Best Tacoma Grants for Nonprofits in Washington

The Seattle FY 2021 – FY 2023 EDA Planning and Local Technical Assistance program, managed by the US Department of Commerce's Economic Development Administration, aims to support economic development and job creation in distressed areas. It offers planning awards to eligible recipients for developing regional economic strategies that enhance local capacities and promote job retention and creation, particularly for the unemployed. This initiative includes local technical assistance to strengthen organizations through impactful projects.

The Glaser Foundation Grants focus on direct services primarily for children and the elderly. They support innovative medical research, programs for children with disabilities, education initiatives, and services for economically disadvantaged seniors. Additionally, they address challenges faced by families from disadvantaged backgrounds and at-risk youth. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities operating in Western Washington, particularly King County, to apply. The foundation prefers direct line services over large capital campaigns.

The Puyallup-White River Watershed Small Grants program by Pierce County is designed to enhance environmental literacy and improve habitat and water quality across key watersheds. Open to various applicants including nonprofits and schools, it supports projects like invasive species removal and nature-based education. Successful proposals align with watershed councils' action agendas. The program promotes community involvement and sustainable practices, ensuring that local ecosystems thrive while fostering educational opportunities.

The Puget Sound Stewardship and Mitigation Fund Grant aims to enhance water quality in Puget Sound through community-based projects. Funded by the Rose Foundation, the grant supports 501(c)3 organizations and governmental entities focusing on pollution mitigation, conservation, and education. Grants typically span one year with a maximum of $40,000. The foundation prefers locally-led initiatives and encourages applications from environmental justice organizations to foster equity in project implementation.

The Nisqually Watershed Small Grants program, sponsored by Pierce County, aims to improve environmental literacy and enhance water quality in local watersheds. By supporting nonprofit organizations, schools, and individuals, the program encourages projects such as riparian plantings and community clean-ups. Successful initiatives must align with watershed councils' Action Agendas, promoting sustainability and ecological education within the Nisqually River Watershed and beyond.

The Baker Foundation Grant supports 501c3 non-profit organizations primarily in Pierce County, Washington. Established in 1987 by the Baker family, it aims to enhance community welfare through funding for youth programs, arts, and education. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for programs and $25,000 for capital projects. The Foundation honors its founder's legacy by fostering a vibrant cultural and educational landscape, ensuring the community continues to benefit for generations.

The Brian Abbott Fish Barrier Removal Board Grant, established in 2014, aims to enhance salmon and steelhead migration by funding projects that remove fish passage barriers. With $25 million available through the PROTECT program, local governments can apply for projects exceeding $1 million. This initiative, administered by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Recreation and Conservation Office, supports sustainable transportation solutions while aligning with state conservation principles.

The Jean E. Thomson Foundation Grant supports Non-Profit Organizations in Tacoma, Seattle, and Minneapolis, focusing on Religious, Charitable, Scientific, Literary, or Educational initiatives. Applications are accepted until October 1st each year, with grants typically awarded at year-end. Established in 1999, the foundation honors its founder, Jean E. Thomson, and contributes to enhancing community health and advancing humanity through targeted support and research in human disease treatments.

The IMA Foundation Grant focuses on empowering communities by supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to workforce development, financial security for families, and enhancing emergency preparedness. With a mission to provide philanthropic assistance, the foundation seeks partners that align with its vision and operational reach. Organizations must be 501c3 nonprofits and serve areas where IMA has offices, ensuring that their initiatives directly impact youth under 26 years of age.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The ESRP Regional Pre-Design Projects aim to enhance ecosystem restoration in Puget Sound through strategic investments. By identifying ecological needs and uncertainties, these projects guide the selection and development of effective restoration initiatives. Through scientific analysis, they help address complex issues related to nearshore and salmon recovery. Funded by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife, these projects are crucial for improving restoration outcomes in diverse ecosystems, including delta, beach, and embayment environments.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

Nonprofit medical research and social service agencies serving Tacoma, Washington and the greater Puget Sound region can receive US $2,000 - US $5,000 for projects, capital efforts, and humanitarian programs. Wilkins Charitable Foundation prioritizes cancer, heart disease, mental illness research, services for people with disabilities, and support for abused women and children, with options for multi-year grants for repeat grantees.

