Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Alaska

Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits and eligible government entities seeking support for workforce development, sustainability, or thriving community initiatives can apply by invitation for Community Investment Grants; funding is prioritized where Marathon Petroleum has significant operations. With a mission to strengthen communities, Marathon Petroleum Corporation / Marathon Petroleum Foundation provides charitable contributions, sponsorships, and volunteer support across its marketing areas, including Alaska.

Focused on innovative human services, Creag Foundation invites Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits to seek support for new approaches to social problems. Organizations with at least one year of nonprofit status, including smaller or evolving groups, may submit a letter of inquiry for invitation-only funding opportunities that help launch or redirect impactful programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can apply for grants up to US $15,000 from the DanPaul Foundation. Focus areas include early childhood development, child advocacy, homelessness, poverty, refugee enrichment, and environmental education; Alaska nonprofits with small youth-focused programs may be especially interested.

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.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with audited expenses over $2 million can seek social service funding to tackle chronic poverty and strengthen families, including organizations serving Alaska. With a mission to support effective direct-service solutions, William Randolph Hearst Foundation provides program, capital, and general support, with grants starting at more than US $100,000.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Alaska can apply for Sidney Stern Memorial Trust’s funding to support charitable, educational, scientific, or medical programs, with all funds used in the U.S. Eligible tax-exempt organizations seeking small grants for impactful services may benefit, provided projects are nonpolitical and not focused on lobbying or individual aid.

Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for community-focused programs can apply for sponsorship funding to advance economic mobility and social progress. Grants from Bank of America Charitable Foundation help organizations address basic needs, workforce development, community development, arts and culture, environmental initiatives, and diversity and inclusion efforts through regional sponsorships across the U.S.

Alaska-based nonprofits, Tribes, and local or state government entities seeking small capital or one-time investments can apply for Rasmuson Foundation’s Tier 1 Grants, offering up to US $35,000. Grants from Rasmuson Foundation help Alaska organizations buy, build, fix, or create assets like equipment, renovations, vehicles, technology upgrades, and other small capital improvements.

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.

Public agencies and 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Alaska planning historic preservation projects or education efforts can apply for National Trust for Historic Preservation’s National Trust Preservation Funds, awarding US $2,500 - US $5,000. Funding supports planning, professional consultants, staff time, and outreach to launch or strengthen local preservation initiatives, with a required one-to-one match.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, federally recognized tribal entities, and select government entities in Alaska can apply for M J Murdock Charitable Trust capital grants, with awards typically more than US $50,000, to support construction, renovation, property acquisition, and major facility upgrades. Projects should advance leadership priorities in areas like education, health, environment, arts, or community services.

Alaska nonprofits, tribal entities, and certain government or educational institutions seeking new equipment or technology can apply for capacity-building support from the M J Murdock Charitable Trust, with awards typically more than US $50,000. Projects must primarily benefit the Pacific Northwest and advance areas like arts and culture, education, community services, health, environment, or scientific research.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, federally recognized tribal entities, and select government institutions in Alaska can seek more than US $50,000 to expand programs and add staff through strategic project grants. Grants from M J Murdock Charitable Trust help build nonprofit capacity in areas like arts and culture, education, health, civic engagement, and environmental stewardship, primarily in the Pacific Northwest.

Nonprofit organizations in Alaska seeking small project or program support can apply for funding for cultural institutions, education, community services, health facilities, environmental and wildlife efforts, and youth or senior programs. With a mission to help smaller initiatives, Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides U.S. nonprofits with US $1,000 - US $20,000 where modest grants can have big impact.

Alaskan nonprofit organizations, schools, local government agencies, and tribal entities developing community arts programs in Alaska can apply for up to US $5,000 to support public arts activities and administration. With a mission to advance creative endeavors, Alaska State Council on the Arts helps small, often volunteer-run groups expand arts access in underserved communities through exhibits, performances, festivals, workshops, and more.

Alaska nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status, units of government, tribal entities, and schools in Alaska can access funding for performing arts presenting, touring, and staff development projects. Alaska State Council on the Arts’ Helen Walker Performing Arts Grants offer US $500 - US $5,000 to support theater, dance, music, media, folk, and traditional arts, especially for underserved communities.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

501(c)(3) nonprofits providing basic needs or economic mobility programs for youth and families in Alaska communities with Nordstrom stores can apply for Nordstrom’s Community Grant, awarding US $5,000 - US $20,000 in unrestricted support. Organizations should focus on food, shelter, clothing, workforce development, mentorship, scholarships, or similar services.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Alaska working to improve local quality of life can seek project, general operating, or capital support for community-focused programs. O'Reilly Automotive Foundation prioritizes economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief in communities where O’Reilly Auto Parts has a business presence.

Nonprofit professional theatres in Alaska producing contemporary plays on current social issues can seek production and change-capital support, with awards ranging from US $10,000 - US $25,000. Focused on theatre, Sheri and Les Biller Family Foundation invites 501(c)(3) organizations meeting size and history requirements to fund artistic, production, and community engagement expenses.

Alaska rural public entities and nonprofit organizations can access funding through USDA: Rural Development to provide technical assistance and training for small rural businesses. Grants support activities like business counseling, feasibility studies, land and facility development, revolving loan funds, and community or technology-based economic development benefiting rural areas outside larger urban centers.

Nonprofits, tribes, local governments, and K-12 schools in Alaska can apply for the GCI Suicide Prevention Grant, with awards of US $1,000 - US $15,000 for projects reducing suicide and promoting mental wellness. Programs serving rural communities and addressing issues like generational trauma, youth coalitions, or high-risk populations may be especially competitive.

Alaska nonprofits with Alaska-based programs that enhance wildlife viewing, education, or habitat conservation can access funding through the Alaska Conservation Foundation’s Watchable Wildlife Conservation Trust, with awards up to US $5,000. Eligible projects include interpretation, wildlife education, trail or facilities work, research, and acquisition of critical wildlife habitats across Alaska.