Community Grants

The Rotary Club of Alameda is a longstanding civic organization committed to supporting the well-being and development of the Alameda, California community through charitable giving, service, and partnerships. Each year, the Rotary Club distributes tens of thousands of dollars to local nonprofits via its community grant programs, which are made possible by the generosity of local sponsors, fundraising events such as the annual Lobster Dinner, the Alameda Rotary Endowment Foundation, and contributions from individual Rotarians. For 2026, the Rotary Club of Alameda is offering two distinct funding opportunities: the recurring Annual Community Grants Program and a separate, one-time Capital Grant. This analysis pertains to the Annual Community Grants Program, which will distribute a total of $30,000 to a significant number of local nonprofit organizations in Alameda. Individual grant awards typically range between $500 and $1,500. Funding may be used for a wide range of activities, including general programming or specific projects. The grant program is designed to support the diversity of missions among Alameda's nonprofit sector and prioritizes assistance for small organizations that may lack the resources or infrastructure to secure larger funding. The application process is intended to be simple and accessible. Nonprofits must complete a specific application form for this grant program, separate from the application used for the one-time capital grant opportunity. Alameda-based nonprofits are eligible to apply for both programs, provided they submit distinct applications for each. An essential eligibility requirement is current registration with the State of California’s Registry of Charities. Applicants are encouraged to confirm the accuracy of their charitable status and related information using their Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), which will be verified by the Rotary Club. Applications for the Annual Community Grants Program are due by March 31, 2026. Following the review process, selected applicants will be notified of their award status on April 17, 2026. Grant funds will be distributed at a luncheon meeting hosted by the Rotary Club on May 12, 2026, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Alameda. The program does not require matching funds and is focused exclusively on organizations serving Alameda. While this annual program is recurring, it does not involve rolling admissions and follows a fixed application window each year. The straightforward submission process and small award amounts reflect the funder's emphasis on accessibility and community impact rather than extensive administrative requirements. For questions or additional support, applicants are encouraged to contact the Rotary Club of Alameda via email at [email protected].