Southern Monterey County Foundation Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

The Southern Monterey County Foundation (SMCF) offers grants to organizations that serve the communities of Southern Monterey County, specifically King City and all points south, excluding the coastal region. The foundation's mission is to support nonprofit organizations with strong leadership and the capacity to provide essential community resources and services. This grant program directly aligns with SMCF's mission by channeling funds to local initiatives that address critical needs within its defined service area. The target beneficiaries of these grants are residents and communities in Southern Monterey County. The impact goals include measurable improvements in identified community needs, the establishment of new community programs, and the expansion of existing ones that tackle high-priority issues. The SMCF aims to foster stronger, more resilient communities by investing in projects and programs that yield tangible benefits for the local population. In 2020, the foundation prioritized specific types of requests. These include funding for specific projects or one-time costs designed to produce a measurable impact on an identified community need. Additionally, grants are given to establish or expand community programs that address high-priority community issues or needs. These priorities reflect the SMCF's strategic focus on outcomes-based funding and its commitment to addressing pressing local challenges. Eligibility for these grants extends to 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations, public programs (such as schools, parks, and public health initiatives), and church-sponsored activities that benefit a broader community beyond their own membership. Organizations and collaboratives that are not legally incorporated can also apply, provided they have a 501(c)3 fiscal sponsor. The foundation's strategic priorities include supporting a diverse range of organizations capable of delivering impactful services, emphasizing fiscal responsibility through the fiscal sponsor requirement for unincorporated groups. The expected outcomes of the SMCF grant program are positive and measurable changes in Southern Monterey County communities. This includes addressing specific community needs, fostering the growth of vital community programs, and enhancing the overall well-being of residents. The foundation's theory of change appears to be that by strategically investing in projects and programs with clear objectives and measurable results, it can empower local organizations to drive meaningful and sustainable improvements in the region.