Best Ventura County Grants for Nonprofits in California

Grants from The Amgen Foundation Inc help Ventura County, California nonprofits and educational organizations strengthen STEM education and community services. Programs supporting teacher development or hands-on science experiences are prioritized. Nonprofits and public institutions in Ventura County may be eligible if their work aligns with Amgen’s focus on science education and community impact.

Creag Foundation provides Ventura County, California nonprofits with support for innovative human and social services. Organizations addressing local social challenges with creative approaches may be eligible if they have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year. This opportunity is ideal for groups seeking to launch or expand impactful programs.

Focused on scalable social impact, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation invites Ventura County, California organizations to apply for funding. Early-stage nonprofits and mission-driven enterprises working to address urgent social or environmental challenges may be eligible. This opportunity supports innovative solutions benefiting underserved communities across a range of issue areas.

Cisco Systems Foundation provides Ventura County, California nonprofits with funding for innovative programs in crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate resilience. Organizations serving economically underserved communities and leveraging technology to address social challenges may be eligible. Nonprofits working in these areas are encouraged to apply year-round.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

About Us

A Vibrant Region with Opportunity for All

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

We help those seeking educational opportunities that will enrich their lives—and enhance our community.

Please note that scholarships administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties are awarded through a variety of different mechanisms, including by school district selection, public application, or through our community partners, such as Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Joey R. Ventura Tradesman Award

Awarded by Connor Arthur Lynskey Memorial Scholarship Fund

Established in memory of Connor Arthur Lynskey, a special young man who was active in his community, excelled academically, was sports-minded and had an extraordinary way about himself. Connor was a graduate of Holland Patent Central School District in 2017. He aspired to be a physician and was attending premedical school when a drunk driver took his life on August 11, 2018. This award is also given in loving memory of Joey R. Ventura (1992-2021), an accomplished welder and welding instructor who unexpectedly passed in July of 2021 at the age of 28 years old.

Candidates are identified through an open application process.

Focused on community enrichment, Logix Federal Credit Union invites Ventura County, California nonprofits to apply for event sponsorships and charitable support. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools within 15 miles of a Logix branch may benefit. Funding is available for programs in arts, education, health, social services, and community development.

Focused on addiction and substance use disorders, McMillen Family Foundation invites Ventura County nonprofit organizations to apply for funding. Eligible groups must primarily serve those impacted by alcohol or drug problems through prevention, treatment, or education. Grants support program activities, facility improvements, staff development, and other related services.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

The Amgen Foundation Inc supports community, education, and humanitarian initiatives in Ventura County, California by providing charitable donations and sponsorships to eligible nonprofits. Local 501(c)(3) organizations working on social services, literacy, or volunteerism may be eligible for funding. Applications should be submitted at least three months before the needed funding date.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

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.

Grants from Robinson Foundation help Ventura County, California nonprofits working in areas such as education, animal welfare, disaster relief, and poverty alleviation. Local 501(c)(3) organizations addressing these community needs may be eligible for funding to create meaningful impact and improve the lives of residents in Ventura County.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

California Fire Foundation supports firefighting and disaster relief in Ventura County, California by providing grants to local fire departments, firefighter associations, tribes, and nonprofits. Funding focuses on wildfire recovery, public education, responder training, equipment replacement, and vegetation mitigation. Nonprofit organizations aiding wildfire-impacted communities in Ventura County may be eligible.

Ventura County nonprofits focused on vision impairment care can access funding through the Karl Kirchgessner Foundation. Grants support organizations providing services for the blind and vision-impaired, with priority given to those assisting economically disadvantaged youth, elderly, or disabled individuals. Eligible 501(c)(3) groups may apply for project, equipment, or general support grants.

S Mark Taper Foundation supports nonprofits in Ventura County, California by providing grants for programs in arts, education, health, environment, civic affairs, and social services. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in the county may apply for general operating, program, or capital support, with grant sizes ranging from small to large.

Grants from Ventura County Community Foundation help Ventura County, California nonprofits enhance community development, education, and cultural vibrancy. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving the region may apply for project or program support up to $10,000. This opportunity may benefit nonprofits working to improve local economic, social, and cultural life.

The TechAmerica Scholarship, offered by The San Diego Foundation, supports high-achieving public high school seniors in San Diego County pursuing non-medical STEM degrees. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.75 and standardized test scores of at least 1200 SAT or 29 ACT. This scholarship aims to empower students to enroll full-time in accredited four-year universities in Southern California, thereby fostering educational advancement in critical STEM fields.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

Ventura County nonprofits supporting child welfare can access funding through In-N-Out Burgers Foundation. Grants are available for organizations assisting children and youth affected by abuse, neglect, foster care, adoption, homelessness, or domestic violence. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations may apply for program, operating, or capital support to enhance their impact.

ArtLife Foundation Fund

The Art Life Foundation Fund supports programs and initiatives that advance artistic excellence and nurture creativity within Ventura County.

Through this competitive grant opportunity, the fund will support arts organizations and educational institutions whose work:

• Advances artistic excellence
• Supports arts educators or programs that foster the “Creative Mind”
• Promotes the scholarly study of Joe Cardella’s life, artwork, creative philosophy, or Art Life Limited Editions

This grant round focuses on organizational programs, projects, and initiatives. Student scholarship awards supported through the fund are administered separately and are not part of this application.

Funding Overview

For this funding cycle, approximately $55,000 in total grant funding will be awarded.

Organizations may request funding in an amount that reflects the needs of their proposed project or program. To assist the review process, applicants are asked to indicate:

• The minimum amount needed to successfully implement the project
• The preferred funding amount

Organizations may request up to the full $55,000 available. Final award sizes may vary and may range from smaller grants to larger awards depending on the strength, scope, and impact of the proposals received.

Ventura County Community Foundation

Nearly 40 years ago, we set out to make life better for the people of Ventura County.

Initially, we wanted to help nonprofits become more sustainable and give donors a way of leaving complicated gifts, like real estate and stocks. In 1990, we began giving people the chance to fund scholarships. Then, in 2000, we provided community grantmaking where donors could give together towards a common cause.

Now, we convene large numbers of residents to work together as agents of change.

Swift Memorial Health Care Foundation Charitable Fund

The Swift Memorial Health Care Foundation Charitable Fund was established following the dissolution of the Swift Memorial Health Care Foundation (SMHCF). SMHCF was named in honor of Dr. Floyd J. Swift and his wife, Ida Swift, in recognition of their significant contributions to improving the quality of life in Ventura County.

The Swift Memorial Health Care Foundation Charitable Fund will carry on the Foundation’s legacy by supporting nonprofit organizations that assess health care needs or provide health care services to Ventura County residents through community-focused programs, projects, or events. Grants are typically awarded to support specific projects that are expected to be achieved within a defined timeframe—often within one year—and for projects with the potential to extend beyond the grant period, generating lasting impact and long-term multiplier effects.

Stater Bros Charities supports hunger relief, health, education, and children’s well-being in Ventura County, California by funding local nonprofit organizations. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,500 and are available to 501(c)(3) groups serving the county. Nonprofits working in these areas may be eligible for support.

Grants from Ventura County Community Foundation help Ventura County, California arts and culture organizations deliver projects tied to museums, historical societies, and arts education. Nonprofits in the region focused on expanding cultural access or supporting the fine and performing arts may be eligible for this funding opportunity.