Columbia Bank Foundation Grant Program 2023

The Columbia Bank Foundation (CBF) is a leading private corporate foundation based in New Jersey, recognized as one of the largest of its kind in the state. Its mission is centered on addressing the needs of local communities by supporting innovative, community-focused nonprofit organizations. The Foundation prioritizes programs that provide measurable impact and sustainable solutions for low- and moderate-income individuals and communities across New Jersey. CBF views its grantmaking as part of its broader responsibility as a corporate citizen and leverages strategic partnerships to enhance its philanthropic reach. CBF’s funding is guided by specific programmatic focus areas, which include housing, economic development, financial literacy, health and human services, food insecurity, environmental sustainability, and the arts. Within housing, the Foundation supports initiatives aimed at improving access to affordable, sustainable, and safe housing, including both temporary accommodations and homeownership opportunities. Its community investment programs prioritize neighborhood revitalization, financial empowerment, and small business development. In education, CBF favors efforts that advance early childhood development, special education, and housing-related financial literacy for underserved populations. There are two primary grant programs administered by CBF: the Housing Grant Program and the Community Grant Program. The Housing Grant Program supports projects providing affordable and secure housing solutions, with grant awards ranging from $5,000 to $25,000. The Community Grant Program funds nonprofit and civic efforts aligned with the Foundation’s focus areas, with award amounts between $5,000 and $15,000. Applications may be submitted year-round, but proposals over $7,500 are reviewed quarterly. Submission deadlines for quarterly board review are January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15. Each organization may submit one proposal within a 12-month period. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities and have been in operation for at least three years. The Foundation funds capital improvements and program-related expenses directly aligned with the organization’s mission. Multi-year requests are not typically funded but may be considered under special circumstances. Organizations that previously received grants through Atlantic Stewardship Bank’s tithing program may receive special consideration. Progress reports and contracts are required for all Board-approved grants, and incomplete applications may delay processing. For grant requests of $7,500 or less, only the IRS determination letter and a formal proposal are required. Requests above this threshold must include a more comprehensive package: IRS determination letter, recent financial statement, IRS Form 990, detailed project budget, current and proposed operating budgets, board list, applicable invoices or estimates, and a formal proposal. All applications must be submitted online through the Foundation’s website. The Foundation does not provide funding to individuals, political campaigns, private foundations, or organizations with a primary purpose of influencing legislation. Additional exclusions include fraternal and labor organizations, athletic teams, and travel-related events such as student field trips. For questions or additional information, applicants are encouraged to contact the Foundation at foundation@columbiabankonline.com.

Applications should be complete to avoid delays. Priority may be given to past Atlantic Stewardship Bank tithing grantees.