Americans.

The OWEB Restoration Grants support watershed projects aimed at protecting and restoring watershed functions. Eligible applicants include tribes, watershed councils, and educational institutions. Projects can involve improving fish passage, enhancing habitat, and managing invasive species. However, ineligible projects include those focused solely on water storage or routine maintenance. This program fosters collaboration among various stakeholders in Oregon to enhance ecosystems and promote sustainable practices.

The Oregon Museum Grant, offered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department, supports museums across the state in their efforts to collect, preserve, interpret, and promote Oregon's rich history. This funding opportunity encourages projects that enhance heritage collections, foster heritage tourism, and provide education. Museums of all sizes are invited to submit proposals that meet eligibility requirements, ensuring a comprehensive representation of Oregon's diverse cultural narratives.

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 CHS Foundation's Ag Leadership Grant aims to enhance agricultural leadership and cooperative education. This program supports projects that cultivate a diverse pipeline for future agricultural leaders, focusing on education and career training for high school students to young professionals. Priority is given to initiatives that impact multiple states within the CHS trade area, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model in agriculture.