Best Grants for Rural Development in Alaska

The ASCA: Harper Arts Touring Fund, managed by the Alaska State Council on the Arts, supports diverse arts initiatives in Alaska. Established in 2002, it provides grants for travel and freight expenses related to touring performances and exhibitions. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and government units. The fund promotes community engagement through arts presentations that reach underserved populations. It aims to enhance access to quality cultural experiences across Alaskan communities, fostering local artist development and audience growth.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities designs, constructs, operates and maintains the state’s transportation infrastructure systems, buildings, and other facilities used by Alaskans and visitors. These include more than 5,600 miles of paved and gravel highways; 237 airports; 839 bridges; over 800 public facilities; 16 harbors; and a ferry system covering 3,500 nautical miles serving 33 coastal communities.

49 USC 5311 Non-Urban Formula Grants

Non-Urbanized Formula Program grants provide transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to non-urbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation. State agencies, local public bodies and agencies thereof, private-nonprofit and private for-profit (inter-city only) organizations and operators of public transportation services are eligible to apply.

Title 49 USC § 5311(d) authorizes states to use funds for the provision of local, general public transportation service in rural areas.

5339 Bus & Bus Facilities Capital Fund - Notice of Funding Opportunity

Purpose

The purpose of the Section 5311 program is to support general public transportation in rural areas. This is complemented by 5339 Bus & Bus Facilities capital funds. The goals of the program are to:

• Encourage the maintenance, development, improvement, and use of public transportation systems
• To encourage and facilitate the most efficient use of all federal funds used to provide passenger transportation in rural areas through the coordination and consolidation of programs and services
• Assist in the development and support of intercity bus transportation

Eligible projects include transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to nonurbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation.

Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities designs, constructs, operates and maintains the state’s transportation infrastructure systems, buildings, and other facilities used by Alaskans and visitors. These include more than 5,600 miles of paved and gravel highways; 237 airports; 839 bridges; over 800 public facilities; 16 harbors; and a ferry system covering 3,500 nautical miles serving 33 coastal communities.

49 USC 5311 Non-Urban Formula Grants

Non-Urbanized Formula Program grants provide transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to non-urbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation. State agencies, local public bodies and agencies thereof, private-nonprofit and private for-profit (inter-city only) organizations and operators of public transportation services are eligible to apply.

Title 49 USC § 5311(d) authorizes states to use funds for the provision of local, general public transportation service in rural areas.

5311 Rural Transit Grants - Notice of Funding Opportunity

Purpose

The purpose of the Section 5311 program is to support general public transportation in rural areas. This is complemented by 5339 Bus & Bus Facilities capital funds. The goals of the program are to:

• Encourage the maintenance, development, improvement, and use of public transportation systems
• To encourage and facilitate the most efficient use of all federal funds used to provide passenger transportation in rural areas through the coordination and consolidation of programs and services
• Assist in the development and support of intercity bus transportation

Eligible projects include transit capital, operating assistance, and program administration through the States, to nonurbanized areas (less than 50,000 in population) for public transportation.

The Rasmuson Foundation's RF: Collection Management Fund Grant aims to enhance collections management practices across Alaskan museums and cultural centers. Established in 2013, it supports projects focusing on preservation, cataloguing, and conservation. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and tribal entities holding collections in public trust. The program encourages collaborative efforts and prioritizes emergency conservation projects, fostering a vibrant cultural landscape in Alaska.

The Sitka Legacy Foundation Competitive Grant Program, an initiative of The Alaska Community Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life for residents of Sitka and surrounding rural communities. The program supports a diverse range of projects focusing on health and wellness, education, arts and culture, and community development. Priority is given to applications that demonstrate collaboration among organizations and have the potential for broad community impact, ultimately fostering a stronger, more connected community.

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 Community Facilities Grant Program in Alaska provides essential funding for rural areas to develop vital community facilities. Eligible projects include healthcare, public safety, and educational services in communities with populations under 20,000. Grants can cover up to 75% of project costs, depending on the median household income of the area. This program aims to enhance quality of life and ensure access to necessary services in underserved regions, fostering community growth and sustainability.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Alaska support rural communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that jeopardize safe drinking water access. Eligible applicants include public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be utilized for constructing waterlines or sources, with grants up to $1 million available. This program aims to restore access to clean water, ultimately benefiting both households and local businesses in affected areas.

