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.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

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.

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.

Labcorp Charitable Foundation supports health and community programs in Ventura County, California by funding initiatives that improve healthcare access, education, and food security. Nonprofit organizations serving local residents through patient services, STEM education, or food pantries may be eligible for support during the March and September review cycles.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

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.

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.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

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.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

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.