Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Environmental Quality (ADEQ) Recycling Program was established through the Arizona Solid Waste Recycling Act of 1990 (A.R.S. §49-831 et seq.). The Recycling Program is responsible for providing public education to encourage participation in recycling and source reduction, and for providing the public with information about proper solid waste disposal. Waste Reduction Assistance (WRA) grants

The objective of the WRA program is to provide recycling opportunities to all Arizonans, and to provide funding assistance to projects that divert significant amounts of materials from the solid waste stream or are a component of a comprehensive program designed to achieve high diversion levels. WRA projects may include a small public awareness component, but must have a component that diverts material from the waste stream. Funds initiatives like curbside recycling and household hazardous waste collections to majorly curb the solid waste stream.

Thurston Family Foundation

Thurston Family Foundation leads as an innovative operating family foundation that accelerates the mission of nonprofit organizations in the following areas: social services and healthcare.

Vision: To lead as an innovative operating family foundation, introducing a new philanthropic model that accelerates the mission of nonprofits. Mission: Strengthening nonprofits through strategic systems, partners and funding that delivers lasting impact.

Our Values: Significance (via accountability to high standards and disciplined follow-through, we strive for meaningful impact), Sustainability (we support solutions that endure), Win Together (we inspire collaboration and shared success).

Thurston Family Foundation Grant

The foundation's funding priorities are:

• Organizations serving underserved or vulnerable populations
• Organizations demonstrating strong leadership and sound financial practices
• Programs with clear, measurable outcomes
• Innovative or scalable models addressing root causes
• Collaborative initiatives or cross-sector partnerships

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: 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 Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Arizona provide vital support to eligible communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. This program is designed for state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in rural areas. Funding can be used for water transmission line repairs, construction of water sources, and related infrastructure improvements. These efforts aim to restore access to clean water and enhance resilience against future disasters.

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 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.

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 Healthy Forest Initiative Grant, funded by the State of Arizona and USDA Forest Service, aims to enhance fire prevention, protect critical infrastructure, and restore forests and watersheds. With approximately $1.5 million available, grants up to $500,000 will support projects on various lands. Eligible applicants include local governments, nonprofits, and educational institutions. Priority will be given to projects aligned with community wildfire protection plans and those that have not received prior treatments.

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 Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Fund provides essential financial support for managing off-highway vehicle (OHV) activities in Arizona. Established in 1991, it allocates a portion of motor vehicle fuel taxes to fund projects, with approximately $2 million available annually. The Emergency and Mitigation Grants, offering up to $100,000 per project, assist in addressing urgent trail damages caused by vandalism, fire, and weather, ensuring safe recreational environments for all users.

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.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

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 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 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 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 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 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.

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.

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 Season for Sharing Grant supports non-profit organizations in Arizona, focusing on children, families, arts, education, and older adults. With funding ranging from $7,500 to $50,000, this initiative aims to address critical needs such as child protection, food access, emergency shelter, and educational support. Eligible applicants must be based in Maricopa or Pinal counties, ensuring that assistance directly benefits local communities. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of charitable contributions during the holiday season.

The BCBSAZ: Mental Health Matters Grant offers funding for Arizona-based organizations focused on improving mental health resources, reducing stigma, and promoting access to care. Eligible applicants include non-profits and academic institutions, with a priority on projects that demonstrate measurable impact and scalability. This invitation-only grant emphasizes the importance of addressing chronic health conditions and health equity, aiming to transform health outcomes in the community.

The Thiru Family Trust Momentum Maker Grant, valued at $75,000, aims to enhance mental health in Arizona schools, particularly in response to pandemic-related stress. This grant provides essential resources for expert guidance, training sessions, and financial aid for mental health activities. It is open to eligible schools and organizations, promoting innovative solutions to urgent mental health challenges. Applications are welcomed from schools, districts, or representatives acting on their behalf to foster well-being and resilience in educational environments.

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.