The Grants for Rural and Native Alaskan Villages program is designed to provide essential drinking water and waste disposal systems to remote Alaskan villages. By addressing dire sanitation conditions, the program ensures access to clean water and improves public health in communities that are often isolated. Funded by USDA Rural Development, these grants cover up to 75% of project costs, promoting sustainable infrastructure in areas facing unique challenges due to geography and climate.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

The Charlotte Martin Foundation's Wildlife and Habitat Program focuses on promoting biodiversity and habitat conservation in the Northwest. It engages communities in addressing climate change impacts while emphasizing the importance of ecosystem resilience. Through collaboration with local organizations, the program aims to restore critical habitats, enhance landscape connectivity, and support underserved populations in Alaska, Idaho, Montana, Oregon, and Washington. This initiative recognizes the vital role of community engagement and sustainable practices in protecting wildlife and natural resources.

The Sloan Indigenous Graduate Partnership (SIGP) Scholarship Program, funded by the A.P. Sloan Foundation, aims to support Indigenous graduate students in STEM fields. This program, a collaboration among the Montana University System institutions, offers scholarships, professional development, and networking opportunities to enhance the academic journey of Indigenous students. With awards of $20,000 for M.S. and $40,000 for Ph.D. candidates, the SIGP seeks to increase the number of Indigenous scholars earning advanced degrees in science and engineering.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Vocational Fund for Alaska's Future Grants support projects aimed at developing a skilled workforce in Alaska's natural resource industries. Eligible applicants, including nonprofits and educational institutions, can apply for funding to enhance skills in areas like plumbing, welding, and engineering. Preference is given to initiatives benefiting rural communities and sectors such as oil and gas. This grant fosters career awareness and skill acquisition, promoting economic growth in Alaska.

Alaska Community Foundation

The Alaska Community Foundation connects people who care to the causes that make a difference and matter most to them. We encourage and nurture philanthropy through building and managing permanent endowments, convening stakeholders, working with partners to strengthen Alaskan communities, and providing donors with flexible giving options that are strategic to their philanthropic objectives. ACF also manages the Pick.Click.Give. program.

Mission: Inspiring the spirit of giving and connecting people, organizations, and causes to strengthen Alaska’s communities now and forever.

The Alaska Community Foundation runs competitive grant cycles throughout the year that are open to eligible local nonprofits and other organizations serving the public good.

Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP)

The Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP) is a five-year initiative focused on strengthening rural communities by improving healthcare access, quality, and outcomes by transforming the healthcare delivery ecosystem. Through innovative system-wide change, the RHTP invests in the rural healthcare delivery ecosystem for future generation.

Alaska’s RHTP will advance statewide health system transformation by funding projects that expand access to care, improve health outcomes, strengthen workforce capacity, modernize technology, and advance financially sustainable health care payment models.

Funding will support community-based and system-level projects aimed at improving access, workforce capacity, and care delivery statewide. The program is intentionally structured to promote fair access, a range of approaches, and geographic balance, ensuring that organizations across Alaska, regardless of size, location, or prior funding experience, can participate meaningfully.

The program is administered at the federal level by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and led at the state level by the Alaska Department of Health. The Department of Health serves as the lead for program design, policy direction, funding decisions, and overall stewardship of the initiative.

To move resources to grantees and partners quickly and effectively, the Alaska Community Foundation (ACF) is managing the grant process, facilitating grant review, and providing technical assistance to RHTP grantees.

Program Priorities

RHTP funding supports projects aligned with Alaska’s six RHTP initiatives. A detailed description of the initiatives and potential uses of funds can be found on Alaska’s Department of Health RHTP webpage.

• Healthy Beginnings: strengthens maternal and child health as a foundation for healthy families.
• Health Care Access: expands and sustains essential primary, behavioral, oral, specialty, emergency, home and community-based and post-acute care health services across Alaska’s rural communities.
• Healthy Communities: invests in enhancing access to preventive and primary care services that enable early chronic disease management, expanding the use of consumer-facing digital tools and population health clinical infrastructure, and promoting healthy lifestyles with culturally appropriate community education.
• Pay for Value: Fiscal Sustainability: incentivizes a shift from traditional volume-based reimbursement models to build the long-term financial stability of rural providers through voluntary innovative care and payment models that increase care coordination, lower costs and improve health outcomes.
• Strengthen Workforce: builds a resilient rural health care workforce through pipeline, recruitment, training and retention strategies, alongside wraparound housing and child care supports to help providers remain in rural communities.
• Spark Technology and Innovation: harnesses data and technology to expand the use of consumer wearables and digital devices, enhance telehealth, foster appropriate use of AI, strengthen cybersecurity, facilitate data sharing and system interoperability, and test new delivery modalities using emerging technologies.

