Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The WM Four Corners Scholarship Program, administered by Scholarship America, aims to support students pursuing a Diesel or Heavy Equipment Mechanic major at accredited colleges or vocational schools in Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, or Texas. This initiative addresses the need for financial assistance in education, particularly for underrepresented groups. Scholarship America has a long-standing commitment to making higher education accessible, having awarded over $5.7 billion in scholarships since its inception.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Lifelong Arts Engagement Grant, offered by the Arizona Commission on the Arts, supports innovative projects that enhance arts learning for adults of all ages and promote intergenerational connections in community settings. The grant encourages initiatives that focus on diverse learners, take place in accessible spaces, and prioritize effective arts education practices.

The Ball Foundation Skilled Trades SkillPointe Scholarship offers $2,500 for educational or training programs in Arizona and Oregon, addressing the skills gap in America. With a mission to upskill workers without requiring a four-year degree, the program has funded over 1,000 scholarships nationwide, resulting in a 95% training completion rate and a median income increase of $32,000 in the first year post-training. This initiative empowers individuals and strengthens the economy.

The Arizona Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Funds program, managed by the Arizona Department of Health Services, provides financial support for initiatives aimed at improving the quality of care and life for nursing home residents. These funds can be utilized for various projects, including training programs, facility improvements, and resident relocation assistance, ensuring compliance with CMS requirements while enhancing residents' well-being.

The Education Forward Arizona Scholarship offers up to $6,000 annually for Arizona high school seniors pursuing a bachelor's degree. It supports students through mentoring and success services, ensuring they have the resources necessary for academic and career success. Eligible candidates must maintain a 3.0 GPA, be actively involved in college access programs, and demonstrate financial need. This scholarship aims to empower students to achieve their educational goals within a supportive community.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The ASP Conservation Small Grants program is dedicated to supporting primate conservation efforts. It invites proposals for conservation research or related projects, including education, with awards up to $3500. This initiative encourages ASP members, especially those in habitat countries, to submit impactful projects that contribute to broader conservation goals. The program emphasizes funding for local salaries, research supplies, and educational materials, ensuring the sustainability of primate conservation efforts.

Arizona Department of Housing

The Arizona Department of Housing is a cabinet-level agency created in 2002 by the State legislature to serve as the State’s primary agency to address housing issues. Primarily funded through Federal resources and fees, the agency administers and allocates housing and community development resources, serves as the state Public Housing Authority and Performance-Based Contract Administrator, and regulates Arizona’s manufactured housing and building industry.

HOME Owner Occupied Housing Rehabilitation Notice of Funding

The Arizona Department of Housing (“ADOH” or the “Department”) is pleased to announce a Notice of Funding Available (“NOFA”) for approximately $6 million in Home Investment Partnership Program (“HOME”) funding for owner occupied housing rehabilitation (“OOHR”) activities. The FFY2025 HOME OOHR funds will be distributed in one competitive funding round.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Partners for Fish and Wildlife Program, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, assists private landowners in restoring and protecting vital habitats for fish and wildlife. Since its inception in 1987, the program has provided technical assistance and financial support to enhance conservation efforts across the United States. By collaborating with local stakeholders, the program establishes habitat goals and directs resources effectively to conserve important ecosystems, benefiting both wildlife and the American people.

The Native American Community Activities and Contributions Grant supports tribal community projects that enhance education, health, cultural preservation, economic development, and environmental protection. With awards ranging from $250 to $2,500, organizations addressing priority issues, including women's development and elder engagement, are encouraged to apply. Eligible tribes include Hualapai, Pascua Yaqui, and others working collaboratively with nonprofits. The maximum funding per tribe is capped at $20,000 annually.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund provides essential support for trail management and signage projects across Arizona. Established in 1991, the fund allocates approximately $2 million annually, funded by a percentage of motor vehicle fuel taxes. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to eligible governmental entities and non-profits for purchasing and installing trail markers and informational kiosks. This initiative enhances outdoor recreation while promoting responsible OHV use and environmental stewardship.

The State Lake Improvement Fund (SLIF) in Arizona, established in 1960, provides funding for projects related to waters where motorized boats are allowed. Managed by the Arizona State Parks Board, the program has $5.2 million available for fiscal year 2024, with project funding ranging from $5,000 to $1,040,000. Eligible applicants include local governments and organizations focused on enhancing recreational water access through various improvements.

