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Search Through Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits in California

Discover active funding opportunities in Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits. 33,000+ grants are available for a wide range of missions and programs with additional grants in Los Angeles County, San Diego County, and Orange County

90 grants
$6.1M total
$5.1K median

90

Available grants

$6.1M

Total funding amount

$5.1K

Median grant amount

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Rolling deadline

Baskin Foundation Grant

Peggy and Jack Baskin Foundation

Women & Girl Services Domestic Violence Gender Studies
Unspecified amount
The Peggy and Jack Baskin Foundation, established in 2008, focuses on achieving gender and racial equity through grants primarily for nonprofit organizations in Monterey and Santa Cruz Counties. They emphasize intersectional feminism and support initiatives that empower women and gender-expansive individuals of color. The foundation does not accept unsolicited proposals and prefers organizations with diverse decision-makers and equitable personnel policies. Funding areas include reproductive rights, legal advocacy, and gender economic justice.
Rolling deadline

Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants

State Farm Companies Foundation

Disaster Preparedness Disaster Relief / Humanitarian Aid Firefighting & Fire Prevention
Unspecified amount
State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.
Rolling deadline

MPRPD Transportation Grants

Community Foundation for Monterey County

Recreation Environment Art & Culture
US $500 - US $10,000
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.

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Rolling deadline

San Francisco Bay Area: Conservation Grants

Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation

Environmental Conservation
Unspecified amount
The Gordon E And Betty I Moore Foundation offers conservation grants to support projects in the San Francisco Bay Area, focusing on maintaining biodiversity and ecosystem services. Their initiatives prioritize land acquisition and conservation easements, while fostering partnerships among stakeholders. With a commitment to preserving the region's unique landscapes, the foundation has facilitated over 80 conservation projects across ten counties, enhancing habitats for native species and ensuring sustainable environmental stewardship.
Rolling deadline

Semnani Family Foundation Grants

Semnani Family Foundation

Homelessness Services Food Access & Hunger Diseases & Conditions
Unspecified amount
The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.
Rolling deadline

Wells Fargo Community Giving

Wells Fargo Foundation

Financial Literacy Equitable & Affordable Housing Business Development
Unspecified amount
Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.
Applications due May 27, 2026

ACSCC: Develop Grants

Arts Council Santa Cruz County

Artist Training & Development Art & Culture
Up to US $1,500
The ACSCC: Develop Grants program offers funding up to $1,500 for professional development activities that enhance artistic skills or expand business capacities for artists and arts organizations in Santa Cruz County. The grants are designed to support the creation of artistically excellent work, increase accessibility to the arts, and engage new audiences without requiring a public exhibition. Eligibility is limited to local residents and organizations, with specific restrictions on previous grant recipients.
Applications due Jun 1, 2026

Monterey Peninsula Foundation Grants

Monterey Peninsula Foundation

Youth Services Human & Social Services Health & Medicine
US $1,000 - US $500,000
The Monterey Peninsula Foundation Grants support local nonprofits and K-12 schools in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties. With a responsive grantmaking strategy, the foundation prioritizes applications that address pressing community needs across various focus areas, including arts, education, and health. This initiative has awarded over $200 million in lifetime funding, aiming to strengthen community services and promote sustainable development. Organizations applying must demonstrate effective management, collaboration, and a clear plan for achieving measurable outcomes.
Full proposal due Jul 15, 2026

US Community Grants Program

Western Digital Foundation

Military & Veterans Services Food Access & Hunger Environmental Conservation
Unspecified amount
The US Community Grants Program, led by Western Digital Foundation, focuses on funding nonprofit organizations and public schools involved in education, hunger relief, environmental preservation, and veterans' programs. This initiative emphasizes support for under-represented youth in STEM, local hunger alleviation, and community projects that protect the environment. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate responsible management and effective use of funds. The program is currently invite-only due to COVID-19 restrictions.
Applications due Aug 13, 2026

Wish Book Grant

San Jose Mercury News Wish Book Fund Inc

Basic Human Needs Senior Services Homelessness Services
Unspecified amount
The Wish Book Grant, initiated by the San Jose Mercury News, supports local nonprofits in the Bay Area by providing funding through a holiday fundraising campaign. Each year, approximately 20 grantees are selected based on their impactful initiatives that address community needs, including homelessness, food insecurity, and systemic racism. Since its inception, the program has raised over $12 million, connecting readers with opportunities to support meaningful causes during the holiday season.
Applications due Oct 1, 2026

