Grants
The Long Beach Community Foundation only makes grants to US-based approved 501(C)(3) nonprofit, educational, or governmental organizations. Grants are generated from the funds listed below.
Charitable Organizations can set up an online profile and view and submit Grant Applications here:
LBCF’s 2024 Grant Opportunities Webinar
This presentation includes a breakdown of each opportunity currently offered at the foundation, new and upcoming opportunities, grant application tips, as well as guidance to access our new grant application portal.
Grants Available:
LBCF COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT: Applications Due 6/6/2024
LBCF COMMUNITY IMPACT GRANT
GRANT PURPOSE
The Long Beach Community Foundation is pleased to offer the LBCF Community Impact Fund Grant.
2023 Focus: Grants will be awarded to support programs that best address the post-pandemic learning loss recovery and/or the emotional/mental health needs of youth and young adults in the Long Beach community
DEADLINE
To be considered, the below application must be completed, with all required documentation by Thursday, June 6, 2024 at 5 p.m. PST.
GRANT SUGGESTIONS
Please submit your application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
Watch this video to learn more about the 2021 awarded grantees
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded based on the program qualifications outlined in the application and selected by the Board-appointed Grants Selection Committee. The Committee will review submitted applications, select successful candidates and make recommendations for funding. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview. Grants are made to US-based, 501(C)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities serving Long Beach who are in good standing with the IRS. If you have a question about your organization's status, please contact us.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The announcement of awards is expected on August 2023.
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Grants will be awarded between $10,000 and $25,000.
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports consist of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY: Applications Due 6/6/2024
NATIONAL PHILANTHROPY DAY
GRANT PURPOSE
The Long Beach Community Foundation is pleased to offer the National Philanthropy Day Grant.
National Philanthropy Day is an initiative that honors charitable work across the country and is celebrated in a variety of ways. To honor this philanthropic event, LBCF has completed a beautification project for a local nonprofit property or building for the last 5 years. These events give LBCF staff and board members the opportunity to be out In the community, literally roll up their sleeves, and make a meaningful and personal impact with a Long Beach nonprofit.
DEADLINE
To be considered, the below application must be completed, with all required documentation by Thursday, June 6, 2024, at 5 p.m.
GRANTS SUGGESTIONS
This grant will be made to a nonprofit that can complete a publicly visible beautification of their establishment during a one-day volunteer-supported event. This event should happen on or near November 15, 2023.
The following types of projects will be considered:
- Physical improvement projects that can be completed with a budget under $5,000.
- Projects that provide volunteers with a one-day makeover project that has a significant “before and after” effect.
- Projects that will utilize or greatly benefit from volunteer manpower generated by many untrained volunteers.
- Projects that require a skilled labor force or a licensed contractor will be considered, but the ideal projects are largely cosmetic to utilize volunteers.
- External façade improvements will be given preference so that the entire community can appreciate and benefit from the make-over.
Considerations: How will your Board and/or stakeholders participate in this project? (i.e.: contribute resources to this proposed project / actively participate in the volunteer efforts on the day of the project)
Past beneficiaries of these efforts have included:
- Young Horizons Preschool (50-foot external mural painting and additional cosmetic upgrades to building entry)
- Boys and Girls Clubs of Long Beach (community garden installation)
- Precious Lamb Preschool (playground and consultation room renovation)
- Long Beach Rescue Mission’s Lydia House for women (outdoor living space renovation)
- Mental Health America Long Beach Wellness Center (exterior paint, landscaping, and updated signage)
- Un Mundo de Amigos Preschool (exterior mural)
Please submit your application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded based on the program qualifications outlined in the application and selected by the Board-appointed Grants Selection Committee. The Committee will review submitted applications, select successful candidates and make recommendations for funding. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview. Grants are made to US-based, 501(C)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities located in Long Beach that are in good standing with the IRS. If you have a question about your organization's status, please contact us.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The announcement of awards is expected in August 2023.
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Grants will be awarded at approximately $2,500 to $5,000.
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports consist of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
AIRPORT NOISE ORDINANCE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT FUND: Applications Due 8/1/2024
AIRPORT NOISE ORDINANCE NEIGHBORHOOD IMPACT FUND
GRANT PURPOSE
The Airport Noise Ordinance Neighborhood Impact Fund was funded with fines paid by certain airlines that have violated flight path noise restrictions at the Long Beach Airport. These charitable dollars can be used to fund projects that improve or benefit residents under the flight paths who are most impacted.
The borders of the flight path (as noted on this map within the black area) are meant to serve as a guide to show the most impacted areas.
