Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Arkansas

Casey’s Donation Requests support vital community needs in Education, Hunger, and Community Servants. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations within Casey’s communities can apply through the online Donation Request Form. Requests are reviewed continuously, with feedback provided via email within one month. Priority is given to organizations that haven't received donations in the current giving calendar year, which runs from May 1 to April 30.

The Arkansas Grown School Garden of the Year Contest encourages K-12 schools to engage students in fresh food production and cultivation. Established in 2014, the contest offers six award categories, including Best Overall School Garden and Best Community Collaboration, with awards of up to $1,000. It aims to weave gardening into school culture, providing vital educational experiences and fostering community connections. Entries are accepted until June 27, 2025, promoting sustainable practices in Arkansas schools.

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium offers the STEAM Award (Student) to support projects that raise awareness of NASA-related topics and encourage students to pursue careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, Aerospace, and Mathematics (STEAM). Open to full-time US students in good academic standing, this one-year stipend is available to 13 qualified applicants from any discipline, provided their projects align with NASA's objectives.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Student Outreach Awards, provided by the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium, aim to support K-12 educators and organizations in Arkansas by funding projects related to aerospace and STEM fields. Eligible expenses include classroom supplies, science fair training tools, and educational materials, while unallowable costs encompass general office supplies and direct student compensation. This initiative fosters project-based learning, enhancing students' engagement with aerospace industries.

The Walker Charitable Foundation provides funding for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational endeavors. Organizations must contact the Foundation at least 30 days prior to grant submission to discuss eligibility. The Foundation aims to support as many worthy organizations as possible, guided by its Executive Director and Board, primarily consisting of Walker family members. Over the years, it has proudly funded numerous organizations that have made significant contributions to their communities.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

Department of Transportation

Provide safe and efficient transportation solutions to support Arkansas' economy and enhance the quality of life for generations to come.

Amendment 42 to the Constitution of Arkansas created the current State Highway Commission. The five members were vested with powers and duties for administering the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT) and fully and effectively carrying out relative regulations and laws. Appointed by the Governor, with the advice and consent of the Arkansas Senate, members serve ten-year terms.

Recreational Trails Program

Program Information

This program, administered by the Arkansas Department of Transportation (ARDOT), provides funding to local project sponsors (public and private/nonprofit agencies) to construct and maintain motorized and non-motorized recreational trails and trail support facilities. The ARDOT works closely with the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) to administer this Program. The enabling legislation for the program can be reviewed at http://www.fhwa.dot.gov/environment/recreational_trails/. The Recreational Trails program is funded through a portion of TAP funds set aside specifically for recreational trails.

Reimbursement Program

The Recreational Trails Program (RTP) is a reimbursement-type grant program. The program provides for an 80 percent federal share and 20% non-federal share for each project. The main priority in allocating funding is for the construction of new trails and for major maintenance of existing trails. Support facilities such as restrooms, benches, trailhead parking and lighting have been viewed by ARTAC as less important.

The Arkansas Access to Justice Foundation offers grants aimed at improving civil legal aid for low-income individuals in Arkansas. With $100,000 in total funding available, organizations can apply for up to $50,000 to provide direct legal services, develop self-help resources, or promote alternative dispute resolution. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities in good standing. This initiative seeks to enhance access to justice for those who cannot afford legal representation.

The MFA Oil Foundation Grant offers cash support to nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing communities where MFA Oil operates. With a mission to bolster rural areas, the foundation prioritizes initiatives that develop youth leadership, agricultural education, and community problem-solving. Eligible applicants include tax-exempt nonprofits and accredited educational institutions. However, grants are not available for operating expenses, political lobbying, or individual support. This initiative seeks to empower organizations that create sustainable change in their communities.

The Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Grant, provided by the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame Foundation, aims to support Arkansas nonprofits that positively impact underserved populations, particularly African Americans. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, hospitals, and public schools focusing on education, health, youth development, and economic growth. Proposals demonstrating community benefit, organizational capacity, project evaluation, sustainability, and collaboration are favored, especially those addressing COVID-19 impacts.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Arkansas support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies affecting safe drinking water access. Funded by USDA Rural Development, the program provides grants for water transmission lines and new water sources, helping rural areas and towns restore clean water access after disasters like floods or droughts. Applications are accepted year-round, emphasizing partnerships with various entities to enhance community resilience.

The Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program supports nonprofit baseball and softball initiatives across five states, including Texas and Arkansas. This program aims to enhance youth sports by providing funding for essential needs such as field renovations, equipment, and uniforms. Since 2012, it has awarded over $1.1 million to more than 150 organizations, ensuring children have access to the joy and community of sports. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth aged 18 and under.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Arkansas provide essential funding and support for small rural businesses, aiming to enhance economic growth in under-served areas. Designed for entities like towns and nonprofits, the program prioritizes technical assistance, training, and project funding without a maximum grant limit. Eligible projects include business counseling, infrastructure development, and community economic initiatives. This initiative is part of USDA's commitment to foster sustainable rural economies and improve living conditions in rural communities.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

The Blue & You Foundation's Social Determinants of Health Grant focuses on improving health outcomes by addressing key factors such as economic stability, education access, healthcare quality, safe housing, and social context. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving Arkansans, with grants ranging from $25,000 to $250,000. The foundation prioritizes projects that foster community collaboration and demonstrate operational viability, aiming to enhance behavioral health and overall well-being.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Arkansas provides essential funding to develop vital community facilities in rural areas, benefiting populations of 20,000 or fewer. Eligible applicants include public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes. Grant assistance, which can cover up to 75% of project costs, supports the purchase, construction, and improvement of facilities such as healthcare centers, public safety buildings, and community support services. Year-round applications are welcomed for projects aimed at enhancing rural community infrastructure.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.