Best Alabama Grants for Nonprofits

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Elizabeth Martin-Wilma Scrivner Scholarship Fund

The scholarship is for an upcoming female junior or senior in the USA College of Education, who is a teacher candidate, has a minimum 3.2 GPA, provides evidence of interest/ involvement in educational groups, and demonstrates financial need. Award is only for tuition and fees.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama offers Special Project Grants aimed at substantial capital projects, new programming, or strategic expansions that significantly enhance community life. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)3 public charities and can only apply again after a two-year hiatus. These grants are not intended for ongoing operational costs. The foundation's mission is to support initiatives that improve the quality of life for Alabama citizens through healthy and educational advancements.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Alabama aims to provide essential funding for clean drinking water systems and sanitary waste management in eligible rural areas. This initiative supports the construction and improvement of water sourcing, sewer systems, and stormwater drainage, ensuring reliable services for households and businesses. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes, promoting access to crucial resources in underserved regions.

The David, Helen and Marian Woodward Fund, established by Marian Woodward Ottley in 1974, aims to support non-profit organizations in Georgia and neighboring states. The fund prioritizes capital projects and educational programs that enhance graduation rates, particularly those with religious affiliations. Grants are awarded exclusively to 501(c)(3) organizations, while governmental agencies can also apply. The foundation's mission underscores a commitment to improving the world for future generations.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Melba Bayers Meyer Charitable Trust, established in 1995, supports various charitable causes in Pensacola, Florida, and Alabama. The trust prioritizes organizations that assist children, indigent Native Americans, and neglected animals. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations focusing on religious, charitable, scientific, or educational purposes. The trust aims to make a positive impact in the community by addressing the needs of vulnerable populations.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program - Simulation Training Initiative

Funding is intended to support the implementation of Simulation Training Initiative projects that advance program goals related to workforce development, access to care, and improved healthcare quality. Depending on the proposed project, funding may support activities such as the development and expansion  of specialty-based simulation training programs, acquisition of simulation equipment, and implementation of training environments designed to improve provider skills and readiness in rural areas.

All funding under this opportunity is expected to be distributed through a competitive subaward process. Selected applicants will be treated as subrecipients and will be required to comply with all applicable federal, state, and programmatic requirements associated with the award. 

Funding Availability

ADECA anticipates making approximately $1,000,000 available under this NOFO, consistent with the CMS-approved Simulation Training Initiative budget. ADECA intends to make awards under the strategy category described in Section I. The number, size, and distribution of awards will depend on application quality, applicant readiness, geographic distribution, and other factors identified in this NOFO. 

Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program - Statewide Emergency Medical Services (EMS) Trauma and Stroke Initiative

Funding under this NOFO is intended to support the initiation and expansion of eligible Statewide EMS Trauma and Stroke Initiative projects that advance one or more of the initiative goals and align with the defined strategy category identified in Section I. Depending on the proposed scope of work, funding may support activities related to improving the capacity of EMS systems, including system development, protocol implementation, training, care coordination, and operational support necessary to improve emergency response and care coordination across EMS agencies and hospitals. This may include efforts to expand trauma and stroke response capabilities to reach additional geographic regions and/or expand statewide hospital-referral services to include additional conditions.

All funding under this opportunity is expected to be distributed through a competitive subaward process. Selected applicants will be treated as subrecipients and will be required to comply with all applicable federal, state, and programmatic requirements associated with the award. 

Funding Availability

ADECA anticipates making approximately $4,000,000 available under this NOFO, consistent with the CMS-approved Statewide EMS Trauma and Stroke Initiative budget. ADECA intends to make awards under the strategy category described in Section I. The number, size, and distribution of awards will depend on application quality, applicant readiness, geographic distribution, and other factors identified in this NOFO. 

Alabama Rural Health Transformation Program - Cancer Digital Regionalization Initiative

Funding is intended to support the implementation of Cancer Digital Regionalization Initiative projects that advance the stated program goals. Depending on the proposed project, funding may support expansion of cancer detection capabilities, establishment and operation of regional screening hubs, deployment of mobile screening units, and community outreach and education to increase awareness and participation in cancer screening. These efforts are intended to strengthen local healthcare delivery systems and improve  the quality, accessibility, and sustainability of cancer screening for rural populations.

