Best Technology Grants in Pennsylvania

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation promotes human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by providing strategic charitable resources. The foundation focuses on education and economic development, prioritizing projects that enhance teacher quality, support early childhood education, and foster innovative economic initiatives. By investing in programs that bridge geographical boundaries and encourage collaboration among sectors, the foundation aims to cultivate leadership and sustainable growth in the region.

The Highmark Foundation provides high-impact grants aimed at enhancing community health in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. It supports evidence-based programs that address critical health issues, including chronic diseases, family health, and access to care. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that demonstrate sustainable solutions and collaboration with community partners. By funding diverse health-related projects, it aims to improve the well-being of underserved populations, ensuring that vital health interventions reach those in need.

Our Mission

The Horner Foundation is a family-based charity dedicated to partnering with community-based organizations that provide youth, aged 10-19, hands-on experiential learning opportunities through Out of School Time (OST) to foster positive youth development.

We work in 4 geographic regions, determined by where family members live, their specific interests and needs identified by the community.

Our Vision

• All youth will be empowered to realize their full potential and become active participants in their communities.
• All youth will have ample opportunities both inside and outside the classroom to experience a diversity of quality learning styles and frameworks.
• All youth will be healthy, strong, and well-prepared for the 21st Century.

Organizational Funding Statement

The Horner Foundation strives to be responsive and meet organizations where they are. This means that we may provide multi-year funding and ongoing support to nonprofits who may be launching a pilot project or going through a transition. However, we also believe in the value of diverse funding sources. The Horner Foundation typically funds organizations for 1-2 funding cycles (2-4 years). In rare cases, we may fund an organizations for 3 funding cycles (6 years).

Grants

The Foundation awards two-year grants dedicated to project funding. We fund in four geographic regions, each with its own funding priorities.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Out of School Time (OST) Organizations - STEM Programs    

Strategy

Since 2013, The Horner Foundation has supported Out of School Time programs working directly with underserved youth aged 10-19 in the City of Philadelphia. For our 2024 funding cycle, we will focus on out-of-school time STEM programming. 

Funding Focus

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math): The intention of this funding focus is to inspire members of the next generation to pursue careers in the science, technology, engineering, and math sectors through programming delivered in an inclusive learning environment.

• The program may include coding, robotics, entrepreneurship, engineering, and other STEM-related OST programming aimed at equipping youth with the tools necessary to thrive in a tech driven society.
• This funding focus also includes programs that encourage leadership training and career preparation for young tech leaders in underserved communities.

The Manufacturing PA Industrial Resource Center Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to enhance the competitiveness of small and medium-sized manufacturers. By adopting modern manufacturing techniques and providing essential resources, this program supports a network of Industrial Resource Centers throughout Pennsylvania. The funding can be utilized for personnel expenses, operational needs, and various initiatives to strengthen the manufacturing sector's capacity and promote growth in key industries.

The Mellon Foundation's Economic Development Grant Program aims to address economic disparities in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania by enhancing workforce skills and creating job opportunities. The program focuses on talent development, workforce systems, and community building, advocating for innovative education and training that aligns with future job markets. It seeks proposals that promote 21st-century skills, foster entrepreneurship, and support underrepresented groups, ultimately driving economic independence and community vitality.

The Polk Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Established by Patricia Hillman Miller, the Foundation prioritizes programs focusing on health, human services, and community inclusion. It seeks to empower people with disabilities through collaborative efforts, innovative technology, and impactful research. While Merakey AVS remains a primary beneficiary, the Foundation welcomes applications from other nonprofits aligned with its mission, ensuring accessibility and support for diverse needs.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The Festus & Helen Stacy Foundation provides grants to non-profit organizations worldwide, especially those focusing on evangelism, leadership development, holistic ministries, and media outreach. Established in 1980, the foundation aims to support projects that address the needs of the marginalized and promote generous giving. Grants are typically awarded for specific initiatives in South Florida, nationally, and internationally, particularly in emerging nations. Organizations must be tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) to be eligible.

The Ear, Nose, and Throat Foundation of Central Pennsylvania is a nonprofit organization committed to advancing patient care, research, education, and innovation in the field of otolaryngology. Grants are provided to support initiatives aligned with the Foundation’s mission, particularly within the areas of ENT health, medical research, technology, education, global health, and community outreach.

Grants may be issued directly to healthcare physicians and allied health care professionals, medical institutions, clinics, or academic departments at the discretion of their leadership. Any research grants provided through such offices may be subject to specific terms and conditions, including limitations on the use of funds (e.g., restrictions on covering indirect costs).

