Port of Oakland makes impact with community investment grants

55 organizations received funding so far in FY2025; more applications sought

Oakland, Calif. – December 16, 2024: What do a marsh trail project, an aviation-focused STEAM event, and an Indigenous health and cultural marketplace have in common? They all had Port of Oakland support. Since July 2024, the Port of Oakland has awarded nearly $200,000 in grants to local community organizations through its Community Investment Program. These quarterly grants of up to $5,000 are awarded to qualifying local non-profits throughout the fiscal year, running from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025.

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“The Port of Oakland has a longstanding commitment to investing in our local community, and our Community Investment Program is a key part of that effort,” said Matt Davis, Chief Public Engagement Officer at the Port of Oakland. “We’re proud to support organizations that are making a meaningful impact in our community and helping our neighbors thrive.”

The grant program prioritizes organizations working in the areas of Economic Vitality, Environmental Sustainability & Healthy Communities, and Workforce Development & Education. Recent recipients include:

• Ninth Root: Support for its “Sacred Spaces – A Damon Marsh Trail Project” which addresses cultural preservation, environmental restoration, mental wellness, and community engagement.
• Scientific Adventures for Girls: Received funding for its Aviation Science Family STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics) event, hosted at the Oakland Aviation Museum, which engaged nearly 350 participants, including girls, boys, and their families from the Oakland area.
• Native American Health Center: Funding for its Indigenous Red Market, a culturally informed initiative supporting Indigenous health services and providing an economic development opportunity for Indigenous entrepreneurs.

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“We are grateful to the Port of Oakland for their generous support,” said Natalie Aguilera, Chief Executive Officer of grant recipient Native American Health Center. “This helps support our mission to foster a thriving and sustainable health care delivery system serving California’s Bay Area Native Population and other underserved communities.”

The Port of Oakland encourages eligible organizations to apply for upcoming grant opportunities. The Winter 2025 application cycle will open on January 2, 2025, and closes on January 31, 2025. To qualify, applicants must:

• Be a current IRS 501(c)3 non-profit organization; or
• Identify a “fiscal sponsor” with 501(c)(3) status if they lack this designation

The application process is designed to be straightforward, ensuring accessibility for all eligible groups. Detailed information and application guidelines are available at

About the Port of Oakland

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The Port of Oakland generates vital economic activity, community benefits and environmental innovation, as the Port decarbonizes its operations for a cleaner and greener future. Along with its partners, the Port supports 98,345 jobs in the region and $174 billion in annual economic activity. The Port oversees the Oakland Airport, the Oakland Seaport and nearly 20 miles of waterfront including Jack London Square, and a publicly owned utility. The Port of Oakland is Everyone’s Port! Connect with the Port of Oakland and Oakland Airport through Facebook and Twitter, or with the Port on LinkedIn, YouTube, and at  www.portofoakland.com.

Media Contacts

Robert Bernardo
Port of Oakland
Communications Director
(510) 627-1401
[email protected]

Marilyn Sandifur
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Manager
(510) 627-1193
[email protected]

David DeWitt
Port of Oakland
Media/PR Specialist
(510) 627-1169
[email protected]