Groups that strive to improve the quality of life for those who live, work and play in Rancho Bernardo can apply for up to $10,000 in grants that will be awarded later this year.
The grants are offered through the Rancho Bernardo Community Foundation.
“We’re committed to the financial of the Rancho Bernardo nonprofit organizations to build a vibrant community that benefits current and future residents,” said foundation President Debbie Kurth. “We want to improve the quality of life and meet emerging community needs by increasing responsible and effective philanthropy.”
Two types of grants are available.
For the Community Enhancement grant proposals, $1,500 to $10,000 is available for programs that demonstrate the power to build a more vibrant and civically engaged community, according to foundation officials.
Successful applicants will need to clearly show how their proposed projects address Rancho Bernardo-specific issues and needs and show how they will impact RB residents.
The RB Symphony on the Green Fund provides grants between $1,500 and $5,000 specifically for programs involving music.
Grant applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, June 16. The application and guidelines are at SDFoundation.org/apply. For questions, Trudy Armstrong at 619-764-8602 or [email protected].
The projects must be achievable within 12 months — from Dec. 1, 2025 through Nov. 30, 2026 — and have long-term sustainability prospects. Funding may be used to expand existing programs, replicate programs in other communities or launch new efforts. It must also be managed by a nonprofit organization, school or government agency. If the applicant does not have nonprofit status, it can have a nonprofit organization serve as its fiscal sponsor, according to the grant rules.
Proposals not eligible include annual campaigns and fundraising events, capital campaigns for buildings of facilities, stipends to attend conferences, endowments, projects that promote religious or political doctrine, research, scholarships or be used to pay for existing obligations or debt.
The foundation will present its 37th annual grants in November. Over the past 36 years it has awarded more than $1 million to over 150 nonprofits, officials said.
