Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

Conservation Incentive Program (CIP)

At the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, our mission is to conserve and enhance our state’s wildlife and their habitats. It’s a job we take to heart and one we never take for granted. But our state is vast and only 10% of it is public land that we can manage. We need partners. People who are part of this natural wonder every day of their lives. Landowners who appreciate the unique resources that few have, and who take the responsibility of their land seriously.

Landowners are, and always have been, the cornerstone to conservation efforts and wildlife management in our state. If you’re willing to put in the effort and do the hard work with us, we’re willing to reward you for it.

We have numerous programs that will make your land more valuable to the fish and wildlife on your property, that reflect our shared values and will help keep The Natural State, natural.

Feral Hog Trapping

Feral swine eradication is a component of an area-wide effort of assessment, control and monitoring to document and reduce resource damage caused by feral swine. Damages include impacts to native wildlife, soil health, destruction of natural areas, water bodies and wetlands, vegetative diversity, and pasture and rangeland.

Landowner payments are capped at $20,000, with a reimbursement rate set at 75% of the actual cost for eligible traps and control systems. Landowners will receive two payments: the first 45%, as demonstrated by actual receipts or paid invoices, and the second payment to cover the additional 30% after the first successfully documented trap event of feral hogs using the AGFC monitoring app on any of the properties included within the application.

The Greenspring Grant Program, established in 2012, focuses on supporting local non-profits dedicated to economic and workforce development. With $100,000 in grants ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, the program is entirely employee-run, allowing teams to select deserving organizations. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) non-profits in Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, while special consideration is given to local initiatives aimed at recovery, youth, and underserved populations.

The North Dakota NPS Section 319 grant aims to combat nonpoint source pollution through voluntary, incentive-based initiatives. By coordinating with local partners, the program assesses priority watersheds, implements restoration plans, and raises public awareness about water quality issues. This funding supports diverse projects, including assessments and educational outreach, to ensure the protection of North Dakota's water resources and promote best management practices among agricultural landowners.

This cooperative agreement aims to address the challenge of invasive plant control under rising temperatures in the Northeast. It will synthesize practitioner knowledge and scientific research to enhance treatment strategies for invasive species, aligning with federal priorities on environmental resilience and scientific leadership. The project will support resource managers by developing actionable data and tools to effectively mitigate invasive species threats, thereby safeguarding native ecosystems and promoting sustainable practices.

The South Carolina Department of Environmental Services is inviting proposals for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in waterbodies across South Carolina. Projects should achieve measurable water quality improvements and align with an approved watershed plan. Administered in consultation with the EPA, these grants support initiatives that incorporate best management practices and require a non-federal match. Eligible projects must focus on on-the-ground implementation to enhance local water quality.

The Stream and Wetland Restoration Grant, provided by the Tennessee Department of Environment & Conservation, aims to restore natural resources impacted by violations of the Tennessee Water Quality Control Act. Eligible applicants include nonprofit corporations, state and federal agencies, and municipalities. Projects must contribute to strategic investment areas, comply with regulatory requirements, and demonstrate their capacity to manage funds effectively. Leveraging additional resources is essential, with a minimum of 20% required from other sources.

The Dr. Bruce D. J. Batt Fellowship in Waterfowl Conservation honors the legacy of Dr. Bruce Batt, a leading figure in waterfowl research. This fellowship offers up to $5,000 annually to graduate students at North American universities conducting vital research on waterfowl and wetlands. Renewable for up to two additional years for PhD students, the fellowship promotes the integration of sound science in conservation efforts, supporting the next generation of waterfowl professionals.

MH263036 - Delivering Sources of Strength OMH Suicide Prevention Center of New York (SPCNY)

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) through its Suicide Prevention Center of New York (OMH SPCNY) is pleased to announce the availability of funds dedicated to the implementation of Sources of Strength, a suicide prevention program, in New York State high schools (grade 9-12).

