Grants for Nonprofits - Gilroy Foundation

Grants for Nonprofits in South County

Experience the impact of over $19.5 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.

The Final Report for 2026 Competitive Grant recipients is due September 30, 2026. The Final Report is now available on our website. Thank you to all of the recipients of our 2026 Competitive Grant Cycle for sharing how your organization used the grant funds.

Final Report

Our 2027 Competitive Grant Cycle opens October 1, 2026!

Gilroy Foundation welcomes grant applications from non-profit organizations serving Gilroy, Morgan Hill, San Martin, and South County. Non-profit groups engaged in various critical areas, including Agriculture, Artistic Enrichment, Education, Environment, Civic Services, Culture, Health, Recreation, and Technology, are invited to apply.

Our Competitive Grant Cycle is designed to support community-driven projects and programs aligned with the Foundation’s mission. Grants range from $500 to $5,000. Grants are competitive and limited by the available funding. Partial funding may be awarded.

Our Competitive Grant program is made possible through our Gilroy Foundation’s Field of Interest and Unrestricted funds.

Competitive Grant Cycle Timeline

Applications open: October 1, 2026

Applications close: December 11, 2026

Review period: December 11, 2026-February 23, 2027

Award Notification: March 2027

Questions?

For questions or additional information, please contact Gilroy Foundation Programs Coordinator, Kelly Barbazette:

(408) 842-3727

kbarbazette@gilroyfoundation.org

Competitive Grant Application

2027 Competitive Grant Cycle

GILROY FOUNDATION’S 2027 COMPETITIVE GRANT CYCLE OPENS OCTOBER 1, 2026

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 mid December. 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

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

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

2026 Grant Cycle Update

During our 2026 grant cycle, Gilroy Foundation awarded more than $540,000 in grants to local non-profit groups and organizations. This year, Gilroy Foundation awarded $87,695 to 18 Gilroy non-profit groups during our 2026 Competitive Grant Cycle.

In total, Gilroy Foundation is investing more than $1 million in grants and scholarships in 2026, including $548,046 in support for local and South County nonprofit organizations through Gilroy Foundation’s Competitive Grant Cycle, Donor-Advised Funds, Designated Donor Funds, and annual distributions to its Nonprofit Partners.

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!