Best Marine Grants in Alaska

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can apply for funding from the DanPaul Foundation, with awards up to US $15,000. Programs in Alaska that engage children in environmental stewardship, clean air and water, or poverty and homelessness issues may be especially relevant alongside marine and coastal initiatives.

Alaska marine and ocean conservation organizations with early-stage, scalable solutions for underserved communities can access funding through Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation, which offers up to US $300,000 over three years plus intensive capacity-building support. Eligible independent nonprofits and impact-first for-profits must operate in priority regions such as the U.S. and demonstrate measurable impact and growth potential.

Alaska nonprofits, educational institutions, government programs, and volunteer fire companies working on safety, education, or community development can access funding through State Farm Companies Foundation. Grants support auto and home safety, disaster preparedness and recovery, affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, job training, financial literacy, food insecurity, and K–16 education, including STEM and college and career pathways.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million can seek more than US $100,000 for arts and science programming, capital projects, or limited general support, including in Alaska. The William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes arts education, artist development, and STEAM-focused science programs that create measurable, lasting impact for large populations.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Nonprofits, social enterprises, schools, and other organizations improving education, health, or family economic stability for urban low-income children can seek more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling, including work in Alaska where eligible. With a mission to expand opportunity, Michael & Susan Dell Foundation funds impactful, values-aligned programs in the U.S., India, and South Africa.

Marine science institutions and research organizations in Alaska and nearby North Pacific regions can seek funding for studies on fisheries, marine ecosystems, and sustainable resource use. Focused on ecosystem and fishery management questions, the North Pacific Research Board invites proposals on marine biology, oceanography, and conservation in the Gulf of Alaska, Bering Sea, Aleutian Islands, and Arctic waters.

Alaska nonprofits engaged in conservation advocacy with Alaska-based programs can seek Rapid Response funding for urgent campaigns that reduce destructive environmental activities, strengthen protections, or promote sustainable development. Alaska marine and ocean conservation groups may be eligible for up to US $15,000 for time-sensitive policy, advocacy, or enforcement efforts with clear decision timelines.

Nonprofit charities in Alaska and worldwide can seek support for humanitarian, education, community, environmental, or contemporary arts projects that promote sustainable development and engage Roche expertise and employees. Focused on broad social impact, Roche invites accredited charities to propose high-quality initiatives, which may include marine or ocean conservation work where relevant to local Roche affiliates.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations conducting charitable, scientific, medical, educational, or related marine work in Alaska can apply for Sidney Stern Memorial Trust support to advance broad-impact programs. Funds must be used within the U.S., and recipient organizations must be tax-exempt under federal law and, when applicable, California law.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and aligned for-profit organizations working on conservation, education, or wellness storytelling projects in Alaska can apply for more than US $50,000 to share their impact. With a mission to partner locally, Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation provides media and storytelling support that may benefit groups highlighting marine and environmental conservation work.

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.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations near TJX locations in Alaska can apply for The Tjx Foundation’s grants to support basic needs, youth education, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. Programs serving vulnerable children and families, including those in coastal or marine communities, may be eligible if they meet the mission and distance requirements.

With a mission to help community-focused organizations, the Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation provides Alaska nonprofits with US $1,000 - US $20,000 for museums, cultural programs, education, health facilities, environmental and wildlife activities, and community services. IRS-qualified U.S. organizations, including those working on marine or ocean conservation in Alaska, may be eligible if smaller awards can make a big impact.

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.

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.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Focused on marine and coastal research, Alaska Sea Grant invites Alaska-based investigators to apply for more than US $100,000 for one- to two-year projects. Eligible projects advance healthy coastal ecosystems, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, resilient coastal communities and economies, or environmental literacy and workforce development in Alaska’s marine and ocean environments.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on environmental, humanitarian, education, or animal welfare programs in Alaska and beyond can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Organizations with budgets under $1 million and overhead below 25% may find support for projects that preserve the environment and improve quality of life.

Alaska 501(c)(3) organizations working on marine biology, environmental education, or related community programs can access funding through the Sitka Alaska Permanent Charitable Trust to support projects in Sitka and surrounding areas. Grants promote cultural programs, general community betterment, educational assistance, and advancement of scientific knowledge about local marine and terrestrial flora and fauna.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with programs for underserved youth, families, food security, or environmental stewardship in Alaska can receive US $30,000 - US $350,000 to expand their community impact. Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards fund initiatives such as youth development, housing support, hunger relief, and community or environmental projects that may include coastal or marine-related activities.

Alaska organizations developing marine workforce training, seafood safety, or marine education programs can receive US $15,000 - US $75,000 to support projects conducted in Alaska. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) funds initiatives in marine science, aquaculture, maritime operations, sustainable fisheries, and consumer outreach that strengthen the regional seafood supply chain and competitiveness of Alaska’s marine community.

Alaska communities and organizations working on marine debris removal can receive support for shoreline and coastal cleanup efforts in Alaska. Alaska Sea Grant provides up to US $200,000 to fund community-led projects that remove marine debris from shorelines and offshore waters, helping address conservation, food safety, and food security concerns tied to polluted marine ecosystems.

Nonprofit organizations across the U.S. that lead strong, replicable community partnerships can apply for the Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award. Grants from Mutual of America Foundation help Alaska organizations and others showcasing impactful collaborations address significant social issues, which may include marine, ocean, or coastal community challenges.

Alaska marine and biodiversity-focused 501(c)(3) organizations can access funding through the Weeden Foundation for marine wildlife conservation, habitat protection, and related environmental advocacy. Grants of US $10,000 - US $30,000 support projects such as protecting endangered marine species, conserving critical habitats, and advancing environmental education and sustainable consumption initiatives.