35 Years – Community Foundation Tampa Bay
Community Foundation Tampa Bay, the largest community foundation in the state of Florida, proudly celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2025. For more than three decades, the Foundation has led with purpose—connecting donors, partners, and nonprofits to drive lasting change throughout the Tampa Bay region.
The Community Foundation stewards $1 billion committed to the future of the Tampa Bay region, solidifying its presence as a catalyst for strategic philanthropy for generations to come.
Serving Five Counties—and Leading a State
The Foundation serves and supports the people and nonprofits of Citrus, Hernando, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Pinellas counties, and leads the state in size, reach, and philanthropic impact.
“As we celebrate 35 years of generous giving and deep community investment, we remain focused on building an even more vibrant, equitable Tampa Bay—together with our donors, nonprofit partners, and civic leaders,” said Katie Shultz, Vice President Communications.
Supporting Nonprofits at the Heart of Community Change
Community Foundation Tampa Bay serves as a philanthropic leader by investing in local nonprofits—the organizations on the front lines of progress and transformation. The Foundation supports nonprofits through:
Grants
Endowments
Reserve funds
Collaborative initiatives
Capacity-building partnerships
These investments are designed to fuel short-term success and long-term sustainability. By helping nonprofits build resources, expand reach, and create impact, the Foundation strengthens the fabric of the Tampa Bay region.
Grant Opportunities
Each year, qualified nonprofits can apply for grants through Community Foundation Tampa Bay’s competitive grant cycles. In addition, donors who hold charitable funds may recommend grants to nonprofits of their choice throughout the year—providing responsive, timely support.
The Foundation also manages a Critical Needs List, where nonprofits can share immediate, high-priority needs—and donors can respond quickly to support those on the ground doing vital work. Whether addressing long-standing challenges or responding to unexpected crises, the Foundation is committed to supporting the region’s most urgent and unforeseen needs. In the months following Hurricanes Helene and Milton, $5 million in grant funding was distributed to aid hurricane relief and recovery efforts, through Community Foundation Tampa Bay.
Mission-Driven, Community-Centered
The Foundation’s mission is to build a vibrant, prosperous community through transformative vision, leadership, and philanthropy. Its vision is a future where every person in Tampa Bay has equitable access to opportunity and prosperity. Core commitments include:
Stimulating Strategic Philanthropy
Building Community Connectedness and Trust
Ensuring a Dynamic and Resilient Future for Tampa Bay
Guided by Five Philanthropic Priorities
To focus and maximize impact, Community Foundation Tampa Bay channels resources toward five key areas:
Economic Opportunity
Environmental Resiliency and Sustainability
Physical Health and Mental Wellbeing
Quality Child and Youth Education
Vibrant and Engaged Communities
These priorities reflect the Foundation’s deep commitment to addressing the diverse needs and goals of our community.
Shaping A Brighter Future
As we look ahead, Community Foundation Tampa Bay remains steadfast in its mission to strengthen our region and create lasting change through the power of philanthropy. With deep roots, bold vision, and an unwavering commitment to equity and opportunity, the Foundation will continue to lead collaboratively—partnering with donors, nonprofits, and civic leaders to build a stronger, more resilient Tampa Bay for the next 35 years and beyond.
To learn more or become a partner in philanthropy, visit cftampabay.org.
–Katie Shultz, Vice President, Communications, 813-330-2746
