Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Berenson Fellowship, supported by The Lila Wallace – Reader’s Digest Fund, invites scholars to explore 'Italy in the World' through transnational dialogues during the Renaissance (14th-17th century). This residential fellowship spans 4 to 6 months, offering USD 5,200 monthly and potential housing support. Applicants must hold a PhD and reside in Florence for at least three days a week. Priority is given to early and mid-career scholars, especially those with limited access to research resources in Italy.

The Glastonbury Greater Together Community Fund invites applications for annual grants up to $5,000 aimed at enhancing the quality of life in Glastonbury, CT. Nonprofits and town resident groups can apply for funding to support innovative initiatives, improve access to programs, and address critical community needs. All projects must be inclusive and benefit local residents, fostering collaboration for greater impact within the community.

Oakland Human Services Department

The Oakland Human Services Department exists to make our city a place that works for all. We offer free programs and provide public resources to community organizations that make sure all of our residents can access what they need to be safe, healthy and realize their full potential.

Oakland Fund for Children and Youth

The Oakland Fund for Children and Youth (OFCY) is a cornerstone initiative of the City of Oakland, operating within the Children and Youth Services Division of the Human Services Department. As the city’s largest grantmaking program, OFCY plays a vital role in supporting the well-being and success of Oakland’s children, youth, and families. 

Through strategic funding of community-based organizations, OFCY invests in programs that uplift, empower, and protect Oakland’s most vulnerable populations, ensuring access to critical resources, enriching opportunities, and brighter futures for the next generation.

Mission Statement: We provide strategic funding to support Oakland's children and youth from birth to 21 years of age to become healthy, happy, educated, engaged, powerful and loved community members.

OFCY Request for Proposals (RFP) for Children, Youth, & Family Services

Scope of Services

The City releases the Request for Proposals (RFP) to solicit program proposals from non-profit organizations and public agencies to provide services to children, youth, and their families in Oakland. OFCY will fund programs that are prevention and early intervention oriented.

Programs should be culturally responsive, age-appropriate, and child, youth, and family-centered. Investments are designed to support all children in Oakland, particularly those who experience the greatest disparities in the city.

The OFCY Three-Year Strategic Investment Plan (SIP) outlines how funds should be distributed to meet the four OFCY foundational goals:

• Support the healthy development of young children
• Help children and youth succeed in school and graduate high school
• Prevent and reduce violence, crime and gang involvement among children and youth
• Help youth transition to a productive adulthood 

Eight Funding Strategies were identified to support the four OFCY foundation goals: Strategy 1: Family Resource Centers & Parent Engagement; Strategy 2: Elementary School-Based Expanded Learning; Strategy 3: Middle School-Based Expanded Learning; Strategy 4: Youth Development & Leadership; Strategy 5: Career Access & Employment; Strategy 6: Youth Summer Jobs/Mayor’s Summer Youth Employment Program; Strategy 7: Independent Living; Strategy 8: Placed-Based Innovations for Safety 

Strategy 8: Placed-Based Innovations for Safety

This strategy will fund summer and year-round comprehensive programs that promote safety, social cohesion, and belonging for young people and families in specific neighborhoods. Funded pilots will focus on one of two target populations: youth who are at risk of future involvement in criminal activity or families with children who live in neighborhoods experiencing disparate rates of community violence or crime.

Funded programs will offer prevention and early intervention supports to youth who are demonstrating early warning indicators of further involvement in groups, gangs, gender-based violence, commercial sexual exploitation, and other community violence. Programs will implement community-based, culturally competent mentoring, life coaching or other early interventions to help young people build prosocial relationships with peers and caring adults, access employment and educational opportunities, and avoid future criminal justice system involvement.

Target Foundation

At Target Foundation, we envision a world where all families and communities have the resources they need to determine and realize their own joy in life. It’s a reality that is out of reach for far too many families as they struggle for access to economic opportunity, financial stability and the kind of empowerment that lifts up their communities. We believe we have a responsibility to work to remove barriers and to help create that access, resulting in a world where all families can thrive.

Community Engagement Funds

Community Engagement Funds (CEF) is a community grant program that empowers Target stores and distribution center leaders to make meaningful, localized giving decisions that meet the needs of the communities where our team members and guests live, work, and thrive.

• Organizations cannot apply for the same program in both grant cycles.
• Organizations are encouraged to apply during the cycle that best aligns with their program timing.
• A maximum of 10 applications is allowed per organization at any time.

