Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in Alabama

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.

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5430 - Unlocking Value and Opportunities from Carbon Flows in Water Utilities

Grant Information

• Identify carbon flows across drinking water, stormwater, wastewater, and advanced treatment systems. Carbon flows may include source water, stormwater, process emissions, process inputs, residuals, and biogas.
• Identify the most relevant carbon recovery, capture, conversion, storage, and avoidance opportunities.
• Evaluate value creation pathways, including products, avoided costs, and environmental attributes, and mechanisms and partnerships needed to put them into practice.
• Assess how opportunities vary across system types and local contexts by focusing on more common scenarios for utilities.
• Provide practical, research-based insights to support identification, prioritization, evaluation, and advancement of carbon management opportunities under site-specific conditions and constraints.
• Evaluate implications for greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting, environmental attribute claims, and other potential benefits across pathways.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Multi-Year Accelerator Grant

The Vote Your Voice Accelerator Infrastructure Fund is a multiyear investment in trusted, high-capacity, and deeply networked civic-engagement organizations across: Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Louisiana, and Mississippi. This fund is designed to: 

• Stabilize and sustain the organizations carrying the long-term weight of democracy protection 
• Strengthen the connective tissue across state and regional ecosystems 
• Support innovation, adaptation, and emergent learning in shifting political conditions 
• Ensure frontline communities remain centered in voter engagement, protection, and shifting power to those historically denied it

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Alabama Power Foundation offers Classroom Grants aimed at enhancing educational environments in schools across Alabama. With grants up to $1,000, teachers can obtain necessary materials for classrooms or support COVID-19 relief efforts. Eligible applicants include schools and nonprofits partnering with local education systems, focusing on addressing mental health needs and financial hardships. The foundation aims to ensure that all students have access to a conducive learning atmosphere, fostering equity in education.

About

The Nick's Kids Foundation is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness and resources for deserving organizations throughout the state of Alabama and beyond. As the official charity of Nick Saban and his family, Nick and Terry invest their time and energy in hosting luncheons, golf tournaments, scrimmages, and other events to benefit the cause.

Thanks to the generosity of the donors and the efforts of Nick and Terry Saban, the Nick's Kids Foundation has donated nearly 15 million dollars to deserving organizations and causes. Nick's Kids has completed projects including the career tech classrooms at the Tuscaloosa County Juvenile Detention Center, the Tuscaloosa Riverwalk Playground, renovating the STTEP Building of Brewer Porch Children’s Center, building 20 Habitat for Humanity homes (18 National Championship Homes & 2 SEC Championship Homes) and the Alberta School of Performing Arts playground. Nick’s Kids is also a major donor of the Tuscaloosa All-Inclusive Playground, the Saban Center, and the YMCA of Tuscaloosa.

In 1998, during their time at Michigan State University, Nick and Terry Saban established Nick's Kids Foundation in honor of the late Nick Saban, Sr. Since then, the Sabans have maintained and supported their charity throughout their careers at Louisiana State University, the Miami Dolphins and the University of Alabama.

Annual Funding Request Form

Nick’s Kids Foundation is a 501©3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children, family, teacher and student causes. The main goal continues to be to raise awareness and resources for deserving organizations throughout the state of Alabama and the Southeast.

The Annual Funding Request Form should be completed to request monetary assistance. Each year Nick's Kids holds a Giveaway Luncheon in early fall. During this luncheon a majority of funds for the fiscal year will be distributed.

The Cumberland Plateau Stewardship Fund Grant aims to restore native forests and improve wildlife habitats while supporting working forests in the Cumberland Plateau. The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) invites proposals that enhance forest, grassland, and freshwater ecosystems, promoting conservation practices on agricultural lands. This initiative is backed by funding from USDA agencies and corporate partners, focusing on improving soil health, water quality, and carbon sequestration in the region.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The Share the Bounty Grant, offered by The Andersons Inc Charitable Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in communities through support for agriculture, social services, civic engagement, education, arts, and health initiatives. By investing in these key areas, The Andersons seeks to foster environments where individuals and families can thrive, ensuring a sustainable and vibrant future for all residents in the regions they serve.

The Frankenmuth Insurance Foundation Charitable Grant supports qualified charities focused on community betterment and basic human needs. Founded in 2016, it aims to enhance lives through initiatives such as affordable housing, health programs, and the arts. Organizations eligible for funding must be tax-exempt and serve areas where Frankenmuth Insurance operates. Notably, the foundation excludes support for individuals, political groups, and projects typically financed by governments, ensuring its resources benefit the wider community.

The NRA Foundation: Alabama Grants supports projects that promote firearms safety and education in shooting sports. The grants are accessible to various organizations, including those not classified as 501(c)(3), as long as they serve a charitable purpose. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations and private businesses. This initiative aims to encourage responsible participation in firearms activities while enhancing community safety and awareness.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The purpose of the Alabama Arts License Tag Grant Program is to promote the arts in Alabama, especially arts education, including visual arts, dance, folk arts, drama, and music.

