The Community Foundation for Monterey County (CFMC) offers the Impact Grants program to support initiatives that create healthy, safe, and vibrant communities within Monterey County, California. The foundation's mission-driven funding is guided by local needs and data, focusing on measurable outcomes and positive community impact. The program provides both Small and Large Impact grants, enabling a diverse range of organizations to address pressing community challenges, particularly in areas such as North Monterey County, Salinas Valley, and South Monterey County.
Small Impact grants are designed for organizations serving one city or a limited area within the county, particularly those that are first-time applicants or have not received multiple past awards. These grants range from $5,000 to $20,000, with an average award of $18,000. There are no fixed deadlines, but applications are reviewed in three cycles—if submitted by the end of February, June, or October—with decisions made by the end of April, August, and December respectively. Applications are reviewed by CFMC staff.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations and, on occasion, other public agencies that serve Monterey County residents. Organizations must be current on all reporting obligations from previous CFMC grants and may only receive one Impact Grant per calendar year. Certain entities such as unincorporated groups without nonprofit status, religious organizations promoting doctrine, and those requesting funds for activities like debt repayment or endowments are ineligible.
Grant proposals should clearly articulate how they address equity and opportunity gaps, and how they are informed by local experiences and data. CFMC favors proposals that demonstrate effective methods, sustainable plans, and strong community support and leadership. Priority is given to organizations with a stable and positive history of CFMC funding.
Applications for Impact Grants must be submitted online, and while the Small Impact grants have no fixed deadline, applicants are encouraged to reach out to CFMC for proposal guidance. Organizations using AI tools in their applications are encouraged to ensure their proposals maintain an authentic voice and include relevant local data.
For assistance, applicants can contact Esther Figueroa at estherf@cfmco.org or Janet Shing at janet@cfmco.org.
