Port of Oakland Community Investment Program in California

The Port of Oakland’s Community Investment Program offers quarterly grant opportunities of up to $5,000 to nonprofit organizations serving communities within its Local Impact Area (Oakland, Alameda, Emeryville, and San Leandro) and Local Business Area (Alameda and Contra Costa counties). Originally approved in July 2015 by the Oakland Board of Port Commissioners, this program is part of the Port’s long-term commitment to supporting economic vitality, environmental sustainability, and workforce development within the region it operates. Grants must align with one or more of the program’s three funding priority areas. The **Economic Vitality** category supports initiatives that help small businesses thrive, create jobs, and expand technical assistance efforts for local business development. The **Environmental Sustainability and Healthy Communities** category focuses on clean air, water, energy conservation, and other public health and environmental education activities. Lastly, **Workforce Development and Education** grants support programs that prepare individuals for careers in port-related industries, such as construction, logistics, aviation, and STEM fields. The Port operates on a quarterly grant cycle, with four application windows each year. The upcoming cycle for Fall 2025 opens on October 1, 2025, and closes on October 31, 2025. Award notifications are made by November 30, and funding is disbursed in mid-December. The review period is approximately 30 days after submission, and grantees typically receive funds about two weeks after award announcements. Applications must be submitted online. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Organizations without this status must work with a fiscal sponsor. Grants are strictly for public benefit and are not available for individuals, political activity, or for-profit initiatives. Successful applicants are required to submit final reports demonstrating the impact of the funded activities. For more information or questions, applicants may contact Luana España, Community Affairs Representative for the Port of Oakland. The program underscores the Port’s commitment to uplifting the social, environmental, and economic fabric of the East Bay region through targeted community investment.

Apply early in the quarterly cycle; ensure alignment with funding priorities and geographic eligibility.