Grant and Funding Programs Offered by The McGrath Family Foundation

The McGrath Family Foundation is a family-led philanthropic organization headquartered in Santa Barbara, California. Created in 2025 by Christian and Angie McGrath and their children, the foundation provides financial grants to tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organizations that are developing innovative and sustainable solutions for underserved populations in the Santa Barbara region. Its grantmaking is concentrated in Santa Barbara County, with particular attention to smaller organizations and issues of access and equity.

The foundation structures its giving around several program areas rather than one-off donations. In youth development, it supports nonprofits that help young people build academic, social and emotional skills, with an emphasis on out-of-school time programming and real-world learning experiences. In arts and culture, it partners with cultural institutions to expand access to artistic and cultural programming and to promote the arts as an essential component of vibrant communities. In health and wellness, it backs organizations improving equitable access to healthy food, recreational spaces, health care and mental health services, helping reduce disparities and bridge service gaps.

Grantseeking organizations begin with a Letter of Inquiry (LOI), which can be submitted by email at any time during the year. LOIs are reviewed on a rolling basis to determine alignment with the foundation’s guidelines. Organizations whose LOIs are approved are then invited to submit a full proposal, with decisions typically issued within 30–45 days of receipt. First-time grant requests are advised not to exceed a specified amount, and the foundation funds both project-based and general operating support.

Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits that have been in existence for more than a year. The foundation generally does not fund individuals, governmental entities, or religious organizations. Grantees are asked to provide a short report at the end of their 12‑month grant period describing outcomes and use of funds.

The McGrath Family Foundation emphasizes respectful, responsive and transparent relationships with applicants and grantees. It commits to prompt, courteous communication, honest feedback on how requests align with its philanthropic goals, and continued support for grantee organizations after funding decisions are made. Through its focused portfolio in youth, arts, and health, and its geographic emphasis on Santa Barbara County, the foundation seeks to strengthen families and communities and improve quality of life for underserved residents.