CEF will prioritize nonprofit programs and initiatives aligned to its focus areas:

• Thriving Families; Basic needs and youth development..
• Vibrant Neighborhoods: Community vitalization; Community and green spaces.
• Emerging Creative & Culture: Cultural partnerships and creative programming.
• Economic Opportunity: Workforce development.

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program, administered by the City of Naperville, Illinois, supports affordable housing, public services, and economic development for low- and moderate-income residents. With a focus on community needs, the program utilizes federal funding to address pressing local challenges. It promotes job creation and offers financial assistance to subrecipients. Annual meetings are held to align funding priorities, ensuring an effective response to community demands and enhancing quality of life for residents.

Otsego Community Foundation

The Otsego Community Foundation (OCF) is a nonprofit organization created by and for the people of our community. We help meet critical local needs by collaborating with donors and nonprofits serving Otsego county, managing permanent funds, and awarding purposeful grants. We magnify your generosity and impact and ensure that charitable funds are directed where they matter most. Our services cover the entire county and all fields of interest including Arts and Culture, Conservation, Community and Economic Development, Health and Human Services, Education and Youth Initiatives.

Ultimately, our efforts help fill forests with trees, minds with knowledge, youth with dreams, workforce with skills, society with art & culture, pantries with food, communities with connections, and hearts with that joyful feeling of making a difference.

Adapt Grants

Adapt Grants are designed to fund projects that are small in scale, meet an unanticipated need, explore new opportunities, sponsor an event, and grow capacity. These grants are meant to be flexible and support you in adapting to changing needs, so whether you’re dreaming up a new project that could use seed or matching support, or are tackling a challenge that popped up suddenly, we want to support you in executing your day-to-day mission. Compared to the Community Grant Program “big rocks”, we consider these to be “pebble” projects. Both are important for advancing one’s mission. You can apply for both an Adapt Grant and the Community Grant Program in the same year.  

For 2025-2027 the OCF has identified three high impact partners areas to proactively support the community:

• OCAN-Advanced training
• Housing Task Force-Attainable housing
• START-Coordinated human service

Proposals that align with these areas will be strongly considered. 

The Iowa's Living Roadways Community Visioning Grant Program aims to enhance transportation in small Iowa communities by fostering strategic planning and community engagement. Participants develop conceptual plans to address local transportation needs, focusing on pedestrian and bicycle facilities, safety education, and beautification efforts. With a commitment of $2,000, eligible communities under 10,000 residents can seek funding sources and technical assistance for project implementation, ensuring that their transportation vision aligns with federal guidelines.

The Minneapolis Foundation is launching the 2026 Project Investments Grant Round through the WCA Foundation, which supports nonprofit organizations in the Twin Cities metro area. The grant prioritizes initiatives led by and for women, addressing critical needs such as health, economic stability, shelter, and safety. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving local women, emphasizing holistic approaches and demonstrable impact. This funding opportunity fosters community-driven solutions for women's empowerment and well-being.

Our Mission

Empower donors to fulfill their passions and dreams by establishing charitable vehicles designed to create a positive and enduring impact on Jewish Buffalo, Western New York and the World.

Golden Goldman Fund

The Golden Goldman Philanthropic Fund’s mission is to maximize local impact in support of: Women’s issues including reproduction and choice; Arts and Culture; Literacy; Reducing Income Inequality; and Judaism.

Funding will be awarded based on your proposal's potential impact. We will be looking at the applying organizations' fiscal viability and their ability to reach out to underserved individuals as part of our evaluation process. We do not usually provide funding for ongoing, existing programs.

The Daniel Foundation of Alabama provides operating grants, up to $25,000, aimed at strengthening communities and enhancing quality of life. Key focus areas include early childhood education, K-12 academic improvements, adult life skills, arts and community support, and health services. Eligible organizations must be based in Alabama and meet specific criteria, including revenue limits and employee requirements, to qualify for funding to benefit local residents.

The Marlène and Paolo Fresco Fellowship provides a six-month residential opportunity for post-doctoral scholars focused on cultural exchanges between Africa and the Mediterranean from 1250-1750. With a monthly stipend of USD 5,200 and relocation support, the fellowship requires residency in Florence and emphasizes original research in African history. Applicants must hold a PhD and be fluent in English, Italian, or French, ensuring a solid foundation in early modern global exchanges.

The William H. Hannon Foundation provides grants primarily to non-profit organizations that enhance education and health care within the greater Los Angeles area. Grant requests must be submitted in letter format, adhering to specific guidelines outlined on their website. The Foundation focuses on advancing the welfare of disadvantaged groups and supports endeavors that align with Mr. Hannon's philanthropic values. Notably, individual requests and certain funding types are excluded from consideration.