DEADLINE
To be considered, the below application must be completed, with all supporting documentation by August 1, 2024, at 5 p.m. PST.
GRANT SUGGESTIONS
Please submit your application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
Examples of worthy projects include public area improvements that benefit the impacted residents, community gatherings, neighborhood festivals, and nonprofit programming benefiting residents within the flight path, just to name a few. The more people benefitting in an area under the flight path, the better. Projects that work to gather people together to encourage neighborliness are prioritized.
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded based on the program qualifications outlined in the application and selected by the Board-appointed Grants Selection Committee. The Committee will review submitted applications, select successful candidates and make recommendations for funding. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview. Grants are made to US-based, 501(C)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities serving Long Beach who are in good standing with the IRS. If you have a question about your organization's status, please contact us.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The expected announcement of awards will be made on October 2023.
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Award amount between $5,000 and $15,000.
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports consist of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
FENNIE COMMUNITY FUND: Applications Due 8/1/2024
FENNIE COMMUNITY FUND
GRANT PURPOSE
The Long Beach Community Foundation is pleased to offer the Fennie Community Fund Grant.
The Fennie Community Fund was created in 1988 through an estate gift from Jack L. Fennie. Grants are awarded for broad and general charitable purposes with a preference for children’s organizations in the communities of Avalon and Long Beach.
Priority may be given to funding projects and programs that align with LBCF’s Community Impact Fund as defined by the LBCF Board.
DEADLINE
To be considered, the below application must be completed, with all required documentation by Thursday, August 1, 2024 at 5 p.m.
GRANT SUGGESTIONS
Please submit your application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded based on the program qualifications outlined in the application and selected by the Board-appointed Grants Selection Committee. The Committee will review submitted applications, select successful candidates, and make recommendations for funding. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview.Grants are made to US-based, 501(C)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities serving Long Beach or Avalon and are in good standing with the IRS. If you have a question about your organization's status, please contact us.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The announcement of awards is expected on October 2023.
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Grants will be awarded between $5,000 and $10,000.
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports consist of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
KATY STONE MEMORIAL FUND: Applications Due 6/6/2024
KATY STONE MEMORIAL FUND
GRANT PURPOSE
The Long Beach Community Foundation is pleased to offer the Katy Stone Memorial Fund Grant.
Katy Stone was a longtime Long Beach resident. She worked for many decades for the Long Beach Department of Parks, Recreation, and Marine, where her roles included the superintendent of recreation services and superintendent of aquatics. Multiple generations of Long Beach youth enjoyed the programs that she created and managed. An avid sportswoman, Katy played volleyball and softball, fished, and worked as a ski instructor. After her retirement, she started running marathons and became a world-class lawn bowler. As a member of the Long Beach Lawn Bowling Club, she was on the U.S. national lawn bowling team from 1999 to 2008 and was the U.S. women's singles champion in 2000 and women's pairs champion in 2005. Beloved for her wicked sense of humor and vivid personality, Katy made friends everywhere she went. As a teacher, mentor, manager, sister, and aunt, Katy had a special gift for helping people realize their potential. She lived her philosophy: to meld work and play, to develop both body and mind, and always act in a generous, fun-loving spirit!
The Katy Stone Memorial Fund makes grants to nonprofit organizations with programs that nurture the body, mind, and spirit of goal-oriented people of any age, but especially youth, in the City of Long Beach. These programs will promote their education and develop their physical, mental, and spiritual talents.
DEADLINE
To be considered, the below application must be completed, with all supporting documentation by June 6, 2024, at 5 p.m. PST.
GRANT SUGGESTIONS
Please submit your application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded to qualified applicants who administer programs that best address the grant focus. Grants are ultimately decided by members of Katy Stone's family who are advisors to the fund. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview. Grants will be awarded to US-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, schools, or government institutions serving Long Beach, CA, and be in good standing with the IRS.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
The announcement of awards is expected on December 2023.
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received. Please do not contact LBCF to verify that your grant has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Grants will be awarded between $25,000.
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports for grants under $20,000 consisting of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
LONG BEACH NAVY MEMORIAL HERITAGE: LOI Open 9/2/2024 - 9/30/2024
2024 Award Details
Open Application: September 1, 2024
Letter of Intent Deadline: September 30, 2024
The Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association will award grants for qualified historic preservation projects in the City of Long Beach.
Grants will be awarded between $5,000 and $50,000.
The Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association will award grants between $5,000 and $50,000 to qualified US-based approved 501(C)(3) nonprofit, educational, or governmental organizations performing historic preservation projects in the City of Long Beach.
