Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The Freeport-McMoRan Foundation's Native American Partnership Fund Grant supports community-wide initiatives focusing on education, health, cultural preservation, and economic development in collaboration with nearby Tribal Nations. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate sustainability beyond the funding period and require tribal support through resolutions or letters. Eligible applicants include specific tribes and nonprofits working with them, while projects must address defined social impacts to qualify for funding.

CommonSpirit Health offers the Community Health Improvement Grant to enhance health equity and service systems for underserved populations. Through collaborative efforts with 501(c)(3) organizations, this initiative provides financial support for essential health projects. Grant amounts range from $19,500 for small grants to $150,000 for standard grants, varying by hospital. Participating hospitals include those under Catholic Health Initiatives and Dignity Health, aimed at addressing significant community health needs.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

The Sabbatical Research and Education Grant, offered by Western SARE, enables faculty worldwide to collaborate with farmers and researchers in the Western U.S. This program focuses on conducting innovative research and educational outreach in underserved regions, with an emphasis on unexplored topics. Grants up to $75,000 are available for projects spanning one year, promoting agricultural sustainability and community involvement.

The Arizona Child Abuse Prevention License Plate Donation Grant, issued by Governor Katie Hobbs’ Office of Youth, Faith and Family, aims to fund local and statewide programs that effectively promote trauma-informed primary prevention to combat child abuse and neglect. Eligible applicants include academic institutions, non-profits, and schools located in Arizona. This grant supports vital advocacy efforts while fostering community collaboration to strengthen families and protect children across the state.

The Fiesta Events: Touchdown Grant, provided by Fiesta Events Inc., aims to support nonprofits aligned with youth, sports, and education initiatives. Grants are awarded to organizations that can demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, including fulfilling volunteer hours and displaying the Fiesta Bowl Charities logo. This funding opportunity enhances local programs and fosters a spirit of collaboration, making a positive impact on Arizona's communities through meaningful events and outreach.

The Veterans Donation Fund Large Grant A.R.S. 41-608 supports programs benefiting Arizona's veterans and their families. Established by the Arizona legislature in 1999, the fund is sustained by tax-deductible donations and aims to engage the community in informing veterans about their benefits. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and academic institutions, focusing on issues like employment, health, and homelessness. This initiative is crucial for enhancing support services for over 600,000 veterans in Arizona.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

 What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Arizona SFY25 AmeriCorps State Formula Grant, managed by the Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family, offers between $100,000 and $500,000 to support programs engaging AmeriCorps members in impactful community services. Eligible applicants include local governments, non-profits, and educational institutions. This program addresses critical needs in areas such as disaster services and education, with approximately $4 million available in total funding. Note that the next grant request is expected in Winter 2027.

The Title II Formula Grant (AZ) supports initiatives under the Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Act by funding programs that address challenges faced by youth within the juvenile justice system. Administered by the Arizona Governor's Office of Youth, Faith and Family, the grant allows eligible Arizona entities, including local governments and non-profits, to apply for funding up to $100,000. This initiative aims to ensure compliance with core juvenile justice requirements while enhancing community support for at-risk youth.

The AZ Specialty Crop Block Grant Program (SCBGP) aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops grown in the U.S. or its territories. Funded by the USDA, approximately $1.25 million is available for grants, with a maximum request of $100,000 per project. Eligible projects include marketing efforts, research assistance, and addressing challenges faced by specialty crop producers. This program seeks to support innovative initiatives that promote specialty crops in both domestic and global markets.

The Arizona Discovery Boost Grants, in partnership with the American Cancer Society, aim to enhance cancer research in Arizona by funding innovative, high-risk projects. Grants of up to $135,000 per year for two years are available, supporting researchers focused on groundbreaking methodologies and pilot tests. This initiative not only fosters local expertise but also promotes geographic diversity in cancer research, helping to address critical questions in the field.

The Tribal Solar Accelerator Fund (TSAF) empowers tribal communities across the U.S. by promoting renewable energy projects and workforce development. Launched by GRID Alternatives, TSAF provides critical funding for solar initiatives, enhancing energy sovereignty and resilience. Since its inception, TSAF has integrated community participation into its projects, ensuring that tribes can access sustainable energy solutions. By prioritizing education and equity, TSAF supports a transition to a clean energy economy, aiming for a sustainable future for generations to come.

The Invasive Plant Grant (IPG) Program aims to combat invasive plant species threatening Arizona's forests and grasslands. With $970,000 available, grants range from $50,000 to $200,000 for projects focusing on prevention, control, and eradication. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and academic institutions. Projects must provide at least 10% matching funds. Preference is given to initiatives in diverse grassland areas and those offering higher match contributions. This program supports critical ecological restoration efforts.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Arizona allocates funding to nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks or hate crimes. Established by state law, it offers up to $1 million over fiscal years 2024-2028, with a maximum of $100,000 available per organization each year. This initiative aims to enhance safety through target hardening and security improvements, supporting nonprofits vulnerable due to their beliefs or mission.

The Vitalyst Health: Systems Change Grants aim to support sustainable policy and practice changes within Arizona's healthcare systems. By fostering collaboration among Arizona-based nonprofits, these grants address complex community health challenges, aiming to enhance health equity and improve specific health outcomes. With awards of up to $175,000 over three years, the initiative seeks innovative solutions that outlast grant funding and promote systemic change for better health opportunities across the state.

