Best Grants for Preschools in California

The WNAN Natural History Research Grant supports research in biological natural history within western North America. Grants of up to $2,500 are available for five authors to assist with travel, supplies, and other research-related expenses. This initiative particularly encourages applicants from institutions where research is not the primary focus, aiming to foster diverse contributions to natural history.

The Valley Water Community Partnering Sponsorship Program supports local organizations and events that align with its mission of providing safe and clean water in Silicon Valley. This program encourages civic engagement and environmental stewardship by offering sponsorships to public agencies, nonprofits, schools, and community groups. Eligible applicants are those that demonstrate a commitment to regional water policy and positive environmental impact. This initiative underscores Valley Water's dedication to collaborative efforts in fostering a sustainable community.

The Nature Conservancy

The Nature Conservancy’s scientists in California are working to inform, influence, and inspire conservation in today’s human-dominated world, to build a future in which people and nature thrive together.

Oren Pollak Memorial Research Fund

The Oren Pollak Memorial Research Fund was established in 2000 in memory of Dr. Oren Pollak, a leading grassland ecologist and restoration pioneer, as well as an ardent champion and mentor for grassland ecology students. As The Nature Conservancy’s lead ecologist in California in the early 1990s, Dr. Pollak established the grassland research program that continues today. He later became Director of Science in the Conservancy’s Oregon Chapter. Since 2000, the Pollak Fund has granted more than $170,000 in grasslands research funding for student scientists. 

The Nature Conservancy will be granting up to $20,000 for assistance to two or three student grantees to conduct research on grasslands in California or Oregon. Preference will be given to projects explicitly focused on grasslands and relevant to TNC’s conservation efforts in California or Oregon.

Proposed projects may include, but are not restricted to, research on grassland management practices (e.g., restoration, grazing), habitat value for rare and threatened species, and community ecology. Studies conducted on TNC preserves and coordination with TNC preserve managers is desirable but not mandatory. 

The Community Planning and Capacity Building Grants, offered by the California Air Resources Board, provide up to $500,000 to assist communities in planning for equitable transportation solutions. These grants focus on early-stage planning, outreach, and workforce development, particularly benefiting Tribal governments, rural communities, schools, and first-time applicants. This funding aims to promote clean transportation initiatives and enhance local readiness.

The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation

Funding priorities:

The William G. Irwin Charity Foundation makes capital grants in California and Hawaii.

The Farm and Ranch Solid Waste Clean Up and Abatement Grant Program, administered by CalRecycle, offers up to $1 million annually for cleaning illegal solid waste sites on agricultural properties. Eligible sites must be zoned for agriculture and demonstrate a need for cleanup to address public health or environmental threats. Applications must include an EPPP Policy by the specified deadlines to ensure compliance with environmental standards.

The Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Grant offers funding for the installation of pumpout and dump stations in California, addressing pollution from vessel sewage. This program, established under the Clean Vessel Act, supports both public and private entities, covering up to 75% of installation costs. Eligible recipients must ensure accessibility to all recreational vessels and provide necessary signage. The initiative aims to promote clean boating practices and enhance public awareness about proper sewage disposal.

Our Mission

East Bay Community Foundation partners with donors, social movements, and the community to eliminate structural barriers, advance racial equity, and transform political, social, and economic outcomes for all who call the East Bay home.

Our Vision

Achieving an inclusive, fair, and just East Bay will require transforming our region’s power structures to promote equity.

We strive to build a foundation that advances justice grounded in principles that are informed by the community and rooted in practices of anti-oppression.

Women’s Catalytic Fund

The Women’s Catalytic Fund (WCF) is an East Bay-based giving circle with a mission to fund California-based organizations working towards gender equity. The fund prioritizes investing in female-identifying, non-binary, and gender non-conforming leaders in primarily BIPOC communities. One of the main goals of WCF, made up of nine members, is to fund smaller organizations with budgets under a million dollars. They are also interested in catalytic projects that may not have received funding from other foundations.  

As a group of women who are passionate about intersectional feminism, WCF aims to provide funding for work happening at the grassroots level. Each biannual grant cycle, they allocate one-time $15,000 grants that can be put to use immediately, enabling innovative, experimental, and transformative work in California. They believe in supporting the many incredible individuals and organizations that are working to improve gender justice in their communities. 

