Clif Family Foundation Open Call Grants

The Clif Family Foundation Open Call Grants Program provides general operating support to nonprofit organizations that are creating long-term, community-driven solutions to environmental, food system, and public health challenges. Rather than funding short-term projects alone, the foundation primarily invests in organizations whose overall mission aligns with its priorities and demonstrates measurable impact at the grassroots level. Typical grant awards range from US$5,000 to US$50,000 for a one-year grant period.

Funding Priorities

The foundation supports organizations working in one or more of the following areas:

1. Sustainable Food Systems

Organizations that are:

• Expanding regenerative and organic agriculture.
• Strengthening local and regional food systems.
• Improving food security through systemic change rather than emergency food distribution.
• Supporting farmers, food workers, and food justice initiatives.
• Promoting equitable access to healthy, nutritious food.

2. Environmental Protection & Climate Action

Projects that:

• Protect natural ecosystems and biodiversity.
• Advance climate resilience and climate justice.
• Reduce pollution affecting communities.
• Promote sustainable land and water management.
• Encourage community-led environmental stewardship.

3. Community Health & Well-being

Initiatives that:

• Improve physical and mental health through healthier environments.
• Increase access to safe outdoor spaces for recreation and physical activity.
• Address environmental health hazards and toxic exposure.
• Improve living and working conditions for vulnerable communities.

The foundation particularly values organizations addressing the root causes of social and environmental problems instead of providing temporary relief.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants are most competitive when they meet the following requirements:

Organizational Status

Applicants must:

• Be a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, or
• Be fiscally sponsored by a qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofit.

Geographic Focus

Organizations should primarily operate within:

• The United States.
• U.S. territories.

Community-Based Approach

Successful applicants typically:

• Have strong relationships with the communities they serve.
• Demonstrate meaningful local engagement.
• Involve community members in designing and implementing solutions.
• Show evidence of grassroots leadership rather than top-down programming.

Organizational Size

Preference is given to organizations with:

• Annual operating budgets below US$8 million.

Grassroots Impact

Competitive organizations generally:

• Implement practical, community-driven solutions.
• Influence change at the local, state, or national level.
• Demonstrate measurable outcomes.
• Have a clear strategy for creating long-term systemic impact.

Alignment with Foundation Values

Applicants should demonstrate alignment with the foundation's commitment to:

• Environmental sustainability.
• Social justice.
• Community empowerment.
• Equity and inclusion.
• Long-term systems change.
• Collaborative leadership.

Activities and Organizations Not Typically Funded

The foundation generally does not support:

• Capital construction or building projects.
• Deficit reduction or debt repayment.
• Endowments.
• Fundraising events or sponsorships.
• Individuals.
• Government agencies.
• Chapters of national organizations without strong local autonomy.
• Faith-based organizations whose primary purpose is religious.
• Academic after-school programs.
• Traditional food banks unless they are driving broader food systems change.
• Medical research institutions or hospitals.
• Product donations or commercial ventures.

Characteristics of Strong Applications

Organizations are generally more competitive if they can demonstrate:

• A proven record of community impact.
• Strong partnerships within the communities they serve.
• Innovative solutions addressing systemic challenges.
• Clear evidence of measurable outcomes.
• Financial sustainability.
• Diverse leadership and inclusive governance.
• Programs that can influence policy, practice, or broader systems—not just deliver services.