A smiling family of five wearing matching white

GRANTS

Our Approach

Monterey Peninsula Foundation operates a place-based, responsive grantmaking strategy that spans a broad range of ages and community needs. We seek to strengthen the web of services, programs, and support that contribute to healthy vibrant communities.

We often fund organizations over the longer-term, while keeping an eye on new opportunities to positively impact the region. Our policies are designed to help organizations capitalize on best practices in the field, but we aim to be flexible.

We view funding as a partnership. We acknowledge that each community served has different strengths and challenges, and we work to tailor our support accordingly. We 
realize that there are gaps that exist, and we care about filling the need in all the communities we serve.

Resources Have Questions?
Young adults collaborating on laptops and notes around a table in a modern classroom or co-working space, with a wall of colorful sticky notes in the background.

WHAT WE SUPPORT

Three counties, hundreds of nonprofits

Since its inception, Monterey Peninsula Foundation has given millions of dollars to support local nonprofits and schools in the tri-county area we serve. In 2025, the Foundation reached the charitable milestone of surpassing $250 million in lifetime giving.

LEARN WHAT WE SUPPORT
Five individuals, including representatives from human-I-T and AT&T, posing under an arbor with bags of tech during a community giveaway event.

GRANT CYCLES

Timeframe for Applying

Monterey Peninsula Foundation has two grant cycles each year. All applicants must select a Grant Cycle before applying. Grant Cycles are a strategic choice made by the agency and we ask that agencies take the time to think through their selection to
ensure it is a good fit.

Applicant Resources

Selecting an option will download a PDF file

  • Grant Portal Guide (PDF download)
  • Grant Application Guide (PDF download)
  • Grant Reporting Guide (PDF download)

For questions about the Online Portal or the application process, contact:

Grants Office: [email protected] or Call 831.649.1533

Need Assistance?

Application Process

For questions about the Online Portal or the application process, contact us at: [email protected] or 831.649.1533.

Eligibility

For guidance on whether a request would be eligible for support, contact:

Ambry Capistrano

Philanthropy Program Manager

[email protected] or 831.649.1533

Community Initiatives

For questions regarding giving strategies or community initiatives, contact:

Nancy Enterline

Vice President of Philanthropy

[email protected] or 831.649.1533

For resources on grant writing and other trainings, visit the Community Foundation for Monterey County’s Center for Nonprofit Excellence or the Community Foundation Santa Cruz County.