Best Grants for Children in Arkansas

Children’s hospitals, general hospitals with pediatric departments, and nonprofits serving children battling illness in Arkansas can receive US $25,000 - US $65,000 from Joy in Childhood Foundation to build or expand pediatric gaming programs. Funding can support gaming specialists, systems, connectivity, and virtual programming, with a focus on engaging teen patients over single- or multi-year projects.

Children’s and general hospitals with pediatric departments in Arkansas can receive US $20,000 - US $50,000 to host prom-like experiences for teen patients ages 13–19 who cannot attend their own prom due to illness. Joy in Childhood Foundation supports event costs such as space, food, entertainment, formal wear, and related services.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving children and families in Arkansas and the broader Southern region can seek support for youth services, education, poverty relief, and related programs. Focused on community well-being, Robinson Foundation invites established charities (3+ years) to request single-year, non-capital funding that delivers tangible, meaningful impact for young people and their families.

Youth-serving nonprofits in Arkansas working in arts, education, community programs, or food and agriculture can seek funding that benefits children and young people. Focused on youth, the J R Simplot Company Foundation invites U.S. organizations whose primary missions include youth services and related community support to apply; requests are reviewed quarterly.

501(c)(3) organizations in Arkansas serving K–12 youth in education or health care can apply for Simmons First Foundation’s Mini Grant, awarding US $1,000 - US $2,500 for immediate, long-term program needs. Children’s organizations in nearby states like Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Tennessee, and Texas may also be eligible.

Simmons First Foundation provides Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations and qualifying schools with US $2,500 - US $50,000 for K–12 special education and substance abuse or violence prevention programs. Eligible entities must be in a county with a Simmons Bank facility and use funds for program costs rather than administrative or general operating expenses.

Arkansas youth-serving and children’s organizations can access funding through Encova Foundation of West Virginia to support programs that improve communities and families, promote education, and encourage wellness. Eligible applicants must be U.S.-based charitable organizations with a verifiable tax ID, with preference for initiatives impacting health, education, safety, and children, especially where Encova associates are actively involved.

Nonprofit organizations and schools improving rural youth programs and education in Arkansas can receive up to US $2,000 for tangible, long-lasting items. Mfa Oil Foundation supports youth services and civic initiatives in communities where it has members and employees; eligible projects include leadership development for rural youth and agricultural or cooperative education.

The AED Grant, offered by USA Football, supports youth organizations, middle schools, and high school girls flag football programs in acquiring essential Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs). This initiative ensures that lifesaving equipment is readily available during emergencies. Recipients receive specific AED models, comprehensive training, and certification to guarantee proper usage. Eligible applicants must be non-profits in good standing with USA Football, promoting safety and preparedness on the field.

Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations seeking support for arts, education, health, or economic achievement programs can apply for grants that improve young people’s lives. Hays Foundation supports youth services in Arkansas by funding initiatives for at-risk youth, educational access and equity, and related health and economic development efforts nationwide, with an LOI required for all applicants.

Arkansas organizations serving children and youth through healthcare, patient support, advocacy, or community projects may be eligible for BioMarin Donation funding in North America. Arkansas youth services and children’s programs can access funding through BioMarin for rare disease education, patient care, access to healthcare, disaster relief, and related community or child-focused initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations serving teens and young adults in Arkansas can apply for AE Foundation Community Grants to support programs that improve youth mental health and well-being, with awards up to US $10,000. Grants from AE Foundation help U.S. and Canadian 501(c)(3)s and registered charities fund projects they can complete within 12 months.

Registered U.S. charitable organizations providing direct services for children and young adults can apply for Andrea-Mennen Family Foundation grants to support programs in areas like health, disability services, housing, and education. With a mission to enhance quality of life, the foundation expects immediate, measurable impact, which may benefit Arkansas youth-focused nonprofits meeting its mission and three-year track record requirement.

Arkansas youth-serving nonprofits, public schools and districts, and Tribes working on food access and nutrition education can access funding through Newmans Own Foundation’s Hunger to Health Collaboratory Prizes for Innovation. Awards up to US $100,000 support projects in Indigenous food justice, nutrition education, and school food policy that benefit kids up to age 18 across the U.S.

Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, state agencies, and churches can access funding through the Joan M Wismer Foundation to support education, youth development, safety, humanitarian services, health, culture, and arts programs. Grants of US $2,500 - US $25,000 are available to well-governed organizations with plans for sustaining funding beyond the current request.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting underserved youth, offenders/former offenders, or victims of crime can seek funding for youth and justice-related services, including programs in Arkansas. CoreCivic Foundation supports organizations across the U.S., with preference for those in Tennessee and those aligned with its mission and able to demonstrate measurable outcomes.

U.S.-based nonprofits supporting youth-led climate and environmental justice projects, including work with children and teens in Arkansas, can apply for Earth Rising Foundation grants of US $200 - US $20,000. Funding supports youth climate activism, Indigenous sovereignty, regenerative agriculture, and projects linking climate change with racial, gender, and migration justice and envisioning equitable futures.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting children or disadvantaged youth, including those in Arkansas, can apply for the Robert B McMillen Foundation’s grants to advance medical research or social enhancement programs. Eligible projects may address pediatric cardiology, genetics, preventative health, youth services, poverty alleviation, or equity-focused initiatives, with added consideration for arts-based approaches.

Arkansas youth-serving 501(c)(3) nonprofits can seek support for education, youth services, and related programs benefiting children and young people. Edward & Wanda Jordan Foundation provides U.S. organizations with grants that advance education, scientific research, and spiritual ministries, with a special emphasis on improving the welfare and quality of life of children and youth.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(1) organizations planning charitable projects for children, youth, and families can apply for Rotary Works Foundation grants of US $500 - US $5,000. While the foundation is based in the La Crosse region, Arkansas youth and children’s programs that meet the criteria may be eligible, especially those engaging Rotarian participation.

Mildred's Dream Foundation Grant provides vital support to community-based non-profit organizations focused on Education, Domestic Violence, and Physical or Mental Health Challenges. With grants up to $25,000, the foundation aims to honor Mildred's commitment to improving lives and creating a better world. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits providing direct services in these areas. Notably, the foundation excludes funding for certain institutions, ensuring resources are directed to those genuinely in need.

The Josh Dubin Fellowship, launched in January 2022 by the Shawn Carter Foundation, is a seven-week paid program designed for five exceptional students interested in the legal field. This immersive experience includes mentorship from legal professionals, direct involvement in case analysis, and off-site visits to courtrooms. Fellows not only gain invaluable insights into legal practices but also receive additional scholarship support for their educational pursuits, empowering them to overcome socio-economic barriers and achieve their dreams.

The Hot Springs Area Community Foundation's Youth Advisory Council Grant Cycle focuses on empowering youth in Garland County. Established in 1991, this grant cycle aims to support programs that enhance the lives of children and young people. As part of the Arkansas Community Foundation, it has awarded over $16 million in grants to address various community needs, including education, health, and arts, fostering a vibrant community for all.

The Eleanor & Henry Jansen Foundation, established in 1998, supports nonprofit organizations in Whatcom County, focusing on youth programs. The foundation encourages proposals that directly impact the community and emphasizes the importance of a substantial volunteer base. Special consideration is given to projects that were significant to Eleanor and Henry Jansen. Applicants are encouraged to seek matching funds from multiple sources, with priority given to youth-serving initiatives.

The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant - Books for Ownership program supports local literacy initiatives by providing funding for diverse books and literacy resources. Established in 1966, RIF aims to foster a culture of literacy among children in under-resourced communities. Eligible organizations can apply for funding to double their impact through matched funds, ensuring children have access to high-quality books that reflect their experiences and broaden their perspectives.

The Reading is Fundamental Matching Grant for Read for Success empowers local organizations to enhance literacy by providing matching funds for books and resources. Since 1966, RIF has partnered with communities to foster a culture of reading among children in need, offering diverse books that reflect their lives. This grant matches local investments dollar-for-dollar, maximizing the impact of funding for educational programs. Eligible applicants include schools and youth-serving organizations across the U.S., supporting children from birth through grade 12.

The Hershey Heartwarming Young Heroes GYSD Grant supports youth-led projects for Youth Service Month and Global Youth Service Day. Open to U.S. and Canadian youth aged 5-25, grants of $250 or $500 are available, depending on volunteer engagement. Projects should address community needs and foster inclusivity among diverse youth volunteers. Successful applications will partner with local organizations and focus on relationship-building. A total of $50,000 in grants will be awarded, encouraging meaningful community service.