Best Grants for Charities in Alabama

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The CIF Capacity Builder Awards by Endeavor Health focus on enhancing community health through strategic investments. With over $38.5 million allocated to local partnerships, these awards aim to address critical areas like healthcare access, food insecurity, and workforce development. Designed for nonprofit organizations, the awards range from $100,000 to $500,000 annually for 1-2 years, fostering long-term community impact and advancing health equity in the service areas.

About

Being deeply connected to the community means more than providing access to excellent healthcare. It means understanding, and investing in, the health needs of our community.

Through our Community Investment Fund (CIF), Endeavor Health has awarded more than $38.5 million to 59 local partnerships dedicated to enhancing community health and wellbeing, advancing health equity and supporting local economic growth. Together, we’re committed to helping everyone in our communities be their best.

Award categories

Through the CIF, we will make meaningful and intentional investments through impact awards and capacity builder awards. These awards are intended to meaningfully advance the health of our community over time towards three bold aspirations through investments in five areas of focus.

We aspire to a future where:

• A person’s zip code does not determine how long they will live
• Hunger and homelessness in our communities are history
• The healthcare workforce is thriving and representative of the communities we serve

To help advance these aspirations, the CIF will invest in the following areas:

• Access to healthcare
• Behavioral health
• Food insecurity
• Housing insecurity
• Workforce development for careers in healthcare

Impact awards

• Designed for 5-year initiatives where organizations come together to drive measurable impact and longer-term change in the communities we serve by improving existing systems and innovation
• Emphasize strategic cross-sector and/or intra-sector partnerships between community-based organizations
• Uplift community members of greatest need
• Directly align with CIF areas of focus and meaningfully contribute to CIF goals
• Award amount: $1 million per year, up to 5 years

The Therapeutic Giving program by Johnson & Johnson focuses on funding initiatives that enhance patient access to treatment and advance health equity, particularly in immunology. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply for support aimed at improving health outcomes through innovative programs. The initiative prioritizes measurable impacts over fundraising activities, emphasizing the importance of addressing healthcare disparities and promoting disease awareness efforts for diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) program supports postdoctoral fellows in transitioning their research to extramural institutions. The program includes a mentored intramural phase (up to two years) followed by an extramural phase (three years), totaling five years of support. Applications have multiple deadlines, including October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others. Successful transition depends on the awardee's progress during the mentored phase, evaluated by NHLBI.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

The Asia-Pacific region, home to over half the world's population, faces challenges due to its development goals, which strain natural resources, communities, and cultural heritage. These issues are exacerbated by adverse environmental changes. While research has shed light on these problems, it's clear that more challenges lie ahead. The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) is well-positioned to generate new knowledge and solutions for these evolving global change and sustainability issues by supporting collaborative research and scientific capacity development activities, particularly those aimed at training the next generation of early career professionals.

APN 2025 Call for Proposals: CRRP 

Through the competitive Collaborative Regional Research Programme (CRRP), we promote regional research that has potential to improve our understanding of global change and its implications while contributing to a sound scientific basis for policymaking in areas affected by global change. Under this pillar, APN supports collaborative research that contributes to the evolving science-policy arena, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, IPCC, IPBES, post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction and the UN Decade of Ocean Science as well as ongoing and new global change and sustainability research programmes.

Activities of interest under the CRRP Programme

APN promotes regional collaborative research that improves understanding of the physical, biological and human dimensions of change in the Earth system and advances actionable science that informs decision-making. APN accepts proposals that engage at least 3 member/approved countries in the region, and prioritise collaboratively designed, actionable research with non-academic stakeholders. Proposals must address one or more of the following activities:

• Collaborative research on global change and sustainability that particularly addresses GAPS, ANALYSIS, SYNTHESIS and ASSESSMENT work.
• Collaborative research that develops PATHWAYS and MECHANISMS to achieve sustainable development, and develop adaptation strategies.
• Collaborative PLACE-BASED INTEGRATIVE RESEARCH, particularly from developing countries.
• Collaborative research that is CO-DESIGNED to contribute to the Paris Agreeemnt, Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework, UN Decade of Ocean Science (2021-2030), and the accumulation of scientific knowledge at IPCC, IPBES, etc.

