NorCalPCA Grants Program

The Northern California Peace Corps Association (NorCalPCA) administers a Grants Program that supports grassroots community development projects around the globe. Funding for this program is generated independently from NorCalPCA’s general donations and membership dues. A significant portion of the funding also comes from the sale of International Calendars. The initiative aims to foster sustainable, community-driven development efforts that embody the spirit and values of the Peace Corps. By emphasizing the importance of local initiative, collaboration, and mutual benefit, the program supports both international and domestic projects with clear community engagement and measurable impact. NorCalPCA prioritizes grant proposals that involve significant local commitment, including contributions such as volunteer labor, local resources, and in-kind support. While there is no set minimum or maximum funding amount, most grants awarded typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, depending on project scope and available funds. Applications are evaluated on their ability to meet various criteria, including technical and economic feasibility, environmental sensitivity, gender and social equity, and potential for knowledge transfer and self-sufficiency. Projects may include full funding for total project costs, support for start-up activities, or expansion of existing initiatives. However, funding is not available for individual scholarships or general operating expenses of organizations. To apply, interested parties must submit a complete proposal via email to Grants@NorCalPCA.org by August 31. Required application materials include organization details (including U.S. contact information if the organization is based abroad), sponsor contact details from a NorCalPCA member, a narrative of the organization’s mission, goals, and funding history, a detailed project description, timeline, personnel responsibilities, and a comprehensive project budget showing the amount requested and how the funds will be transmitted. The project description must specifically demonstrate how it aligns with NorCalPCA’s selection criteria. Submissions are limited to 10 pages in total. Eligible applicants include Returned Peace Corps Volunteers (RPCVs) and current Peace Corps Volunteers with ties to Northern California. Although not strictly limited to these individuals, NorCalPCA encourages RPCVs to sponsor or participate in grant applications. The program is not open to applicants seeking ongoing operating costs or personal education funding. Proposals must emphasize measurable impact and sustainability, showcasing how the project will either continue independently or phase out over time. In 2024, NorCalPCA funded five projects, allocating a total of $19,346.20. Recipients included Plenty International in Guatemala, African Library Project in Lesotho, Mali Kalanso in Mali, OPRDSL in Sierra Leone, and South Sudan Leadership and Community Development in Uganda. These projects ranged in focus from nutritional support and education to beekeeping and economic empowerment initiatives. Each was endorsed by a NorCalPCA member and exemplified the grant program’s emphasis on sustainable, community-led development. For questions or further guidance, applicants can reach NorCalPCA at grants@norcalpca.org or by mail at PO Box 2547, San Francisco, CA 94126, USA. The final application deadline is August 31. The grant does not operate on a rolling basis, but it does recur annually. Based on this, the next expected application cycle will begin in August 2026. Applicants should check back in July 2026 for updated information.

Projects should aim for sustainability, be environmentally and socially sensitive, and promote knowledge transfer and community benefit.