Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Alabama

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The Sprouting School Gardens Grant, provided by the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, supports school-based gardening and cooking programs to foster healthy eating habits in children. Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 help cover program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Eligible applicants include schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas served by Sprouts Farmers Market, promoting meaningful connections between local teams and school gardening initiatives.

The Pipeline Grants Competition by the Russell Sage Foundation aims to bolster early-career scholars and enhance diversity in the social sciences. It supports innovative research focusing on economic mobility and systemic inequalities in the U.S. Eligible applicants can receive up to $35,000 individually or $50,000 in teams. The foundation emphasizes methodological diversity and interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging novel data usage. Projects should align with RSF's mission to improve social conditions, prioritizing underrepresented scholars from under-resourced institutions.

The Hurricane Katrina 20th Anniversary Disaster Preparedness Grants, funded by the ASPCA, offer up to $500,000 to enhance disaster preparedness for animals in high-risk coastal areas of Alabama, Mississippi, and Louisiana. Grants between $20,000 and $50,000 will be awarded to eligible non-profit organizations and municipal agencies focusing on animal welfare or disaster assistance. This initiative aims to improve the safety and well-being of animals during disasters, reflecting lessons learned from past experiences.

The Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund offers crucial financial support and counseling for individuals in the theatrical exhibition and distribution sectors facing health-related challenges. This fund assists with medical expenses, housing emergencies, and essential services like vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid. Eligible applicants must have a minimum of three years in exhibition or five years in distribution. The fund aims to provide a safety net for those impacted by illness, injury, or significant life changes.

Alabama Historical Commission

The Commission is the agency designated to carry out the state’s responsibilities under the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 as amended and operates under the provisions of the Code of Alabama 1975.

We work to accomplish our mission through two fields of endeavor: Preservation and promotion of state-owned historic sites as public attractions; and, statewide programs to assist people, groups, towns and cities with local preservation activities.

State law makes the Commission responsible for the acquisition and preservation of state-owned historic properties and education of the public on historic sites in Alabama. 

Historic Sites Education Trust Fund (ETF) Grant

The Alabama Historical Commission (AHC) will administer a $3,600,000 Historic Sites grant program with funds appropriated by the Alabama Legislature for improvements to and educational programming at historic sites in Alabama.

Preference will be given to:

• any property listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places that was built before 1840 and is publicly owned and accessible to the public;
• any property built in or before 1943 that is listed in or eligible for the National Register of Historic Places;
• any property built after 1943 that significantly contributed to the Civil Rights Movement.

The HDR Foundation Grant Cycle supports community organizations aligned with HDR's values, focusing on education, healthy communities, and environmental stewardship. This employee-funded initiative emphasizes the importance of employee engagement in grant proposals, requiring a clear scope of work and completion within a year. Eligible applicants include U.S.-based nonprofits, educational institutions, and tribal governments, while grants are not provided for faith-based organizations or individual support.

The PPC Foundation Grants support charitable organizations with 501(c)(3) status, distributing 10% of pre-tax profits annually. Grants range from under $500 to over $2,500, with varying documentation requirements. The foundation emphasizes community involvement and prefers charities in areas where they operate. They do not fund political, religious entities without separate social service programs, or organizations primarily funded by public tax support. This initiative reflects their commitment to compassionate service and community prosperity.

The ECF of The Boeing Company: Alabama Chapter Grant Program provides funding to support local nonprofits focused on health and human services. This initiative, driven by employee contributions, aims to enhance community well-being and foster innovation. Boeing is committed to investing in environmental sustainability and advancing social justice, ensuring that funds make a significant impact where employees live and work. For first-time applicants, it's advised to consult with the local ECF before applying.

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. 

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Alabama offers funding to nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks. Managed by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the program aims to enhance security through equipment upgrades, training, and collaboration among organizations and local agencies. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations demonstrating a clear risk. This initiative supports a proactive approach to safeguarding vulnerable communities against potential threats.

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

Mission

The Foundation was established in December 2013 by Kathryn B. McQuade, after retiring from 33 years of working in the business community. I was blessed to have been born into a loving middle class family. My father worked very hard to insure that all of his children were given an opportunity for a good education and my mother, “a stay at home Mom’ was always there for us. My world was safe and comfortable. My life is in stark contrast to how much of the rest of the world lives. I continue to read of the terrible injustices waged against women and children globally and hope that this foundation can provide them the opportunity and resources to succeed. We will support organizations that help us achieve our goal of Striving to make sustainable improvements in women and children’s rights education and welfare.

Kathryn McQuade Foundation Grant

The Foundation will make timely decisions on your grant request and provide clear communications on our expectations of reporting progress.

Women

The Foundation’s goal is to provide women assistance and provide them an opportunity to succeed. Assistance can take many forms, however our goal is to help them become self sufficient and enable them to lift themselves out of poverty and provide for their children. Access to education, job training and professional skills, even access to capital in order to build a business are possible ways we will consider helping women to succeed. Grant requests should focus on enabling the women to sustain financial independence.

