PEDIGREE Foundation – Program Development Grants (2026)
Grants for Dog Adoption Programs in Shelters and Rescues
PEDIGREE Foundation’s Program Development Grants provide funding for shelters and rescue organizations working to increase dog adoption rates through foster, behavior, and transport initiatives. These grants support both new and existing programs that directly improve adoption outcomes.
Organization: PEDIGREE Foundation
Support Type: Program grants
Geographic Focus: United States
About the Funder
PEDIGREE Foundation supports animal shelters and rescue organizations nationwide, with a focus on helping dogs find permanent, loving homes. Their funding prioritizes practical, results-driven programs that improve adoption rates and reduce shelter stays.
What This Program Supports
Program Development Grants fund initiatives that directly increase dog adoption rates, including:
- Foster Programs
Expanding foster networks and improving placement systems - Behavior Programs
Training and support services that address barriers to adoption - Transport Programs
Relocating dogs to areas with higher adoption demand
Both new initiatives and expansions of existing programs are eligible.
Eligible Support Types
- Programmatic funding for adoption-focused initiatives
- Expansion of existing foster, behavior, or transport programs
- New pilot programs that improve adoption outcomes
Eligibility & Preferences
Applicants must:
- Be a U.S.-based 501(c)(3) animal shelter or rescue organization
- Have at least two years of nonprofit status
- Maintain compliance with prior PEDIGREE Foundation grants (if applicable)
Municipal shelters must apply through a nonprofit partner.
Preference is given to programs that:
- Demonstrate measurable outcomes
- Address clear community needs
- Show potential for sustainability
Ineligible Requests
PEDIGREE Foundation will not fund:
- Veterinary care or medical-related expenses
- Capital projects or facility upgrades
- General operating expenses
- Event sponsorships or endowments
- Programs not directly tied to adoption outcomes
Funding Amounts
- $10,000 – $15,000 (one-year grants)
Timeline & Review
📅 Application Opens: March 2, 2026
📅 Application Deadline: April 13, 2026 (midnight CT)
📅 Awards Announced: Fall 2026
Application / Request Process
Applicants must submit:
- Program narrative with goals and measurable outcomes
- Financial documentation (990s, financial statements)
- Program budget
- Board and leadership information
Selected applicants may receive an on-site visit as part of the evaluation process.
Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.pedigreefoundation.org/shelters-grant/
Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit
This opportunity is a strong fit for organizations that:
- Are looking to expand or strengthen adoption-focused programs
- Need flexible funding for program development
- Serve communities with high shelter populations
- Can demonstrate clear, measurable impact
Corporate Grants Guide Notes
Review Type: Competitive
Typical Lead Time: 1–2 months
Best Suited For: Small to mid-sized shelters and rescues expanding adoption programs
New to corporate grant fundraising?
Read our Corporate Grants for Nonprofits: Ultimate Guide to learn how corporate funding works.
