Best Grants for Environmental Projects in California

Researchers conducting natural history and environmental studies in California and other western North American regions can receive up to US $2,500 for travel, supplies, student wages, and other justifiable expenses. Western North American Naturalist especially encourages applicants from institutions where research is possible but not the primary focus.

California environmental and community organizations can access funding for sustainability, conservation, clean water, parks, and disaster preparedness projects via Marathon Petroleum Foundation. The program supports U.S.-incorporated 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible government entities, with preference for communities near company operations, and also backs workforce development, youth programs, and economic vitality initiatives.

Eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits in California can apply for the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation’s corporate giving program; awards up to US $1,000 for community-focused projects. Funding may support environmental, agriculture, education, hunger relief, health, social services, public safety, and cultural heritage initiatives, with preference for programs near Perdue facilities and endorsed by a Perdue associate.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental, agricultural, education, health, hunger, poverty, or public safety initiatives in California can seek more than US $1,000 through the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation’s corporate giving program. Preference goes to communities near Perdue facilities and projects that engage Perdue associates and strengthen local quality of life.

California 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on the care and welfare of domesticated animals can apply for grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000 to support their programs. Grants from the Roy and Marian Holleman Foundation also consider education, library science, and human services projects, which may include environmental-related efforts.

California 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental conservation or related environmental projects can seek funding for charitable programs, operations, or services. Charles and Ruth Billingsley Foundation supports a wide range of causes, including environment and animals, with a practice of primarily funding organizations based in San Diego County.

California environmental nonprofits can access funding through the John W. Porter Trust to support programs that benefit the Long Beach community and broader state. 501(c)(3) organizations working on environment, animals, health, education, human services, arts, or related community programs may receive US $5,000 - US $10,000 for charitable, benevolent, religious, or educational projects.

California public agencies, schools, nonprofits, community groups, and even for-profit organizations can seek sponsorship for events or projects that engage communities on regional water policy or benefit local watersheds and the environment. Focused on water stewardship, Santa Clara Valley Water invites environmental and water-resource initiatives to apply through its Community Partnering Sponsorship Program.

Nonprofit public charities in California seeking support for environmental projects, alongside work in healthcare, education, social services, animal welfare, and arts and culture, may be eligible for this grant. With a mission to support effective organizations, Harold McAlister Charitable Foundation provides funding based on impact, alignment with its priorities, and an organization’s history of success and growth.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in California working on conservation, environment, early childhood education, family empowerment, or health can seek project or capital funding to expand programs or facilities. Grants from James M Cox Foundation help communities where Cox Enterprises operates; California environmental projects may be eligible with local Cox engagement and, when applicable, regional endorsement.

California 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible schools serving communities near Honda locations can seek funding for mobility-focused education, awareness, and infrastructure programs that support individuals with disabilities. Grants from Honda USA Foundation help environmental and community organizations integrate therapeutic or adaptive programs, comprehensive care, and mobility modifications or assistive technology, with awards ranging from US $25,000 - US $100,000.

Emerging professionals interested in public policy and environmental issues in California can gain hands-on legislative experience through this fellowship program, working in state Assembly offices on topics including environmental justice. California State University (CSU) offers cohort-based learning, mentorship, and career development to prepare participants for impactful public service careers.

California 501(c)(3) organizations planning projects in environment, community, health, arts, animals, or children’s services can apply for Mcbeth Foundation’s McBeth Foundation Grant to launch impactful programs. Funding supports initiatives that benefit more than a single individual and can grow over time, which may include environmental projects with lasting community impact.

Nonprofits, charities, municipalities, Indigenous groups, and foundations working on environmental projects in California can seek US $2,500 - US $25,000 for safety, education, environment, or resilient communities initiatives. Focused on community impact, TC Energy Foundation prioritizes projects near its operations that demonstrate measurable benefits and promote equity, well-being, and strong local relationships.

Young California-based social innovators developing early-stage solutions in areas like environment, energy, health, and technology can receive US $40,000 from the Westly Prize. Westly Foundation supports impactful, scalable ventures worldwide, and environmental projects in California may be especially competitive if they demonstrate strong innovation, leadership, and capacity for growth.

