OceanFirst Foundation’s grant programs are designed to embrace the diversity of the communities we serve.

We welcome requests from qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations that demonstrate a strong record of service and impact within one or more counties in the OceanFirst Foundation footprint: Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, Cumberland, Gloucester, Mercer, Middlesex, Monmouth, Ocean, Somerset, and Union.

Organizations located outside this service area and/or not previously funded, must contact the Foundation to confirm eligibility before applying. Additionally, prior grantees must have all Use of Funds Reports up to date; we cannot consider a new request from organizations with overdue reports.  

Funding Priorities That Drive Community Impact

To maximize community impact, applicant missions should align with at least one of OceanFirst Foundation’s funding priorities:

• Advancing Economic Stability and Mobility
• Empowering the Next Generation
• Improving Health and Wellness
• Investing in Higher Education
• Supporting Housing Solutions

Any organization that discriminates based on race, color, national or ethnic origin, sex, age, disability, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, veteran status or other factors protected by law are ineligible is ineligible for funding. Some grant programs may include additional eligibility requirements; applicants are encouraged to review all program guidelines carefully. 

What We Cannot Fund

To ensure fairness, compliance, and mission alignment, OceanFirst Foundation does not provide funding for:

• Athletic teams, athletic events, or sports leagues
• Individuals
• Organizations not exempt under Section 501(c)(3), with limited exceptions for volunteer fire and first-aid squads with 504 (c)(4) status
• Organizations not compliant with the New Jersey charitable registration requirements
• Political causes, candidates, campaigns, or lobbying organizations 
• Primarily religious programs such as faith-based indoctrination, church construction, or general offerings. We may consider funding faith-based organizations when programs directly serve the broader community (e.g., soup kitchens, shelters, social services)
• Research initiatives
• Travel-related requests including student trips or tours

A Fair, Accessible, and Inclusive Application Process

All grant requests must be submitted through the OceanFirst Foundation Online Grant Request Portal, along with required supporting documents. We believe equitable access is essential, which is why we encourage any organization facing barriers—such as limited technology access or support needs—to reach out. Our team is committed to helping ensure all eligible nonprofits have the opportunity to participate fully in our grantmaking process.