Best Buffalo Grants for Nonprofits in New York

William Randolph Hearst Foundation supports arts and cultural programs in Buffalo, New York by funding institutions focused on art education, artist development, and performing arts. Nonprofit organizations in Buffalo offering impactful arts or STEM education, museums, or cultural programming may be eligible for support to enhance community engagement and youth participation.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

Buffalo, New York nonprofits can access funding through Labcorp Charitable Foundation to support health care access, education, food security, and community services. Grants are open to 501(c)(3) organizations working with underserved populations, promoting STEM, or advancing preventive healthcare, making them a strong fit for a range of local nonprofit initiatives.

Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation provides Buffalo, New York nonprofits with funding for economic development, workforce preparation, parks, and caregiver support initiatives. Organizations serving Erie County with innovative programs in these areas may be eligible. Nonprofits focused on community improvement and collaboration are especially encouraged to apply.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Western New York Foundation

The Western New York Foundation is a philanthropic organization created to support activities that improve the quality of life for people who live in the seven (7) counties of Western New York. Since 1951, we have had the privilege of partnering with nonprofits to amplify their good work and maximize their impact on the communities they serve. 

Small Grant Program

The Buffalo Bills Foundation and the Western New York Foundation are partnering to offer small grants to organizations working within our local and regional food system. Grants are available to support professional development, consultant support, specialty contract services, or certifications and accreditations that build an organization’s knowledge, skills, and leadership. 

Eligible Uses

Grant funds may be used for:

• Professional Development (trainings, conferences, courses, and related travel)
• Consultant Support (strategic planning, communications, evaluation, and similar services)
• Specialty Contract Services (legal, financial, accounting, or other professional services)
• Certification & Accreditation (costs associated with obtaining or maintaining certifications or accreditations)

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Buffalo, New York caregiver support organizations can access funding through the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo to enhance resources for caregivers of individuals unable to care for themselves. Nonprofits and government agencies serving Erie County, especially those assisting caregivers of older adults, may be eligible for support such as transportation, volunteer services, and training opportunities.

Focused on cultural enrichment, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for support in historic preservation and long-term arts instruction for youth. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can seek funding for projects that restore historic sites or expand arts access for under-resourced children and communities.

Focused on enhancing outdoor recreation, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for funding that supports walkability, bikeability, and improved community access. Eligible projects may include greenways, trails, and recreation corridors, with a preference for sustainable and universally accessible design.

Focused on youth sports, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York nonprofits to apply for support that helps children access sports and physical activities. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations serving Erie County can propose projects that encourage free play, sport sampling, and coach training, making sports more accessible to local youth.

Grants from Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo help Buffalo, New York nonprofits strengthen organizational resiliency and pursue strategic alliances. Local 501(c)(3) organizations can apply for funding to support collaborations, mergers, shared services, or dissolution planning that enhance long-term sustainability. This opportunity may benefit nonprofits seeking innovative ways to adapt and serve their communities.

The BICA Microgrant, offered by the Buffalo Institute for Contemporary Art, provides a $300 no-strings-attached grant for artists and curators in the greater Buffalo area. This initiative aims to support creative projects that include public events and take place within a three-month timeframe. By offsetting costs associated with exhibitions and performances, the grant empowers underrepresented artists, fostering a vibrant cultural scene in Buffalo.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

With a mission to advance equitable growth, National Community Reinvestment Coalition Inc provides Buffalo, New York nonprofits with fellowship opportunities supporting community development, workforce preparation, and affordable housing. Organizations hosting fellows may benefit from innovative talent and training, especially those tackling local economic and housing challenges.

Buffalo, New York students pursuing higher education in chemical or mechanical engineering can access funding through Ashland County Community Foundation. Graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools who plan to attend accredited colleges or universities outside Ashland County, including those in Buffalo, may be eligible for this scholarship opportunity.

Buffalo, New York students interested in vocational and technical education can access funding through Community Foundation of the Ozarks Inc. The Polk County Tech Scholarship provides a renewable $2,000 award for graduating seniors pursuing programs like automotive, construction, or welding at accredited two-year or vocational schools. Nonprofits supporting eligible students may benefit from this opportunity.

Focused on academic scholarships, Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo invites Buffalo, New York students to apply for college and career preparation support. Scholarships are available for permanent residents attending accredited nonprofit schools full-time. Nonprofits serving students in Buffalo may benefit by sharing these opportunities with eligible youth in their programs.

Grants from National Community Reinvestment Coalition Inc help Buffalo, New York organizations advance community development, affordable housing, workforce readiness, and small business growth. Nonprofits in Buffalo may benefit by serving as host partners for graduate student fellows working on equitable development projects that address local needs in these focus areas.

With a mission to advance human health, Pew Charitable Trusts provides Buffalo, New York biomedical researchers with flexible funding opportunities. Early-career assistant professors at eligible institutions in Buffalo may be nominated for this prestigious program, which supports innovative biomedical research. Nonprofits with a focus on health and medicine may benefit from this funding.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo supports arts and culture in Buffalo, New York by offering grants to small and mid-sized nonprofit organizations. Eligible groups must have arts and culture as their core mission and an operating budget under $500,000. Nonprofits in Buffalo focused on creative programming may benefit from this opportunity.