FUNDING FOR REAL CHANGE

Through our strategic grantmaking process, Central Florida Foundation identifies organizations and initiatives that are truly transforming our community. This funding empowers them to launch new programs, build on the success of current efforts, and expand innovative solutions to create an even greater impact. We select recipients and determine funding amounts carefully. Our goal is to maximize the impact of every donor’s dollar. We understand that in the right hands, any grant amount has the potential to make a great impact.

Open Grant cycles:

Grants will focus on building infrastructure and capability for grassroots nonprofits. Infrastructure and capability may include efforts to improve governance, financial management, fundraising and development, program evaluation, technology, and continuous learning.
This year, we are looking for organizations working in human services, education, veterans, food security, Alzheimer’s, youth development, and health and well-being.

Award amount: $5,000

Eligibility:

  • Must self-identify as a grassroots organization
  • Must have been in operation for more than 1 year
  • Must have raised at least $5,000
  • Annual revenue under $250,000
  • Must serve residents of Central Florida
We are continuing the option to add video to the Grassroots Grants Application. In lieu of writing your responses, you’ll be able to create and upload a video detailing your response. Be sure to address all components to the questions, as your video response will be evaluated the same as a written application would be. Your video should be no longer than 4 minutes. Oral and written applications will be rated the same. There is no preference!
How to apply (starting June 1, 2026):
  1. Sign into your MyGrant portal. If your organization has applied to a grant through our MyGrant portal before, please sign in using your existing login. If you are unsure who in your organization has access to the MyGrant login or you have never used the portal, please contact Alissa Mahadeo at amahadeo@cffound.org.
  2. Use passcode CI2026 to access application.
  3. Application closes on July 31, 2026.

 

 

The Frank R. Ethridge Nursing Education Fund at CFF is open for applications.
About the grant:
The Frank R. Etheridge Nursing Education Fund provides educational assistance to men and women currently working in hospice care at the registered nurse level, as well as those who aspire to enter this field. For 2026, a total of $40,000 will be awarded.
Eligible applicants include organizations with 501(c)(3) status, as well as educational and healthcare institutions. Please note that this grant is awarded exclusively to nonprofit organizations and is not available to individuals.
Timeline
  • June 1, 2026 – Application opens
  • July 31, 2026 (11:59 p.m. EST) – Application deadline
  • August 31, 2026 – Notification of award recipients
How to Apply:
  1. Sign into your MyGrant portal. If your organization has applied to a grant through our MyGrant portal before, please sign in using your existing login. If you are unsure who in your organization has access to the MyGrant login or you have never used the portal, please contact Alissa Mahadeo at amahadeo@cffound.org.
  2. Use passcode HOSPICE26 to access application.
  3. Application closes July 31, 2026.

We’re looking for your bright ideas to better Winter Park!
About the grant:
Our Winter Park Community Grants, a signature initiative of the Winter Park Community Foundation at Central Florida Foundation, seeks to award five one-time capability building and/or programmatic grants to 501c3 organizations serving Winter Park, FL.
Two categories of grants will be awarded this year:
  • (3) grants for up to $25,000 (Organizations must have over $250,000 in annual revenue)
  • (2) grants for up to $10,000 (Organizations must have an annual revenue of $50,000 – $250,0000)
Our primary focus this year is unique projects that can increase the capability of your nonprofit or its programs to increase human services, education, health, arts, environment, and/or economic stability for your constituents.  Requests can include but are not limited to technology, program materials, staff training, and community collaboration.  The grant does not need to cover the full cost of the project.
Timeline
  • August 17, 2026 – Application opens
  • September 18, 2026 (11:59 p.m. EST) – Application deadline
  • Early November 2026 – Notification of award recipients
How to Apply:
  1. Sign into your MyGrant portal. If your organization has applied to a grant through our MyGrant portal before, please sign in using your existing login. If you are unsure who in your organization has access to the MyGrant login or you have never used the portal, please contact Alissa Mahadeo at amahadeo@cffound.org.
  2. Use passcode WP2026 to access application.
  3. Application closes September 18, 2026.

Questions? We're here for you.

If you are seeking crisis assistance, please connect with our local United Way by calling 2-1-1 or (407) 839-4357. We do not provide grants to individuals.

Alissa Mahadeo
Community Investment Manager
amahadeo@cffound.org

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Central Florida Foundation

800 North Magnolia Avenue, Suite 1700
Orlando, FL 32803
p. 407.872.3050

© 2026 Central Florida Foundation

Central Florida Foundation does not intentionally solicit or accept donations from foreign sources of concern as defined by the State of Florida.