Best Technology Grants in California

The California Health Care Foundation (CHCF) is committed to enhancing California's health care system, particularly for low-income individuals. CHCF focuses on improving access to coverage and care, advancing people-centered approaches, and laying the foundation for meaningful change. Grants are awarded for projects that align with these goals, emphasizing relevance to California's health care challenges. While unsolicited proposals are welcomed, most grants result from competitive requests, supporting innovative solutions to enhance health care delivery.

The CHCF Innovation Fund Grant aims to enhance healthcare access and quality for Californians by investing in early- to growth-stage companies. It focuses on technologies developed by diverse founders who understand community challenges, particularly in California's Medicaid ecosystem. The fund seeks partners committed to improving care quality, reducing costs, and ensuring access for low-income populations. This initiative highlights the importance of lived experiences in driving innovative healthcare solutions. For more information, please refer to the FAQs on their website.

Edison International's Community Grants Program partners with local nonprofits focused on education, the environment, public safety, and civic engagement. With a commitment to supporting underserved communities, the program has contributed $20 million to initiatives that improve air quality, enhance disaster preparedness, and promote diversity. The grants prioritize educational programs emphasizing STEM and environmental sustainability, aiming to empower diverse populations and foster community resilience in Southern California.

The Gene Haas Foundation Community Grants aim to support 501(c)(3) organizations in Ventura, Clark, and Cabarrus Counties focused on providing essential services to underserved populations, especially children and the elderly. With over $30 million in funding since 1999, the Foundation prioritizes local charitable initiatives that enhance community welfare. Importantly, grants cannot be used for equipment purchases or individual support, ensuring that funds directly benefit community needs.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

The Joseph R. & Mercedes McMicking Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for children and families in the San Francisco Bay Area. It focuses on charitable giving, supporting educational programs in arts, technology, education, and science. The foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, promoting access to resources and tuition assistance for local pre-K-12 schools. This initiative strengthens community ties and nurtures the next generation's growth through diverse educational opportunities.

The Pentair Foundation, a corporate philanthropy initiative, focuses on creating sustainable communities through water solutions and STEM education. With over $80 million in contributions since 1998, the foundation emphasizes ecological resilience, water quality improvement, and youth engagement in science and technology. They prioritize grantmaking in specific U.S. states and international regions, fostering vibrant communities and encouraging employee volunteerism. Initiatives are invitation-only, ensuring a targeted approach to impactful philanthropy.

The Ford Family Foundation's Good Neighbor Grants aim to support rural communities by providing funding for essential programs and services. With a focus on family support, educational success, and community building, these grants help ensure that families have access to necessary resources. Grants can be used for emergencies, capital projects, and community events, with amounts up to $25,000 available. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster collaboration and sustainability within the community.

The Roy and Marian Holleman Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on the welfare of domesticated animals and library science. Emphasizing education, environmental care, and human services, the foundation provides financial assistance to eligible entities in California. Organizations seeking funding should align with the foundation's mission, prioritizing animal welfare and library science initiatives. This grant aims to enhance community well-being through focused support and resources.

The Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation Grant aims to support projects that promote environmental restoration, preservation, and education, with a focus on sustainable resource use and community development. This grant encourages innovative approaches that connect urban and rural settings, enhance biodiversity, and foster creativity in addressing societal challenges. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated non-profits that align with the foundation's vision. The foundation also supports small presses and periodicals that creatively address sustainability issues.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative neurocognitive research and mental health initiatives, offering funding between $25,000 and $250,000. Organizations should be 501(c)(3) and focus on healthcare solutions for brain-related ailments. Applications are accepted via a rolling letter of inquiry, followed by a detailed application if interested. The Foundation prioritizes projects based in Southern California and Greater Boston, aiming to advance understanding of mental health through cutting-edge research and technologies.

The TMCity Foundation Grant supports innovative research in neurocognitive healthcare, with funding ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. This grant aims to address critical challenges in mental health by fostering cutting-edge research and transformative technologies. Applicants, preferably 501(c)(3) organizations, can submit letters of inquiry on a rolling basis, with a focus on projects based in Southern California and the Greater Boston area. The Foundation is committed to catalyzing advancements in understanding the brain and delivering effective treatments.