The Paul Wiseman Conservation Education Grant, offered by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation-focused non-profit organizations in the Salish Sea region. With a funding limit of $15,000, this grant encourages impactful educational projects and restoration initiatives that promote environmental awareness. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and community agencies. The foundation aims to enhance conservation efforts and foster community engagement in preserving the region's unique ecosystems.

The Windows of Hope Foundation supports various non-profit organizations in Pierce County, Washington, with grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. The foundation prioritizes funding for social services, senior and youth programs, homelessness, health, and education. There is no deadline for submitting a Letter of Intent (LOI), but applicants should expect a response within 12-16 weeks. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt under the Internal Revenue Code.

The Lucky Seven Foundation

Manson and Frances Backus created "Lucky Seven" with the hope of giving back and improving the community where they lived and prospered for so many years. Since 1996, the Lucky Seven Foundation has provided grants to nonprofit organizations which have included, but were not limited to, those that benefit health, welfare, education, arts, and the environment. As the next generation, we aim to continue their mission.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

H.E.L.P. Grants is a community initiative dedicated to enhancing educational opportunities for children in the U.S. Founded by the owners of Figaro’s Italian Pizza, it aims to provide vital resources to local schools and non-profits, especially in communities where their restaurants operate. Since its inception in 2010, H.E.L.P. has been committed to combating educational disparities exacerbated by budget cuts, ensuring that every child has access to a quality education.

The Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor-Islands (KGI) Watershed Lu Winsor Environmental Grants support community-driven projects to enhance habitat and water quality. Managed by Pierce County in collaboration with local organizations, grants of up to $3,000 are available for initiatives such as invasive species removal and educational programs. Applications are open from March 3 to April 30, 2025, welcoming all eligible applicants including nonprofits, schools, and individuals.

The June & Julian Foss Foundation, established in 1997, prioritizes support for children and young adults, especially those facing mental illness or physical disabilities. With a mission to foster healthy, responsible adults and promote family philanthropy, the Foundation emphasizes family strength, diversity, and self-worth. Grants typically do not exceed $5,000 and are directed towards programs that enhance self-sufficiency and recognize individual capabilities, while upholding values of integrity and respect.

The Ruth Foundation offers ongoing support for non-profit organizations focused on animal welfare and marine life preservation in Pierce County, Washington. With no submission deadline for Letters of Intent (LOI), applicants are encouraged to allow 12-16 weeks for a response. The foundation seeks to empower community initiatives that align with the Milgard family values, while ensuring compliance with tax-exempt requirements and promoting inclusivity in grant eligibility.

Seattle City Light's Wildlife Research Grant provides funding for projects aimed at understanding and protecting wildlife resources in the North Cascades ecosystem. Since 1995, the program has supported diverse research initiatives, producing significant academic contributions and informing wildlife management practices. Researchers are encouraged to focus on key priorities such as habitat connectivity and the effects of climate change on vulnerable species. The program seeks projects that complement existing research and adhere to professional standards.

Kaiser Permanente's Washington Region offers sponsorships to nonprofit organizations, schools, and government agencies that align with its mission to improve community health. With a focus on sustainability, equity, and relationship-building, the program evaluates proposals based on their potential to create lasting value and positive exposure. Ineligible requests include support for religious activities, political campaigns, or individual medical funding, ensuring that resources are directed towards community-driven initiatives that enhance public health.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

The Estuary and Salmon Restoration Program (ESRP) offers Beach Restoration Small Grants to support projects that enhance and conserve near-shore environments in Puget Sound. This initiative, managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to maintain resilient estuaries and shorelines in the face of climate change. Grants are provided to create demonstration sites for local landowners, promoting effective restoration practices and fostering community engagement.

The Union Home Foundation Grant provides financial support to nonprofit organizations that promote economic self-sufficiency through financial literacy and housing initiatives. Established in 2015, this grant has awarded over $2 million to various nonprofits across the U.S. Grants typically start at $1,000 and are available for a one-year period. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and can only apply once per year, following specific eligibility criteria.

The Liberty Mutual Foundation offers discretionary grants to 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on those that empower low-income youth and young adults. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its strategic framework and serves communities in Greater Boston and select areas in Washington State. Funding is not available for individuals, religious organizations, or those who have received support in the last 12 months, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful community-driven projects.