Nonprofit Strengthening Initiative

Nonprofit Strengthening Initiative is sponsored by Kern Community Foundation. Supports nonprofits in Kern County to increase visibility, capacity, and sustainability through collaboration and training.

Available Grants - Kern Community Foundation Available Grants - Kern Community Foundation Kern Community Foundation allows you to apply for grants at various points during the year. We are committed to helping our community by offering different funding programs. You need to submit your applications through our Online Grant Portal to apply for grants.

You can access the portal by clicking the “Login Grant Portal” buttons below. Remember, to apply for grants, you must first be registered with Kern Community Foundation. Below are the following grants accepting applications and information on other recurring grants.

Nonprofit Registration Information Upper Kern Fisheries (UKF) There are currently no other grant opportunities available. In the meantime, we invite you to explore other resources and programs on our website. You may find valuable information, educational materials, or events that can support your organization’s growth and impact.

In response to the Borel Fire in the Kern River Valley, the Kern Community Foundation has activated the Borel Fire Relief Fund. The fund may receive gifts from individuals, corporations, and private foundations.

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) . We are not accepting applications right now. The next opportunity will be in Fall 2026.

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 $100,000 will be awarded to education, training programs, and projects for Kern County Women and Girls in 2026.

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) We are not accepting applications right now. The next opportunity will be in Fall 2026.

Kern Community Foundation Farmworkers Grant Kern Community Foundation is offering grants to eligible nonprofits to support unemployed and employed farmworkers. The maximum award is $50,000. Each year, Kern Community Foundation will grant no less than $100,000.

To learn more about the Kern Community Foundation Farmworkers Grant (Click Here) . The next opportunity will be in spring 2027. 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: 3/1/2027 – 5/1/2027 In response to the Borel Fire in the Kern River Valley, the Kern Community Foundation has activated the Borel Fire Relief Fund.

The fund may receive gifts from individuals, corporations, and private foundations. Need help getting connected to community resources? One of our Connected Community Network Coordinators will connect you to the resources you request.

Catholic Charities June Food Distribution 2026 Catholic Charities of Bakersfield emPOWERment Grateful Gala Get updates about Kern Community Foundation’s work and how you can be involved.