Columbia Bank Community Grant Program

The Columbia Bank Foundation, recognized as one of the largest private corporate foundations in New Jersey, focuses on addressing the needs of local communities through philanthropic investment. With a mission centered on impactful service, the Foundation seeks partnerships with non-profit, civic, and charitable organizations that deliver innovative programs fostering measurable improvements in the lives of residents within Columbia Bank’s service areas. Emphasizing corporate citizenship, the Foundation prioritizes initiatives that uplift underserved populations, especially low- and moderate-income individuals and communities. The Community Grant Program is designed to support a broad range of service areas that align with the Foundation’s core focus. These areas include Community Investment and Economic Development, Financial Literacy and Education, Health and Human Services, Food Insecurity, Environmental Sustainability, and The Arts. Through this program, eligible organizations can apply for grants ranging from $7,501 to $15,000. Funding may be used for capital improvements and other direct program expenses that are integral to an organization’s mission. While multi-year funding is not typically awarded, the Foundation may consider such proposals under specific circumstances. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt public charities under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and organizations must have operated for a minimum of three years. Special consideration is given to entities previously funded through the tithing program of Atlantic Stewardship Bank. Ineligible entities include private foundations, individuals, political organizations or campaigns, and those primarily focused on influencing legislation. The Community Grant Program operates on a quarterly cycle, with submission deadlines set for January 15, April 15, July 15, and October 15 each year. The Foundation Board evaluates proposals quarterly, and only one grant proposal per organization is accepted within a twelve-month period. Proposals must be submitted electronically, although accommodations may be made for applicants who require assistance with digital access. Required documentation includes IRS determination letters, recent 990s, detailed project budgets, operating budgets, and governance materials. Grant recipients must comply with reporting requirements, including progress updates and, where applicable, contracts. Organizations seeking support are encouraged to review program guidelines before applying. For further inquiries, applicants may contact the Foundation at [email protected] or reach out to Julie Holland at 201-794-5629. The application portal and additional program details can be found at the Foundation’s official website.

Only complete, electronically submitted applications will be considered; applicants may only submit one proposal per 12-month period.