Best Grants for K-12 Schools in California

US Bancorp Foundation supports arts, culture, and workforce development in California by funding programs that enhance economic advancement, affordable housing, and community engagement. K-12 schools with initiatives in arts education, youth leadership, or financial literacy may be eligible to apply for support through this grant program.

The Costco Wholesale Charitable Contributions program prioritizes support for children, education, and health services within local communities. Nonprofit organizations seeking assistance must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on monetary requests. Applications are reviewed within 4-6 weeks, factoring in community needs and collaboration. However, Costco limits grants to 10% of the program budget and typically restricts organizations to one request per fiscal year. They do not fund individuals or direct aid for various specific purposes.

Creag Foundation provides California organizations focused on innovative human and social services with opportunities to address pressing societal issues. K-12 schools and educational nonprofits in California with creative approaches to student support or community challenges may be eligible to apply. Applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

State Farm Companies Foundation supports education programs in California by offering grants that benefit K-12 schools, with a strong emphasis on academic performance, STEM initiatives, and college and career pathways. California K-12 schools focused on these priorities may be eligible for funding to enhance student success and educational opportunities.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Labcorp Charitable Foundation supports education and community programs in California by funding initiatives such as STEM programming, food access, and healthcare for underserved populations. K-12 schools in California may be eligible for grants that enhance student learning, promote health and wellness, or address critical needs within their school communities.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

PNC Foundation provides California education nonprofits with support for early childhood education, arts, and community development initiatives. K-12 schools and organizations focusing on educational access, teacher development, or STEAM programs may be eligible, especially if serving low- to moderate-income families in communities where PNC has a significant presence.

Ralph M. Parsons Foundation provides California K-12 schools with funding for educational enrichment, academic success, and youth development in Los Angeles County. Grants support programs ranging from early learning to college preparation, including general operating support, capital projects, and staff positions. Eligible schools and educational nonprofits may benefit from this responsive grantmaking opportunity.

Grants from Amateur Radio Digital Communications help California K-12 schools expand STEAM education, digital literacy, and amateur radio programming. Schools interested in technology, science, and communication innovation may be eligible for funding, provided their projects align with open access principles and the advancement of digital communications.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Insperity provides California community organizations with philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to support local service initiatives. K-12 schools in California that contribute to community well-being or have strong employee involvement may be eligible for funding. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving areas where Insperity employees live or work are considered.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

Grants from Lawrence Foundation help California organizations working in environmental conservation and community services. K-12 schools in California may be eligible if their programs align with the foundation’s interests, such as environmental education or community-focused initiatives. Funding is typically unrestricted, supporting both program and operating needs.

W. M. Keck Foundation provides California K-12 schools with support for educational access, youth development, and STEM programs. Schools in Los Angeles County serving low-income or special needs students may be especially competitive. Projects focused on arts, health, and family services for children and youth are also considered.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

With a mission to improve communities, Dr Scholl Foundation provides California K-12 education organizations with grant opportunities in areas such as education, social services, and health care. K-12 schools seeking funding for innovative or practical programs may be eligible to apply during the annual grant cycle.

Grants from William McCaskey Chapman & Adaline Dinsmore Chapman Foundation help California K-12 schools and nonprofits motivate students in coastal Monterey County communities to prepare for and succeed in college. Eligible programs include classroom initiatives, academic scholarships, and extracurricular projects that support college readiness and measurable student achievement.

California K-12 schools can access funding through American Water Charitable Foundation for projects that improve, restore, or protect local water resources. Grants support efforts like water conservation, watershed protection, and expanding equitable access to water-based recreation. Schools with environmental or STEM programs may be eligible for these community-focused grants.

Focused on STEM education, Boston Scientific Foundation Inc invites California K-12 schools to apply for funding that expands opportunities for economically disadvantaged students. Programs must serve at least 50% low-income participants and demonstrate measurable improvements in STEM learning. Schools aiming to enhance academic development in science, technology, engineering, and math may be eligible.

Focused on community services, Samueli Foundation invites California K-12 schools and nonprofits to apply for the Breakaway Fund. This opportunity offers unrestricted support for projects in talent development, technology upgrades, and organizational expertise. Schools serving Orange County communities may be eligible for grants of $50,000–$100,000.

California K-12 schools can access funding through Samueli Foundation for capital projects in Orange County. Eligible projects include facility acquisition, new construction, renovation, repairs, and major equipment purchases. K-12 public and nonprofit private schools meeting the criteria may benefit from one-time grants up to $1,000,000 to enhance their educational environments.

O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Inc provides California education organizations with support for programs improving economic stability, workforce development, health, and literacy. K-12 schools that address community needs such as literacy, early childhood development, or job readiness may be eligible for funding to enhance student outcomes and support underserved populations.

California K-12 schools and related organizations can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation for projects supporting community services, youth development, safety, and STEM education. School-based programs operated by eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits may benefit, particularly those providing enrichment, workforce readiness, or educational opportunities to students.