The Call for Kindness Grant, offered by Riley's Way Foundation, empowers young leaders aged 13-23 to launch impactful social projects focused on kindness and community connection. With grants up to $5,000, recipients receive essential mentorship, coaching, and community support. This initiative has already benefited over 3,500 youth nationwide, promoting values of empathy and social change. Applicants can pursue projects in diverse areas, including environmental justice, ensuring a broad impact in their communities.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

Navigant Credit Union 

Navigant Credit Union is the longest-operating, member-owned credit union in Rhode Island. Since its founding in 1915, Navigant Credit Union has been dedicated to providing its members with unparalleled financial products and services, while working every day to stay committed to the financial well-being of the families, businesses and communities we serve. 

Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation Grant

For over a century, Navigant Credit Union has been committed to making a meaningful difference in the community. In 2017, we established the Navigant Credit Union Charitable Foundation to further amplify our impact in five strategic areas:

• Education & Financial Literacy: Organizational and capital support for programs, supplies, building products, sports facilities and teams.
• Social Services: Financial support for programs and organizations for children, veterans, hunger and housing.
• Public Health, Safety & Well-Being: Support for programs addressing public safety, emergency care and eradication of disease.

The Park Foundation Grants for Animal Welfare focus on advancing the protection and conservation of wildlife, particularly through policy and advocacy efforts for threatened species. The foundation supports innovative, solution-oriented models that foster systemic change and compassion. Key areas include organizing for endangered wildlife, indigenous management practices, and supporting sanctuaries for great apes. Additionally, the foundation is committed to local efforts, including support for the Tompkins County SPCA, ensuring a compassionate society for all living beings.

About the Arizona State Library

Mission

To provide Arizonans access to information about their government, their state, and their world by offering content in a variety of formats, preserving Arizona's history for future generations, and empowering local institutions to engage their communities in learning.

Vision

All Arizonans will have access to information about their government, their state and their world in a variety of formats; Arizona's history will be preserved for future generations, and local institutions will be empowered to engage their communities in learning.

State Grants-in-Aid (SGIA)

What is SGIA?

In 1981, the Arizona legislature developed State Grants-in-Aid (SGIA) to help Arizona libraries meet the information needs of Arizona residents. SGIA provides construction funding to public libraries, and annual awards to county libraries and to municipal libraries in cities with populations of 100,000 or more.

Public libraries meeting the qualifications outlined on this page may apply for construction funds. State Grants-in-Aid Construction funds are awarded on a reimbursement basis through a competitive process, and require a dollar-for-dollar local cash match.

Jack's Community Grants, managed by the Jack in the Box Foundation, seeks to empower youth in local communities by providing funding to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations. These organizations must focus on feeding, educating, and empowering youth and operate within 50 miles of a Jack in the Box restaurant. The Foundation promotes originality and opportunity while ensuring that applicants adhere to a nondiscrimination policy. Special consideration is given to applications with support from franchisees or employees.

The One AZ Community Foundation Community Impact Grant offers $5,000 to eligible nonprofits in Arizona that focus on economic empowerment, community vitality, and developing future leaders. Organizations must have at least two years of 501(c)(3) status, a budget between $500,000 and $5 million, and cannot have received funding in the previous year. This grant aims to create lasting community impact by supporting initiatives that strengthen local organizations and enhance the quality of life.

The NRA Foundation: Arizona Grants provide funding to organizations that promote firearms safety, education, and shooting sports in accordance with IRS regulations. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) organizations, government bodies, and state-recognized nonprofits. The Foundation supports projects that deliver public benefits and advance charitable purposes but excludes funding for commercial ventures, administrative costs, and fundraising activities. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission to enhance community engagement and safety in shooting sports.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The ECF of The Boeing Company: Arizona Chapter Grant supports community initiatives aimed at enhancing education, health, and social services. Committed to fostering innovation and sustainability, this grant is funded entirely by Arizona Boeing employees, ensuring that every dollar contributes directly to local projects. The Arizona Chapter Grant making Committee diligently reviews all applications to ensure impactful contributions, reflecting a strong commitment to community development and social equity.

The Neely Foundation Grant supports various programs in the Phoenix East Valley, focusing on cultural arts, education, health services, and community welfare. It awards scholarships to students at major Arizona universities and community colleges. Nonprofit organizations exempt under IRS 501(c)(3) are eligible to apply for one-time grants to further their initiatives. This foundation continues the legacy of the Neely family, enriching the lives of local residents through diverse support.