The Joseph S. Bruno Charitable Foundation Grant aims to foster a supportive community for families and children in Birmingham, emphasizing health, education, and collaboration. The foundation prioritizes programs that enhance access to healthcare and education for underserved populations, while also providing technical assistance and partnerships. By focusing on holistic community improvement and collaboration with various stakeholders, the foundation seeks to create a lasting impact through strategic grantmaking and support.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

National Arts Futures Fellowship

The National Arts Futures Fellowship (NAFF) is a six-month virtual leadership development program rooted in democracy, wellness, and belonging. It calls on early and mid-career arts and culture professionals from all backgrounds to step into their power as civic leaders and cultural innovators—building the skills, networks, and vision needed to shape a future where creativity drives justice, care, and connection.

Fellows join a national network committed to strengthening public life, nurturing collective wellness, and fostering deep belonging across communities. Together, they learn, experiment, and act—advancing a shared vision of leadership that is sustainable, community-rooted, and future-focused.

Each fellow enters NAFF with a Personal Action Project (PAP)—a concrete idea they will develop and implement with support from peers, coaches, guest experts, and flexible seed funding of $250–$1,000. Projects may include launching a cultural initiative, organizing a community campaign, supporting artist-led advocacy, seeking a public leadership role, or piloting another form of civic or community action. Throughout the fellowship, each project evolves through coaching, peer feedback, strategy sessions, and real-world experimentation. Fellows conclude the program by sharing their project, leadership growth, and next steps at the National Fellows Summit.

What’s New in Cohort Two?

• Cohort Two expands NAFF from six to seven monthly sessions and adds two new elements that support fellows in moving their Personal Action Projects from development into implementation:
• Seed Funding: Fellows may request $250–$1,000 in flexible funding to test, pilot, or implement their projects during the fellowship.
• Artists Thrive Framework: Fellows will use the framework to assess their work, identify opportunities for growth, and strengthen artist-led advocacy, collaboration, and community impact.

Guiding Principles

• Democracy — Use the arts to strengthen civic participation, expand public trust, and make decision-making more accessible and inclusive.
• Wellness — Treat care, rest, and healing as strategic leadership tools for sustaining movements and communities.
• Belonging — Create spaces where leaders can thrive together across differences, build trust, and celebrate shared humanity.

What kinds of projects are supported?

Examples: Running for office, launching cultural programs, organizing campaigns, supporting policies. Projects can be local, regional, or national in scope.

The ABC Trust Community Grant Program, funded by the Alabama Power Foundation, provides up to $500 annually to 501c(3) nonprofits and faith-based organizations. This funding supports initiatives aimed at improving health and human services for low-income Alabamians, including energy assistance for households at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. Applicants may submit one proposal per year, promoting community engagement and support.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Neighborhood Power Grant 

The VYV Neighborhood Power grant entails a swift and concentrated allocation of resources to a designated geographic area to attain immediate, quantifiable outcomes within that specific area before or immediately following a pivotal date.  

The grant is designed to be a short cycle, rapid response investments in esteemed neighborhood-based organizations and leaders who mobilize civic participation within a defined local footprint. These grants support small teams collaborating closely with the community to enhance turnout and engagement around pivotal civic events.  

The tiered structure ensures a “right need, right time” approach by matching funding to an organization’s specific capacity and geographic footprint. 

Tier 1: Surgical Focus

• The Target: Small, grassroots organizations or neighborhood civic associations. 
• The Logic: This is laser-focused on SPLC-priority precincts. These are majority-minority areas where voters of color have lower-than-average turnout and face structural barriers. 
• The Footprint: Designed for a highly localized reach of approximately 2,000 to 5,000 voters. 

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Neighborhood Power Grant 

The VYV Neighborhood Power grant entails a swift and concentrated allocation of resources to a designated geographic area to attain immediate, quantifiable outcomes within that specific area before or immediately following a pivotal date.  

The grant is designed to be a short cycle, rapid response investments in esteemed neighborhood-based organizations and leaders who mobilize civic participation within a defined local footprint. These grants support small teams collaborating closely with the community to enhance turnout and engagement around pivotal civic events.  

The tiered structure ensures a “right need, right time” approach by matching funding to an organization’s specific capacity and geographic footprint. 

Tier 2: Emergent Opportunity Areas A

• The Target: Small-to-medium-sized organizations.
• The Logic: Supports groups ready to scale beyond a single neighborhood into “place-based clusters,” such as specific cultural corridors. 

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Neighborhood Power Grant 

The VYV Neighborhood Power grant entails a swift and concentrated allocation of resources to a designated geographic area to attain immediate, quantifiable outcomes within that specific area before or immediately following a pivotal date.  

The grant is designed to be a short cycle, rapid response investments in esteemed neighborhood-based organizations and leaders who mobilize civic participation within a defined local footprint. These grants support small teams collaborating closely with the community to enhance turnout and engagement around pivotal civic events.  

The tiered structure ensures a “right need, right time” approach by matching funding to an organization’s specific capacity and geographic footprint. 

Tier 3: Emergent Opportunity Areas B

• The Target: Medium-to-large-sized organizations. 
• The Logic: Targeted at groups rooted in entire regions or multiple neighborhoods with consistent engagement history and multiple paid staff.

The Guin-Stanford Scholarship Fund, established by The University Church of Christ, honors J. Foy Guin, Jr. and his family. It supports graduate students pursuing a Juris Doctor at the University of Alabama School of Law or teachers seeking graduate education degrees. Applicants must demonstrate a Christian lifestyle through church involvement. Awards vary annually based on fund availability and can cover tuition, housing, and supplies. Recipients should explore additional financial resources as future funding is not guaranteed.