Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Arkansas

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1)/(2) organizations working in education, human services, conservation, health, or cultural programs can receive small grants from McGraw Foundation, generally ranging from US $2,000 - US $10,000. Although grants are generally limited to the greater Chicago area, Arkansas nonprofits with relevant ties may be eligible for support.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to address current challenges in the water industry. Focused on water-related research, American Water Works Association invites students whose work may benefit Arkansas communities and other regions to apply for the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Arkansas seeking support for economic and workforce advancement, affordable housing, or community arts and culture can apply for the Community Possible Grant Program. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help groups, especially those led by people of color, that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in designated U.S. Bank communities.

Arkansas 501(c)(3) public charities with programs in safety, workforce development, community vitality, or environmental sustainability can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation’s Community Ties Giving Program. Grants of US $5,000 - US $30,000 support direct services and capacity-building projects that primarily benefit communities served by Union Pacific, with emphasis on DEI and broad social impact.

Nonprofits, public institutions, and qualified municipalities working on housing, youth, environment, human services, culture, workforce, or equity in Arkansas communities where Weyerhaeuser operates can seek grants over US $1,000. Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund focuses on locally driven projects that meet community needs and demonstrate broad impact and strong local support.

Nonprofit organizations in Arkansas supporting women and children through self-sufficiency, education, humanitarian aid, or related services can apply for funding up to US $750,000. The Father's Table Foundation provides support for programs such as homelessness services, employment assistance, food security, microfinance, child welfare, health care, and disaster relief that build long-term resilience.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Arkansas conducting biomedical research can apply for NIH Academic Research Enhancement Awards to support small-scale projects and student research experiences. US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health provides up to US $375,000 to institutions that award baccalaureate science degrees and have limited prior NIH funding.

Arkansas 501(c)(3) nonprofits focused on economic mobility, workforce readiness, entrepreneurship, or affordable housing can access funding through Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program. Selected organizations receive a two-year leadership development experience plus a capacity-building grant, supporting income creation, financial resilience, and stable housing initiatives in eligible Arkansas communities.

Nonprofit organizations serving Arkansas residents with programs for seniors, children and youth, education, the arts, or economically disadvantaged communities can apply for community project grants ranging from US $15,000 - US $75,000. Focused on community well-being, the Carl B. and Florence E. King Foundation invites 501(c)(3) nonprofits to strengthen services and build capacity in eligible Arkansas counties.

Early-career health research faculty in low- or middle-income countries can obtain approximately US $140,000 in mentored career development support for independent clinical trials through the Emerging Global Leader Award. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help Arkansas-focused nonprofits collaborating with LMIC investigators advance work in areas like cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health, environmental health, and medical education.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Early-career health researchers at academic or research institutions in eligible low- or middle-income countries, including those with Arkansas affiliations, can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award from the National Institutes of Health. Awards of approximately US $140,000 support three to five years of mentored career development and a health-related research project aligned with their country’s priorities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations seeking program, capital, or short-term support for education-focused work can apply for US $5,000 - US $20,000 from the John Ben Snow Memorial Trust. Arkansas nonprofits working in areas like academic assistance, youth programs, arts education, literacy, or community initiatives may be eligible within the Trust’s broader U.S. geographic focus.

Arkansas nonprofits and institutions hosting health-related congresses, events, or initiatives can seek sponsorship to support programming in exchange for recognition or marketing opportunities. Biogen Foundation provides Arkansas medical and research organizations with corporate sponsorships across areas like neurology, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, and related diseases, with requests reviewed on a rolling basis and due 50 days before funding decisions.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Arkansas working on community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can receive up to US $1,000 in matched donations. Regions Bank provides these matching gifts when recent retirees contribute at least $25 and submit a timely match request.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Arkansas working on economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can benefit from Regions Bank’s employee Matching Gifts Program. Eligible charities receive matches to donations made by full-time associates and recent retirees within the Regions footprint.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, or those with a fiscal sponsor, working on regenerative agriculture, climate justice, healthy food access, or related environmental initiatives can seek general operating support in Arkansas and nationwide. Focused on grassroots, community-based efforts, Clif Family Foundation offers US $5,000 - US $50,000 one-year grants, with applications reviewed twice annually.

Nonprofit and conservation organizations supporting regenerative agriculture and habitat conservation in Arkansas can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 to expand technical assistance for private landowners. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program funds staff to help landowners plan, implement best practices, engage in Farm Bill programs, and share conservation lessons learned.

Free and charitable clinics in Arkansas that are NAFC members can apply for the NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund, awarding US $30,000 - US $50,000 for launching or expanding clinical programs. Funding can support services like behavioral health, women’s health, telehealth, chronic disease management, dental or vision care, mobile clinics, and other patient-centered care expansions.

Students pursuing natural resources or environmental studies in Arkansas can receive scholarship support from the Community Foundation of Northern Illinois. With a mission to support future conservation professionals, the foundation provides the Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship for full-time study in fields like ecology, forestry, hydrology, soil science, and related disciplines.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.

The RNRF Implementation/Collaboration Grants support innovative projects that enhance collaboration among stakeholders to address critical challenges in environmental, social, and economic systems. Offering up to $200,000 for initiatives lasting 12 months or more, these grants aim to implement evidence-based practices and facilitate multidisciplinary teamwork. Eligible applicants must be from 501c3 organizations in the U.S., ensuring alignment with RNRF's mission and focus areas, fostering sustainable and impactful outcomes.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, established by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has distributed over $16.3 million in grants since 1999. It supports charitable organizations and local governments in eleven Oregon counties, as well as Native American initiatives across the U.S. The fund prioritizes education, health, public safety, addiction prevention, housing, arts, and environmental preservation, ensuring the Tribe's commitment to community support and cultural heritage.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible states by increasing the number of university researchers and institutions conducting relevant science and engineering research. Sponsored by the Department of Defense, this program will fund multiyear awards to promote research aligned with national security needs. Applications require a multi-stage submission process, emphasizing early registration and timely proposal submissions.

Sanofi Philanthropic Donations support non-profit organizations aligned with Health Equity, STEM Education Equity, and Local Communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review process of 8 to 16 weeks. The initiative focuses on improving healthcare access, fostering innovation, and addressing social determinants of health. Sanofi emphasizes collaboration and sustainable solutions, advocating for equal opportunities in health and education, and nurturing future talent to tackle medical challenges.