Best Arapahoe County Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

Ent Credit Union

Ent’s mission is to improve our members’ financial quality of life. We make the communities we serve more vibrant and believe it is part of our responsibility to make a lasting, positive impact through our work as a financial cooperative and as a philanthropic partner. We foster mutually supportive relationships with, and strive to amplify the message of, the charitable organizations we support. 

Community Advocacy

By definition, a “community advocate” has a vested interest in the development of a neighborhood or community. At Ent, we believe that being an advocate for the numerous neighborhoods and communities we serve across the Front Range is crucial for our communities to thrive. 

Helping our communities across Colorado

For decades, Ent has contributed millions of dollars to support communities across Colorado as a part of our mission to improve our members’ financial quality of life. As a “community advocate” we have a vested interest in supporting the communities where our owner-members live, work and play.

We are partnering with the Pikes Peak Community Foundation to help us raise awareness of the funding available to organizations through Ent, identify volunteer opportunities for Ent employees and to maximize the impact of our financial contributions.

Ent provides funding to various nonprofits along the Front Range that fall into any of the following impact categories:

• Youth: Primary program impact focuses on children under the age of 18 with emphasis on impact in housing, food, behavioral and/or mental health.
• Education: Primary program impact supports classroom learning at all levels, with an emphasis on organizations that design and manage these educational initiatives. For higher education, the focus is primarily on providing scholarships to students attending Colorado-based universities and community colleges.
• Community: Primary program impact addresses major community issues with a focus on community enrichment, food banks, homelessness, and/or poverty.
• Legacy: Primary program impact does not fit into any categories above but may continue to receive support based on Ent’s Colorado Springs heritage.

Applicants who have received Community Advocacy and/or YES Grants funding within the same calendar year may still qualify for an additional grant. However, if funding is limited, priority will be given to new applicants. Applicants may reapply if their initial application is denied.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Phillips 66, aims to expand access to quality STEM education in underserved communities. With a total grant of $10,000 available for the 2026-2027 academic year, the initiative focuses on middle and high school programs that foster student engagement in engineering and computer science. Priority will be given to schools with high-needs student populations, ensuring equitable educational opportunities and workforce preparedness for future generations.

Viasat Corporate Giving focuses on enhancing community strength through various initiatives. Their commitment includes support for military and veteran outreach, skills-based volunteering, and promoting STEAM education, particularly for underserved communities. By engaging employees in these programs, Viasat aims to create meaningful connections and empower individuals, ensuring that families and service members thrive. This holistic approach not only fosters community growth but also inspires the next generation of STEM leaders.

The Denver Foundation's Strengthening Neighborhoods Grants program invites community groups to apply for funding aimed at enhancing local initiatives. Grants, averaging $2,500, support capacity-building efforts and grassroots projects that leverage community strengths. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and resident-led groups, focusing on solutions led by communities of color and low-income neighborhoods. Applications are accepted year-round, with monthly funding decisions, and the program closes each November.

The GM on Main Street Grant Program, led by Main Street America, focuses on enhancing the safety and vibrancy of downtowns through innovative road safety and traffic calming projects. Funded by General Motors, this program seeks transformative ideas that promote pedestrian safety and accessibility, making downtown areas more inviting for residents and visitors. Eligible applicants include non-profits and local governments in designated counties, with a strong emphasis on projects that are inclusive, feasible, and easily replicable.

The Radiance Gives Fund Grant, established in 2022 by Radiance Technologies, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in local communities. This employee-run charitable initiative ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to grant awards, enhancing community impact. With no administrative fees deducted, Radiance empowers its employees to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about, fostering a culture of giving and community support.

The Community Grants Program (CGP) by The Denver Foundation supports nonprofits in the Metro Denver area, focusing on economic opportunity, environment, housing, and youth well-being. This program aims to reduce disparities through community leadership and racial equity, assisting historically oppressed groups. Eligible organizations must align with the foundation's values, be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and address the outlined goals. The CGP prioritizes initiatives that foster community wealth and address urgent needs in low-income communities.

The Technical Assistance Grant Program by the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation supports nonprofit arts and culture organizations in Denver, offering up to $5,000 for one-time projects focused on enhancing operations or skills. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to community engagement and have an annual budget under $500,000. The program emphasizes inclusivity, equity, and support for diverse groups, ensuring that arts and culture are accessible to all in the community.

The PLTW Gateway program, in partnership with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by supporting schools in eligible counties to implement PLTW Gateway units. With a total grant of $20,000, schools are encouraged to offer at least one unit per academic year, fostering real-world skills and engagement in STEM fields. This initiative seeks to increase access and participation in high-quality STEM learning experiences, ultimately preparing students for future careers.

The PLTW Gateway program, in collaboration with Burns & McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by expanding access to Project Lead The Way initiatives in eligible communities. By providing grants for program expansion, the initiative encourages schools to implement new PLTW units and train teachers, empowering students with essential skills for future careers. This partnership seeks to inspire a new generation of learners through hands-on, real-world challenges, thereby fostering greater participation in STEM fields across various regions.

Burns and McDonnell, a 100% employee-owned firm, partners with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance access to STEM education. By expanding PLTW Computer Science programs in local schools, they aim to engage students in real-world challenges and equip them with essential skills. Eligible schools must be located in specific counties and serve a majority of students from low-income backgrounds. This initiative supports the growth of STEM education, fostering a brighter future for communities through enhanced learning opportunities.

