Best Portland Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The PGE Foundation offers Creative Expression Grants aimed at enhancing educational outcomes through arts programs. These grants support organizations that foster critical thinking and socio-emotional skills via arts engagement. Priority is given to nonprofits based in Oregon that collaborate with the community and address systemic barriers to equity. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations focused on youth development and integrated arts curricula, while ensuring compliance with non-discrimination policies.

The PGE Foundation offers an Education Grant aimed at enhancing educational outcomes through community collaboration. The foundation prioritizes programs that connect students with real-world experiences, foster essential skills, and promote diversity and inclusion. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and based in Oregon, focusing on communities historically facing barriers. By supporting innovative education initiatives, the foundation strives to create pathways to higher education and career opportunities for young people.

Legacy Health

Legacy Health is a nonprofit, community-based health system dedicated to improving the health and well-being of individuals and families across the Pacific Northwest. Founded on a mission of compassionate, patient-centered care, Legacy Health operates a network of hospitals, clinics, and specialty services that emphasize high-quality medical care, health equity, and community benefit. The organization is committed to advancing health through clinical excellence, education, research, and partnerships that address both immediate healthcare needs and the broader social factors influencing health outcomes. Through its integrated system and community-focused approach, Legacy Health strives to deliver accessible, innovative, and trusted care to the populations it serves.

Irene Stephenson High School Scholarship Endowment

Irene Stephenson High School Scholarship Endowment provides scholarship support to graduating high school seniors from schools within the service area of Legacy Meridian Park Medical Center who plan to pursue a career in health care.

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 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.

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 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.

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.

The IMA Foundation Grant focuses on empowering communities by supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to workforce development, financial security for families, and enhancing emergency preparedness. With a mission to provide philanthropic assistance, the foundation seeks partners that align with its vision and operational reach. Organizations must be 501c3 nonprofits and serve areas where IMA has offices, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact youth under 26 years of age.

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.

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.

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 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 Metro Nature in Neighborhoods Community Stewardship and Restoration Grants offer funding for projects aimed at enhancing local ecosystems and promoting community engagement in the Portland area. With a total funding pool of $750,000, grants support initiatives that restore fish and wildlife habitats, foster partnerships, and address environmental justice. Priority is given to projects led by historically marginalized communities, ensuring equitable access to resources and opportunities for sustainable environmental stewardship.

The OR Forest Legacy Program, managed by the Oregon Department of Forestry, aims to protect privately-owned forestlands from conversion to non-forest uses due to development pressures. By providing funding for conservation easements and fee-title acquisitions, the program promotes sustainable management of forest resources. Projects supported by this initiative strengthen local communities through collaboration among various stakeholders, ensuring that forest conservation values are maintained for future generations.

The RTO Small Grants program, previously known as Sponsorships, provides funding up to $5,000 for materials and supplies supporting travel options. Applications are accepted year-round, with micro-grants available for schools. Currently, all funds for FY 2025 have been allocated, but new applications will reopen on June 2, 2025, for projects starting after July 1, 2025. Note that the 2023-26 grant cycle applications are closed.

The Community Placemaking Grants program aims to empower local communities, especially historically marginalized groups, by providing funding for projects that enhance connections among residents and their environments. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $25,000 and a total funding pool of $450,000, the program encourages collaboration and leadership in community-driven initiatives. Applications open on August 9, 2024, and are due by October 4, 2024, with awards announced in January 2025.

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 Nike Community Impact Fund Grant Program, established in 2010, supports nonprofits and schools in the Portland area, focusing on promoting sport and physical activity. Annually, at least $550,000 is awarded to empower youth through play, fostering healthier and more inclusive communities. The program prioritizes projects benefiting underrepresented populations and encourages innovative solutions to local challenges. Applications are open to qualified organizations in specific Oregon and Washington counties, emphasizing collaboration with Nike employees.

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 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 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 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.

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.

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.