Our Grants
Through three grant programs, Collins funds arts and culture, child welfare and development, education, environmental protection, health equity, and a broad range of efforts to enhance the quality of life in Oregon’s communities.
A central priority for the Foundation is to advance diversity, equity and inclusion through our grantmaking. We support organizations at various stages in their pursuit of equity. Many successful grantseekers will have made efforts to learn about the root causes of social inequities, are actively thinking about how racial equity informs their work and operations, or have implemented policies and practices to advance diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Basic Eligibility
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Organizations with staff and leadership in Oregon and a proposed project or scope of work that directly benefits the residents of Oregon.
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Collins recognizes that Tribal boundaries exist beyond state borders. We accept proposals from Tribal organizations whose work directly benefits Oregon residents.
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We will partner with organizations with documented non-discrimination policies that guarantee equal opportunity for all persons regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, sexual orientation and gender identity, age, disability, or any other legally protected status.
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Organizations recognized by the IRS as a public charity described in Section 501(c)(3), or state, local or Tribal governmental units described in Section 170(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code are eligible for Collins Foundation grants. A fiscally-sponsored project may be eligible for funding if it has a fiscal sponsorship agreement with a qualifying public charity.
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Organizations with at least four independent board members. An “independent board member” is a board member who does not serve as staff for the organization.
Collins does not fund
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We do not fund religious activities advocating for or promoting religious beliefs. Organizations that require commitment or participation in religious/faith beliefs as a condition of service delivery or employment are not eligible for grants from The Collins Foundation.
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Collins does not fund school day activities for public schools (K-12 through higher education) and charter schools. Private K-12 schools that charge tuition are generally not eligible for funding.
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Collins does not fund higher education institutions directly. An exception is made when the higher education institution serves as a fiscal sponsor for a community driven program or project.
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Hospitals in urban areas within large healthcare systems. Programs supporting animal welfare and research, organizations or programs addressing chronic diseases for the general public, programs primarily focused on sports, or individual scholarships.
GO Grants
Black Equity Movement
Oregon Immigrant & Refugee Funders Collaborative
Partnership Alignment Screener
Applying for a grant from The Collins Foundation begins with our Partnership Alignment Screener. This process helps us understand how organizations across Oregon are advancing equity and justice through their unique approaches. The screener will give us a brief understanding of your organization and highlight areas where our funding strategies align.
Grants Awarded
Since 1947, The Collins Foundation has awarded over $310 million in grants to nonprofits serving Oregonians. We continue fund organizations aligned with our Equity Commitment.
ABOUT US
Collins is a family foundation making a long-term commitment to an equitable and just future for Oregon’s lands and people.
OUR GRANTS
Access our Partnership Alignment Screener and learn about our grantmaking programs.
NEWS & STORIES
The latest news about our grantees, grantmaking, and partnerships across Oregon.