Best Portland Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

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.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Thesis Foundation Fund supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in the Portland metro area, including Multnomah, Washington, Clackamas, and Clark counties. Its mission is to promote racial equity and serve underserved communities through educational and digital programming. The fund prioritizes grants for projects that address these issues, particularly during crises. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government agencies that advocate for equal opportunities and community support.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland: Gather Grant

Get up to $180 to host an event at the place and with the people you choose

Holiday meals can be larger and therefore more costly. We've got you!

If you are hosting 6-9 folks the subsidy is $120, but if you are hosting 10+ people outside your household, Gather Grants will reimburse you up to $180. 

How to use the Grant

You can spend the Gather Grant in whatever way you need to bring your event to life! Some examples include:

• Food: ingredients, pick-up, or dine out!
• Supplies: decorations, art supplies, books, paper goods,
• Tickets (movies, activities, events)

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 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.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Computer Science - New Program In Partnership With Lam Research

The Lam Foundation supports schools implementing or expanding a PLTW program in or near several of their U.S. communities. Schools seeking support for PLTW Gateway or PLTW Engineering will receive priority. The Lam Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Lam Research, a leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor industry.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Computer Science program. Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Computer Science course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Computer Science courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete two years of grant reporting.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Computer Science - Program Expansion In Partnership With Lam Research

The Lam Foundation supports schools implementing or expanding a PLTW program in or near several of their U.S. communities. Schools seeking support for PLTW Gateway or PLTW Engineering will receive priority. The Lam Foundation is the philanthropic arm of Lam Research, a leading provider of equipment and services to the semiconductor industry.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's expansion of student access to the PLTW Computer Science program. Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Computer Science program. Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Computer Science course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Computer Science courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2027-2028 academic year. Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting.

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 Holzman Foundation Grant supports arts, education, humanitarian, and religious organizations in the Portland Metro area, continuing the philanthropic legacy of the Holzman family since 1990. Grants typically range from $500 to $10,000, focusing on nonprofit organizations within the community. The foundation upholds a commitment to charitable giving, providing essential funding to enhance local initiatives while fostering a culture of philanthropy among its family members.

OnPoint Community Credit Union offers community grants aimed at supporting organizations aligned with their focus areas of Economic Opportunity and Community Vitality. Established in 1932, OnPoint is Oregon's largest credit union and is committed to community engagement through grants for programmatic and general operating support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located within the OnPoint region of Oregon and SW Washington. One grant request per organization is allowed annually.

The Portland Rotary Charitable Trust Community Grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the Portland Metro area that empower underserved youth. Grants, ranging from $2,000 to $8,000, focus on capital expenditures, ensuring inclusivity without discrimination. Organizations must refrain from non-capital expenses, operational costs, and religious requirements. This initiative fosters equal opportunities, addressing disparities in access to resources and promoting community development.

The National Estuary Program Watersheds Grant Program, administered by Restore America’s Estuaries and supported by the EPA, funds competitive projects addressing critical threats to estuaries. Key priorities include habitat restoration, enhancing coastal resilience against extreme weather, managing nutrient impacts, and mitigating stormwater runoff. Established in 1987, the program aims to improve ecological integrity and water quality in 28 estuaries nationwide, providing essential funding and guidance to local initiatives.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Stimson-Miller Foundation Grant supports civic, cultural, educational, and health-related initiatives in communities where Stimson Lumber Company operates. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and located within 60 miles of a mill or corporate office. The Foundation prioritizes shareholder-driven projects and specific program support over general operational funding. Note that organizations previously funded are not eligible this year.

The PCC Architecture + Interior Design Scholarship offers $5,000 to first-generation students pursuing degrees in Architectural Design and Drafting or Interior Design at Portland Community College. This scholarship, supported by the Architecture Foundation of Oregon, aims to enhance access to these fields. It prioritizes students enrolled in at least six credits, ensuring that dedicated learners can advance their education and career opportunities in architecture and interior design.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Nike Community Impact Fund in Portland Metro, Oregon, empowers local organizations to drive positive change through grants. This employee-led initiative focuses on inclusive, active communities, supporting youth to reach their potential. With a volunteer committee providing local insights, eligible organizations can apply for funding to enhance community engagement and make play accessible for all. By investing in grassroots efforts, Nike aims to create lasting impact in the neighborhoods where its employees live and work.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

The PLTW Launch - Program Expansion initiative by Burns & McDonnell aims to enhance access to STEM education in U.S. schools. This program focuses on empowering students by providing real-world learning experiences and essential skills. Grants will support schools in expanding PLTW programs during the 2026-2027 academic year, benefiting students from underserved communities. By fostering a deeper understanding of STEM, the initiative seeks to inspire the next generation of innovators and problem solvers.

The PLTW Gateway - New Program, in partnership with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance student engagement in STEM by providing teachers with essential resources and support. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, eligible schools can apply for grants to introduce and expand PLTW programs, fostering real-world skills through applied learning. This initiative targets schools with significant free and reduced-price lunch populations, promoting equity in education across various U.S. counties.

The PLTW Gateway - Program Expansion initiative, led by Burns & McDonnell in partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW), aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to PLTW programs for students in eligible communities. This program empowers students through real-world applied learning experiences, promoting essential skills for college and careers. Grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Gateway programs starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, fostering a brighter future through education.