Best San Luis Obispo County Grants for Nonprofits in California

CHEJ Small Grants Program

The Small Grants Program has officially relaunched. Applications are now open.The Center for Health, Environment & Justice’s (CHEJ) Small Grants Program is for grassroots groups working on environmental health and justice issues related to the presence of “toxics” (toxic chemicals or hazardous substances) in their immediate communities. CHEJ prioritizes community-based organizations aiming to have local, state and regional impact through their own strategies and actions.

The Thelma Doelger Trust for Animals provides grants to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in California focused on improving the lives of animals. Organizations are encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying, especially if they have not received funding before. The Trust prioritizes applications from Northern California and the San Francisco Bay Area, although they accept applications from across the state.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The California State Coastal Conservancy is offering grants to support projects that aid the recovery of the southern sea otter along California's coast. These grants, funded by the California Sea Otter Fund, prioritize research and initiatives that evaluate sea otter reintroduction strategies and address critical recovery actions outlined in the Federal Sea Otter Recovery Plan, promoting the health of the nearshore ecosystem.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

The Dorsey & Whitney Foundation Grant supports charitable initiatives in communities where Dorsey attorneys reside. Established in 1982, it focuses on organizations that provide legal services to the disadvantaged and engages attorneys in volunteer roles. Each year, around 200 direct grants are awarded across North America, alongside additional support for numerous other organizations through a matching program. This commitment highlights the foundation's dedication to cultural, civic, educational, and social welfare.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Owen Family Foundation Grant supports charitable organizations primarily in East Texas and the Minneapolis/St. Paul area, focusing on health, education, human services, and religious initiatives. Organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and past funding is required for Twin Cities applicants. The foundation is committed to promoting philanthropy and ensuring access to funding for eligible charities, while maintaining a non-discriminatory policy.

The Ray Rowe Trusts for Animals Grant provides funding for programs aimed at the welfare of animals, particularly dogs, and the protection of wildlife habitats, especially for canid species. There are no application deadlines; grants are distributed from early March until the year's funding is exhausted, typically by the end of November. To apply, organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status, while general administrative costs are generally not supported.

The Elizabeth Nash Foundation Scholarship supports individuals affected by cystic fibrosis (CF) in their pursuit of higher education. Since its inception in 2005, over 200 scholarships ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 have been awarded to undergraduates and graduates at accredited U.S. institutions. The selection process considers academic performance, character, leadership, community service, and financial need. To qualify, applicants must have a CF diagnosis and be U.S. citizens.

The Career Guidance for Trainees Grant, offered by the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, aims to enhance the career development of early career administrators focused on PhD scientists. This grant supports a workshop that equips participants with research evaluation skills to create impactful career-focused interventions. Participants will receive a $15,000 grant to implement their projects, develop networks, and share findings at national meetings, fostering a diverse scientific workforce essential for research innovation and public service.

The Ittleson Foundation, established in 1932, focuses on enhancing mental health, AIDS prevention, and environmental initiatives. It funds not-for-profit organizations aiming to improve public policy and the lives of citizens. The Foundation is particularly interested in innovative projects addressing mental health stigma, advancing preventative efforts, and supporting underserved populations. While it funds new initiatives, it does not typically support capital projects, endowments, or direct service programs outside New York City.

The Conagra Brands Foundation offers Community Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in the USA that address food insecurity and promote healthy lifestyles. Eligible organizations must align with core focus areas like food access, nutrition education, and cooking skills. Grants support initiatives that foster community engagement and provide entrepreneurial skills. Nonprofits must uphold a non-discrimination policy protecting various characteristics. Applications are accepted through a Letter of Intent from January 1 to February 15, 2025.

The AAD Annual Meeting Registration Scholarship Program offers scholarships to international dermatologists, excluding those from the U.S. and Canada, to support their attendance at the AAD's Annual Meeting. Each country can nominate up to two applicants, who will receive complimentary registration, access to a post-graduate session, and an invitation to the International Scholarship Recipient Reception. This initiative promotes global participation in dermatology.

The Clarence S. Livingood, MD, Memorial Award and Lectureship recognizes outstanding contributions to dermatology. Established by the Department of Dermatology at Henry Ford Hospital, it honors Dr. Livingood's legacy. The award includes a $10,000 cash prize and the opportunity to present a lecture at the AAD Annual Meeting. Nominations are accepted annually until January 15, remaining active for five years, and are open to experts beyond dermatologists, emphasizing communication and expertise in relevant issues.

The Everett C. Fox, MD, Memorial Lectureship honors a distinguished dermatologist and offers a $10,000 award to the selected lecturer, who will present a 30-minute lecture at the AAD's Innovation Academy. Nominations are open until June 15 for the upcoming selection cycle, with entries held for five years. Candidates must be practicing clinical dermatologists with proven communication skills, ensuring the recognition of expertise within the field.

The AAD Young Investigator Awards recognize promising dermatology researchers in the U.S. and Canada, offering a $6,000 prize and plaque for outstanding research in either basic/translational or clinical tracks. Eligible applicants must have a DO, MD, or PhD, and their research should be completed and submitted for publication. The application window is open from June 1 to September 1, encouraging diversity within research topics and applicants.