The organization awarded this RFP will be responsible for onboarding new schools statewide into Sources of Strength by providing both Adult Advisor and Peer Leader trainings conducted by a certified Sources of Strength trainer. In addition, the organization would maintain ongoing technical assistance and support for schools that have completed their initial Sources of Strength training within the previous three years. By the third year of support, offboarding must be offered to help schools build the capacity needed to sustain the program independently. The awardee shall train peer leaders to initiate and conduct a series of systematic peer-to-peer prevention activities under the supervision of trained adult advisors. Messaging activities are to directly target and modify the helpseeking attitudes and behaviors of youths throughout each school, so that students are better able to manage distress, including anxiety, depression, and stress, and draw on positive coping resources including capable adults in their community. The organization shall report these activities to OMH on a regular frequency in the form of a report.

The Confluence Grant Program, initiated by the Conservation Alliance in 2021, aims to strengthen partnerships with historically racially excluded groups. It awards four grants of $100,000 over two years to support projects that protect or restore natural places. The program emphasizes building meaningful relationships and sharing resources, ensuring that funded projects center on solutions led by impacted communities. By fostering collaboration and addressing funding gaps, the program enhances the conservation landscape for diverse voices.

The Ocotillo Wind Imperial Valley Fund aims to enhance the quality of life for Imperial Valley communities through various programs. It focuses on priorities such as civic engagement, economic development, youth education, disaster recovery, and health and wellness. The fund is open to impactful proposals that demonstrate relevance, measurable outcomes, and collaboration among stakeholders. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations and public institutions that serve the region, ensuring projects address community needs without discrimination.

Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment serves Coloradans by providing public health and environmental protection services that promote healthy people in healthy places. Public health professionals use evidence-based practices in the public health and environmental fields to create the conditions in which residents can be healthy. In addition to maintaining and enhancing our core programs, the department continues to identify and respond to emerging issues affecting Colorado's public and environmental health.

PFAS Grant Program

The purpose of the per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) Grant Program is to provide financial assistance to minimize risk to the public from certain hazardous substances (ex: PFAS) in drinking water. The Program provides funding to support efforts in identifying, assessing, and reducing environmental impacts of PFAS on human health and the environment. The PFAS Grant program is administered through the Water Quality Control Division (WQCD). The WQCD monitors and reports on the quality of state waters to prevent water pollution, protect, restore and enhance the quality of surface and groundwater while ensuring that all drinking water systems provide safe drinking water.

Standard Sampling

The Sampling Category provides Eligible Entities with financial assistance in the sampling, assessment, and investigation of PFAS in groundwater and surface water to identify PFAS contamination in drinking water and the environment. Grants may be awarded to eligible entities requiring $10,000 or less and would like to coordinate with a state directed contractor for sample kits and laboratory analysis. Funding in this category is dedicated to the eligible entity and is not used to support the state-directed contractor unless distributed in a separate procurement agreement between CDPHE and the qualified contractor.

The Kentucky Pride Fund Household Hazardous Waste Management Grant supports projects aimed at developing an integrated recycling infrastructure and managing household hazardous waste in Kentucky. Established in 2006, the program emphasizes regional projects with state-approved cooperative agreements and requires a 25% match. It serves as a crucial resource for public education on recycling and hazardous waste management, promoting efficient use of limited funds for maximum impact.

The PATC3H-IN initiative focuses on improving HIV care for adolescents in resource-constrained settings while generating evidence that can enhance care models in the United States. By developing scalable care delivery strategies and studying their impact, the project aims to address barriers faced by young people, such as stigma and access issues. This research is crucial for achieving effective interventions, ultimately helping to reduce new HIV infections and improve health outcomes for adolescents both domestically and globally.

The Community Forestry Grants Program by Texas A&M Forest Service aims to foster sustainable urban forestry initiatives, enhancing community resilience against climate change while promoting health equity. Each grant, worth $50,000, supports projects that develop diverse tree cover and improve public access to green spaces, particularly in historically disadvantaged areas. Eligible entities include public and non-profit organizations, focusing on innovative solutions that integrate urban forestry into community planning and wellness strategies.