Ability Central Grants has provided over $14.3 million to 122 organizations since 2010, focusing on projects that enhance digital accessibility, assistive technology, workforce development, and communication access for individuals with disabilities. Grants are available only to nonprofit organizations in California, with a preference for innovative projects addressing urgent needs and promoting inclusive practices. The initiative fosters measurable impacts and prioritizes effective governance within recipient organizations.

The Henry L. Guenther Foundation Grants support charitable organizations in California, focusing on improving social conditions and human welfare. Funding is aimed at diverse projects including medical services, youth opportunities, and community programs. Grants are awarded for 12 months, and any unspent funds must be returned. Eligible applicants include qualified tax-exempt organizations, while individuals and changes to grant scopes are not accepted. This foundation enhances the quality of life for Southern California residents by backing impactful initiatives.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Del E. Webb Foundation Grant offers financial support ranging from $5,000 to $3,000,000 for nonprofit organizations operating in Arizona, California, or Nevada. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance self-sufficiency and have long-term benefits, particularly in child and health initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities and demonstrate a commitment to community service. The application process involves submitting a Letter of Intent, followed by a formal application if invited.

The Amateur Radio Digital Communications Grants support projects that enhance digital communication and promote amateur radio. The California-based ARDC foundation funds initiatives focusing on education, research, and the growth of amateur radio, including scholarships and community engagement programs. Eligible applicants include U.S. nonprofits, educational institutions, and international charities. Emphasizing open access, funded projects must make their outcomes available to the public, fostering innovation in communication technology.

The Motorola Solutions Foundation Grant supports organizations that enhance safety and community well-being, focusing on underrepresented populations. With over $100 million in donations, the foundation prioritizes technology and engineering education, first responder programming, and blended initiatives. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or school districts in the U.S. The foundation seeks partnerships that demonstrate strong financial health and data-driven evaluation methods, aiming to create safer cities and thriving communities.

The Bethlehem Foundation Grant, established in 2013, aims to enhance the quality of life for senior adults in Sonoma County, California. It supports nonprofit organizations focused on health, independence, and social interaction for seniors. Applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines on February 28 and August 31 for spring and fall meetings respectively. Grants are limited to qualified public charities under 501(c)(3) and do not extend to individuals.

First Tech Education Grants focus on innovative solutions for children and families, primarily in education and fundamental needs. They support nonprofits in Oregon, Washington, and Northern California with grants aimed at enhancing STEM education, early childhood literacy, and financial education for underserved communities. By partnering with local organizations, First Tech aims to build capacity and provide essential resources to help these communities thrive. Organizations can apply for support through an online application process.

The Boston Scientific Foundation aims to enhance health and educational opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals, particularly in STEM fields. Their grant program focuses on K-12 students, requiring at least 50% of participants to be at or below 185% of the poverty line. The foundation seeks evidence-based proposals that can measure improvements in STEM learning, and it prioritizes applications serving communities near Boston Scientific locations, ensuring inclusivity and non-discrimination in service.

The Breakaway Fund, initiated by the Samueli Foundation, aims to empower nonprofits in Orange County by providing unrestricted funding between $50,000 and $100,000. This innovative financial support is designed to overcome barriers in staffing, leadership development, and infrastructure enhancement. By focusing on key areas such as talent, systems, and expertise, the fund facilitates growth and collaboration among organizations, ensuring a thriving community that prioritizes well-being and opportunity for all residents.

The CalMoneySmart Grant program, managed by the California Department of Financial Protection and Innovation, offers annual grants up to $200,000 for nonprofit organizations. Its goal is to provide essential financial education and empowerment services to unbanked and underbanked Californians. Initiated by Senate Bill 455 in 2019, the program has expanded funding to enhance economic security and promote financial stability among vulnerable communities, ultimately fostering wealth-building and financial independence.

Impact100 Orange County empowers women to become philanthropists through its transformational grant-making model, providing grants of at least $100,000 to nonprofit organizations. Focused on five key areas—Arts & Culture, Education, Environment, Family, and Health & Wellness—the initiative aims to create a positive impact in local communities. By fostering sustainable projects, it ensures that the funds contribute to long-term benefits for the residents of Orange County.

The Wonderful Company is offering the Central Valley Community Grants, providing up to $1 million in funding for projects that enhance the health and well-being of rural communities in the San Joaquin Valley. With a history of over $8.5 million granted to nonprofits and schools, this initiative supports equitable living conditions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, local governments, and schools committed to making a tangible impact in their communities.