Best Grants for Special Education in Alaska

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem–solving programs in Alaska may be eligible for funding to launch or expand new approaches. Focused on innovation, Creag Foundation invites smaller or evolving organizations to propose creative solutions that could include special needs education alongside broader community, health, and social service initiatives.

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.

Alaska educational institutions, government programs, and qualifying 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on safety, education, or community development can access funding through State Farm Companies Foundation for program support. Eligible projects include K–12 and higher education, STEM, college and career pathways, disaster preparedness and recovery, community revitalization, job training, financial literacy, and related initiatives that may benefit special education populations.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

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.

Nonprofit and charitable-equivalent organizations working in health, education, or community services in Alaska can apply for Labcorp Charitable Foundation grants. Focus areas include healthcare access for underserved populations, food pantries, STEM education, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. Special education programs that fit these priorities may be eligible.

Mat-Su Health Foundation

Mat-Su Health Foundation (MSHF) provides funding to improve the health and wellness of Alaskans living in the Mat-Su Borough. With attention to health equity, MSHF seeks to ensure that all persons have the opportunity for a healthy life.

MSHF supports organizations, collaboratives, and initiatives that empower people; employ creative responses to problems; address root causes; build upon community strengths and partnerships; demonstrate a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusiveness to reduce health disparities; and offer measurable improvements in health and wellness. 

Technical Assistance Grants

Access the expertise you need to be most effective.

Technical Assistance (TA) grants help nonprofits access specialized skills and services to operate effectively and sustainably. TA grant funding can support a range of organizational needs, such as board development and financial management; fundraising and communications; and retreat facilitation and strategic planning; among others. 

Grantees can identify their own consultants they would like to hire, or they can select from Mat-Su Health Foundation’s network of consultants. Grantees can use awarded funding to contract with consultants at an agreed-upon rate. 

What We Fund

• Program and service costs that improve health and social drivers of health
• Nonprofit financial sustainability and operating support
• Capacity building and technical assistance to support nonprofit capacity and leadership development
• Capital projects, improvements, and equipment
• Consideration can be given to capital projects outside of the Mat-Su Borough, but only for FF&E (furniture, fixtures and equipment) when there is a demonstrable health and wellness benefit to Mat-Su residents
• Policy change

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

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.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) or 509(a)(2) status in Alaska can seek Ludlow Foundation support for basic human needs, including education, rehabilitation, crisis situations, and special programs. With a mission to meet essential human needs, Ludlow Foundation provides grants up to US $500, which may benefit special education initiatives serving students with significant needs.

With a mission to help impactful community programs, Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides Alaska nonprofits working in education and related services with flexible support. IRS-qualified U.S. organizations, including those offering special needs education, youth programs, and cultural or community services, can request US $1,000 - US $20,000 for projects where modest funding makes a big difference.

Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Alaska can seek support for education, health and social services, youth programs, the arts, and civic activities. Focused on learning, heritage, and community strength, the Usibelli Foundation invites organizations, including those serving students with special needs, to apply for program or project funding.

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.

Alaska-based 501(c)(3)s, school districts, tribal and government entities with budgets of $50,000+ can seek $5,000 - $10,000 for arts-centered, community projects commemorating the U.S. semiquincentennial in Alaska. With a mission to advance creative endeavors, Alaska State Council on the Arts funds education, engagement, and arts programming that may complement special education or inclusive learning initiatives.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Alaskan 501(c)(3) nonprofits, schools, tribes, and local governments in the Chugiak-Eagle River area can apply for Alaska Community Foundation’s Chugiak-Eagle River Foundation Grant to fund capital purchases and occasional innovative special projects. Programs serving students with special needs may be eligible if they fit these community-focused, educational, or youth-oriented priorities.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

501(c)(3) nonprofits providing basic needs or economic mobility programs for youth and families, including those in Alaska, can apply for Nordstrom’s Community Grant, awarding US $5,000 - US $20,000 in unrestricted support. Organizations offering special needs education alongside these services in communities with Nordstrom stores may be especially competitive.

Registered 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations in Alaska can seek funding to tell impactful stories about their preservation, education, or wellness work. With a mission to partner with local changemakers, Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation provides more than US $50,000 to help capture and share real-world community impact, which may benefit special education programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, faith-based social service providers, Tribes, and local governments in Alaska can fund special projects in education, health, outdoor programs, arts, and community development with awards up to US $3,000. With a mission to strengthen communities, The Alaska Community Foundation supports central Kenai Peninsula initiatives, which may include special needs education activities.

O’Reilly Automotive Foundation provides Alaska nonprofits improving community quality of life with project, operating, or capital support focused on economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations serving local communities, including those supporting underserved students and families in special education contexts, may be eligible if they meet the foundation’s nondiscrimination requirements.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing education, youth, or family services can apply for funding from Robinson Foundation, which supports programs across the Southern U.S. Focused on relieving hardship, it backs efforts in areas like children and families, education, and poverty relief; Alaska special education providers may be eligible if they meet these criteria.

BIPOC-led nonprofit organizations in Alaska offering youth education, culture, or athletics programs for ages 6–18 can seek flexible operating or program support that increases racial equity and opportunities. With a mission to uplift youth and communities of color, Charlotte Martin Foundation prioritizes rural groups and initiatives like STEAM learning, cultural expression, and access to sports.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and childcare, foster parent, or early childhood education programs in Southeast Alaska can seek funding for services, equipment, activities, or staff training that enhance health, education, and welfare. Focused on community services, Juneau Community Foundation invites Alaska programs serving children, youth, elders, and special needs groups, including special education initiatives, to apply for US $200 - US $5,000.

Alaska 501(c)(3) organizations working on biodiversity protection, habitat conservation, or environmental education can access funding through the Weeden Foundation, with awards of US $10,000 - US $30,000. Programs in areas like land and freshwater conservation, ornithological and mammalian conservation, recycling, and climate resilience may be eligible, including initiatives that complement special education through environmental learning.

Qualified 501(c)(3) organizations, Tribal entities, schools, and faith-based groups serving the Chilkat Valley in Alaska can apply for The Alaska Community Foundation’s Chilkat Valley Community Foundation grants, awarding US $500 - US $5,000 for operating support, new programs, special projects, and capital needs. Education initiatives, including special needs education, may be eligible.