The Ben B. Cheney Foundation Grant supports community improvement projects in areas where Mr. Cheney's lumber company operated. Focused on one-time project grants, the foundation emphasizes sustainability and local support. Eligible applicants include public charities and government units primarily in Washington, Oregon, and California. The foundation prioritizes projects that invest in long-lasting community needs and demonstrate innovative solutions. Since 1975, it has supported over 1,200 organizations, making a significant impact in local communities.

The Southeast New England Program (SNEP) Innovative Restoration Grants are aimed at Indian Tribes, State & Local Governments, Institutions of Higher Education, Interstate Agencies, and Nonprofit organizations. The program focuses on advancing coastal and riverine restoration efforts across Southeast New England, emphasizing innovative science and technology. With approximately $5.3 million available, up to 8 projects may be funded, with individual requests reaching up to $1 million for large-scale initiatives that enhance restoration and connectivity.

Missouri Department of Natural Resources

Missouri’s air, land and water resources play an important role in our health and are essential to the environmental and economic vitality of our state. The department aspires to help Missouri citizens thrive by advancing environmental and economic sustainability. The department provides a range of services to help Missouri citizens, communities and businesses in these efforts. The department also provides opportunities to learn more about Missouri’s natural and cultural history at our state parks and historic sites.

Our Mission: We serve as stewards of our natural resources to benefit Missourians. The department's values and Strategic Initiative Plan guide the department as it moves. The department accomplishes its mission through its Division of Administrative Support, Division of Environmental Quality, Division of Energy, Missouri Geological Survey and Missouri State Parks. 

Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) Engineering Report Grant

Under the Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (DWSRF) program, the department provides Engineering Report Grants to small communities for developing plans or engineering reports related to the following:

• Compliance with new permit requirements
• Ability to provide safe drinking water

The community uses the funds to hire an engineer to produce a plan or report that either evaluates improvements to their drinking water system or consolidated or regionalized a nearby system. The report identifies the system’s needs, evaluates the existing facility or system, describes all the options to meet project goals, provides cost estimates and recommends the best alternatives. The report must strive to make reasonable and cost-effective recommendations for system improvements to meet Missouri Safe Drinking Water Law requirements. The final plan or report must be signed and sealed by a professional engineer registered in the State of Missouri.

The Cheerful Giver Scholarship, provided by the Community Foundation of the Central Blue Ridge, offers over $300,000 in financial support to students in the Greater Augusta County area pursuing health care-related education. This need-based scholarship is open to high school seniors, current college students, and adult learners, with a preference for those entering the nursing profession. The foundation aims to enhance community well-being through educational opportunities.

The Health Foundation of South Florida Grants aim to enhance the health of South Florida communities, particularly for vulnerable populations. The foundation invites nonprofit organizations and government agencies to submit proposals that align with its mission, focusing on access to care, social needs, and thriving communities. Preference is given to projects that demonstrate clear needs and measurable outcomes, especially those serving low-income and disadvantaged communities. Funding can support innovative collaborations and systems changes to improve healthcare access and outcomes.

The Amelia Peabody Foundation Grant aims to enhance educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Massachusetts. This private foundation supports 501(c)(3) organizations, focusing on projects that promote leadership and community engagement. Grants can apply to new or existing programs, capital acquisitions, and facility improvements. The Foundation particularly favors initiatives outside Boston, encouraging replication of successful programs in other areas, and prioritizes organizations that employ community members.

The Alliance for Health Equity

The Alliance for Health Equity pursues its mission through grantmaking, providing scholarships, building partnerships and being catalytic to spark new initiatives where they are needed the most. Our ultimate goal is to improve the health, social, emotional, economic conditions among children, teens, and families in the Coatesville Area School District.

