Grants for Non Profit Businesses in California

California is kept in motion by non-profits who often need grant funding to function.

There are many grants for non-profit businesses in California, once you know where to look. If you are a 501(c)(3) recognized group in the Golden State, you have the opportunity to receive financial gifts from foundations, universities and the government if you are selected from the pools of applicants. Many grants are divided by special interest, so you can find funding unique to your group's passions and interests.

State Grants

The state of California provides grants for non profits who fall under categories that serve a governmental function. Everything from agriculture to community development is covered, and the state website also hosts a variety of non profit resources and federal links for further funding. Some examples of annual grants include the Song-Brown Program through the Healthcare Workforce Development Division, the The National Endowment for the Humanities for community cultural arts groups, and the California School Finance Authority to provide resources for California charter school programs.

Educational Foundations

Educational foundations, such as the Sponsored Projects Office found at UC Berkeley, connects non profits with grantmakers so they can receive the mutual information they need. Through the Philanthropy News Digest, the foundation's periodical, grantseekers can get a good idea as to what is out there, as well as receive the links or physical paperwork necessary to apply for the various awards. Applicants must create an account with the group in order to search for grants on their website. Some grant examples include funding to support Japanese American heritage projects, California water agencies, and community children's programs throughout the state.

Community Groups

There are various community foundations that assist with grants. One example is the Silicon Valley Community Foundation, which serves Santa Clara and San Mateo counties in the San Francisco Bay Area region. They recently awarded almost $1.9 million in educational grants. Neighborhood groups can apply for grants such as the Elizabeth Anabo BRICC Awards, which give $1000 to two inspirational creative groups, and the Donor Circle for the Arts Fund, which funds over $55,000 worth of groups each year.

References

• Silicon Valley Community Foundation
• Sponsored Projects Office, UC Berkeley
• State of California Grants

Resources

• Non Profit Guides