Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The TA-1 Technical Design and Engineering grant, offered by the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB), supports projects aimed at creating technical designs for restoration efforts. Eligible applicants include non-profits, tribes, and educational institutions, with a required 5% match. This funding is crucial for addressing the impacts of wildfires on local habitats and ensures compliance with preservation regulations. Projects must demonstrate clear benefits to watershed health and community resilience.

NRCS Farm Bill Technical Assistance Grant Program

The goal of this grant program is to provide funding for technical assistance (TA) to help implement local Farm Bill conservation programs. The Farm Bill has generated more need for technical assistance than the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) can provide to landowners. The Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board (OWEB) in partnership with NRCS seeks to award funding to partners to provide technical assistance for local conservation efforts.

Total Available:

• $436,011

Required Match:​

• 5%​​

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The TA-2 grant from the Oregon Watershed Enhancement Board focuses on resource assessment and planning for restoration projects, particularly in response to impacts from wildfires. Eligible applicants include non-profits, tribes, and educational institutions. With no cap on funding requests but a required 5% match, the program encourages development of implementation plans that align with environmental regulations. Review Teams prioritize projects that demonstrate watershed benefits and feasibility.

The Growing Tribal Economies Through Forest Market Innovations grant program, initiated by First Nations Development Institute, aims to empower Tribes and Alaska Native Villages to engage in emerging markets that enhance forest health and resilience. With funding of $200,000 to $500,000 per grant, this initiative supports projects focusing on sustainability, innovation, and traditional knowledge. Eligible applicants are encouraged to develop forest products, certifications, and practices that contribute positively to biodiversity and ecosystem management.

The Stimulating Hematology Investigation: New Endeavors (SHINE) program aims to enhance nonmalignant hematology research aligned with the goals of the NIDDK, NIA, and NHLBI. It invites R01 grant applications focused on innovative and early translational hematology topics, fostering growth in this critical research area. Key deadlines for applications span from February 2025 to October 2027, allowing for both standard and renewal submissions.

The H. Wayne & Edna M. Schultz Scholarship, supported by the Benton Community Foundation, aims to assist Benton County high school graduates with financial need who wish to pursue pharmacy education at Oregon State University. Established to honor the legacy of H. Wayne Schultz, a dedicated professor, this scholarship fund will help students transition from their pre-pharmacy studies to the professional program. Recipients will be selected based on financial need and their commitment to the pharmacy field.

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 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.

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 U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

The ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

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.

Jay and Kelleigh Killen Military Excellence Endowed Scholarship

About the fund

Jay Killen and his wife Kelleigh established the Jay & Kelleigh Killen Military Excellence Endowed Scholarship with Benton Community Foundation in 2012. Jay is a former Navy Aviator and NROTC instructor at OSU. Each year the Scholarship is awarded to a Navy Midshipman who displays excellence in ROTC and academics. 

The ReFED Catalytic Grant Fund, managed by Refed Inc., supports innovative solutions to minimize food waste and reduce methane emissions, a cost-effective strategy for climate action. This fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance food recycling and improve supply chain efficiency in the beef and dairy sectors. By focusing on proven methods, the grant aims to accelerate impactful changes in the food system, ultimately fostering sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to combat food waste.

The Justin D. Cole & Donald R. Meeks, Jr. ROTC Scholarship, established by Benton Community Foundation, aims to recognize dedicated ROTC cadets at Oregon State University and its extension campuses. This scholarship supports students who demonstrate strong leadership, financial need, and good academic standing, ensuring they can continue their education and service. Priority is given to upperclassmen and those nearing graduation, fostering a sense of community and commitment among future leaders.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

NCRC Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) - Housing Counseling Services

The Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) empowers NCRC network members to level up established service lines.

The Housing Counseling Services series within FEF supports HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in driving homeownership, such as through pre-purchase counseling. In addition, the program builds agency knowledge on heirs’ property challenges to better equip first-time and low-income homebuying households with the know-how to retain intergenerational wealth.

In doing so, FEF-HCS aims to help underserved families begin their homeownership journey, with an additional goal of ensuring foresight into the long-term future of their home purchase.

The FEF-HCS series is funded in partnership with Key Bank and HSBC, and targets communities within the Key Bank and HSBC branch footprints.

Through these partnerships, $2.5 million in Key Bank geographies and $1.5 million in HSBC geographies has been allocated for the subgrants for direct-to-client housing counseling services that will be awarded in three rounds in the FEF-HCS track.