All funding under this opportunity is expected to be distributed through a competitive subaward process. Selected applicants will be treated as subrecipients and will be required to comply with all applicable federal, state, and programmatic requirements associated with the award. 

ADECA anticipates making approximately $8,100,000 available under this NOFO, consistent with the CMS-approved Cancer Digital Regionalization Initiative budget. ADECA intends to make awards under the strategy categories described in Section I. The number, size, and distribution of awards within each strategy category will depend on application quality, applicant readiness, geographic distribution, and other factors identified in this NOFO. 

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The James E. Huffer and Betty J. Huffer Foundation aims to support non-profit organizations that enhance community welfare through educational, artistic, and humanitarian initiatives. The foundation prioritizes multidisciplinary efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to regional service and impactful contributions. Focus areas include arts, environmental stewardship, health sciences, and youth education. Organizations must confirm tax-exempt status and provide financial documentation to be considered for funding.

The Southern Documentary Fund (SDF) offers a Production Grant aimed at supporting Southern documentary filmmakers. With funding made possible by the MacArthur Foundation, SDF prioritizes nonfiction projects in production that showcase the rich tapestry of Southern stories. Up to seven grants of $15,000 each will be awarded to help elevate underrepresented voices and narratives. Applicants must have ties to Southern states and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Gavin “Gee” Hunter Agricultural Scholarship

For a Baldwin County graduating senior or college student pursuing a degree in agriculture or related field at Auburn. Applicants must have 3.5 GPA and at least a 20 ACT score.

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama provides operating grants, up to $25,000, aimed at strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life. Key focus areas include early childhood education, K-12 academic improvements, adult life skills, arts and community support, and health services. Eligible organizations must be based in Alabama and meet specific criteria, including revenue limits and employee requirements, to qualify for funding to benefit local residents.

The Southeastern Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes outstanding Ph.D. students in entomology, promoting interest in the field and supporting attendance at the ESA annual meeting. Awardees receive an all-expenses-paid trip, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, with additional cash prizes presented by the Southeastern Branch. Eligibility includes being a current member and demonstrating excellence in graduate studies. This award fosters professional development and engagement within the entomology community.

The Alabama State Council on the Arts offers the Arts in Education Grant to enhance arts education for PreK-12 students in Alabama. This grant supports curriculum-based projects that provide sequential learning opportunities, ensuring every student can engage with the arts. With a focus on excellence and diversity, the agency aims to promote cultural artistic expressions and increase public appreciation for the arts, benefiting both individuals and communities across the state.

Alabama State Council on the Arts: Folk Arts Apprenticeships

Folk Arts Apprenticeships preserve and pass on Alabama’s living cultural heritage by funding teachers and students as traditional artistic skills and techniques are taught to new practitioners.

Examples of art forms that have been taught in this program include Sacred Harp singing, fiddling, pottery, oak basketry, and artistic traditions of more recent additions to the culture of Alabama, including Vietnamese Lion dance, piñata crafting, and Yoruba drumming.

Samples of work of both the master artist and apprentices are critical to the evaluation of applications. Only one individual, either the master artist or an apprentice, may submit the application and receive grant funds.

The range of the request amount for Folk Art Apprenticeship requests has been increased to $2,000-$4,000.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The US Department of Health & Human Services announces a competitive funding opportunity for the Head Start/Early Head Start programs across various states. This initiative aims to enhance services for low-income families and children, promoting their social and economic well-being. With approximately $818.3 million available, the program seeks to expand access to quality early childhood education, thereby strengthening community stability and prosperity. Interested applicants can seek further information through the OHS Operations Center.

The Hancock Whitney Opportunity Grant, in collaboration with the Greater New Orleans Foundation, invites applications from eligible nonprofits starting October 7, 2025. This grant aims to enhance capacity building and sustainability for organizations focused on food insecurity, workforce development, and youth programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving low to moderate-income communities within Hancock Whitney's service areas, fostering impactful changes with AmeriCorps support.

The Toy Foundation Program offers a unique opportunity for nonprofit organizations to apply for toy donations to support children in need. The application period runs from January to June, with approved applicants receiving toys by the end of the year. This initiative, part of the Toy Chest program, has positively impacted over 35 million children since 2003, promoting play as essential for emotional and educational development.