Support Grants

Arts Council Santa Cruz County

Art & Culture
Up to US $7,000
The Support Grants program by the Arts Council Santa Cruz County provides essential funding to nonprofit arts organizations and artists in Santa Cruz County. With grants up to $7,000, the program aims to enhance artistic excellence, foster audience engagement, and improve equitable access to the arts. This initiative empowers diverse creative expressions while addressing social justice issues, ensuring that all artists can thrive and contribute to a vibrant community. Applications are accepted annually, welcoming first-time applicants.
Letter of inquiry due Oct 31, 2026

TJX Foundation Grants

The Tjx Foundation Inc

Basic Human Needs Workforce Preparation & Job Readiness Domestic Violence
Unspecified amount
The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.
Applications due Nov 11, 2026

Opioid Settlement Funds (OSF) Round 2

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Addiction & Substance Use Disorders
Up to US $400,000
The Opioid Settlement Funds (OSF) Round 2 aims to support the prevention, early intervention, harm reduction, and treatment of opioid-related issues in Santa Cruz County. With a total funding of $810,000 available, nonprofit organizations providing services within the county are invited to apply. This initiative emphasizes collaboration and accountability, as prior awardees can apply for continued support only after fully expending their Round 1 funds. The program focuses on enhancing community health and recovery.
Applications due Dec 1, 2026

Monterey Peninsula Foundation K-12 Grant

Monterey Peninsula Foundation

Art & Culture Education Health & Medicine
US $1,000 - US $500,000
The Monterey Peninsula Foundation K-12 Grant supports local nonprofits and schools in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties, focusing on arts, education, health, and community services. With a responsive grantmaking strategy, the foundation aims to address unmet community needs and foster resilience through various types of support, including operating, program, and capital funding. Organizations must demonstrate management capacity and a clear evaluation plan, ensuring long-term impact and community collaboration.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Barbara J. Thompson Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation Community Services Volunteerism & Philanthropy
Up to US $1,000
The Barbara J. Thompson Scholarship offers multiple one-time awards of $1,000 or more for high school graduates and current seniors from accredited schools within the Santa Cruz City Schools District. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, be U.S. citizens residing in Santa Cruz County for at least three of the past four years, and participate in activities such as employment, family care, community involvement, volunteer work, or sports.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Burton Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation
Up to US $5,000
The Burton Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides multiple awards of up to $5,000 annually. This scholarship is aimed at graduates and current seniors from any high school in Santa Cruz County who have maintained a minimum 3.0 GPA for two consecutive years, demonstrate financial need, and are U.S. citizens. It promotes educational advancement and supports local students in achieving their academic goals.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County: Environmental Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Environmental Education Career / College Preparation
Unspecified amount
The Community Foundation Santa Cruz County offers the Environmental Scholarship for undergraduate and graduate students in good standing at local colleges. This scholarship aims to support innovative individuals pursuing careers that promote a harmonious relationship with natural ecosystems. By investing in the next generation, the foundation fosters environmental stewardship and empowers students to contribute positively to their communities and the planet.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Emmett & Elsie Geiser Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Sports & Athletics Career / College Preparation
Up to US $3,000
The Emmett & Elsie Geiser Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides multiple awards of up to $3,000 annually to graduating seniors from Watsonville, Pajaro Valley, and Aptos High Schools. Eligible students must have earned at least one letter in an athletic program. This scholarship aims to support local students and foster their educational pursuits, reflecting the foundation's commitment to community investment and leadership.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Ernest V. Cowell Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation
Up to US $2,000
The Ernest V. Cowell Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides a one-time award of up to $2,000 for graduating seniors or graduates from public high schools in the Santa Cruz City Schools District. This scholarship aims to support students demonstrating financial need who plan to attend a University of California campus. It reflects the foundation's commitment to investing in local youth and fostering educational opportunities.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Giles Family Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation Art Education Music Education
Up to US $5,000
The Giles Family Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides multiple awards of up to $5,000 (renewable annually) for graduating seniors from any Santa Cruz County high school involved in art, craft, or music programs. Eligible students must be enrolled in Cabrillo College, San Jose State University, or the University of California at Santa Cruz, demonstrate financial need, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Hank Garcia Jr. & Family Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation
Up to US $2,000
The Hank Garcia Jr. & Family Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides renewable awards of $2,000 for graduating seniors from selected high schools. Eligible students must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.5, demonstrate financial need, and be U.S. citizens. This scholarship aims to support local students and empower them to pursue their educational goals, fostering a brighter future for the community.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Isabel Fowler Sewell Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation
Up to US $5,000
The Isabel Fowler Sewell Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, provides multiple one-time awards of $5,000 to graduating seniors from Pajaro Valley High School or any public high school in Santa Cruz County. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0, demonstrate financial need, and plan to attend college at Cabrillo or an accredited four-year institution full-time. This initiative aims to support local students in their pursuit of higher education.
Applications due Jan 28, 2027