We look forward to hearing of the many creative ways organizations are working on helping women succeed through out the world. To help women is to help their children and the communities they live in.

Children

Too many children in the US and across the world live in poverty and lack the access to education. Education and/or appropriate skills training are necessary to break the cycle of poverty and crime. While the assistance to women may take many forms, the foundation’s focus for children will target education and/ or skills training. The Foundation is open to many ideas on how to accomplish this goal and look forward to receiving proposals to help all children achieve their potential.

The Medical Student Education Program (MSE) supports public medical schools in states facing primary care provider shortages, aiming to enhance medical education for future physicians. Eligible states include those in the top quartile projected to face shortages by 2038. Currently, 12 states such as Alabama and Texas are recognized, with 23 public medical schools identified as potential beneficiaries. Note that current MSE grantees are ineligible for the 2026 funding cycle.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges to cultivate vibrant green spaces while enhancing student well-being. By meeting five essential standards, campuses can achieve recognition for their commitment to sustainability. This initiative not only fosters environmental stewardship but also promotes mental health and physical activity among students, creating a healthier campus environment. Join the movement to enhance your campus and community through tree planting and care.

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.

Spring Hill College Class of ’51 Scholarship Fund

For a student-athlete who has a minimum B average, an ACT score of 21 or above, demonstrates financial need, and possesses good character. This scholarship is renewable.

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.

Roy R. Wilkie ScholarshipFund

For a Mobile County High School senior who demonstrates financial need, maintains a good GPA, and will be attending the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa majoring in English.

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.

Pat Piercy Education Trust Fund

The scholarship is for sophomores, juniors, and seniors attending full time at USA, majoring in math, engineering, physics, chemistry, biology, zoology, botany, or geology. Student must reside in Baldwin, Choctaw, Clarke, Conecuh, Escambia, Mobile, Monroe, or Washington and have a GPA of at least a 2.8. The student must meet all previous requirements to be considered for renewal.

The F26AS00104 State ANS Management Plan 2026 aims to combat aquatic nuisance species through pre-proposals followed by full applications. Managed by the US Department of the Interior's Fish and Wildlife Service, this initiative requires a 25% cost-share and limits administrative costs to 5%. Applications are due by October 14, 2026, though the funding opportunity closes on December 16, 2026. The plan is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and supporting a coordinated national approach to invasive species management.

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.

Mary & Council Powell Scholarship Fund

For an entering freshman or currently enrolled student at Alabama A&M who has a minimum ACT score of 19 and 3.0 GPA. 

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.

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.

Alfred F. Delchamps Sr. Memorial Fund

This scholarship is for a USA junior or senior in the Department of Teacher Education that demonstrates financial need. The student must be a teaching candidate, have a minimum 3.2 GPA, and provide evidence of interest/involvement in educational groups.

The Southern SARE: Professional Development Grants support educational initiatives for agricultural professionals, enhancing outreach and training efforts directly benefiting farmers and ranchers. These grants fund diverse training activities, including workshops and farm tours, aimed at promoting sustainable agriculture through effective participatory methods. Projects are encouraged to involve multi-disciplinary partnerships and the participation of land-grant institutions, ensuring a comprehensive approach to agricultural education. Priority is given to projects with budgets under $80,000, fostering a broad array of impactful initiatives.

South Arts Inc. is offering Literary Arts Grants to support writers, independent publishers, and literary organizations focusing on contemporary literature in the Southern U.S. Grants of up to $5,000 will fund projects in poetry, fiction, and other genres. Eligible applicants must be full-time residents of the South Arts region. The initiative aims to amplify the literary traditions of the American South, fostering creativity and community engagement through diverse literary projects.

Department of Conservation and Natural Resources

The Department of Conservation and Natural Resources is an executive and administrative department of the State of Alabama created by statute. The Commissioner, appointed by the Governor as a member of the Cabinet, advises the Governor and Legislature on the management of freshwater fish, wildlife, marine resources, state lands, state parks, and other natural resources. 

Rickwood Caverns State Park – Pool House

Prospective Bidders: This Addendum forms a part of the Contract Documents and modifies the Bidding Documents dated December 19, 2025 (Plans) and April 28, 2026 (Project Manual). 

The NRP Young Investigator Award is designed to support research on optimizing newborn care during delivery using Neonatal Resuscitation Program (NRP) techniques. This grant encourages innovative projects addressing gaps in transitional physiology and resuscitation practices. Eligible applicants include researchers from Canadian and US institutions, particularly those in training or within four years of completing medical training. Awardees may receive up to $15,000 to enhance their skills and knowledge, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

The Pratt Family Foundation Grant, established in 1999, supports initiatives in education, healthcare, and community welfare. It prioritizes organizations that aid housing assistance, support for women in crisis, and disadvantaged youth programs, particularly in North Carolina. The Foundation favors established religious and charitable organizations that are tax-exempt and have a local presence. Preference is given to areas connected to the Pratt family, such as Texas and Florida, ensuring impactful contributions to community development.