Best Grants for Nonprofit Healthcare Programs in California

Nonprofit and other organizations supporting community health workers in California can apply for California Health Care Foundation’s Amplifying Impact Initiative, which funds scaling of CHW/P/R Medi-Cal providers. Over 18 months, 28 providers receive grants, technical assistance, and tools to expand culturally responsive health and social services and strengthen CHW/P/R jobs.

First- and second-year medical students conducting health-related research in California can access funding through Alpha Omega Alpha’s Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, which awards US $7,000 for 2–12 month projects. Eligible projects include clinical investigation, basic laboratory research, epidemiology, health services, social science, leadership, or professionalism studies at schools with active AΩA chapters.

California nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing practical support that helps pregnant people access abortion care can receive funding for transportation, lodging, childcare, meals, wage replacement, and related services. California healthcare access groups can access funding through the California Department of Health Care Access and Information, administered by Essential Access Health, with awards ranging from US $100,000 - US $750,000.

Early- through growth-stage U.S.-incorporated companies improving health care access and delivery for low-income Californians can apply for up to US $400,000 to scale technology and innovation solutions. Grants from California Health Care Foundation help California-focused healthcare innovators build partnerships with providers, health systems, payers, and patients, which may benefit nonprofit healthcare programs statewide.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in California working on health care access and delivery, early childhood education, conservation, or family services can seek capital or special project funding that supports community programs. Grants from James M Cox Foundation help U.S. nonprofits in Cox service areas, with preference for groups engaged with local Cox businesses.

Nonprofit organizations in California working on health care access, mental health, or education for underserved populations can apply for US $10,000 - US $75,000 in program funding from L B Research and Education Foundation. The foundation supports established 501(c)(3)s expanding proven, research-informed programs for adolescents, post-secondary students, and adult vocational learners through a rolling, concept-paper-first process.

Nonprofit organizations in California offering health care access, wellness, mental health, or related services can apply for John Jordan Foundation’s John Jordan Foundation Grant to support programs improving quality of life for vulnerable communities. Funding may also benefit initiatives serving youth, seniors, families, and under-resourced populations alongside healthcare-focused work.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations running healthcare and health equity projects in California can seek funding for defined community health improvement initiatives. With a mission to improve health and advance social justice, Commonspirit Health provides grants up to US $150,000 through participating hospitals to address needs identified in community health needs assessments.

California community development financial institutions (CDFIs) supporting affordable housing, health care, small business lending, and other services in low- and moderate-income communities can use these grants for working capital and to increase net assets. With a mission to strengthen community development, California State Treasurer's Office provides California CDFIs with up to US $200,000 based on recent lending activity.

Nonprofit and other organizations improving health care access and delivery in California can apply for project-based funding that advances coverage, people-centered care, workforce, technology, or policy. With a mission to strengthen California’s health system, California Health Care Foundation provides support for initiatives benefiting low-income residents and Medi-Cal populations, including research, innovation, and statewide or multi-institution efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) agencies with budgets under $10M in California can seek funding to initiate or expand health, mental health, and related social service programs. Charis Fund supports healthcare access, housing, food insecurity, at-risk youth, domestic violence, and substance abuse initiatives with grants of US $2,500 - US $7,500, prioritizing program and project support.

Nonprofit public charities in California seeking support for healthcare, health care access and delivery, social services, and related programs can apply for the Harold McAlister Charitable Foundation’s grants. With a mission to support effective organizations in bettering the lives of others, the foundation also considers education, animal welfare, arts and culture, and environmental initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) small or rural health facilities in California can apply for low-interest loans from the California State Treasurer's Office; awards US $25,000 - US $1,500,000 for facility expansion and equipment. Funds may support construction, renovation, furnishings, feasibility studies, pre-construction costs, or refinancing a single existing debt, with a 5% borrower contribution required.

Nonprofit organizations improving community access to quality healthcare in California can apply for the Astrazeneca Foundation’s CHANGE grants, awarding US $200,000 - US $220,000 in general operating support. Programs using innovative, collaborative approaches to address health care access, delivery, and related equity issues may be considered, with potential for multi-year renewal based on performance.