The Seed-And-Scale Match Fund

The Seed-And-Scale Match Fund is a signature funding initiative of The Alliance for Health Equity (AHE) that supports community-based organizations working to address key social determinants of health in Greater Coatesville. Seed-And-Scale is designed to help organizations launch new ideas, strengthen existing programs, and scale solutions rooted in community need and lived experience.

The Seed-And-Scale Match Fund supports both emerging initiatives and established models that reduce systemic barriers, expand access to essential resources, and strengthen pathways to long-term community impact. 

Focus on Social Determinents of Health (SDoH)

• Healthcare Access and Quality: Access to affordable, culturally responsive healthcare services including physical, behavioral, and preventive care that support wellness across the lifespan. 
• Education Access and Quality: Access to high-quality learning environments, academic support, and enrichment opportunities which enable children and youth to thrive. 
• Neighborhood and Built Environment: Safe, stable physical environments including housing and food access that support healthy living and community stability. 
• Social and Community Context: Strong relationships, supportive networks, and community engagement that foster belonging, resilience, and collective well-being. 
• Economic Stability: Strong relationships, supportive networks, and community engagement that foster belonging, resilience, and collective well-being. 

The Sustainable Forests and Communities Grant aims to foster environmentally and economically sustainable forest communities in the U.S., particularly where the Weyerhaeuser Family has interests. It prioritizes projects enhancing the environment, economy, and community through sustainable practices. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities operating in forested areas, focusing on integrated approaches that value forest ecosystem services. This initiative encourages local job creation, sustainable economic activities, and innovative partnerships to achieve sustainability goals.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency.

DEC's Mission: "To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being."

DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Urban and Community Forestry Grant Program Round 17: Tree Inventories and Management Plans

Grant Information

The Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Division of Lands and Forests is pleased to announce funding for Round 17 of Urban and Community Forestry (UCF) grants. Tree inventories and management plans are the essential building blocks of healthy, thriving urban forests. Under the auspices of the 25 Million Trees Initiative, this grant program will promote a data-driven understanding of urban forest extent and composition to support management planning for community forest expansion and enhancement—maximizing the resiliency and cobenefits of trees and forested natural areas, including clean air and water, stormwater retention, extreme heat mitigation, increased access to urban nature, and improved public health.

The purpose of this grant opportunity is to support strong, self-sustaining urban and community forestry programs which enhance the quality of life for all New Yorkers. Grant projects must develop inventories and assessments for individual right-of-way and landscape trees or for forested natural areas or develop community forest management plans based on inventories or assessments. This round adds a new project type for developing inventories and assessments using ground-based remote sensing technologies.

This is a reimbursement grant. The awardee must pay costs upfront before receiving reimbursement by DEC.

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 Initiative Through Education (WRITE) grantsThe objective of the WRITE program is to provide all Arizonans with the information and education needed to increase awareness on how to properly reduce and dispose of solid waste, and to encourage participation in source reduction, reuse, and recycling opportunities. WRITE projects should communicate the importance of conserving natural resources and the benefits of reducing, reusing, recycling, buying recycled products, composting and/or properly disposing of solid waste.

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.

The Garden Club of America Board of Associates Centennial Pollinator Fellowship offers funding for research on pollinator decline, specifically targeting bees, bats, butterflies, and moths. This fellowship, established in 2013, supports graduate students in U.S. institutions with annual funding typically around $4,000. It aims to enhance knowledge in pollinator science while fostering a new generation of scientists dedicated to conservation. Recipients may reapply for additional funding in subsequent years.

The Pulitzer Center Rainforest Reporting Grant supports journalists reporting on critical issues in tropical forests, particularly in the Amazon, Congo Basin, and Southeast Asia. This grant encourages innovative and collaborative proposals while providing essential resources and training. Grants typically range from $8,000 to $15,000, focusing on underreported topics that connect local and global perspectives. The initiative emphasizes transparency, governance, and in-depth reporting to combat illegal wildlife trade and harmful extraction practices.