By providing funding opportunities to those who may not have access to traditional philanthropic resources, the members of the Women’s Catalytic Fund strive to give these community-driven projects resources that can help them succeed.

Our intention is to give directly to frontline organizations when and where resources are most needed. To be considered for funding, initiatives, projects, actions or events must:

• Address gender-based inequity, gender-based violence, patriarchy, or transphobia. We define this as responding to the needs, or developing talent and leadership or independence of female-identifying, nonbinary, and gender non-conforming members of targeted communities.
• Be catalytic. We define this as having the potential to serve as a model or to have a ripple effect, accelerate change, be inventive or experimental
• Be intersectional and collaborative. We define this as crossing boundaries between organizations, issues, and identities in order to create change.
• Prioritize low-income women, women of color, or immigrant women, inclusive of all those identifying as female, and led by and representative of the community being served.

California Department of Education

California will provide a world-class education for all students, from early childhood to adulthood. The Department of Education serves our state by innovating and collaborating with educators, schools, parents, and community partners. Together, as a team, we prepare students to live, work, and thrive in a multicultural, multilingual, and highly connected world.

Golden State Pathways Program - Implementation Funds for Planning Grant Pathways

Funding Description

The purpose of the California Golden State Pathways Program is to provide local educational agencies with the resources to promote pathways in high-wage, high-skill, high-growth areas, including technology, health care, education, and climate-related fields that, among other things, allow pupils to advance seamlessly from high school to college and career and provide the workforce needed for economic growth.

The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is inviting proposals for a third-party administrator to facilitate community engagement for the California Satellite Methane Project. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of methane pollution and support community-based organizations with a total funding of $4.75 million. Up to three proposals may be awarded, with a portion of the funds allocated for administrative support, ensuring effective collaboration and outreach in the state's environmental efforts.

The Transition Age Youth Advocacy Grant aims to empower young individuals aged 16-25, particularly those with serious mental health challenges, to advocate for their needs within California's behavioral health system. By fostering leadership and engagement, this initiative seeks to involve these youth in meaningful advocacy efforts that address issues like homelessness and involvement in justice systems. The goal is to create a supportive environment that reflects their realities and promotes their agency.

The Native American Preparedness Tribal Grant, offered by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, provides crucial support for California Native American tribes. This grant focuses on enhancing emergency preparedness, response, and recovery efforts to protect ancestral lands from oil spills. By fostering better readiness and resilience among tribes, it aims to ensure the safety and sustainability of their communities and environments.

• About

The California Energy Commission is leading the state to a 100 percent clean energy future for all. As the state's primary energy policy and planning agency, the Energy Commission plays a critical role in creating the energy system of the future - one that is clean, is modern, and ensures the fifth largest economy in the world continues to thrive.

GFO-26-601 - Charger Service Skills Accelerator Grant Program

This is a competitive grant solicitation. The California Energy Commission’s (CEC’s) Clean Transportation Program announces the availability of up to $6,000,000 in grant funds for projects that will increase the qualified workforce needed to service electric vehicle (EV) charging equipment. 

Funding will support training that leads to portable, industry-recognized credentials and may be used to expand existing training programs to include EV charging equipment service.

Background

Assembly Bill (AB) 118 (Nuñez, Chapter 750, Statutes of 2007), created the Clean Transportation Program. The statute authorizes the CEC to develop and deploy alternative and renewable fuels and advanced transportation technologies to help attain the state’s climate change and clean air goals. AB 126 (Reyes, Chapter 319, Statutes of 2023) reauthorized the funding program through July 1, 2035 and focused the program on zero-emission transportation. 

The Clean Transportation Program has an annual budget of approximately $100 million and provides financial support for projects that:

• Develop and deploy zero-emission technology and fuels in the marketplace.
• Produce alternative and renewable low-carbon fuels in California.
• Deploy zero-emission fueling infrastructure, fueling stations, and equipment.
• Establish workforce training programs and conduct public outreach on the benefits of alternative transportation fuels and vehicle technologies.

The CEC, in collaboration with the California Workforce Development Board (CWDB), is further committed to integrating the California Jobs First Strategic Sectors https://jobsfirst.ca.gov/blueprint/ and California Jobs First Regional Plans https://jobsfirst.ca.gov/regions/ that will support the creation of and access to family-supporting jobs including prioritizing industry sectors for future growth.  