RHTP Grant Opportunities

Recognizing the interconnected nature of these priorities, Alaska’s RHTP includes four funding pathways:

• Readiness Grants – early-stage support to address foundational capacity gaps, including planning, feasibility, partnership development, and community engagement.
• Planning Grants - investments to support structured planning and design for clearly defined health system interventions.
• Implementation Grants – will fund projects that are fully prepared to execute and deliver high-impact work with demonstrated feasibility.
• Future Targeted Innovation Grants - which will enable the Department of Health to advance fully developed, high-impact projects. Funding opportunities through this pathway are expected to occur at a later date.

The American Society of Biomechanics' B-Sure Program aims to foster diversity in biomechanics by providing summer research internships to undergraduate students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. Participants will receive grants of up to $6000 for living expenses and a complimentary ASB student membership. This initiative encourages engagement in scientific research and supports students who have faced educational disadvantages, thus enhancing diversity within the biomechanics community.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Enterprise Community Partners

Enterprise Community Partners is a national nonprofit that exists to make a good home possible for the millions of families without one. Home is where life happens, where plans are made, and futures begin. It is the foundation for dignity, health, education, wealth, and community. Yet rents keep going up, paychecks don’t keep pace, and good homes in strong neighborhoods are increasingly out of reach.

The system doesn’t work. It must be changed, and it must be changed by us.

Enterprise has the breadth, scale, and expertise to do it. We support community development organizations on the ground. We aggregate and invest billions to improve housing and strengthen communities across the U.S. We advance housing policy at every level of government. We build and manage communities ourselves. Everything we do is informed by the residents we serve.

Together with our partners, we focus on the greatest need — the massive shortage of affordable rental homes — to achieve three goals:

• Increase the supply of affordable homes
• Advance racial equity after decades of systematic racism in housing
• Support residents and strengthen communities to be resilient to the unpredictable, and make upward mobility possible

Since 1982, we have invested $92.0 billion and created 1.1 million homes across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. We do all this to make home and community places of pride, power, and belonging.

National Housing Innovation Grant Competition

Home is foundational. It’s where we plant roots, raise and care for our families, and build community bonds. Yet in every corner of the country, millions of people of all ages and backgrounds need a home they can afford.

Wells Fargo is meeting this moment with a powerful grant opportunity. Together with Enterprise, Wells Fargo has launched the third iteration of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge. The 2026 cycle of the housing innovation competition will identify and propel proven, ready-to-scale solutions that transform current practices and increase housing choice and access.

Eligible applicants will compete for five individual grants of $2 million to advance their innovation and drive meaningful, systems-level change in the housing and adjacent industries. Winners will gain access to mentorship and coaching from industry leaders and experts and join a powerful network of Breakthrough Challenge innovators.

Focus Areas

This third cycle of the Housing Affordability Breakthrough Challenge aims to meet the nation’s affordable housing challenges across all types of communities: Native, rural, suburban, tribal, and urban.

Proposals must encompass one or more of three focus areas:

• Design and Construction
• Finance
• Service Delivery and Programs

Applicants will be asked to show how their proof of concept or pilot program has achieved clear outcomes and success, and provide a clear pathway to expanding the innovation’s reach and impact

Round 1: Criteria and Scoring

Your innovation must meet the criteria below to advance to the official scoring stage.

Type of Community

Innovations can serve all types of communities:

• Rural
• Urban
• Suburban
• Tribal

Location

Priority scoring will be given to applications from entities that are based in – or whose innovations are designed for – one or more of these 28 states, plus D.C.:

• Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.

Affordability

Innovations must serve residents at these income levels:

• Rental: 80% AMI or below
• Homeownership: 120% AMI or below
• Workforce housing: 120% AMI or below

The Rural Business Development Grants in Alaska provide essential technical assistance and training to small rural businesses with under 50 employees and less than $1 million in revenue. While there is no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests. The program supports various projects, including community economic development and technology-based initiatives, aiming to enhance the economic landscape of rural areas. Eligible applicants include towns, communities, and nonprofit corporations, among others.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.