Best Portland Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

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 Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grants, provided by Metro, support diverse community projects aimed at enhancing local parks, restoring streams, and promoting nature education. These grants prioritize projects led by community organizations and local governments, focusing on publicly owned capital projects that advance racial equality and climate resilience. With funding available for land acquisition and urban transformations, the program seeks to engage communities and foster connections with nature throughout the greater Portland area.

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.

Metro's Nature Education Grants aim to foster connections between communities and nature in the Portland area. These grants support projects that enhance environmental education, promote cultural equity, and engage diverse populations. By prioritizing programs that address racial equity and climate resilience, the grants seek to create partnerships that improve local ecosystems and community engagement. Offered every two years, they encourage innovative projects that restore habitats and provide hands-on educational experiences for all ages.

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.

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 Summer Lea Hillman Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable children, animals, and communities in the Portland metro area. The foundation prioritizes animal health and safety, child and youth development, homeless services, and environmental sustainability. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt public charities. The foundation does not fund individuals, ensuring support is directed towards impactful community initiatives.

Community Foundation for Southwest Washington

The Community Foundation for Southwest Washington is a public charitable organization dedicated to strengthening communities across Southwest Washington by connecting people, resources, and philanthropic goals. The Foundation works to inspire giving, steward charitable funds, and invest in programs and initiatives that address local needs and opportunities. Through donor-advised funds, scholarships, grants, and community partnerships, the Foundation supports education, economic opportunity, health, and quality of life throughout the region. Guided by values of integrity, collaboration, equity, and long-term impact, the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington serves as a trusted partner for donors and nonprofits committed to building resilient and thriving communities.

Church at the Grove Scholarship

This scholarship supports higher education and vocational training opportunities for Christian young adults, primarily—though not exclusively—for members of Church at the Grove in Vancouver, Washington (formerly Walnut Grove Community Church). Each year, two scholarships are awarded, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,500. Awards may be renewable for up to four years, provided recipients maintain a minimum 2.25 GPA and submit an application annually.

The Portland Arts Project Grant Program, administered by the Regional Arts & Culture Council, aims to enhance artistic development and community engagement in Portland, Oregon. This program supports individual artists and organizations with funding ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 for projects that foster public participation in the arts. Eligible applicants must reside or operate within Portland city limits. The program prioritizes investment in under-represented communities, ensuring equitable access to the arts.

New Seasons Market offers donation requests to 501c3 nonprofit organizations addressing food insecurity through equitable systems and immediate relief. Please allow 4 weeks for processing, as only approved requests will receive responses. Donations are typically provided in the form of gift cards to support community efforts. This initiative emphasizes collaboration with partners focused on policy advocacy and the underlying causes of hunger.

First Tech Education Grants focus on innovative solutions for children and families, primarily in education and fundamental needs. They support nonprofits in Oregon, Washington, and Northern California with grants aimed at enhancing STEM education, early childhood literacy, and financial education for underserved communities. By partnering with local organizations, First Tech aims to build capacity and provide essential resources to help these communities thrive. Organizations can apply for support through an online application process.

Ninety-nine Girlfriends offers annual Impact Awards ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 to nonprofits in the Portland Metro/SW Washington area. The grants focus on four key areas: educational equity for youth, environmental sustainability, housing stability, and women's economic empowerment. Emphasizing equity and trust-based philanthropy, they seek organizations that demonstrate a commitment to community impact and inclusivity. Applications are open to 501(c)(3) entities and fiscally sponsored groups, requiring a minimum annual revenue of $100,000.

H.E.L.P. Grants is a community initiative dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for children in the U.S. Founded by the owners of Figaro’s Italian Pizza, it aims to provide vital resources to local schools and non-profits, especially in communities where their restaurants operate. Since its inception in 2010, H.E.L.P. has been committed to combating educational disparities exacerbated by budget cuts, ensuring that every child has access to a quality education.

The Multnomah Athletic Foundation offers community grants aimed at promoting athletic participation among youth, particularly those from underserved communities. By prioritizing access and opportunities, the foundation seeks to enhance confidence and character in young athletes. The funding is unrestricted, encouraging innovative projects that foster sustainable growth in nonprofit organizations. Emphasizing transparency and collaboration, the foundation aims to create equitable outcomes for all participants in the Portland metropolitan area.

The New Seasons Market Community Grant Program supports organizations addressing food insecurity through racial equity initiatives. By focusing on food access, environmental justice, and neighborhood education, the program aims to empower communities to meet immediate food needs while promoting sustainable practices. Organizations are encouraged to highlight how their work addresses disparities and fosters equity. Additionally, applicants can reapply for future funding rounds if not selected, ensuring ongoing support for vital community efforts.

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 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 PLTW Launch - New Program initiative, sponsored by Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to eligible schools within specific U.S. counties. Schools must implement PLTW modules over two academic years, ensuring access to real-world learning experiences for students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds. This program emphasizes the importance of empowering educators and fostering student engagement in STEM fields to prepare them for future careers.

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.

The PLTW Engineering - New Program, supported by Burns & McDonnell, aims to empower U.S. students through STEM education. By offering at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2026-2027 academic year, schools can enhance their curriculum and foster critical skills. This initiative not only increases access to valuable programs but also prepares students for future challenges in college and careers, ensuring they thrive in an evolving world.

The PLTW Engineering - Program Expansion initiative aims to enhance STEM education by increasing access to Project Lead The Way (PLTW) programs in communities served by Burns & McDonnell. This partnership focuses on empowering students through real-world learning experiences, helping them develop essential skills for future careers. Starting in the 2026-2027 academic year, grants will support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs to foster greater participation and engagement in STEM fields.

The Oregon Food Bank's Capacity Building Grants aim to empower organizations addressing food insecurity, particularly among underserved populations such as BIPOC, immigrants, and LGBTQIA2S+ communities. These grants support projects that enhance advocacy efforts, expand access to food programs, and improve infrastructure. By prioritizing equity and community engagement, the initiative seeks to dismantle systemic barriers to food security and promote lasting change across Oregon.

The OFB Rapid Response Grant provides up to $5,000 for organizations to address food insecurity and inequities faced by marginalized communities. Eligible applicants include organizations working to become Partner Agencies with the Oregon Food Bank, as well as existing Partner Agencies. The grant prioritizes projects expanding access to food services, particularly for BIPOC, immigrants, LGBTQIA2S+, and single caregivers. This funding aims to enhance operations, improve accessibility, and support urgent needs in food distribution.

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.