MINIMUM AND MAXIMUM AWARD AMOUNTS

• The minimum CEC award amount per application is $500,000 and the maximum award amount per application is $2,000,000. Applicants must request at least $500,000.

The Tribal Multifamily Finance Super NOFA provides approximately $50 million in funding aimed at enhancing the living conditions of Indian communities. By facilitating flexible financial options, it seeks to address critical needs related to health, climate, and household stability. All applicants must engage in a pre-application meeting with the Department, and applications will be accepted on an over-the-counter basis until funds are exhausted.

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 Dermody Properties Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community well-being through support for the arts, education, and families, particularly children and the elderly. Established in 1988, the foundation has provided over $3.65 million in donations to various nonprofits, including grants and scholarships. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status and be located within 30 miles of Dermody's projects. Grants typically range from $500 to $3,000, reflecting a commitment to corporate philanthropy.

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 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 California Deaf and Hard of Hearing Grant aims to provide essential employment and training services tailored for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. By enhancing access to specialized counseling, interpretive services, and job placement opportunities, the program ensures equitable support in job readiness and retention. It targets those actively seeking employment, facilitating their integration into the workforce while upholding a commitment to effective communication and advocacy.

The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program aims to support large-size law enforcement organizations in California, focusing on training and enforcement related to impaired driving laws, including those pertaining to cannabis. With approximately $13 million available, each grant can reach up to $1 million, requiring applicants to justify their budget requests and demonstrate measurable goals. This initiative seeks to enhance public safety by addressing the challenges posed by drug-impaired driving.

The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program aims to enhance data collection in Medical Examiner and Coroner's offices regarding DUI/DUID incidents. With approximately $11 million available, each grant application can request up to $2 million. The funds will support new initiatives or expand existing activities to ensure thorough investigations when fatalities occur due to vehicular incidents involving impaired drivers. Applicants must demonstrate a clear need and measurable goals for the proposed budget items.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Cannabis Tax Fund Grant Program supports small and mid-size law enforcement agencies in California, providing approximately $13 million in funding for training and education on traffic laws related to driving under the influence of drugs, including cannabis. With a cap of $500,000 per application, the program aims to enhance enforcement efforts and improve community safety. Agencies with 100 to 500 employees are eligible to apply, emphasizing the need for measurable goals and justifications.

About Us

Our Vision

Healthy, thriving, and resilient communities for all

Our Mission

The mission of the Council is to coordinate and work collaboratively with public agencies, communities, and stakeholders to achieve sustainability, equity, economic prosperity, and quality of life for all Californians

Community Resilience Centers Round 2

From extreme heat to wildfires, recent climate events and public health emergencies impact every part of California. The best available projections anticipate that these climate impacts will intensify. In the face of these challenges, strengthening resilience requires investments in both physical and social infrastructure. In addition to climate resilience activities, community resilience builds ongoing social cohesion, trust, and networks.

The Community Resilience Centers (CRC) Program:

• Funds the planning, construction, and retrofit of community resilience centers across California’s diverse communities
• Advances communities’ capacity to plan for long-term resilience and acute emergencies
• Encourages meaningful engagement, cross-sectoral collaboration, community-based partnerships, and shared governance and decision-making models
• Mitigates the public health impacts of extreme heat and other emergency situations exacerbated by climate change
• Prioritizes projects located in and benefiting under-resourced, rural, unincorporated, and Tribal communities across geographically diverse regions in the state of California

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

The WIOA, Title II: Adult Education and Family Literacy Act (AEFLA) grant provides supplemental funds over a 4 year grant cycle for adult education to:

• assist adults to become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and economic self-sufficiency;
• assist adults who are parents or family members to obtain education and skills;
• assist adults in attaining a secondary school diploma and postsecondary education and training, including through career pathways;
• assist immigrants and other individuals who are English language learners.

Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Community Investment Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic partnerships with 501(c)(3) non-profits and government entities. The focus areas include workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities, reflecting the company's commitment to making a measurable impact in regions where they operate. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based and recognized as non-profits. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its values and community needs, ensuring support for impactful projects.