Give Where You Live

Grants for Nonprofits in South County

Experience the impact of over $18.5 million in grants and scholarships awarded since 1980. If your nonprofit organization is dedicated to making a positive difference in Gilroy, we warmly invite you to explore further below and apply for a grant that can amplify your mission. Together, let’s shape a brighter future for our community.

Our 2025 Competitive Grant Cycle is open!

Applications for our competitive grants are available.

Gilroy Foundation welcomes grant applications from organizations engaged in various critical areas, including Agriculture, Artistic Enrichment, Education, Environment, Civic Services, Culture, Health, Recreation, and Technology. With grant awards ranging from $500 to $5,000, Gilroy Foundation is committed to being a catalyst for positive change and progress in the Gilroy community.

The application submission deadline is 9 P.M. PST on Friday, December 13, 2024. Applicants are notified in March.

Competitive Grant Application
2025 grant cycle

GILROY FOUNDATION’S 2025 COMPETITIVE GRANT CYCLE IS NOW OPEN!

See a list of Gilroy Foundation’s recent grant recipients.

 

About our grants

For over four decades, Gilroy Foundation grants have been a driving force of positive and powerful change in our vibrant community.

We proudly support a diverse array of 501(c)(3) organizations and tax-exempt groups dedicated to enriching the fabric of Gilroy. Through our commitment, 5% of year-end balances from our grantmaking funds are allocated to deserving applicants who align with our mission.

Mark your calendars for our annual competitive grant cycle, commencing on October 1st and closing on December 15th. Additionally, stay tuned for other grant opportunities throughout the year as funding becomes available.

Stay informed by exploring our grant news below or reach out to us with any inquiries.

Meet Our Recent Grantees
Our grants seek to
  • Increase the self-sufficiency of children and families
  • Build the capacity of students to excel in school
  • Promote the physical, mental, and social health of all individuals
  • Enrich the cultural life of the community
  • Improve the environment
  • Help to bridge gaps in our neighborhoods
Gilroy logo

A Gilroy Foundation Competitive Grant helped fund a new and innovative computer program for each student. This new program will help each student meet their specific needs and will guide classroom instruction to better identify the needs of each student.

— Grant Recipient Rucker School
Woman with a dog

Expand the potential of your nonprofit organization with Gilroy Foundation’s additional services, including nonprofit investment partnerships to grow your funds and fiscal sponsorships to enhance your capabilities.

Learn More

2024 grant cycle update

In the 2024 Competitive Grants Cycle, Gilroy Foundation received requests for funding for $388,275. Of that amount, $85,538 was granted. The needs are great in our local community, though funding is limited.

Also, in 2024, $178,519 was awarded to programs from our Donor Advised Funds; $167,530 was awarded to Gilroy charities from our Designated Funds, and our Youth Board awarded two $750 grants.

Our total grant awards in 2024 were $433,087.

Frequently asked questions about grants

How do I apply for a grant?

Check this page for announcements on upcoming grant cycles and then follow the instructions provided. Generally speaking, we’ll ask that you fill out a PDF application and provide proof of tax-exempt status (among other documentation). Unless otherwise specified, grant applications are accepted by email to grants@gilroyfoundation.org.

How do you choose organizations to fund?

We carefully review grant applications and thoroughly research and evaluate each organization that applies. Funds are granted based on the organization’s qualifications, the closeness of fit between the intended project and the grant’s purpose, and many other considerations.

What are your criteria for awarding grants?

Grant criteria varies on a grant-by-grant basis; please carefully read the criteria documentation provided alongside the grant application. If you have any questions about the criteria or how we apply them, please contact us for clarification.

I applied for a grant but was not awarded it. Can I apply again?

We understand that the community needs are great, and we regret that not every request can be fulfilled. If you applied for a grant in past cycles but did not receive the award, you are welcome to apply again.

Have other questions? Please contact us at any time!