Best Grants for Rural Development in American Samoa

The Rural Housing Preservation Grant (HPG) program, administered by the USDA's Rural Housing Service, offers funding to support very low- and low-income homeowners in rural areas. This program also assists rental property owners and cooperative housing complexes in making necessary repairs and renovations, ensuring that housing remains accessible to those in need. Preapplications must be submitted by September 8, 2026, to comply with regulatory requirements.

The Powering Affordable Reliable Technology (PART) Energy Program, managed by the Rural Utilities Service, seeks Letters of Interest for loan applications to fund renewable energy generation and energy storage projects. With approximately $410 million available from the Inflation Reduction Act, the program offers up to 75% financing for project costs, along with potential loan forgiveness options. This initiative aims to enhance energy infrastructure in rural areas, promoting sustainable energy solutions.

Grants from National Association of Realtors help American Samoa rural development organizations educate REALTORS about rural issues through trainings and outreach events. State or local REALTOR associations can receive up to US $3,000 per year on a reimbursement basis for instructor or consultant fees, venue rental, refreshments, and marketing or education materials.

American Samoa rural development and community-focused REALTOR associations can access funding through the National Association of Realtors to support rural outreach studies, events, and public education initiatives. Grants up to US $7,500 reimburse costs like instructors, venues, refreshments, and marketing materials for initiatives delivered in partnership with public and private stakeholders.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in American Samoa can use these grants to provide technical assistance, training, and infrastructure support for small rural businesses. Grants from USDA Rural Development help fund community and technology-based economic development, business incubators, revolving loan funds, and other rural development initiatives across eligible Western Pacific locations.

Resident-driven groups in small towns focused on rural development in American Samoa can receive US $10,000 in startup funding to implement the Community Heart & Soul model. Community Heart & Soul supports community development and revitalization efforts, helping rural communities launch locally led planning and engagement initiatives.

Nonprofits, federally recognized tribes, and higher education institutions in American Samoa supporting rural microentrepreneurs can apply for United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) loans and grants, with awards up to US $500,000, to capitalize revolving microloan funds and provide training and technical assistance. Eligible projects must serve rural areas and very small businesses with 10 or fewer employees.

Public agencies, tribes, cooperatives, and other legal entities in American Samoa can seek US $100,000 - US $5,000,000 to build broadband infrastructure in eligible rural areas, expanding internet access for homes, businesses, and critical facilities. Grants from USDA Rural Development help rural communities improve economic opportunity, education, healthcare, public safety, and overall quality of life.

The Affirm Cares Employee Foundation Grant, established by Affirm, aims to support non-profit organizations making a significant impact in financial literacy, community enrichment, and technology education. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000, focusing on sustainable initiatives that empower communities and alleviate housing insecurity. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) designated non-profits operating within the U.S. The foundation prioritizes measurable outcomes in its funding efforts, fostering civic engagement and vibrant communities.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with projects in American Samoa focused on agriculture, education, environment, or health can seek US $50,000 - US $100,000 from The International Foundation. Grants support measurable, community-led work in underserved regions, including rural development efforts, with activities completed within 12 months and co-funding requirements met.

The FRS Community Grant Program supports rural communities served by NTCA members, offering grants up to $5,000 for various local initiatives. Priority is given to projects that promote economic development, education, health, and public service. Eligible applicants must secure a 10% match of the grant amount requested. Ineligible projects include overhead expenses, individuals, and those without secured funding. FRS aims to foster sustainable and engaged rural communities through these efforts.

Nonprofits and local governments working on rural community development can access funding to implement the Community Heart & Soul resident-driven planning process. Grants from Montana Community Foundation help communities build engagement, identify priorities, and support local coordinators and activities over two years. Rural areas, including American Samoa communities under 30,000 residents, may be eligible for up to US $20,000.

American Samoa rural development nonprofits that establish and operate centers for rural cooperative development can access funding through USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture to provide technical assistance. Grants up to US $1,000,000 support starting, expanding, or improving cooperatives and mutually owned rural businesses, with a focus on job creation and stronger local economies.

Rural-serving nonprofits, public agencies, religious organizations, and tribal governments in American Samoa working on rural development and climate solutions can seek US $20,000 - US $150,000 through the Rural Climate Partnership. With a mission to strengthen rural economies and advance equitable climate solutions, it offers project and general operating support for rural-led efforts across the U.S.

