The Grays Harbor Community Foundation (GHCF) offers Early Learning Grants to nonprofit organizations working with children from birth through age five in Grays Harbor County, Washington. These grants are designed to improve early learning outcomes by supporting programs and projects that meet community needs and align with GHCF’s mission.
Unlike other Foundation grants, the Early Learning Grant is open on a rolling basis throughout the year, allowing applicants to submit proposals at any time. Organizations may receive one Early Learning Grant per calendar year and may not apply more than once for the same project within that period. These grants may be awarded in addition to other GHCF funding streams, such as the Community Building or Quarterly Impact Grants.
Grant awards typically range between $5,000 and $10,000, though requests outside this range are considered with prior discussion. Successful applications will demonstrate the strength and capacity of the applicant organization, their ability to manage funds responsibly, leverage other funding sources, and deliver programs with a lasting and positive impact on young children and the broader community.
Capital projects are eligible under the program but must include submitted bids and photographs at the time of application, and applicants must agree to a site visit. GHCF does not fund endowments, re-granting, deficit coverage, feasibility studies, strategic planning, or one-time activities (with the exception of school field trips). Religious organizations may apply, but their proposed projects must serve the broader community.
First-time applicants must contact the Foundation to schedule an introductory meeting before submitting their application. Final reports are required for all grantees and failure to submit a report will disqualify the organization from future funding.
Contact GHCF before applying if a first-time applicant. Capital projects must include bids and photos. Avoid submitting proposals for one-time activities or endowment-related work.
