Best Grants for Preschools in Oregon

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 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.

The Oregon Brownfields Redevelopment Fund, managed by Business Oregon, provides essential financing for environmental actions related to brownfields. This program supports property owners in conducting cleanup and assessments to facilitate redevelopment, particularly in economically distressed areas. Eligible applicants include individuals, businesses, and municipalities, while grants may be awarded based on public benefits. The program aims to revitalize communities by addressing contamination issues and promoting economic development.

The Marine Navigation Improvement Fund Grant (OR) provides essential funding for port projects in Oregon, supporting both federally and non-federally authorized navigation improvements. The program aims to enhance navigation facilities, ensuring they meet safety and operational standards. Eligible projects may receive loans or grants, with funding determined by project type and readiness. Ports interested in applying must adhere to specific criteria and provide necessary documentation to secure funding. This initiative is crucial for boosting local economies and maintaining vital transportation routes.

The Seismic Rehabilitation Grant Program (SRGP) in Oregon supports funding for the seismic upgrades of critical public buildings, focusing on public schools and emergency service facilities. Eligible applicants include public K-12 school districts and first responder buildings like fire and police stations. The grant can provide up to $2.5 million for eligible projects, ensuring buildings remain safe and functional in the event of a seismic event.

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 Port Revolving Fund provides essential loans to port districts for the planning and construction of vital infrastructure and facilities. This state program, managed by Business Oregon, supports economic development through responsible investments, allowing ports to finance up to $3 million. Eligible projects include pre-project planning, construction, and maintenance, with flexible repayment terms based on project completion. This initiative underscores the significance of ports in enhancing Oregon's economic landscape.

The Port Planning & Marketing Fund in Oregon provides grants to enhance ports' economic development through strategic business planning and marketing projects. Law mandates that ports must update their business plans every decade to qualify for funding. Grants are limited to $50,000 or 75% of project costs. Priority is given to proposals for updating strategic plans, regional collaborations benefiting multiple ports, and projects that foster economic diversification, job creation, and redevelopment.

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. 

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 Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy’s scientists in California are working to inform, influence, and inspire conservation in today’s human-dominated world, to build a future in which people and nature thrive together.

Oren Pollak Memorial Research Fund

The Oren Pollak Memorial Research Fund was established in 2000 in memory of Dr. Oren Pollak, a leading grassland ecologist and restoration pioneer, as well as an ardent champion and mentor for grassland ecology students. As The Nature Conservancy’s lead ecologist in California in the early 1990s, Dr. Pollak established the grassland research program that continues today. He later became Director of Science in the Conservancy’s Oregon Chapter. Since 2000, the Pollak Fund has granted more than $170,000 in grasslands research funding for student scientists. 

The Nature Conservancy will be granting up to $20,000 for assistance to two or three student grantees to conduct research on grasslands in California or Oregon. Preference will be given to projects explicitly focused on grasslands and relevant to TNC’s conservation efforts in California or Oregon.

Proposed projects may include, but are not restricted to, research on grassland management practices (e.g., restoration, grazing), habitat value for rare and threatened species, and community ecology. Studies conducted on TNC preserves and coordination with TNC preserve managers is desirable but not mandatory. 

The Black United Fund of Oregon (BUF-OR) provides Community Impact Grants to support the social and economic development of underserved communities in Oregon. Annually, BUF-OR awards grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to nonprofit organizations that align with its mission and focus on BIPOC communities. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within Oregon or SW Washington. This initiative aims to empower grassroots organizations and enhance community well-being.

The PacificSource Foundation for Health Improvement, a private foundation, is dedicated to promoting health equity since 1992. With a focus on underserved populations in Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and parts of Washington, the foundation supports initiatives that enhance access to healthcare and address health disparities. They provide both one-year and multi-year funding, typically ranging from $10,000 to $50,000, to organizations committed to advancing health equity through diverse community-driven solutions.

The NWS Student Travel Award, offered by the American Physical Society, provides financial support of up to $400 for undergraduate students to attend the Annual Meeting. This initiative aims to enhance participation among students, especially those without other funding sources, who are presenting research. Established in 1998, the Northwest Section of APS fosters collaboration among physicists in the Pacific Northwest, promoting educational and research opportunities within the community.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

The WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource 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.”

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.

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.

