We Invest
in Community

We offer numerous grant opportunities designed to help strengthen Santa Barbara County’s diverse nonprofit sector and address our communities’ most pressing challenges.

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2024 Nonprofit Community Info Session

How to Apply Online

Applying for a grant through the Santa Barbara Foundation can be done in 5 steps:

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Application Deadlines

For instructions on how to apply online, please review our application and submittal procedures.

Grant Program/Initiative Deadline Date
Small Capacity Building Grant Program - 2025 February 11 | May 13 | July 15 | September 9
Towbes Fund for the Performing Arts March 14, 2025 | October 10, 2025
William and Lottie Daniel Scholarship April 30, 2025
Conservation, Environment and Public Trails Grant Program August 7, 2025
Tri-Counties Blood Bank Grant Program August 29, 2025
Child Care Grant Program September 17, 2025
Behavioral Health/Health Care Grant Program RFQ: Launching in 2026
Food Grant Program RFQ: Launching in 2026
Shelter & Safety Grant Program RFQ: Launching in 2026
Youth Mental Health Providers Recruit, Retain, Rest and Recuperation Fund (4R) May 29, 2025

Are You Eligible?

View frequently asked questions regarding the Santa Barbara Foundation grant programs.

Determine Eligibility

Support for the Social Sector

Through the Collaboration for Social Impact, Santa Barbara Foundation elevates our commitment to advancing the strength and capacity of the thousands of nonprofits in Santa Barbara County.

The Collaboration for Social Impact (CSI) draws on the expertise of a diverse and experienced group of executive leaders who have long worked on the front lines of nonprofits. The Collaboration facilitates workshops, seminars, coaching and mentoring, along with public and social sector advocacy. These are developed and implemented through an ongoing coordination with community leaders and partner organizations. The Collaboration supports capacity building in the areas of leadership development, technical assistance, financial management, technology, cross organizational collaboration, as well as personnel health and wellness.

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Agency
Endowment Fund

Nonprofit organizations may establish an Agency Endowment Fund for their organization at the Santa Barbara Foundation. By entrusting funds to the foundation and investing in one of our investment portfolios, charities can benefit from our comprehensive investment process, strong fiduciary oversight, and our expertise in investment management and administration.

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Questions?

Contact our team to help you with your specific needs.