The Donaghue Foundation's Another Look Grant focuses on enhancing health and well-being for older adults in long-term care facilities. It prioritizes research that utilizes existing datasets and includes stakeholders to inform project development. High-priority topics include improving palliative care, workforce innovations, and addressing disparities in care quality. This program is open to PhD investigators from tax-exempt institutions in the U.S., aiming to foster impactful health-related research that enhances care quality for seniors.

The Donaghue Foundation's Greater Value Portfolio Grant Program aims to enhance healthcare value by funding innovative research projects for two years, with awards up to $400,000. It encourages proposals that address issues such as high costs, disparities, and inefficiencies in care. Eligible applicants include Ph.D. researchers at nonprofit institutions partnered with healthcare organizations. The program seeks actionable solutions to improve patient care and reduce the burden of low-value healthcare on communities.

The North Central Soybean Research Grant Program (NCSRP) aims to enhance soybean production through collaborative research and outreach. By investing in innovative projects, it addresses key challenges in soybean yield, profitability, and environmental sustainability. The program encourages proposals that focus on genetic improvement, pest control, and production practices tailored for the North Central region. Funded projects are expected to deliver practical benefits to soybean farmers while fostering communication and collaboration among stakeholders in the industry.

The Gerber Foundation provides research grants focused on enhancing the health and nutrition of infants and young children, particularly those aged 0-3. The foundation seeks innovative projects that address critical health issues and improve developmental outcomes. Grants support applied research, diagnostic tools, and treatment regimens that promise significant advancements in pediatric health. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt organizations, emphasizing a commitment to projects with a direct impact on children's well-being in the U.S.

The Paul B. Beeson Emerging Leaders Career Development Award in Aging (K76)

The National Institute on Aging (NIA), The John A. Hartford Foundation, and the National Institute on Neurological Disorders and Strokes (NINDS) are collaborating on this initiative to develop of a cadre of talented scientists prepared and willing to take an active leadership role in transformative change that will lead to improved health care outcomes.

Emerging leaders are clinically trained (primarily physician) early-stage investigators who have begun to establish research careers and have shown signs of leadership potential who will use this award to further develop the tools, skills and resources to have a significant impact in their field of expertise. 

The National Institute on Aging is pursuing this initiative to recruit talented new investigators who have begun to establish research programs and through this award will be ready to assume leadership roles in their field of expertise and well poised to change theory, practice and health outcomes related to the health of older individuals. Unlike other mentored K awards candidates for this award must have received competitively awarded research support as a PD/PI at the faculty level and have had prior leadership responsibilities in the clinical or research domain.

It is anticipated that seven to ten awards will be granted in 2017, up to 5 years of funding limited to $225,000 in direct costs per year. 

The Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts, established in 1956, supports innovative projects that explore architecture's role in society and culture. It offers grants to individuals for production and presentation, as well as research and development, focusing on diverse ideas that provoke critical dialogue. The foundation prioritizes first-time applicants and seeks to amplify underrepresented perspectives while fostering collaboration across various disciplines in the arts and education.

The Graham Foundation for Advanced Studies in the Fine Arts offers grants to organizations focused on architecture and its role in society. Established in 1956, the Foundation promotes innovative projects that encourage public dialogue, raise awareness, and foster experimentation in the field. Grants, not exceeding $30,000, support diverse practitioners and initiatives, enhancing discourse in architecture, design, visual arts, and related fields. The Foundation encourages projects that demonstrate originality, feasibility, and potential for meaningful impact.

The RMEF Grant Program lies at the core of advancing our mission.

RMEF established the program in 1986 to provide financial and logistical support to projects that align with our priorities and goals. Grant funds raised by RMEF members, volunteers and generous donors from across the country translate into significantly more conservation accomplishment when matched with partner funds. The RMEF Grant Program also aims to build recognition for RMEF’s work, grow engagement, and boost local fundraising efforts.

Governed by clear guidelines and criteria, the RMEF Grant Program seeks to foster meaningful collaborations and long-term impacts in the conservation of natural resources and outdoor traditions. Grant project partners include federal, state, local, and tribal wildlife and land management agencies, private landowners and local stakeholders, sportsmen and women, and conservation organizations, universities, foundations and the outdoor industry. Eligible projects primarily focus on habitat stewardship, land conservation and access, wildlife management, and hunting heritage.

We support organizations recognized by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) as a 501(c)3 entity, federal, state, local, or tribal government entities, sportsmen’s organizations, or educational institutions. All applicants must have a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. RMEF does not offer grants to individuals.

Land Conservation and Access

RMEF conserves critical big game habitat and migration corridors, while expanding and improving public access, including through land acquisitions and voluntary conservation agreements. RMEF's

2026 priorities include:

• Conserving migratory corridors and connecting landscapes through land conservation efforts
• Creating new or improved public access through access easements and agreements and state-run access programs

The Banfield Foundation's Disaster Relief Grants support nonprofit animal welfare organizations and government agencies affected by natural disasters. Since 2015, the foundation has provided resources to help pets in crisis, including medical supplies, food, and temporary shelter. Grants are also available for organizations assisting those impacted by disasters. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and directly help animals and their owners in the U.S., ensuring that pets receive the care they need during emergencies.

The PEDIGREE Foundation offers Program Development Grants aimed at enhancing dog adoption rates by supporting shelters and rescues across the U.S. Established in 2008, the foundation prioritizes initiatives such as transport, matching, and foster programs. Funding is available to 501(c)(3) designated organizations committed to improving the quality of care for dogs and ultimately increasing their chances of adoption, ensuring that every dog finds a loving home.