PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Funding that helps meet real needs
As nonprofits face rising costs, growing demand, and greater pressure on resources, Microsoft is launching Community-First Grants to provide additional funding for projects that might otherwise be delayed or out of reach. The program will award 25 grants of up to $20,000 to eligible King County nonprofits that do not currently receive Microsoft grant funding. Grants can help organizations launch, expand, improve, or complete projects that support the services, spaces, and opportunities our communities rely on.
MICROSOFT IN WASHINGTON
Building on a long-standing commitment
Community-First Grants builds on Microsoft’s decades-long philanthropic commitment to Washington, including $1.9 billion in lifetime giving from Microsoft and its employees to nearly 13,000 nonprofits. The program creates another way to support the organizations, services, and community institutions that help our region thrive.
Four focus areas for stronger communities
Grants of $20,000 can help a nonprofit act on an immediate need or opportunity, making it possible to launch, expand, improve or complete a project that might otherwise be delayed or out of reach.
Community-First Grants will support projects across four focus areas:
- Civic Life – supporting connection, participation and vibrant community spaces
- Education & Workforce Development – expanding learning, skills and pathways to opportunity
- Housing, Human Services & Basic Needs – strengthening essential services and support for people and families
- Sustainability & Transportation – supporting more connected, sustainable communities
Eligibility requirements
- Must be a registered 501(c)(3) public charity in good standing
- Actively serves and operates within King County, Washington
- Nonprofits that have received or have been invited to receive Microsoft corporate grant funding in 2026 are not eligible for the Community-First Grants.
- Proposed project fits directly into one of our four key focus areas
Key dates & deadlines – Microsoft Community-First Grant
| Monday, Sept 21, 2026 | Applications open online |
| Sept 25 – Oct 16, 2026 | Recurring applicant office hours – 12:00 pm on 9/25, 10/2, 10/9, and 10/16 |
| Friday, Oct 23, 2026 | Applications close (Midnight PST) |
| Tuesday, Nov 3, 2026 | Grantees notified |
| Monday, Nov 9, 2026 | Celebratory event |
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about Community-First Grants, including eligibility, funding, projects, and the application process.
Who is eligible to apply?
Applicants must be a registered 501(c)(3) organization eligible through the Microsoft Employee Giving Program, serve King County. Nonprofits that have received or have been invited to receive Microsoft corporate grant funding in 2026 are not eligible for the Community-First Grants.
How much funding is available?
We plan to award 25 grants of $20,000 each.
What are the project requirements?
A project must address a clearly defined community need, align with the organization’s mission and expertise, demonstrate measurable outcomes and community impact, benefit underserved or economically disadvantaged populations where applicable, be achievable within the proposed timeline and budget, and show how funding will launch, expand, improve, or complete the project.
How do we apply?
Through the Microsoft Community-First Grant application form
Community-First Grants support projects with immediate, essential needs to strengthen our communities at a time when nonprofits are being asked to do more with less.”
Jane Broom, Senior Director
Microsoft Philanthropies