Best Community Development Grants in Alaska

Alaskan municipal governments (except Anchorage) seeking support for community development, planning, or special economic development projects in Alaska can apply for Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development’s Community Development Block Grant, with awards up to US $850,000 per community. Nonprofits may participate as co-applicants for these HUD-funded pass-through grants benefiting primarily low- and moderate-income residents.

Municipalities, named recipients, and unincorporated communities in Alaska can seek funding for capital community development projects such as construction, building improvements, feasibility studies, land acquisition, and equipment. With a mission to manage these legislative appropriations, Alaska Department of Commerce, Community, and Economic Development provides grants once projects are funded through the state’s Capital Bill process.

Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits, local governments, Tribal governments, and some faith-based organizations can seek large grants for capital projects and major community initiatives. Rasmuson Foundation provides Alaska community development and revitalization groups with more than US $250,000 for construction, renovation, equipment, vehicles, historic preservation, and innovative programs of community or statewide importance.

Nonprofit charitable organizations working on community development, education, workforce, or basic human needs can apply for KeyBank Foundation grants of US $10,000 - US $25,000 in Alaska and other eligible states. Grants from KeyBank Foundation help strengthen affordable housing, small business growth, financial literacy, and career and college preparation initiatives.

Focused on community and economic development, nonprofits in Alaska can apply for Northrim Bank support for projects that build stronger, healthier communities. Eligible organizations work on community development, low-income family support, health and wellness, or higher education initiatives and should submit proposals during the bank’s annual budgeting process for best consideration.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

Community development and revitalization nonprofits in Alaska can access funding through the Crawford Taylor Foundation for projects that strengthen communities and improve quality of life. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations may also be considered for related priorities such as child welfare, supportive housing, parks, or disaster relief, with a preference for impactful, program-based requests.

Eligible public and nonprofit entities in Alaska recovering from 2023–2024 natural disasters can access funding to plan, build, or transform community and regional economies. The US Department of Commerce: Economic Development Administration provides up to US $50,000,000 for readiness, implementation, and industry transformation projects that strengthen long-term community development and resilience.

Alaska 501(c)(3) nonprofits and state or local government entities can seek funding for community development, food security, education, and agriculture projects or general operations. Greenpoint Foundation supports initiatives that enhance communities where its stakeholders live and work; eligible organizations may submit multiple applications annually but must provide timely impact reports.

Alaska community development organizations working on education, health, arts, entrepreneurship, youth, or civic leadership can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects and special initiatives. Eligible U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least one year of outcomes may apply for up to US $10,000, with rolling quarterly reviews.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development, education access, humanitarian aid, or related initiatives in places like Alaska can seek Strategic Impact Grants to support measurable, well-planned projects. Bertin Family Foundation prioritizes strong governance, financial transparency, and alignment with its values, with applications submitted via its Foundant portal annually in Q3.

Nonprofit organizations working on community development, housing, youth, veterans, or human services can access funding through St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation, with awards of US $500 - US $5,000. While the foundation primarily serves New Hampshire communities, Alaska groups with similar financial independence and community support programs may be eligible based on the funder’s stated service areas.

Nonprofit organizations providing youth services, housing, social services, or community development programs in Alaska may be eligible for St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s community support grants, awarding US $500 - US $5,000. Funding can assist initiatives that help individuals and families of modest means, including civic and community support efforts.

U.S. nonprofit staff leading community development or revitalization projects can receive micro grants to launch new efforts or add meaningful components to existing work. Focused on uplifting unseen leaders, Enhearten Unseen Leaders offers US $500 - US $1,000 per project, which may benefit Alaska organizations serving their local communities.

Community development and revitalization nonprofits in Alaska can apply for the Ferguson Cares Grant to support affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, skilled trades, and clean water and sanitation projects. Grants from Ferguson help organizations within its Alaska service footprint strengthen local economies and improve quality of life in the communities they serve.

Nonprofit organizations, TDHEs, and federally recognized tribes working on rural affordable housing or community development in Alaska can receive direct technical assistance to build capacity and strengthen programs. With a mission to support rural housing and development, Housing Assistance Council provides customized one-on-one guidance, training, and resources to improve operations and expand impact in eligible non-urbanized areas.

Eligible Canadian or U.S. charities and nonprofit organizations with programs in Alaska can apply for BMO Financial Group’s BMO Gives funding to support community development and revitalization, financial literacy, and related initiatives. This opportunity may benefit Alaska groups advancing economic mobility, stronger communities, and sustainable futures through local programming in Canada or the U.S.

Nonprofit housing and homelessness service providers in Alaska can seek funding for permanent and transitional housing programs through the Anchorage Continuum of Care Program, with awards up to US $2,600,000. Anchorage Coalition to End Homelessness also supports coordination efforts that strengthen community-wide work on homelessness and broader community development and revitalization.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored projects can receive funding for financial literacy, technology education, and vibrant community initiatives, including housing insecurity and neighborhood revitalization. Affirm Cares provides Alaska community development groups with support for scalable, measurable programs; submissions are accepted on a rolling basis and reviewed within three months.

Nonprofit organizations hosting events or needing general operating support for community development in Alaska can apply for KeyBank Foundation’s Community Sponsorships, which typically range from $500 to $5,000. With a mission to prepare individuals for thriving futures, KeyBank provides funding for efforts that strengthen neighbors, education, and workforce in its service areas.

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 Martin Luther King Jr. (MLK) Corridor Community Grants, provided by Keep America Beautiful, aim to empower communities to revitalize and beautify MLK corridors across the U.S. These grants support various projects, including murals, community gardens, and cleanup efforts, contributing to the initiative's goal of beautifying 25,000 communities by 2026. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and community organizations, with a focus on sustainable impacts and local engagement.

The Alaska Community Development Block Grant Program provides vital funding for public facilities and planning activities to enhance the health and safety of local communities. With approximately $2.5 million available for competitive grants, the program supports community development, planning, and special economic development activities aimed at job creation for low and moderate-income residents. Non-profits can apply with Alaskan municipal governments, except Anchorage, for grants up to $850,000.

The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The National Leadership Grants for Museums, offered by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, support innovative projects addressing critical needs in the museum sector. These grants aim to enhance museum services for the public by fostering the development and replication of effective practices, tools, and collaborations, particularly leveraging new technologies. Eligible projects can significantly advance the professional field, ensuring museums remain vital community resources.

The Native American Library Services Enhancement Grants program, funded by the Institute of Museum and Library Services, aids Native Communities in enhancing library services. It empowers Tribal libraries to adapt to evolving information needs and serve as vital resource centers. By addressing the unique priorities of each community, this initiative fosters knowledge sharing and supports the overall wellness of Tribal members, ensuring they have access to essential information and resources.