Kern Community Foundation provides the opportunity to apply for grants at various points during the year. We are committed to helping our community by offering different funding programs. To apply for grants, you need to submit your applications through our Online Grant Portal. You can access the portal by clicking the “Apply Online” buttons below. Remember, to apply for grants, you must first be registered with Kern Community Foundation. Below are the following grants that are accepting applications and information on other recurring grants.
Available Grants
Waterman Foundation
Waterman Foundation Rotary Club of Bakersfield Capital Grant Program – In 1984, the Waterman Foundation (Foundation) was established by the Bakersfield Downtown Rotary Club, providing scholarships to local students and grants for capital projects supporting local nonprofit organizations. Grants will be awarded only for capital projects and not for such items as operating expenses. For purposes of this grant, capital projects are defined as improvements to buildings or land, purchases of equipment, or upgrades to facilities.
Application Window: March 1 – May 1, 2024
At the moment, other grant opportunities are closed. In the meantime, we invite you to explore other resources and programs available on our website. You may find valuable information, educational materials, or events that can support your organization’s growth and impact.
Other Foundation Grants
The Women’s and Girls’ Fund (WGF)
WGF prioritizes requests designed to increase passion and enthusiasm for learning while addressing issues pertaining to Educational Attainment. At least $80,000 will be awarded to education, training programs, and projects for Kern County Women and Girls in 2024. All organizations seeking funds must have a presence in Kern County, benefit women and/or girls in Kern County, and meet Kern Community Foundation’s eligibility guidelines. For more information, visit their Community Initiative Page (Click Here)
The application window is currently closed and will reopen in 2025.
Upper Kern Fisheries (UKF)
A grantmaking initiative that supports conservation projects in the Upper Kern River Basin. In 2005, the UKF Enhancement Fund was established as a requirement of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s re-licensing of Southern California Edison’s Kern River Number 3 Hydroelectric Project. For more information, visit their Community Initiative Page here.
The application window is currently closed and will reopen in June 2024.
Kern River Valley Community Fund (KRVCF)
Kern River Valley Community Fund (KRVCF) – A regional initiative of Kern Community Foundation, the specific purpose of this permanently endowed fund is to receive philanthropic contributions and to distribute grants to provide solutions and build social, economic, and environmental prosperity in one of the most scenic yet underserved areas of Kern County. For more information, visit their Community Initiative Page (Click Here).
The application window is currently closed and will reopen in 2024.