Big Sur Marathon Foundation Community Grants Program

Program Overview

The Big Sur Marathon Foundation Community Grants Program provides funding support to local nonprofit organizations through a competitive grant process overseen by the Development & Allocations Committee. The program focuses on special projects and initiatives – not routine operating expenses – that align clearly with BSMF’s mission of enriching and empowering the community through charitable giving and inspiring healthy lifestyles. By opening this opportunity to a broader pool of local nonprofits, BSMF can strategically invest in programs that strengthen community health, youth engagement, access to fitness, environmental stewardship, and social well-being.

Grant Cycle

• Application window open March 1 – May 1, 2027
• Committee review and funding recommendations – June-July 2027

Grant Award Amounts

• Minimum request: $500
• Maximum request: $25,000
• Awards may be partially funded at the committee’s discretion

Eligible Organizations

• IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations
• Organizations serving Monterey County and aligned with BSMF’s mission
• Schools and school-based programs are eligible with appropriate administrative support documentation

Eligible Projects

• Special programs, pilot initiatives, or one-time projects
• Program expansions or enhancements
• Projects that promote one of more of the following:
  • Youth fitness and physical activity
  • Community health and wellness
  • Access and inclusion
  • Environmental stewardship connected to healthy lifestyles

Application Requirement

Applicants must submit:

• 1-2 page project proposal, including:
  • Program description and goals
  • Community impact and population served
  • Alignment with BSMF mission
• Project budget outlining use of requested funds
• Letters of support, as applicable:
  • School administrator or district approval for school-based programs
  • Community partners or collaborators, if relevant
• Proof of 501(c)(3) status (IRS Letter of Determination)

All decisions of the board are final. Failure to receive a grant does not prohibit applicants from applying in future grant submission cycles.

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Congratulations to our 2026 Big Sur Marathon Foundation Community Grant recipients!

We are proud to support these outstanding organizations, whose innovative programs and dedication to serving Monterey County embody our mission to build a healthier, stronger community. We are honored to invest in your work and support your contined success!

2026 BSMF Community Grant Recipients
Al and Friends, Inc.
Big Sur Land Trust
Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County
Community Partnership for Youth (CPY)
Girls on the Run Central Coast Inc.
Jacob’s Heart Children’s Cancer Support Services
MEarth
Monterey Bay Power Over Parkinson's, Inc.
Monterey Peninsula Voices
Pacific Grove High School Track & Field Team
Rancho Cielo, Inc.
Sacred Heart School
Set Free Monterey Bay
University Corporation at Monterey Bay (CSUMB)
Ventana Wilderness Alliance
Ventana Wildlife Society
Year In Nature Development Program