Environmental nonprofits and accredited charities in California can seek funding for projects in areas like environmental education, conservation, and ecosystem restoration. La Roche supports innovative, high-quality initiatives that promote sustainable development, engage local partners and employees, and may also include community, humanitarian, science education, or arts components within its global corporate philanthropy program.

Graduate students at any University of California campus conducting environmental or ecological field research in California’s Natural Reserve System can receive up to US $3,000 for supplies, minor equipment, reserve fees, and travel. Focused on field-based research, the Natural Reserve System invites projects using at least one NRS reserve, including underrepresented disciplines and early-career researchers.

Small, community-based nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups in California working on environmental health, climate resilience, and environmental justice can seek support for grassroots advocacy, organizing, restoration, and education projects. The California Environmental Grassroots Fund from Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment offers up to US $7,500, prioritizing efforts serving BIPOC, frontline, immigrant, and low-income communities.

Property owners, authorized lessees, and their representatives in California can receive up to US $12,000 per site to install shared Level 2 electric vehicle charging stations. Focused on clean transportation and greenhouse gas reduction, the California Energy Commission’s Communities in Charge program supports well-lit, secure sites, including public, workplace, and multi-family housing locations.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.

The James C. Stewart Charitable Foundation Grant supports various charitable causes primarily in Tucson, Arizona, and Southern California. Founded by James Stewart, who was dedicated to uplifting the community and promoting the arts, the foundation provides an average grant of $10,000, awarding around five grants annually. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt. The foundation emphasizes arts, education, environment, health, human services, and public benefit, continuing Stewart's legacy of generosity.

The Gilroy Foundation has been a vital community resource since 1980, distributing over $15.8 million in grants and scholarships. Its funding initiatives aim to enhance self-sufficiency for families, improve education, promote health, and enrich cultural life. The Foundation supports various sectors, including agriculture, education, and technology, prioritizing projects that address community needs and demonstrate potential for significant impact. Organizations within Gilroy are encouraged to apply for funding that aligns with these objectives.

The Board Empowerment Grant Program, piloted by the Community Foundation for Monterey County in partnership with The David and Lucile Packard Foundation, aims to enhance nonprofit board leadership in Monterey County. This program offers a $5,000 unrestricted grant along with nine months of focused consulting and coaching. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations committed to systemic change, with a requirement for board participation. The initiative seeks to empower boards to drive impactful changes in their organizations.

JetBlue For Good is JetBlue's commitment to social impact, focusing on youth education, environmental sustainability, and community support. By partnering with various nonprofits, JetBlue inspires the next generation, promotes environmental awareness, and contributes to local communities through volunteerism and donations. The JetBlue Foundation specifically supports STEM and aviation education, enhancing opportunities for underrepresented communities. With over $2.5 million allocated in grants, JetBlue For Good reflects the airline's core mission of inspiring humanity and fostering positive change.

The Sharks Foundation, established in 1994, aims to empower Bay Area youth by providing Community Assist Grants that support wellness, education, and hockey initiatives. Each month focuses on a different area, including cancer care, holiday assistance, and environmental education. The foundation envisions equitable access to quality education and essential resources for every young person, promoting inclusivity through hockey. With its nonprofit status, the Sharks Foundation is committed to fostering community engagement and positive social change.

The MPRPD Transportation Grants, funded by the Community Foundation for Monterey County, aim to enhance access to recreational, environmental, and cultural education in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, schools, and public agencies that receive a Special Use Permit from MPRPD. The grants cover transportation-related costs for group visits to MPRPD parks, aligning with the mission to promote education and protect natural resources.

Impact Diablo Valley aims to empower local families by providing grants to nonprofits addressing vital community needs. With a focus on arts, education, environment, human services, and health, the funder supports initiatives that demonstrate sustainability beyond the grant cycle. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities, operational for at least three years, and focused on Contra Costa County. A Zoom meeting on May 29th will offer insights into the 2025 grant application process.