Best Portland Grants for Nonprofits in Oregon

The Community Arts & Culture: Core Support Grants program, administered by the City of Hillsboro, Oregon, aims to support arts and culture projects, as well as core operations of local non-profits. Grants range from $3,000 to $10,000, intended for organizations with annual budgets under $250,000. This initiative enhances access to cultural experiences for underserved communities, fostering collaboration and expanding arts programs that benefit Hillsboro residents.

The Storefront, Security, and Lighting Improvement Grant assists Downtown Hillsboro commercial property owners in enhancing storefront designs and improving security through cameras and lighting. With a maximum grant of $40,000 and a required dollar-for-dollar match, the program aims to boost the aesthetic appeal of buildings, stimulate economic growth, attract investment, and foster community pride. This initiative focuses on visible improvements to increase overall attractiveness and safety in the downtown area.

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.

Jack and Carol Kelly Scholarship

The Jack and Carol Kelly Scholarship, established in 2012, supports local students who plan to return and contribute to their communities after completing their education. The scholarship is intended for students pursuing a degree, certificate, training, or apprenticeship in vocational, technical, trade, or business careers.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Amy Ellen Polk Memorial Scholarship, offered by the American Association of Birth Centers Foundation, supports individuals developing freestanding birth centers. This scholarship honors Amy Ellen Polk, a passionate advocate for birthing centers. Recipients receive tuition for the 'How to Start a Birth Center Workshop' and an additional $500 for travel if attending in person. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and cannot have attended the workshop in the last three years.

The BNSF Railway Foundation provides grants to enhance community quality of life across 28 states, focusing on educational, cultural, and social service initiatives. With over $150 million contributed since 2000, the foundation emphasizes projects with strong local engagement and BNSF employee involvement. Eligible organizations include public charities, local governments, and tribal governments, while ineligible entities encompass religious organizations and those with discriminatory practices. Priority is given to environmental, health, and cultural projects.

The RE/MAX Equity Group Foundation Grant aims to support small, local, and grassroots charitable organizations in the Portland metro and SW Washington areas. With contributions ranging from $500 to $2,500, the foundation focuses on tangible needs such as food, clothing, and medical services. Priority is given to organizations that support children and families, demonstrating low operating expenses and direct community engagement to maximize impact.

PANWAT Achievement Award

The Pacific Northwest Association of Toxicologists is accepting nominations for the annual Toxicology Achievement Award.

This Achievement Award will recognize toxicology scholarship, leadership, and service of an individual within the Pacific Northwest Chapter and will be presented at the Pacific Northwest Chapter Meeting at the Society of Toxicology Annual Meeting.

The Achievement Award recipients will be invited to present a plenary lecture on their work and the decisions and activities that led to their achievements. The lecture is intended to provide mentorship and inspiration to our members, to foster cooperation between regional toxicologists, and to highlight the recipient’s scientific impact to the broader community.

The Howard Wallis Irwin & Dorise Carlyon Irwin Foundation Grant aims to support youth, families, education, and the elderly. Established in 1992, the foundation focuses on social service projects that promote independence and self-reliance, primarily in the Portland Metropolitan area. Funding is limited to organizations with 501(c)(3) status, with an emphasis on efforts that enhance economic participation and community vitality. The foundation does not support medical research or grants to individuals.

The Community Cultural Participation Grant, administered by the Multnomah County Cultural Coalition (MCCC), aims to support underrepresented communities in accessing arts and culture. By focusing on historically marginalized groups, including Black, Indigenous, and LGBTQIA2S+ individuals, MCCC prioritizes funding for projects that foster inclusivity and creativity. This initiative reinforces the coalition's commitment to equitable access to cultural resources across Multnomah County, ensuring that all voices are heard and represented in the arts.

The CCWC Cultural Coalition Grant supports nonprofit arts, heritage, and humanities organizations in Washington County. Through the Community Cultural Participation Grant Program, it aims to promote public awareness, support diverse cultural activities, and increase access to arts education. Grants range from $1,000 to $3,000, encouraging projects that enhance community engagement and cultural tourism. This initiative fosters cultural diversity and partnerships, enriching the region's cultural landscape.

The Gresham Community Enhancement Grant, initiated in 2017, supports various projects aimed at improving neighborhood appearance, enhancing public safety, and preserving local wildlife. Funded by Metro's solid waste collection fees, it prioritizes initiatives that benefit under-served populations and promote community engagement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, schools, and local government entities, making it a vital resource for enhancing livability in Gresham.

The Metro Central Enhancement Grants aim to support community projects along the Willamette River, focusing on underserved populations, environmental quality, and recreational opportunities. These competitive grants encourage innovative proposals that engage diverse communities, ensuring inclusivity and sustainability. Funded by the Metro Central Enhancement Committee, the grants are awarded annually to initiatives that address critical community needs and enhance local living conditions.

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.

Legacy Health Sponsorships

Legacy Health Community Benefit provides sponsorship funding for community events and activities that align with priority areas identified through Legacy Health’s Community Health Needs Assessments and Community Health Improvement Plans. Funding is intended to support initiatives that address key social and health-related needs within the communities served by Legacy Health.

For organizations serving Marion County, current community health grant priorities include improving access to health care, strengthening economic stability, and addressing mental health and substance use challenges.

For organizations serving the Portland metro area, funding priorities focus on expanding access to affordable, culturally and linguistically responsive health care; supporting essential community services and resources such as economic and educational opportunities and access to culturally specific and healthy foods; and promoting safe, inclusive neighborhoods that enhance physical safety in the community.

