[Beckman Foundation](https://www.beckman-foundation.org)

Rolling (submit at least 3 months before project start date)

No fixed limit; funding justified by project scope; projects typically completed within 1 year

Supports innovative STEM and STEAM projects for youth in Orange County, CA, emphasizing hands-on learning and organizational capacity building.

Only U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving Orange County youth (≤17 years) are eligible.

--- ## Description The Beckman Foundation’s Orange County Community Grants program funds organizations delivering innovative STEM and STEAM activities for youth within Orange County, California. These grants are designed for community-based projects, activities, or events that align with the Foundation’s mission to support young scientists and foster breakthrough discoveries. The Foundation prioritizes projects that introduce new initiatives or build organizational capacity, rather than providing ongoing support for existing programs. Example initiatives include hands-on science fairs, teacher training in STEM, and technology-driven STEAM engagement. --- ## Due Dates - Proposals are accepted on a rolling basis. - Applications must be submitted at least 3 months before the planned project start date. --- ## Funding Amount - No set minimum or maximum award; funding should be justified by the project’s scope and timeline. - Projects are typically expected to be completed within one year of funding. - Preference is given to proposals that serve as seed funding or build organizational capacity. --- ## Eligibility - Applicants must be U.S. nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations (or equivalent) serving youth (defined as individuals 17 years of age or younger) in Orange County, California. - Projects must take place within Orange County, CA. - Collaborative projects are allowed, but the lead organization must meet all eligibility criteria. - Grants are not awarded to non-U.S. organizations or institutions. - For projects based in Orange County high schools, applicants should apply to the Inspired Teacher Grant Program instead. --- ## Application Process - Proposals must be submitted by email as a PDF attachment (no file shares, downloads, or password protection) to kray@beckman-foundation.org. - Submission should include: - A letter of request (maximum 2 pages) addressing: - Project team and qualifications - Requested funding amount and budget justification - Project location and target audience - Project innovation and alignment with Foundation priorities - Implementation and evaluation plan - Capacity building or seed funding rationale - Contact information (name, email, phone) - Organization details (name, Federal Tax ID, IRS designation, website) - Use the [official checklist](https://www.beckman-foundation.org/documents/633/OC_Beckman_Community_Support_Grant_Request.pdf) as a guide. - Proposals are reviewed on a rolling basis; funding decisions are made twice per year (subject to change). - Mid- and post-project reporting is required. --- ## Additional Information - Projects must visibly acknowledge the Arnold and Mabel Beckman Foundation in all publicity. - Press releases, announcements, and social media must include the Foundation as Project Sponsor. - Awardees are encouraged to provide participatory opportunities for Foundation staff. - Use of generative AI tools in proposal preparation is permitted, but applicants are responsible for accuracy and ethical use. --- ## External Links - [Program Information & Guidelines](https://www.beckman-foundation.org/local-community-support/orange-county-ca-community-grants/) - [Checklist for Application Submission (PDF)](https://www.beckman-foundation.org/documents/633/OC_Beckman_Community_Support_Grant_Request.pdf) - [Beckman Foundation Home](https://www.beckman-foundation.org) --- ## Contact Information | Contact | Email | Phone | |------------------------|--------------------------------------------|-----------------| | Grants Administrator | kray@beckman-foundation.org | +1 949-531-0400 | | General Foundation | [Contact Page](https://www.beckman-foundation.org/contacts/) | |

Orange County, CA Community Grants

Sign in to see full grant listing