Judy Anton Woman of Valor/Lupita Loves to Read Project Scholarship

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Career / College Preparation Minority Services
Up to US $1,000
The Judy Anton Woman of Valor/Lupita Loves to Read Project Scholarship, funded by the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County, offers $1,000 or more annually to Latina students from Santa Cruz County high schools or Cabrillo College. Applicants must reside in Live Oak or Watsonville and demonstrate financial need, supporting educational aspirations and community involvement. This scholarship aims to empower young women through education, fostering a brighter future and greater opportunities for success.
Applications due Mar 20, 2027

CFSCC Community Grants

Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Community Services Youth Services Youth Development & Leadership
Unspecified amount
The CFSCC Community Grants aim to inspire philanthropy by funding nonprofits in Santa Cruz County that address local needs. This year, $1.2 million will support initiatives focused on youth education, seniors, and human services. The grants prioritize unrestricted funding to ensure organizations can address pressing issues while promoting equity and inclusion. With a commitment to empowering diverse leaders, the foundation seeks to create lasting positive impacts across the community.
Applications due Apr 1, 2027

ACSCC: Create Grants

Arts Council Santa Cruz County

Art & Culture
Up to US $3,000
The ACSCC: Create Grants program offers funding for arts and cultural projects in Santa Cruz County, with grants up to $3,000. This initiative supports local artists and organizations, aiming to enhance community engagement in the arts, promote equitable access, and encourage the sustainability of artistic endeavors. Applications are accepted from both individual artists and nonprofit organizations, providing they meet specific eligibility criteria and project requirements.
Applications due May 1, 2027

True Inspiration Awards

Chick Fil A Foundation Inc

Youth Development & Leadership Civic Leadership Development Healthy Habits & Behaviors
US $30,000 - US $350,000
The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

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Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits Highlights

Top Searched Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits

Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits from Private Funders
Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits over $20k
Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits for Projects & Programs

Grant Insights : Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits

Grant Availability

How common are grants in this category?

Uncommon — grants in this category are less prevalent than in others.

90 Santa Cruz County grants for nonprofits grants for nonprofits in the United States, from private foundations to corporations seeking to fund grants for nonprofits.

21 Santa Cruz County grants for nonprofits over $25K in average grant size

14 Santa Cruz County grants for nonprofits over $50K in average grant size

17 Santa Cruz County grants for nonprofits supporting general operating expenses

57 Santa Cruz County grants for nonprofits supporting programs / projects

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Career / College Preparation

2,000+ Grants on Instrumentl focused on Art & Culture

Grant Deadline Distribution

Over the past year, when are grant deadlines typically due for Santa Cruz County grants for Nonprofits?

Most grants are due in the first quarter.

Q1
33.7%
Q2
25.9%
Q3
21.7%
Q4
18.7%

Typical Funding Amounts

What's the typical grant amount funded for Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits?

Grants are most commonly $5,125.

Min.
Median
Average
Max.

Average Grant Size

What's the typical amount funded for California?

Grants are most commonly $120,858.

$120,858

Total Number of Grants

What's the total number of grants in Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits year over year?

In 2024, funders in California awarded a total of 98,178 grants.

2022 237,186

2023 236,635

2024 98,178

Top Grant Focus Areas

Among all the Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits given out in California, the most popular focus areas that receive funding are Education, Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations, and Human Services.

1. Education

2. Philanthropy, Voluntarism & Grantmaking Foundations

3. Human Services

Funding Over Time

How is funding for Santa Cruz County Grants for Nonprofits changing over time?

Funding has increased by -68.67%.

2022 $34,364,756,699

2023 $37,770,770,141
9.91%

2024 $11,833,634,997
-68.67%

California Counties That Receive the Most Funding

How does grant funding vary by county?

Los Angeles County, Santa Clara County, and San Francisco County receive the most funding.

County Total Grant Funding in 2024
Los Angeles County $3,427,226,516
Santa Clara County $1,845,581,276
San Francisco County $1,244,695,188
Alameda County $1,062,406,573
San Diego County $904,295,076

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