California 501(c)(3) nonprofits offering healthcare, education, or arts programs for children and women can apply for project or capital funding that excludes most operating costs. Grants from Douglas Foundation help organizations in California, with preference for Los Angeles County, expand equitable access to health care and related community services.

Grants from Astrazeneca Foundation help California nonprofit healthcare and community organizations address health equity through nutrition and food security, healthcare access, STEM education, and climate and nature initiatives. U.S.-based 501(c) groups serving historically excluded or disenfranchised communities in California can apply for up to US $30,000 for community-based programs, excluding capital projects, salaries, and hospitals.

Nonprofit organizations in California focused on health care and human services may be eligible for funding that supports community-focused healthcare access and related programs. Focused on arts, education, youth, community, and global food and agriculture, J R Simplot Company Foundation invites U.S. nonprofits to apply; requests are reviewed quarterly.

The Sunstate Equipment Foundation Grants support local charities focused on disadvantaged individuals, medical aid, housing assistance, domestic violence awareness, military and veterans' assistance, and care for abused animals. Founded in 2015, the foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that matches employee contributions dollar for dollar, reinforcing its commitment to community support and engagement. Charities in good standing can apply once every 12 months, fostering impactful initiatives where Sunstate operates.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Mantle Cell Lymphoma Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, provides financial assistance to underinsured patients diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. The fund covers prescription drug copays and Medicare Part B premiums, with a maximum award of $8,500. Eligible patients must have insurance that covers their medication and meet specific income guidelines. The foundation aims to reduce financial barriers to essential treatments, ensuring that patients receive necessary care without undue financial strain.

The HealthWell Foundation's Inborn Metabolic or Genetic Bile Acid Deficiency Vitamins and Supplements Fund provides essential financial assistance for individuals facing significant health challenges. By covering copays, deductibles, and related expenses, the fund aims to alleviate the financial burden on underinsured patients. With a commitment to enhancing healthcare access, the Foundation has awarded over $1.2 billion since its inception, ensuring that vital treatments remain accessible to those in need.

The Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Fund, established by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients facing chronic illnesses. It provides critical support for expenses related to prescription copays, insurance premiums, and transportation for treatment. With a maximum award of $8,000, the fund ensures that individuals can access necessary healthcare services without financial strain. This initiative emphasizes the commitment to improving health outcomes for those affected by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

The Porphyrias Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients suffering from porphyrias, a group of eight disorders characterized by the accumulation of porphyrins in the body. The fund assists with prescription drug copays and insurance premiums, offering up to $4,000 in financial aid. Established to ensure no patient lacks necessary treatment due to costs, the foundation has awarded over $1.2 billion since 2004, supporting more than 1.1 million patients.

The Systemic Sclerosis with Interstitial Lung Disease Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to reduce financial barriers for underinsured patients suffering from systemic sclerosis. This rare autoimmune disease leads to excessive collagen production, causing serious health issues. The fund assists with prescription copays and insurance premiums to ensure patients receive necessary treatments. In 2024, HealthWell awarded over $1.2 billion in grants, supporting more than 1.1 million patients in accessing vital healthcare services.

The Waldenstrom Macroglobulinemia Fund provides crucial financial assistance to underinsured patients suffering from this rare blood cancer. Through the HealthWell Foundation, the fund helps cover prescription copays, insurance premiums, and treatment-related costs, ensuring access to necessary medical care. With over $1.2 billion in grants awarded, the program has supported more than 1.1 million patients since its inception in 2004. Its mission is to alleviate financial barriers to essential healthcare, allowing patients to focus on their treatment and recovery.

The Peyronie's Disease Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients suffering from Peyronie's disease. This condition involves the formation of fibrous scar tissue in the penis, leading to painful erections and erectile dysfunction. The fund provides financial assistance for prescription drugs and related healthcare costs, ensuring that patients receive necessary treatment without the stress of high out-of-pocket expenses. HealthWell is committed to improving access to essential healthcare for America’s underinsured population.

The Musicians Foundation Grant provides financial assistance to professional musicians in need, covering medical and dental bills, living expenses, and other essential costs during emergencies. Applicants must demonstrate at least five years of professional experience and apply for reasons beyond loss of work. The grants are issued as vendorized checks to ensure immediate support. This program is not designed for COVID-19 assistance or general income support, focusing instead on urgent hardship cases.