Microsoft launches $1 million Community-First Grants to support nonprofits - Source

September 21, 2026 Category: Company News Microsoft launches $1 million Community-First Grants to support nonprofits New program to award organizations dedicated to building a thriving community   Microsoft Source REDMOND, Wash. — September 21, 2026 — Microsoft today announced the launch of Community-First Grants, a new program that will award $1 million worth of grants to nonprofits in Washington state that are working to meet crucial needs in their communities. The first round of applications will be accepted through October 23, 2026, via the Community-First Grants page and is open to King County-based organizations. Nonprofits deliver the services, spaces and opportunities needed to help King County communities thrive. Microsoft’s Community-First Grants are designed to make more of that work happen, immediately providing funding for projects that might otherwise be delayed or out of reach at a time when many nonprofits are managing rising costs, growing demand and greater pressure on resources. Recent surveys show 66% of nonprofits have concerns about their organization’s financial stability, and nearly 75% have experienced increased demand for services. 1 “Nonprofits serve as the backbone for much of King County, bringing people together and delivering resources to improve the quality of life,” said Jane Broom, senior director of Microsoft Philanthropies. “Community-First Grants won’t solve every challenge nonprofits face, but it will support projects with immediate, essential needs to strengthen our communities at a time when nonprofits are being asked to do more with less.” The Community-First Grants will help nonprofits launch, expand, improve or complete projects that benefit their communities. Example projects could include repairing or modernizing a facility to serve more youth or seniors, or establishing and expanding transitional housing for families experiencing homelessness. The grant is part of Microsoft’s ongoing commitment to invest in the organizations and institutions that help Washington communities thrive, and the company expects to expand the program in the years ahead. To date, Microsoft and its employees have given $1.9 billion to nearly 13,000 nonprofits through grants, matching gifts and sponsorships statewide. This commitment reflects a sustained, multiyear investment in the organizations, services and institutions that help the region thrive. Community-First Grants will support projects across four focus areas: Civic Life: supporting connection, participation and vibrant community spaces  Education and Workforce Development: expanding learning, skills and pathways to opportunity  Housing, Human Services and Basic Needs: strengthening essential services and support for people and families  Sustainability and Transportation: supporting more connected, sustainable communities  To be eligible, nonprofits must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations in King County that do not currently receive Microsoft grant funding. Nonprofits can learn more about the program, register for an information session and apply at aka.ms/community-first-grants . Grantees will be selected and notified in November 2026. A second round of applications will open in the spring of 2027. ### About Microsoft    Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT” @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.  Media Contact:   msft@wearedh.com   1 The Center for Effective Philanthropy, State of Nonprofits 2026 Tags: Press releases The post Microsoft launches $1 million Community-First Grants to support nonprofits appeared first on Source . — Company newsroom — sourced from Microsoft. Matter furnished by the company. Not a Notice Nearby paid placement. This page reprints matter furnished by the company from its official newsroom. Notice Nearby did not write this release. Read the original: https://news.microsoft.com/source/2026/09/21/microsoft-launches-1-million-community-first-grants-to-support-nonprofits