About this Resource List:

This list is a compilation of resources from various organizations. If you have any questions, please contact the listed organizations directly. If you notice any information that needs updating or would like to suggest additional resources, please let us know at membership@calnonprofits.org.

Finding Grants

Look at what foundation and government agencies are funding organizations like yours. For example, if you are a nonprofit preschool, look at the websites of other nonprofit preschools and see if they list their funders. If you are a nonprofit championing the rights of low income elderly people, look at the websites of nonprofits in your area to identify where they get money. Then look up those foundations and government agencies and see if you might be eligible.

For government grants from the California state government, go to https://www.grants.ca.gov/ 

For government grants from counties and cities, look at the websites of those entities. In California, some counties put all their grants on one page, while in others, each county department has its own page with lists of open grants. Some government agencies do not publish grant opportunities online. Note that government entities give money to nonprofits through "grants" and through "contracts" for work. Look for both. If both are not on a website, contact that government agency and ask to be put on a list where they will mail possible contracts or grants.

Candid Foundation Directory: You can get free access to this resource through local libraries in your area. Check your nearest location here.

Grant Writing Support

1:1 appointments for grants technical assistance

Grant writing webinars – 7.5 hours of recorded webinar trainings, in English and Spanish

Pro Bono or Low Cost Legal Services

TrustLaw is the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s global pro bono legal services. They connect nonprofits and social enterprises with law firms that can provide free legal. 

Law Foundation of Silicon Valley offers free legal advice and limited representation to help nonprofits navigate legal challenges due to a rapidly changing landscape that includes new executive orders, changes in federal policies and related issues. They provide one-on-one pro bono representation and work with our partners to provide training on relevant topics and additional resources. 

Eligibility: limited to nonprofits with less than $10 million in support, located in or serving Santa Clara County

Public Counsel provides free legal assistance to nonprofits serving low-income communities in Los Angeles in a number of substantive practice areas

California Lawyers for the Arts provides legal support to creative artists, or arts organizations.