The PLTW Computer Science program, supported by Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education in various communities by funding schools to implement PLTW courses. This partnership promotes student engagement with real-world challenges, preparing them for future careers in technology. With a total grant of $20,000, schools must offer multiple PLTW courses over two years, ensuring access to quality education for underserved populations.

The PLTW Engineering program, in partnership with Burns and McDonnell, aims to enhance STEM education by providing grants to public and charter schools in specific counties. This initiative empowers students to engage with real-world challenges through hands-on learning experiences. Eligible schools must offer PLTW Engineering courses, ensuring access to quality education for students from diverse backgrounds. With a total grant of $40,000 over two years, this program seeks to inspire the next generation of engineers and innovators.

The PLTW Engineering Program Expansion by Burns and McDonnell aims to enhance STEM education in eligible communities. This initiative supports schools in expanding their existing PLTW Engineering programs, providing students with hands-on experiences and essential skills. The program focuses on empowering students through new courses and teacher training, ensuring access for underrepresented populations. By fostering excitement around STEM, Burns and McDonnell is committed to shaping the future workforce and enhancing educational opportunities in critical areas.

Holman Enterprises Community Grants aim to support low-income communities by providing essential resources like food, housing, education, and healthcare. With financial aid of $10,000 for single-year support or $15,000 for multi-year commitments, these grants focus on organizations dedicated to enhancing opportunities for low-income individuals in the areas served. This initiative reflects Holman Enterprises Inc's commitment to community welfare and social responsibility.

The Shoup Foundation Grant supports Protestant churches and organizations aiding needy individuals or disaster relief in Northern Colorado. This foundation funds charitable, nonprofit organizations as defined by IRS section 501(c)(3). Key program areas include animal welfare, arts, civic activities, community development, education, environment, health research, and social services. Interested applicants must comply with eligibility requirements, as individuals cannot submit grant applications directly.

The Equity-Focused Leadership Grant by the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation aims to foster diverse leadership in the nonprofit sector by providing up to $10,000 to organizations that support BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled adults. This initiative addresses the racial leadership gap and promotes equitable opportunities for marginalized professionals, ensuring they can pursue executive roles. With an annual funding of over $3.5 million, the foundation reinforces its commitment to inclusive community engagement and innovative leadership development in Denver.

The PNC Foundation aims to enhance the lives of individuals in local communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Their focus includes promoting educational opportunities, particularly for early childhood education, and supporting economic development initiatives. Grants are available for organizations that benefit low- to moderate-income families and enhance community growth. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster sustainability and diversity, ensuring a lasting impact on the communities they serve.

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

The Ball Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations in U.S. communities, focusing on recycling, disaster relief, and STEM education. In 2023, the foundation contributed significantly to these areas, ensuring sustainable practices and community resilience. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions. The foundation prioritizes impactful projects and excludes funding for discriminatory practices or individual endeavors. This commitment fosters a brighter future through enhanced education and support during crises.

The In-N-Out Burger Foundation supports organizations that aid children and youth affected by abuse and neglect, offering grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000. Eligible nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) registered, operational for at least two years, and demonstrate a commitment to the foundation's mission. Applications are considered for traditional, capital, and program support, focusing on sustainable solutions and clear objectives. Organizations must operate in areas with In-N-Out Burger locations to qualify.

The MHUW Strategic Investment Grants support nonprofit organizations in the seven-county Metro Denver area, focusing on basic needs, early childhood education, and out-of-school programming. These grants aim to empower organizations that align with the Mile High United Way's mission to foster community well-being and economic stability. This competitive grantmaking process emphasizes collaboration and community-driven solutions to address critical human service issues, ensuring every individual has the opportunity to thrive.

The Wanser Fund Grant, provided by The Denver Foundation, offers funding between $5,000 and $7,000 for organizations dedicated to animal health. Established in 2013, this grant aims to support programs that align with its mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in the Denver Metro area and must focus on initiatives that enhance animal health. This is a valuable opportunity for eligible nonprofits to secure funding for impactful projects.

Honda’s Community Event Sponsorship aims to support local, regional, and national events that enhance community engagement and celebrate diverse cultures. Organizations must be U.S.-based and tax-exempt, focusing on projects that serve communities where Honda associates are active. Eligible events include parades, festivals, and educational initiatives. Honda evaluates requests based on community needs and available funding, reinforcing its commitment to social responsibility and community enhancement.

The Community Ties Giving Program by Union Pacific Foundation offers local grants aimed at enhancing community well-being through diverse funding priorities. These include safety initiatives, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability. The program emphasizes supporting organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, aiming to create impactful projects that resonate with Union Pacific's heritage and mission. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations serving Union Pacific communities and demonstrate a clear need and capacity to deliver effective programming.

The Black Hills Charitable Giving Program supports community growth by providing sponsorships and donations to eligible organizations. Focused on thriving communities, conservation, and nurturing future leaders, it invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and schools. Funding priorities include critical needs like food security and education, while requests benefiting individuals or political causes are generally not funded. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 120 days.

The Season to Share Grant, presented by the Denver Post Community Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations committed to helping low-income children, youth, and families in the Denver area. Grant funding focuses on programs addressing children and youth development, health and wellness, homelessness, and hunger. Eligible organizations must demonstrate strong outcomes and sustainable funding. Applications are reviewed annually, with a competitive process ensuring that funding is allocated to impactful programs that effectively serve vulnerable populations.