The Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo will begin accepting applications for the 2026 Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Funds competitive grant process on November 3, 2025, with a deadline of December 1, 2025, at 4 p.m.
Established in 2015 by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, these endowment funds were created to provide ongoing support for programs and initiatives that reflect Mr. Wilson’s personal passions. Grants will be awarded in four key areas:
- Caregivers: Supporting caregivers—paid, voluntary, or family—who assist individuals unable to fully care for themselves, particularly within underserved communities. Priority will be given to programs serving caregivers of older adults.
- Community Assets: Supporting significant cultural and historic assets or expanding long-term arts instruction for youth. (Available only to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in Erie County.)
- Design and Access: Supporting projects that improve access to outdoor recreation, walkability, and bikeability in local communities.
- Youth Sports: Expanding opportunities for all children to be active through sports.
Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in one of the eight counties of Western New York—Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Genesee, Niagara, Orleans, and Wyoming. Government agencies may also apply for Caregivers, Design and Access, and Youth Sports grants.
Information sessions will be held in both virtual and in-person formats for interested applicants.
To learn more about eligibility, deadlines, and how to apply, visit:
👉 www.cfgb.org/nonprofits/grants/ralph-wilson-legacy/