Nonprofits and other organizations advancing innovative wood products and rural economic development can apply for Richard King Mellon Foundation support, including projects in American Samoa. Grants from Richard King Mellon Foundation help rural development efforts by funding product development, commercialization, value-chain strengthening, and demonstration projects that link wood-product innovation with conservation and economic opportunity in areas with conserved natural resources.

American Samoa rural development agencies, nonprofits, and tribes planning water or waste disposal infrastructure can access funding through USDA: Rural Development for predevelopment feasibility studies, design, and technical assistance. Eligible projects must serve very small, financially distressed rural communities of 2,500 people or fewer with low median household incomes.

Rural community governments, nonprofits, and partner organizations in American Samoa with populations of 50,000 or less can receive design support and up to US $6,000 to tackle specific rural development and community design challenges. The Citizens’ Institute on Rural Design offers local design workshops and a design learning cohort focused on planning, creative placemaking, and economic revitalization.

Nonprofits, Tribal Designated Housing Entities, and federally recognized Native American tribes working on rural affordable housing and community development can access direct technical assistance through the Housing Assistance Council. Grants from Housing Assistance Council help American Samoa rural development organizations strengthen operations, design community-driven projects, and expand impact in eligible non-urbanized areas as defined by the HUD Rural Capacity Building map.

Eligible public bodies, nonprofit organizations, tribes, and qualifying community-based systems can seek USDA: Rural Utilities Service funding to repair and strengthen 2022 disaster-impacted water infrastructure. Focused on water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater systems, this program invites rural development projects in American Samoa that build long-term capacity and resiliency against future events.

The Japan – U.S. Global Partnership Grant Program aims to foster collaborative projects addressing global issues through partnerships between Japanese and American organizations. It focuses on policy-oriented research and dialogue among diverse professionals, including academia and grassroots practitioners. Key thematic areas include resilience, inclusivity, and advancements in science and technology. Projects outside these themes may also be eligible if aligned with grant goals, covering topics like climate change, public health, and digital transformation.

The Food Access and Retail Expansion (FARE) Fund Grant, part of America’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative, aims to enhance access to nutritious food in underserved regions. With a budget of $60 million over five years, the initiative supports innovative fresh food retail projects, offering grants and loans to address barriers in food access. This funding is crucial for catalyzing sustainable food enterprises and improving local food systems, ultimately fostering healthier communities.

The Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative Grants aim to support communities by leveraging infrastructure funds to create equitable projects that benefit underserved areas. This pilot program will provide funding for local workers through career training and inclusive economic practices. With grants ranging from $45,000 to $120,000, the initiative focuses on enhancing human infrastructure, fostering collaboration among key partners, and ensuring that frontline communities directly benefit from project implementations.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Hearst Foundation: Education Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that promote education across various levels, focusing primarily on higher education. With a minimum grant size of $100,000, the foundation prioritizes organizations demonstrating significant impact and sustainability. They support innovative educational models, professional development, and scholarships, specifically targeting underserved populations. Since the 1940s, the foundation has evolved while maintaining its commitment to fostering healthy and productive lives for all individuals in the United States.

The Hearst Foundation's Health Grant aims to support nonprofits that enhance healthcare access for underserved populations in the U.S. Focused on improving skills and increasing healthcare practitioners, the grant also emphasizes public health and medical research. With a history of funding significant projects, the foundation prioritizes programs that address the complex needs of low-income, rural, and elderly communities. This commitment ensures a sustainable impact on national health outcomes while supporting innovative healthcare delivery systems.

The Sachs Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for economically and educationally disadvantaged individuals and families. The Foundation supports self-sustaining charitable organizations focusing on economic and educational opportunities, particularly in low-income communities in the U.S. and developing countries. Grants are available for various initiatives, including education, housing, and job training, with a keen interest in programs that demonstrate clear potential for sustainability.

The Doris Duke Foundation's Environment Program grants aim to foster a resilient environment through effective conservation efforts. By supporting U.S. nonprofit organizations, the foundation seeks to protect biodiversity, address climate change, and advance equity, particularly for marginalized communities. The program emphasizes land conservation, natural climate solutions, and inclusive practices, ensuring that conservation efforts benefit both wildlife and people. This initiative is pivotal for enhancing the health of ecosystems and communities across the United States.