The Fiesta Sports Foundation Grant aims to support Arizona nonprofit organizations that enhance community success through youth, sports, and education. With a new two-step application process for the 2025-26 cycle, interested organizations must submit an interest form highlighting project impact and budget. The foundation will review submissions based on alignment with its pillars and specific criteria, including project sustainability and community focus, before inviting selected nonprofits to apply formally in April 2025.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

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.

The Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund offers small scale grants of up to $100,000 for projects aimed at developing and maintaining trails, as well as enhancing support facilities for off-highway vehicle recreation in Arizona. Established in 1991, this fund is supported by a portion of motor vehicle fuel taxes and is available to various entities including governmental bodies and non-profit organizations. The initiative promotes responsible OHV use while supporting law enforcement and environmental compliance.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 5) aims to empower small businesses through comprehensive support from the U.S. Department of Transportation. By providing financial and technical assistance, business training, and outreach, the initiative helps small businesses enhance their competitiveness for DOT-funded contracts. This program is vital for fostering economic growth and ensuring small firms are well-prepared to engage in transportation-related projects at various governmental levels.

The Slave 2 Nothing Foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations addressing human trafficking and substance abuse in states with In-N-Out Burger locations. Their mission is to empower individuals to overcome enslavement by providing essential resources and support. The foundation follows a rigorous vetting process for grant applications, emphasizing the importance of impactful solutions and community engagement. They encourage eligible nonprofits to apply annually, promoting sustainable support for vital services aimed at healing and freedom.

Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victims Assistance - DPS VOCA Administration Unit

Overview/Mission Statement:

Every victim of crime is entitled to safety, healing, justice and restitution. The mission of the Arizona Department of Public Safety's VOCA Administration Unit is to effectively administer VOCA Assistance funds by ensuring appropriate and accessible services are available to crime victims, enhancing the delivery of those services through technical assistance, training opportunities, and promoting a continuum of care for every victim in every community.

Crime Victims Fund

The Department of Justice, Crime Victims Fund was established by the Federal Victims of Crime Act of 1984 (VOCA) and serves as a major funding source for victim services throughout the country. Each year, millions of dollars are deposited into this fund from criminal fines, forfeited bail bonds, penalty fees and special assessments collected by the US Attorney’s Offices, US Courts and the Bureau of Prisons. These dollars all come from offenders convicted of federal crimes.

In 1985, the Arizona Department of Public Safety (DPS) was designated as the administrator of the state’s VOCA Assistance Program. The purpose of this program is to provide funding for governmental and non-profit agencies that provide direct services to crime victims. These funds are not awarded to private individuals.

The purpose of the VOCA funding is to promote efforts that:

• Respond to the emotional, psychological or physical needs of crime victims;
• Assist victims to stabilize their lives after victimization;
• Assist victims to understand and participate in the criminal justice system; or
• Restore a measure of security and safety for the victim.

Arizona Criminal Justice Commission

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission is a statutorily authorized entity mandated to carry out various coordinating, monitoring and reporting functions regarding the administration and management of criminal justice programs in Arizona. In accordance with statutory guidelines, the Commission is comprised of 22 members who represent various elements of the criminal justice system in Arizona. The Commission staff is comprised of up to 25 employees working in seven key program areas. Those program areas are Crime Victim Services, the Statistical Analysis Center, Criminal Justice Systems Improvement, Public Information, Information Technology, Finance, and Drug, Gang, and Violent Crime Control. 

Crime Victim Services Assistance Program

The Arizona Criminal Justice Commission (ACJC) pursuant to A.R.S. § 41-2407, has authorized the distribution of Crime Victim Assistance funds through a competitive grant process. The grant funds must be used to provide victim assistance services or services addressing victimization in Arizona in compliance with Arizona Administrative Code (A.A.C.) R10-4-201 through R10-4-204 and Commission guidelines. 

Matching funds of 20 percent of the total grant award are required. 

Special Funding Priorities

For the FY 2027 grant period, the Commission has approved awarding victim assistance funding in accordance with the following tier structure: Tier 1; Tier 2; and Tier 3

Tier 3

Fund all other victim service projects that meet ACJC victim assistance grant program eligibility requirements, for a period beginning July 1, 2026 and ending June 30, 2027. Projects demonstrating the lowest percentage of funding support from DPS-VOCA Assistance grant funds during the grant period will be prioritized.

The Fiesta Events: Field Goal Grant supports nonprofits aligned with youth, sports, and education. With a mission to enhance community success, Fiesta Bowl Charities impacts lives through events and partnerships. Organizations must fulfill volunteer requirements and acknowledge Fiesta Bowl Charities in marketing materials. This initiative not only fosters community involvement but also promotes the values of teamwork and education, ensuring a brighter future for Arizona's youth.

The STOP Violence Against Women Grant (AZ) empowers Arizona entities to combat violence against women through funding and support for law enforcement, prosecution, and victim services. With approximately $3.3 million available annually, the grant prioritizes programs that enhance victim safety and hold offenders accountable, while requiring a 25% non-federal match. Eligible applicants include non-profits, tribal entities, and government agencies, ensuring a broad coalition to address these critical issues.

The Ken Kendrick Grand Slam Awards, established by the Arizona Diamondbacks Foundation, provide significant grants ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 to non-profit organizations in Arizona. These awards focus on impactful projects such as construction, large purchases, and programmatic initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and client services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) registered and serve the Arizona community. Applications are encouraged for diverse projects, ensuring sustainability and community benefit.