Community Grant Program

Community Grant Program

Funder: Community Foundation Santa Cruz County

Award Amount: $2 million total distributed annually

Geographic Scope: Santa Cruz County, California

Program Overview:
The Community Grant Program awards approximately $2 million each May to nonprofits addressing pressing local issues. Funds are drawn from endowed funds contributed to the Foundation over four decades. The Foundation prefers making grants to support general operations of nonprofits.

Funding Priorities (2026 cycle allocation):

33% - Seniors, End-of-Life Care & Historic Preservation

32% - Youth & Education

13% - Environment

7% - Women & Girls initiatives

6% - Human Services

3% - Arts, Culture & History

3% - LGBTQ+ specific causes

2% - Health

1% - Community Development

Focus Areas:

Education (including arts and environment)

End-of-life care

Historic preservation

Human services

Children and seniors programs

Flexible grants for general operations

Evaluation Criteria:
The Foundation considers:

Alignment with funding areas

Fit within organization's financial picture

Organization's ability to produce compelling outcomes

How the work advances equity in Santa Cruz County

Eligibility:

Nonprofit organizations based in Santa Cruz County

Invitations to participate sent to selected organizations

Mission Statement:
To bring together people, ideas, and resources to inspire philanthropy and accomplish great things.

Vision:
To make Santa Cruz County thrive for all who call it home, now and in the future.

Grantmaking Principles:
Guided by eight principles emphasizing flexible funding, addressing historic and current inequities, and working with leaders of color.

Contact:
Kevin Heuer, Director of Engagement & Impact
Phone: 831.662.2030
Email: kheuer@cfscc.org

Address:
7807 Soquel Drive, Aptos, CA 95003

Office Hours:
Monday - Friday, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM