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WaFd Bank Foundation Grants

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Community-Based Funding for Organizations Serving Low- and Moderate-Income Communities

The WaFd Bank Foundation provides direct financial support to community-based nonprofit organizations that primarily serve low- and moderate-income (LMI) individuals and families. Through monthly grantmaking, the Foundation invests in programs that address basic needs, promote financial stability, and strengthen local economic opportunity in communities where WaFd Bank operates.

Organization

WaFd Bank Foundation

Support Type

Charitable grants

Geographic Focus

Communities located near WaFd Bank branches

About the Funder

The WaFd Bank Foundation’s mission is to facilitate direct giving to nonprofits that improve financial stability and quality of life for LMI populations. The Foundation prioritizes locally driven solutions and encourages applications from organizations closely connected to the communities they serve.

Grant Opportunities & Funding Levels

Community Service Micro Grants

💰 $1,000 – $5,000

Supports programs addressing immediate needs and foundational stability, including:

  • Emergency housing and rental assistance
  • Utility assistance
  • Clothing, toiletries, and household items
  • Food access and nutrition programs
  • Childcare and crisis services
  • Basic skills training and independent living support
  • Social services addressing urgent community needs

Community Impact Grants

💰 $5,000 – $20,000

Supports larger-scale initiatives focused on long-term community stability and economic mobility:

Affordable Housing

  • Permanent, affordable, and sustainable housing for LMI populations
  • Single- and multi-family housing development

Economic Development

  • Small business development programs in LMI areas
  • Preference for businesses owned by women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, minority, and immigrant individuals
  • Businesses with gross revenue of $1 million or less

Community Revitalization

  • Programs that stabilize neighborhoods
  • Efforts to attract or retain jobs, businesses, and housing

Job Development

  • Apprenticeships
  • Workforce training and employment education
  • Programs supporting access to living-wage jobs

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible, organizations must:

  • Be a valid 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization operating for at least 12 calendar months
  • Primarily serve low- and moderate-income communities or populations
  • Be located near a WaFd Bank branch
  • Submit required documentation, including:
    • IRS determination letter
    • Most recent Form 990
    • Audited financial statements (if revenue exceeds $1M)
    • Current operating budget
    • Project budget
    • Board of directors list
    • W-9 for fund disbursement
    • Letter of support from a WaFd Bank employee (strongly encouraged)

Ineligible Requests

Due to limited funding and giving guidelines, the WaFd Bank Foundation does not fund:

  • Medical endeavors: research, treatment, uncompensated care, or medical fundraisers
  • Animal welfare: shelters, humane societies, treatment, or care programs
  • Arts and culture: unless directly tied to job training or employment for LMI populations
  • Fundraisers, events, or sponsorships

Timeline & Review

📅 Review Schedule: Applications reviewed monthly
📅 Grant Type: Rolling consideration

Application Process

Eligible organizations must submit an application through the WaFd Bank Foundation’s online portal and include all required documentation.

Apply / Learn More:
➡️ https://www.wafdbank.com/about-us/wafd-bank-foundation

Why This Opportunity Is a Good Fit

This grant program is well suited for nonprofits that:

  • Serve low- and moderate-income populations
  • Operate near WaFd Bank branches
  • Focus on housing stability, financial literacy, workforce development, or basic needs
  • Can demonstrate strong local impact and community connection

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