The Staunton Farm Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges in southwestern Pennsylvania. By supporting evidence-based practices and collaborations among stakeholders, the foundation seeks to eliminate stigma and improve treatment outcomes. Priority areas include innovation, advocacy, and public communication to foster understanding and acceptance of behavioral health issues. This initiative focuses on measurable impacts and sustainable community partnerships to drive positive change.

The CNX Foundation Grant aims to enhance the Appalachian region through strategic investments totaling $30 million. With a focus on sustainability and community development, the grant addresses pressing socio-economic challenges such as food insecurity, health and wellness for children, and technological access. By fostering local initiatives, CNX Foundation aspires to create measurable impacts that uplift communities and promote long-term growth, embodying their commitment to environmental, social, and governance principles.

The Social-Impact Investment Pitch Competition aims to enhance the vitality of Southwestern Pennsylvania, particularly in Pittsburgh, by fostering economic development, wildlife conservation, and community health. The Foundation invites nonprofits, public agencies, and socially-driven for-profit companies to apply for funding to implement innovative ideas that address societal challenges. Applications are open to U.S.-based organizations seeking capital and project support, with a focus on creating lasting positive change in the community.

The Pittsburgh Foundation aims to foster a vibrant, equitable, and just community in the Pittsburgh region through its Foundation-Directed Grantmaking. Focus areas include Basic Needs, Equity and Social Justice, Arts and Culture, Economic Mobility, and Environmental Action. The Foundation prioritizes support for organizations serving low-income communities and those impacted by social injustices. By aligning grantmaking with community aspirations, they strive to ensure everyone can thrive and access essential resources and opportunities.

The Falk Facilities and Technology Improvement Fund, supported by the United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania, provides grants for capital improvements to partner agencies already receiving Community Impact grants. Eligible applicants include those in Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties, with funding available for renovations, repairs, vehicle purchases, and technology upgrades. This initiative aims to enhance community services and strengthen local organizations.

The Wayne County Community Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in Wayne County, PA, aiming to support community development in various sectors, including arts, education, and health. Grants are awarded biannually and prioritize projects that address critical community needs and have a proven impact. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving local residents, while certain expenses like advertising and routine operating costs are not funded. The Foundation seeks to empower local agencies to become self-sustaining.

Staunton Farm Foundation

Working for mental wellness

Staunton Farm Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of people who live with mental illness and/or substance use disorders. The Foundation works to enhance behavioral health treatment and support by advancing best practices through grant making to non-profit organizations in ten southwestern Pennsylvania counties: Allegheny, Armstrong, Beaver, Butler, Fayette, Greene, Indiana, Lawrence, Washington, Westmoreland.

Investing in a future where behavioral health is understood, supported, and accepted.

Purpose

Staunton Farm Foundation (SFF) recognizes that strong organizational capacity is essential to sustaining high-quality mental health and substance use services over time. Capacity-building investments strengthen nonprofit organizations’ internal systems, leadership, and infrastructure, enabling them to more effectively carry out their missions. By supporting capacity-building efforts, SFF seeks to empower organizations to innovate, adapt, and enhance programs and resources in response to evolving community needs, ultimately broadening and deepening positive impact for the individuals and communities they serve.

Guidelines for Use of Funds

Capacity-building grants may be used to support activities that strengthen an organization’s infrastructure, systems, leadership, and long-term sustainability. Funds may be used to contract for technical assistance, training, evaluation, planning, technology upgrades, and other expenses necessary to achieve the goals of the proposed project. Specific grant terms will be outlined with successful applicants.

Allowable uses include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Organizational Infrastructure & Systems
  • Strategic planning, sustainability planning, or business model development
  • Data collection, evaluation, or outcomes measurement systems
  • Technology upgrades that support service delivery, coordination, or reporting (e.g., EHR enhancements, client tracking systems, cybersecurity improvements)
• Workforce & Leadership Development
  • Staff training and professional development related to behavioral health or substance use services
  • Leadership development or succession planning
  • Workforce initiatives aimed at improving retention
• Program & Operational Effectiveness
  • Program design or redesign to improve quality, accessibility, or cultural responsiveness
  • Implementation support for evidence-based or promising practices
  • Quality improvement initiatives
  • Policy, procedure, or compliance development related to licensure, accreditation, or best practices
• External Expertise & Technical Assistance
  • Consultants or technical assistance providers with relevant expertise (e.g., finance, evaluation, clinical quality, operations, or technology)
  • Compliance support related to organizational operations (excluding litigation)

The H. G. Barsumian, M.D. Memorial Fund Grant supports organizations engaged in medical research, primarily benefiting the Lancaster, Pennsylvania community. Established in 1998, this fund reflects the commitment of Jane Barsumian and Mary Lyons to enhance medical advancements. Grants average $25,000, with around five grants awarded annually. Eligibility requires organizations to be 501(c)(3) exempt. Although there are no geographic limitations, preference is given to local entities to foster community development.