Funding Support

Awardee agencies will receive subgrants to support their housing counseling services to clients.

Knowledge Building

Awardee agencies will attend a training session on heirs’ property challenges and best practices, hosted by NCRC National Training Academy. Bolstering counselor knowledge on this topic will ensure that your agency is not only serving clients in their personal wealth-building journey now, but also helping them preserve that wealth in generations to come.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

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.

Col Donald E. Carter, Lon & Mary Jensen, Helen Kirby ROTC Scholarship

About the fund

After Don E. Carter’s death, his wife Glenna Carter helped fund an endowed ROTC scholarship in Don’s memory. It is fitting that it contributes to youth in military service who desire to serve their country and improve themselves through higher education. Don would have heartily approved of their goals and would have been the first to encourage these young people by offering a helping hand.

Lon and Mary Jensen contributed to this endowed ROTC scholarship fund and are long-time supporters of the education of cadets at OSU and WOC.

Helen Ann Kirby was a life-long learner and a strong believer in education. She worked throughout her life to help people, and will continue to do so through this scholarship gift.

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.

Col. Julian & Rebecca McFadden Memorial Scholarship Fund

About the fund

Rebecca Mary Kawaiala McFadden supported the Air Force mission and heavily supported her husband, contributing to his career success. Traveling and living in some extremely rugged and austere conditions, she made an impression on many associates with her perseverance and “can do” attitude. She was a comfort to the families of many young fighter pilots during difficult times. Rebecca was an inspiration to all who knew her. Following her death on Aug. 17, 1993, Julian helped establish this memorial scholarship fund to further the education of Army and Air Force cadets at Oregon State University.

Col. Julian Robert McFadden died on November 12, 2010. At the request of the family, this scholarship fund was renamed, the “Col. Julian & Rebecca McFadden Memorial Scholarship Fund.”

The LTC David & Dorothy Blasen Memorial Scholarship supports ROTC students at Oregon State University and its extension campuses. Established in 1997 by Lieutenant Colonel David Blasen and his wife, Dorothy, this endowed fund aims to enhance educational opportunities for future military leaders. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, academic performance, and leadership. Priority is given to upperclassmen and those who have completed ROTC classes. This scholarship fosters a commitment to military service and community leadership.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Major General Julie Bentz ROTC Scholarship supports ROTC students at Oregon State University and Western Oregon University, honoring Major General Bentz's distinguished military career. Awarded based on financial need, leadership, and academic performance, this scholarship emphasizes the importance of good standing in both the university and the ROTC unit. Eligible candidates must be full-time ROTC students with a minimum GPA. Priority is given to juniors, seniors, and those completing ROTC courses.

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.

Col Arnold E. "Gene" Bench & Lieutenant Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr. Memorial Scholarship

About the fund

In memory of two Marine veterans, Col Arnold E. “Gene” Bench & Lieutenant Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr., this scholarship is awarded to a future candidate of the USMC ROTC, and to an OSU Marine student who most epitomizes dedication, professionalism, selflessness, and esprit de corps.

The leadership award, in memory of Col Arnold E. “Gene” Bench and funded by the generous donations of Colonel Bench’s family, is presented annually to the OSU Marine student who most epitomizes dedication, professionalism, selflessness, and esprit de corps. The award includes a commissioning packet of Marine Corps emblems and rank insignia, and the recipient’s name is engraved on a plaque permanently displayed in the Naval Armory. The award may go to either a male or female student with selection criteria including, when possible, prior USMC service. The Fund also provides an annual scholarship for a male or female Marine ROTC student in his or her sophomore or junior year at OSU.

This scholarship in memory of Frederick E. Pokorney, Jr. will continue Fred’s legacy as his family’s “Hero” and “Gentle Giant”–he was 6’6”. He was awarded the Silver Star for his bravery in his last moments while leading his Marines in the Battle of An Nasiriyah in Iraq. His commitment to his Marines is embodied with this scholarship award to a future candidate of the USMC ROTC.

His daughter, Taylor, will be given the honor to present this award in her Daddy’s memory to express her love for him, and giving back to his Marines will help heal the tremendous void in her heart.

Fred’s family and friends truly believe that making this positive act from his tragic loss will allow them to hold his love in our hearts forever. The honor, courage, and commitment he had for his Corps will continue through this scholarship.

Fred’s family believes every American should support our future young military leaders of this nation in their hearts and minds, and can do so by supporting such endowments as Fred’s with a small donation. We owe much to those who give their lives so selflessly to protect our freedoms.

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.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.