Detroit Lake Foundation

Established in 2015, the mission of the Detroit Lake Foundation is to enhance the quality of life for residents and establish a sustainable economic recovery to ensure that the city thrives for current and future generations.

All projects managed by Detroit Lake Foundation are projects that will improve the community infrastructure and benefit the entire community. Detroit Lake Foundation is a 501C3 organization.

Policy and Procedure for DLF Grant Request

The DLF raises funds through events that benefit the local Detroit-Idanha economy and through generous donations from individuals and businesses who want to join together to sustain the strength and future of the Detroit Lake region.

The DLF may, at its discretion, post information about the completed grant projects and programs, including grant funding amounts, on the website and in social media.

This policy and procedure as adopted by the DLF Board provides the structure for granting funding to projects and programs consistent with the mission of the DLF. This policy is reviewed annually by the DLF Board.

DLF Grant

How Grant Funds are Paid

• Unless otherwise specified and approved by the DLF Board, grants shall be on a reimbursement basis and payable upon receipt of expense documents related to the grant activity.

• Grants that provide advance funding will be based on the proposed budget, are subject to Board approval and are required to submit financial documentation upon completion.

Legacy HealthLegacy 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.

Legacy Health: Community Health Grants

Community Health Grants are offered through Legacy Health to advance its vision of being essential to the health of the region and its mission of promoting good health for people, communities, and the world. Through strategic investments and partnerships across Oregon and Southwest Washington, Legacy Health supports nonprofit organizations whose work aligns with its Community Health Needs Assessments (CHNAs) and Community Health Improvement Plans (CHIPs), with a strong emphasis on advancing health equity and serving historically underserved and underrepresented populations.

For organizations serving Marion County, current funding priorities include access to health care, economic stability, and mental health and substance use. For organizations serving the Portland metro area, priorities focus on expanding access to affordable and culturally and linguistically responsive health care; strengthening essential community services and resources such as economic and educational opportunities and access to culturally specific and healthy foods; and promoting safe, inclusive neighborhoods that support physical safety.

Legacy Health typically solicits proposals one to two times per calendar year. Organizations interested in future funding opportunities are encouraged to complete the grant inquiry form to share information about their work and alignment with Legacy Health’s mission and goals.

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.

Good Samaritan Nursing Scholarship

2026 Good Samaritan Nursing Scholarship provides educational support to eligible employees of Legacy Good Samaritan Medical Center who are pursuing advanced nursing degrees. Applicants must have been employed at the Medical Center for at least one year and be accepted to or enrolled in coursework leading directly to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree. Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) students may be considered only if they intend to remain in nursing practice (non-prescribing roles), though BSN and MSN candidates are prioritized.

The Henry Lea Hillman Jr. Foundation Grant aims to elevate the quality of life in the Portland region by supporting innovative initiatives. With a focus on improving health, safety, and equity, the foundation encourages applications from organizations with proven track records in areas such as arts, education, and human services. This funding opportunity is designed for those who can demonstrate impactful contributions to the community.

The Spirit Mountain Foundation provides funding to Oregon's nine federally recognized tribes through the Oregon Tribal Grants program. Each tribe can apply for a maximum of $100,000 for projects in diverse program areas, including Arts, Education, Environmental Preservation, and Health. Eligible projects must align with the foundation's priorities, while certain projects, such as debt retirement and sporting complexes, are not funded. This initiative supports the tribes' community development and cultural preservation.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Northwest Neighborhoods Parks & Recreation Fund Grant, managed by the Oregon Community Foundation, supports the capital development and renovation of parks and recreation facilities in northwest Portland. This initiative prioritizes projects within the Northwest District Association, Northwest Industrial Neighborhood Association, and Hillside Neighborhood Association. Grants typically range from $3,500 to $35,000, focusing on enhancing community recreation and fostering public/private collaboration.

The LIFE Center Fund Grant, established by the Oregon Community Foundation in 2005, provides crucial support through two-year grants of up to $10,000 per year for food, clothing, and hygiene assistance to residents in North, Northeast, and Southeast Portland. This program prioritizes organizations that enhance services aligned with the LIFE Center's legacy, particularly those with smaller budgets and innovative solutions to community needs. For further details, refer to the Request for Proposals.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Henry Gray Distinguished Educator Award, presented by the American Association for Anatomy, recognizes exceptional contributions in human anatomy education across various formats, including gross anatomy and embryology. This prestigious award is open to full-time or emeritus faculty who are current AAA members. Nominees must submit a nomination form along with letters of recommendation. The award includes a $2,000 travel stipend for attending the AAA Annual Meeting, supporting educators dedicated to advancing anatomical sciences.

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.

The Awesome Foundation offers Local Chapter Grants of $1000 to individuals and groups for innovative projects that enhance community engagement. Each chapter operates independently, focusing on unique interpretations of 'awesome' across various fields such as arts and technology. Grants are awarded monthly, emphasizing no-strings-attached support. This initiative encourages creativity and experimentation, aiming to inspire and delight communities worldwide. For more details, applicants can explore individual chapter preferences and restrictions through the foundation's website.

The EMSWCD's Partners in Conservation Grant supports community-led projects aimed at enhancing soil health, improving water quality, and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative also focuses on education programs related to outdoor and gardening activities, as well as restoration of fish and wildlife habitats. The grant prioritizes communities facing environmental health disparities, ensuring equitable access to conservation benefits.