Catalyst Of San Diego & Imperial Counties

Open & Accessible
Public Charity
San Diego, CaliforniaMediumEIN: 330868261
Affordable Housing InitiativesAsylum Seeker Aid GroupsCivil Rights OrganizationsCommunity and Economic Development ProgramsHomeless Shelters

Catalyst of San Diego & Imperial Counties is a regional network of funders that connects, activates, and supports funders to learn, lead, and invest in San Diego and Imperial Counties. The organization facilitates collaborative philanthropy, provides data and insights, offers customized support and fiscal sponsorship, and operates funds such as the Sustained Support Fund.

Source: Website · Mar 2026

Ideal Applicant

A San Diego or Imperial County nonprofit working on homelessness, migrant/asylum support, racial and social justice, community resilience, or arts integrated with community health, with capacity to manage operating or unrestricted support.

Good Fit

  • Based in San Diego or Imperial Counties (in-state).
  • Programs addressing homelessness, migrants/asylum seekers, racial equity, or community arts/health.
  • Can absorb unrestricted or general operating support.
  • Has local partnerships or regional leadership role.
  • Willing to apply through a rolling online submission or engage with named program staff.

Geography

Restrictive

Observed giving is strongly local: the latest year’s grants were entirely inside California and the organization describes a regional focus on San Diego and Imperial Counties.

Recipient Variety

Broad

The funder supported 35 distinct recipients in 2024 (50 in 2023) with many new grantees each year, and grants span multiple issue areas such as homelessness, migrant support, arts, and racial justice.

New Applicants

Broad

Direct evidence of turnover is strong (about 30 new recipients in 2024 and high new-recipient rates in prior years), and the public profile lists a rolling online application form and named program contacts, so unfamiliar local applicants appear plausibly able to enter the portfolio.

Source: Zeffy Agent · Mar 2026