Funder: Beckman Foundation
Due Dates: Rolling (submit at least 3 months before project start)
Funding Amounts: Award size is project-dependent; projects are typically completed within one year. Funding must be justified by project scope.
Summary: Supports innovative STEM/STEAM projects for youth in Orange County, CA, with a focus on hands-on learning and technology engagement.
Key Information: Open to U.S. nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations serving Orange County, CA; proposals accepted by email and reviewed on a rolling basis.
Description
The Beckman Foundation’s Local Community Support Grants fund organizations delivering innovative STEM/STEAM activities for youth (17 years or younger) in Orange County, California. The program aims to foster curiosity, hands-on learning, and technology engagement among young scientists, supporting projects that align with the Foundation’s mission of enabling tomorrow’s breakthrough discoveries. Projects may include community-based events, educational programs, or capacity-building initiatives, and should demonstrate innovation and measurable positive outcomes in at least one of the Foundation’s priority areas.
Due Dates
- Proposals are accepted and reviewed on a rolling basis.
- Applications must be submitted at least 3 months prior to the planned project start date.
Funding Amount
- No fixed award amount; funding is determined by the scope and justification of the proposed project.
- Projects are typically completed within one year of funding.
- Preference is given to projects that build organizational capacity or seed new programs, rather than ongoing support for existing programs.
Eligibility
- Applicants must be U.S. nonprofit 501(c)3 organizations (or equivalent) serving youth in Orange County, California.
- Projects must be located within Orange County, CA.
- Collaborative projects are allowed, but a lead eligible organization must be specified.
- The Foundation does not fund non-U.S. organizations or institutions.
Application Process
- Submit a project proposal by email to the Foundation (see Contact Information below).
- Proposals must address:
- Team members and their qualifications
- Use of funds
- Geographic area and target audience served
- Project innovation and alignment with Foundation aims
- Implementation and evaluation plans
- How the project addresses one or more Foundation funding priorities
- Include a budget justification, organization name, Federal Tax ID, IRS designation, website, and contact details.
- The Foundation will review proposals, request clarifications if needed, and communicate funding decisions after final review.
- Mid- and post-project reporting is required.
Additional Information
- The Foundation’s logo must be included on all project publicity, press releases, and social media.
- Awardees are expected to recognize the Foundation and provide opportunities for Foundation staff participation.
- The Foundation supports the ethical use of generative AI tools in proposal development and project work, with accountability remaining with the applicant.
External Links
Contact Information