Government Information and Library Services

Government Services provides specialized information services to state government employees and the public and maintains several collections including Federal and Oregon documents.

About LSTA Grants

LSTA grants are one of the many ways the State Library supports library services across Oregon through its federally funded Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Program, administered on the national level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services' Grants to States Program.

What We Fund

LSTA funds are intended to be used for projects that support library services in Oregon, and address at least one of the goals of Oregon's LSTA Five-Year Plan. LSTA monies may not supplant local responsibility or replace lost funding.

LSTA Grants: Enhancing Academic, Special, and Tribal Libraries Mini Grant

The State Library is offering small grants to academic institutions, special libraries, and tribal entities to strengthen their libraries and enable them to more fully support their communities.

Projects must address one or more of the following focal areas: collections, staff development, and technology. See our list of Possible Projects (below) for examples in each of these areas.

Funds will be distributed in advance and recipients will be expected to commit to spending the entire grant amount.

Possible Projects

This is a list of ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities; you are not required to choose any of these projects.

Collections:

• Purchase print materials and/or perpetual access e-books that fill gaps in the collection or meet specific community needs.
• Build up course reserve collections.
• Purchase materials in various languages or formats.

Staff Development:

• Organize a learning opportunity for staff.
• Bring in a facilitator to conduct an activity or workshop.
• Have staff engage in an external professional development opportunity, such as a conference or online course.

Technology:

• Lend devices to eliminate barriers to technology.
• Update public and/or staff computer workstations.
• Acquire assistive technology that enhances access for individuals with disabilities.
• Establish a dedicated area for confidential virtual appointments.

Each organization may request funding for one project that fits into one of the focal areas.

Spending must adhere to Allowable Costs. Subscriptions and licenses must fall within the grant period. Entities may include indirect costs in the budget, as outlined in 2 CFR 200.414.

Elda Washer Scholarship Fund

The Elda Washer Scholarship Fund is providing scholarships for deserving students. The Center for Scholarship Administration, Inc. (CSA), a non-profit, independent organization is the facilitator of the scholarship fund.

The institution must be an educational organization that normally maintains a regular faculty and curriculum and normally has a regularly enrolled body of pupils or students in attendance at the place where its educational activities are regularly conducted.

The TBF: Teen Pregnancy Prevention program offers financial support to 501(c)(3) organizations in Washington and Oregon focused on reducing teen pregnancy. Eligible projects must utilize evidence-based methods and can include health education initiatives and community clinic services. The program encourages applications from organizations with a clear budget and success criteria, emphasizing the need for innovative solutions to this critical issue.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Oregon offers crucial funding for developing clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management in eligible rural areas. These funds can be utilized for the acquisition, construction, or enhancement of vital infrastructure, including drinking water sourcing and sewer systems. This program targets applicants unable to secure commercial credit, supporting local governments, nonprofits, and tribes to ensure reliable services in rural communities.

The J.R. Simplot Company Foundation Grant supports U.S. non-profit organizations focused on art, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture. Established in 1929, the foundation is committed to enhancing community welfare through creative cultural endeavors, educational initiatives, health services, and youth programs. Applications are reviewed quarterly, ensuring a timely response to organizations dedicated to making a positive impact in their communities.

Higher Education Coordinating Commission

The Higher Education Coordinating Commission (HECC) is a State of Oregon agency and Commission working to improve equitable access to and success in higher education and workforce training for Oregonians statewide. We coordinate funding and policy, and convene partners across the public and private higher education and workforce landscape. 

Oregon Teacher Scholars Program Grant

The Oregon Teacher Scholars Program (OTSP) Grant provides funding for eligible candidates who have experience with diverse populations who are pursuing their preliminary licensure program for teaching, school counseling, social work, and school psychology. The OTSP Grant is offered in partnership with the Educator Advancement Council and the Oregon Department of Education.

Eligible students must complete the Oregon Teacher Scholars Program (OTSP) Grant application and the FAFSA or ORSAA by the designated deadline for full consideration.

Continuing Scholars: Renewal applicants (those who have received the grant in a prior year) must login to their OSAC Student Portal account and re-apply for the next academic year in addition to submitting their FAFSA or ORSAA for the corresponding academic year.

Eligible students can attend any institution that has an approved educator preparation program and receive the Oregon Teacher Scholars Program Grant. View the full Public and Private Colleges/University list to determine if your college is eligible.