The HarborOne Foundation, serving the Rhode Island community, operates with a mission to strengthen and empower individuals and families by investing in impactful nonprofit organizations. Since its establishment, the Foundation has contributed over $1.5 million to local Rhode Island nonprofits, a total that includes previous contributions from the former Coastway Cares Charitable Foundation. The Foundation prioritizes community-based efforts that create lasting positive change, particularly in underserved populations.

The Foundation’s investment areas focus on educational opportunities, safe and affordable housing, and basic human services. Education grants aim to support economic mobility by helping individuals build assets and skills. Affordable housing grants target access to safe, clean, and reasonably priced living environments. Basic human services grants assist organizations in meeting immediate needs while working toward long-term solutions for economically challenged populations.

Grant awards typically range from $5,000 to $50,000. Nonprofit organizations must be 501(c)(3) entities, have a demonstrable local impact, and align with HarborOne’s investment focus areas. Additionally, eligible applicants must primarily serve low- to moderate-income individuals and families within the HarborOne service area, with a geographic preference for Greater Providence and surrounding communities.

The Foundation does not support individual applicants, political or religious activities, animal causes, sports teams, promotional merchandise, lobbying groups, or organizations that use fiscal agents. Funding types include general operating grants, program grants, and, on a selective basis, capital grants and campaigns. Each organization may receive funding once per calendar year.

Applications are reviewed biannually by the Foundation’s Board of Directors. The first cycle opens on March 1 with a deadline of May 1, and award decisions are made in early July. The second cycle opens on August 1 with a deadline of October 1, and decisions are announced in early November. The application process is fully online, requiring completion of an eligibility quiz, detailed organizational and program information, and specific supporting documents such as IRS determination letters, W-9s, budgets, audited financials, Form 990s, and executive CVs.

Applicants may contact the Foundation at Foundation@HarborOne.Com with questions regarding eligibility before beginning the application. The online platform allows applicants to create accounts, save work, and track the status of applications and follow-up requirements.