The Lawrence C. Fuller, Jr. Memorial Diabetic Fund Grant aims to support organizations conducting research and educational programs on diabetes and hypoglycemia. Established by Constance Peabody Fuller, the fund emphasizes Pennsylvania-based initiatives but has no geographic limitations. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $15,000, with an average of three grants awarded annually. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline of May 30 for review at the annual meeting in July.

The Gladys Brooks Foundation supports innovative projects in libraries, education, hospitals, and clinics. Grants focus on resource endowments, capital construction, and equipment aimed at improving public access to information and educational resources. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations located in specific states and demonstrate that projects will be funded primarily by the grant. Applications for direct salary support or research projects are not accepted.

Behavioral Highway Safety Grants

PennDOT’s Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit offers traffic safety grants to support local communities and organizations working to make Pennsylvania’s roads safer. Eligible applicants include local governments, universities within the Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education, Pennsylvania state related universities, and nonprofit organizations.

Grant opportunities focus on proven, data driven strategies that address the most urgent traffic safety challenges across the Commonwealth. Available funds are allocated using formulas based on crash data to ensure resources are directed where they can make the greatest impact.

The Behavioral Traffic Safety Unit is not permitted to fund equipment only grant requests. All funded projects must include programmatic or behavioral safety components aligned with evidence based countermeasures.

Law Enforcement Liaison (LEL) Program

Provides administrative and technical support for state and local law enforcement participation in grant-funded enforcement operations in alignment with National Law Enforcement Liaison Program standards and best practices.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Pennsylvania provide essential funding and technical assistance to small rural businesses with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue. The grants prioritize smaller requests and support various projects aimed at enhancing local economies. Eligible uses include training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development initiatives. Funded by USDA: Rural Development, these grants aim to stimulate growth and sustainability in rural areas.

The 2025 GSK IMPACT Awards recognize nonprofit organizations in Greater Philadelphia for their contributions to community health. Each awardee receives $50,000 in unrestricted funding, aimed at nonprofits with annual revenues between $100,000 and $5 million. The awards promote innovative and impactful solutions to health challenges within the community, with a focus on criteria such as accountability and community-centered approaches. Organizations must comply with eligibility requirements to apply for this prestigious recognition.

The Ruth P. Seruga Trust Grant provides funding to non-profit organizations that enhance the quality of life in Lehigh County, PA. Established from Mrs. Seruga's will, the trust aims to support various charitable causes, including arts, education, health, and human services, with an average grant size of $3,000. Applications are accepted year-round, but must be submitted by August 1 for annual review in September.

The John Crain Kunkel Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the quality of life for individuals in Pennsylvania. Focused on charitable, educational, and scientific purposes, the foundation prioritizes projects in Dauphin, Cumberland, Lebanon, Perry, and Juniata Counties. Grants may extend to organizations outside Pennsylvania that benefit communities within the state. Applications are accepted from January 1st to September 1st, with specific eligibility requirements including proof of tax-exempt status.

The PA Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) Grant provides vital technical and financial assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners in Pennsylvania. This program aims to enhance natural resource conservation by addressing concerns such as soil health, water quality, and habitat restoration. Eligible applicants can receive funding for various conservation practices, promoting sustainable agricultural operations while protecting the environment. EQIP encourages year-round applications, ensuring ongoing support for conservation efforts across the state.

The Upper Bucks Community Foundation Fund of LVCF, managed by the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations in the Upper Bucks area, including Palisades, Pennridge, and Quakertown School Districts. It primarily funds projects in visual arts, performing arts, industrial arts, agricultural education, and conservation of rural life. This fund includes the Richard E. Gasser Fund and the Erwin J. and Gertrude K. Neusch Fund, which focus on enhancing community engagement and educational initiatives.

Alternative Fuels Incentive Grants

The Alternative Fuels Incentive Grant Program is now accepting applications for the 2026 program year.

AFIG has approximately $5 million in funding available to school districts, municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and businesses in Pennsylvania that want to transition to cleaner fuel transportation. Applicants will be eligible for a maximum grant award across all applications of $500,000. Individual application awards are still capped at $300,000.

Supported alternative fuels include electricity, compressed natural gas, liquefied natural gas, propane, hydrogen, hythane, biodiesel, ethanol, methanol, and other advanced biofuels. Grant funding covers:

• Incremental costs related to retrofitting vehicles to operate on alternative fuels;
• Incremental costs to purchase alternative fuel vehicles;
• Cost to purchase and install the necessary fleet-refueling or home-refueling equipment for alternative fuel vehicles;
• Cost to perform research, training, development, and demonstration of new applications or next-phase technology related to alternative fuel vehicles.