Tourism Legislative Event Grants

In the FY2026 Budget, $2,730,000 was allocated to the Alabama Tourism Department for grants to promote local and state economies. Grants shall be reflective of the geographical diversity of the state. Each grant shall be awarded following the recommendation of members of the Legislature or legislative delegations. No House of Representatives district shall receive more than five grants at $2,600 per grant awarded, and no Senate District shall receive more than ten grants at $3,900 per grant awarded. The Alabama Tourism Department is proud to work with the Alabama Legislature to administer these grants. 

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) is inviting applications for the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment or Prevention (SBIRT/P) program. This funding opportunity aims to explore innovative methods for addressing alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use among adults facing health disparities. The initiative seeks research proposals that will implement and evaluate SBIRT/P strategies in collaboration with healthcare and community partners. This approach is crucial for enhancing public health and ensuring effective interventions.

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

The Big Bets Fellowship: Economic Opportunity in the United States is a transformative 4-month program designed to empower emerging leaders to tackle economic challenges head-on. With a focus on innovative solutions for job creation, affordable housing, and equitable access to resources, the fellowship equips participants with essential skills and a supportive network. The initiative aims to drive systemic change and promote sustainable economic prosperity, addressing inequalities while fostering resilient communities across the nation.

The XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

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 James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

The Anna Satcher Scholarship Support Fund provides financial assistance to graduating seniors of Mt. Liberty Baptist Church in Anniston, Alabama. Established in memory of Wilmer and Anna Satcher, this fund supports students pursuing higher education or approved workforce training programs. The scholarship is renewable for four years, contingent upon maintaining eligibility. It covers tuition, housing, and other educational expenses, but availability may vary based on the fund's income. Interested students should contact the Community Foundation for details.

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs works every day to positively impact Alabama communities through partnerships, grant programs, and services to spur community and economic development and enhance quality of life.

ADECA is a state agency that partners with leaders at the local level to positively impact and enhance the quality of life in Alabama communities through dozens of federal and state grant programs, surplus property, and water resource management.

ADECA’s grant programs support and fund local initiatives that communities often would not be able to afford on their own and improve many facets of life through community and economic development. Our programs help address critical infrastructure needs like water, sewer, and broadband; provide law enforcement equipment and support for victims of crime; build new trails and recreational features; and assist with energy efficiency that lowers energy costs.

State Energy Program (SEP) and Energy Efficiency Programs

The State Energy Program’s (SEP) purpose is to provide funding and technical assistance to enhance energy security, advance state-led energy initiatives, maximize the benefits of decreasing energy waste, and increase energy affordability. It also helps prepare for natural disasters and improve the security of the State’s energy infrastructure. Specifically, it assists states in meeting federal requirements to prepare for an energy emergency and develop an individual state energy security plan. SEP is federally funded by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Authority

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA), Energy Division manages the State Energy Program (SEP) for Alabama by the authority of the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE).

Energy-Efficient Retrofits of Wastewater Treatment Facilities

Purpose

The SEP is a formula grant used to reduce energy consumption in Alabama. The Energy Division is accepting applications for grants to be used for the purchase and installation of energy-efficient improvements in wastewater treatment facilities. Applications should be developed with thoughtful consideration being given to the certifications contained on page 17 of the attached PDF document. 

The J. Bulow Campbell Foundation, established in 1940, focuses on grantmaking in Atlanta and Georgia, prioritizing capital projects in education, youth development, human services, public spaces, and cultural institutions. With a legacy of over $800 million awarded, the Foundation reflects the values of its founder, J. Bulow Campbell, emphasizing careful stewardship and Christian principles. While open to neighboring states, grants are generally restricted to tax-exempt institutions, excluding individuals and certain funding purposes.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project - Capital Grants Application Fall 2025 by the Open Space Institute aims to enhance conservation across the Appalachian Mountain region. With a focus on biodiversity, climate resilience, and community benefits, this initiative supports the acquisition of land and conservation easements. As a vital climate refuge, the Appalachians play a crucial role in safeguarding habitats and providing public recreation opportunities for the 26 million residents living in this area.