2022-23 Grant Application Schedule:
09/01/2024 | Application materials available |
09/30/2024 | Letter of Intent due to the Long Beach Community Foundation |
11/21/2024 | Successful letters are invited to submit a full proposal |
12/12/2024 | Full proposals due to Long Beach Community Foundation |
02/20/2025 | Grants awarded |
Learn more about the Long Beach Navy Memorial Heritage Association Grant Process.
Preview Letter of Intent Form - applying for the LOI will begin on 9/1/2023 and end on 9/29/2023
LOS CERRITOS WETLANDS FUND- More Information Coming Soon!
LOS CERRITOS WETLAND FUND
GRANT PURPOSE
The Long Beach Community Foundation is pleased to offer the Los Cerritos Wetland Fund Grant.
The Los Cerritos Wetlands Fund was formed in 2019 through a collaborative process with representatives from conservation groups, landowners, and business interests. Each of these stakeholders cares about the future and preservation of the Los Cerritos Wetlands and surrounding watersheds.
The goal of this fund is to support projects that conserve, manage, restore, and enhance wetland and upland habitat and facilitate environmental planning, permitting, and public access; advance healthy communities, social equity, and climate resiliency and adaptation; and provide educational and research opportunities.
DEADLINE
Grant Deadline pending
GRANT SUGGESTIONS
Please submit your pre-application as clearly and succinctly as possible. Don't assume that we know the details of your program or project. Be specific when writing about the impact and sustainability of your project.
AWARDING GRANTS
Grants will be awarded to qualified applicants who administer programs that best address the grant focus. Grants are ultimately decided by members of the Los Cerritos Wetland Fund board and committee. Successful candidates whose application is highly aligned with the grant purpose may be asked to submit additional information or schedule an interview.
AWARD ANNOUNCEMENTS
Announcement of awards is pending
All applicants will receive an automated reply “Thank you for submitting your application. It has been received and we will reach back out to you at a later date” immediately upon submitting their application. This is the acknowledgment that your application has been received. Please do not contact LBCF to verify that your grant has been received.
FUNDING AMOUNT
Pending
REPORTING
Reporting is required for every grant received. Reports for grants under $20,000 consisting of a one-page account of how the funds were spent, the impact of the program, who was served by the program, and the overall success of the program. Additionally, LBCF requests a testimonial from someone served by your program or recognition on social media. Please tag LBCF in any social media posts, using @LBCommunityFdn on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Twitter.
CONDITIONS
If awarded, the applicant is agreeing to the following conditions:
- Changes to any specific line item in the enclosed budget greater than $1,000 or 10% must be approved in writing by LBCF prior to making the change.
- The Grantee will use the funds for the purposes approved by LBCF described in this Agreement and understand that any alternative use of funds must be authorized in advance and in writing by LBCF.
- Any significant changes in the project and/or organizational leadership should be reported to LBCF within 30 days of the change.
Any application questions can be addressed by contacting the Long Beach Community Foundation at info@longbeachcf.org.
KNIGHT FOUNDATION FUND: By Invitation
KNIGHT FOUNDATION FUND
LBCF serves as a local granting agent for The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation. In 2010 Knight announced an initiative with community foundations to promote and support “informed, engaged communities.” In Long Beach, up to $4.5 million has been invested in Knight’s Donor Advised Fund. This fund is managed like an endowment with 4-7% being awarded in grants to the community each year.
Knight Foundation Grant Qualifications
Projects that qualify will:
- Seek to build upon local momentum, assets, and resources – often focused geographically in the downtown core.
- Accelerate talent retention and increase economic opportunity by investing in opportunities to advance core city vibrancy through entrepreneurship, design, and civic engagement.
- Building on assets: your project or program better connects the community to key assets like universities, corporations, or nature.
- Include public spaces: your project or program enhances the public realm to be more connected and vibrant.
- Enhance civic engagement: your project or program breaks down barriers between residents and decision-makers; engaging underrepresented communities in civic life and leadership roles.
- Already have a matching donation committed.
- Fund a project that total exceeds $100,000 or more. Larger-scale projects with multiple funding and/or programmatic partners will receive priority.
- Consider prototyping new ideas and investing risk capital to support local leaders and organizations.
Other considerations:
- What will the outcomes, behavior changes, and/or results be from your project?
- What organizations are joining you or partnering with you on this project?
If your project meets these qualifications, please submit a letter of intent. Projects are reviewed year-round and responses from LBCF can be expected within two weeks. Questions? Contact 562-435-9033 and ask for Issis Vargas, Administration & Grants Manager, or email issis@longbeachcf.org.