Program Project Grant

With a focus on collaboration, inclusivity, and addressing local needs, the Program Project Grant supports initiatives that foster community engagement and organizational capacity. Since its inception, over $30 million has been granted to various local causes, inviting community members to contribute their time, talent, or resources in making a positive impact.

A History of Giving
The Community Foundation for San Benito County was formed in 1992 by a dedicated group of people who were passionate about building a stronger community and enhancing the quality of life for individuals and families in San Benito County through the support of philanthropic activities. In 2000, our Founding Benefactors pooled their resources to help launch the Community Foundation in our grant making work.
Over the years, the board has increased in size, and we’ve added additional staff - all focused on helping local organizations build a more vibrant San Benito County. Since our inception, we have granted over $30 million to a variety of local causes and nonprofits. The community leaders that sit on our eight committees invite you to join them by giving your time, talent, or treasure.
The Program Project Grant encourages the creation or enhancement of program projects that serve residents of San Benito County. Community Foundation for San Benito County (CFFSBC), will fund projects that include the following values and criteria:

• Foster collaboration with other local nonprofits
• Stimulate local involvement with the community
• Foster inclusivity and participation of diverse segments of San Benito County residents
• Creates a positive impact in areas of demonstrated need within San Benito County
• Addresses significant community issues
• Strengthens organizational capacity and accountability
• Leverages financial opportunities from other funders and individuals
• Boosts management capacity to execute the project to conclusion with effectiveness
• Provides a concise plan for project evaluation and documented sustainability
• Demonstrates significant financial need and avoids duplication of service

Ineligibility

In general, CFFSBC will NOT fund the following:Organizations that discriminate by age, disability, ethnic origin, gender, race, religion, or sexual orientationPrograms that benefit a specific individualFraternal or service organizations, unless in support of specific programs open to or benefiting the entire community.Salaries or operating expenses of schools, government departments and agencies or related organizationsNonprofit organizations that spend more than 25% of their revenue on management, overhead, or fundraising costsFundraising events such as annual campaigns, walk-a-thons, tournaments, fashion shows, dinners, and auctionsPrivate foundations or fundraising organizations
Organizations and programs designed to support political activities
Organizations located outside San Benito County unless for a specific program benefiting residents within San Benito CountyPay off existing obligations or enable funding of reserve accounts
Endowment funds
Scholarships, fellowships, travel grants, and academic, technical or specialized research
Programs that are completed or nearly completed
Applications for grant requests that far exceed a reasonable proportion to the applicant’s financial scaleOrganizations that are not run or governed by a responsible group of at least four persons
Routine funding that others can or will do
Failure to provide follow-up reports or comply with requirements of prior grants