The Conservation Connect Fellowship Program, offered by the National Forest Foundation, invites graduate students to engage in hands-on conservation projects. This fellowship provides practical experience, mentorship from conservation professionals, and training in collaborative leadership. Fellows will gain a deep understanding of forest management and expand their professional networks. With a focus on developing future conservation leaders, the program seeks students passionate about public lands and community engagement.

SC Johnson Grants aim to enhance community welfare through charitable contributions, focusing on health, sustainability, and opportunity. Since 1937, the company has committed five percent of its pretax profits to support registered charities and nonprofit organizations, especially in areas where it operates. The grant program prioritizes initiatives addressing healthcare access, environmental conservation, and educational equity, ensuring that efforts align with the values of community service and corporate responsibility.

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs works every day to positively impact Alabama communities through partnerships, grant programs, and services to spur community and economic development and enhance quality of life.

ADECA is a state agency that partners with leaders at the local level to positively impact and enhance the quality of life in Alabama communities through dozens of federal and state grant programs, surplus property, and water resource management.

ADECA’s grant programs support and fund local initiatives that communities often would not be able to afford on their own and improve many facets of life through community and economic development. Our programs help address critical infrastructure needs like water, sewer, and broadband; provide law enforcement equipment and support for victims of crime; build new trails and recreational features; and assist with energy efficiency that lowers energy costs.

Land and Water Conservation Fund

The U.S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service, provides LWCF matching grants to States and local governments for the acquisition and development of outdoor recreation areas. The LWCF was established by Congress in 1964 “…to assist in preserving, developing and assuring accessibility to all citizens of the United States of America of present and future generations…such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available and are necessary and desirable for individual active participation…”

Matching Percentage: 50/50

An entity may not apply for both Recreational Trails Program (RTP) and LWCF assistance.

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.

ALDOT

The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) manages statewide transportation and administers Federal Transit Administration (FTA) funds through programs such as Section 5311, which supports rural public transportation, and Section 5310, which serves seniors and individuals with disabilities. ALDOT, through its Transit Section and initiatives like RTAP & ALTRANS, is dedicated to ensuring communities across Alabama have access to safe, reliable, and equitable transportation services, while providing critical support to transit providers throughout the state.

Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program 

The Local Transportation Bureau of the Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) is now accepting Applications for funding through the Section 5310 Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program. This program is supported by the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) and offers funding to help provide transit services for the State’s population of senior citizens and individuals with disabilities.

Those eligible may apply for Capital Assistance. For Capital Assistance through the Section 5310 Program, funding is provided with an 80/20 split: FTA/Provider respectively.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project Catalyst Grant supports climate-informed planning for land protection and stewardship in the Appalachian region. With funding up to $20,000 available, the grant aims to enhance community resilience and promote strategic land conservation efforts. Eligible applicants include land trusts, nonprofit organizations, and municipalities. Projects should prioritize broad-scale conservation planning and engage local communities to ensure specific benefits are achieved within a 12-18 month timeframe.

The Alabama Sports Officials Foundation Scholarship is designed to support Alabama sports officials and their families in pursuing higher education. This one-time award assists students enrolled in accredited institutions in Alabama, covering tuition, housing, supplies, and fees. Funded by the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama, the scholarship aims to recognize the contributions of sports officials while encouraging applicants to seek additional financial resources.

The Alabama Child Abuse and Neglect Prevention Program, established by the Children's Trust Fund, aims to prevent child abuse and neglect through essential community services. With over 40 years of dedication, the program offers various initiatives, including parenting education, home visiting, and mentoring, supported by state and federal funding. These efforts focus on strengthening family skills, promoting public awareness, and providing crisis care to protect vulnerable children and families throughout Alabama.