The NEA Community Advocacy & Partnership Engagement (CAPE) Grant aims to support local affiliates in mobilizing community organizations to enhance student achievement, particularly for students of color. Key priorities include fostering initiatives for racial justice in education, engaging NEA members trained in leadership, and creating union roles for community engagement. This grant encourages collaboration between educators and community leaders to build capacity and drive positive change.

The LG&E and KU Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community welfare by supporting nonprofit organizations that address essential needs. Every year, the foundation awards grants to initiatives focused on student success, essential services, child protection, community building, and cultural promotion. Additionally, through the Power of One campaign, employees and retirees contribute to charitable efforts, raising nearly $9 million to support local nonprofits, alongside volunteering over 20,000 hours annually.

The CE Grants (aka Travel to Training) program offers funding up to $2,000 per person for continuing education events to enhance library workforce capacity in Nevada. Applicants must be affiliated with eligible Nevada libraries, and funding is available for both in-person and virtual events. Application deadlines vary based on the type of event, ensuring timely financial support for professional development opportunities. A 10% funding match is encouraged but not mandatory.

The Inatai Campaigns, Litigation, Issues & Policy (CLIP) Fund Grant supports community-led campaigns that advance equity and racial justice across Washington. With a flexible funding approach, CLIP empowers diverse leaders to influence policy through grassroots organizing, litigation, and legislative advocacy. This initiative seeks to transform systems by funding campaigns in often overlooked areas, ensuring that communities most affected by inequities have the resources needed to engage in political action.

The Elaine Ehlers Arts Scholarship, established in 2002, offers $5,000 to graduating high school seniors in New Jersey who demonstrate artistic excellence in various disciplines such as dance, drama, visual arts, or music. The scholarship is awarded based on a panel's evaluation of work samples and character. This initiative honors Elaine Ehlers' legacy, promoting arts education and supporting students pursuing their creative passions at accredited institutions.

The Walter Blackburn Scholarship, established by Alpha Blackburn in memory of her husband, supports Marion County residents pursuing degrees in design, architecture, fine arts, performing arts, or construction management. Eligible students must demonstrate financial need and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. Preference is given to public school and minority students. Awards cover educational expenses at accredited institutions, including tuition, fees, and sometimes room and board, fostering educational opportunities in Central Indiana.

The Eastern Bank Foundation offers community donations to support local needs and events in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status can apply for donations ranging from $100 to $10,000, with an average of $3,000 to $4,000. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and applicants can expect a decision within 60 days. Note that private foundations and organizations with certain IRS designations are ineligible.

The Main Street Matters program aims to enhance downtown areas and neighborhoods through targeted investment in revitalization and safety improvements. Eligible entities, including local governments and nonprofits, can access grants for business enhancement initiatives, which may include microgrants and forgivable loans. These funds support capital investments and operational costs for businesses, contributing to vibrant community development. The initiative emphasizes strategic planning and documented demand for funding, ensuring effective use of resources.

The Jaburg & Wilk Foundation Grant supports local non-profit organizations in Arizona that focus on the arts, education, children, and at-risk programs. The foundation prioritizes financially sound organizations with strong community support and effective program delivery. By fostering private giving and enhancing service providers, the foundation aims to address public needs in Maricopa and Pinal counties. Grants are awarded following approval by the Grant Committee, ensuring thorough vetting of applications.

The Callaway Foundation, established in 1943, focuses on charitable, educational, and religious support primarily in LaGrange and Troup County, Georgia. With a history of significant contributions exceeding $440 million, the Foundation aids various projects, including churches, schools, and community initiatives. Grants typically cover one-time capital projects, emphasizing community development and revitalization. Eligibility is limited to established Troup County churches, ensuring grants support lasting impacts rather than operational costs.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants ranging from $2,500 to $49,999 to support community health initiatives. Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration and addressing social needs to foster well-being. Eligible organizations include non-profits, schools, and government agencies. The fund prioritizes projects that align with the Community Health Improvement Plan, focusing on health equity, civic engagement, and neighborhood enhancement. This initiative aims to empower communities and improve health outcomes while fostering corporate social responsibility.

Neighborhood & Community Services (NCS) Grant

The Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) department works to build healthy and successful neighborhoods and households through leading community problem solving, funding human services, and partnering with community members to facilitate safe, clean, and attractive neighborhoods

The Equitable Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support various charitable initiatives within Equitable Bank's communities, focusing on community development, education, and health care. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations that contribute to affordable housing, job training, and enhancing cultural access. Organizations seeking funding must demonstrate clear, measurable goals and reflect the diverse needs of the community. This initiative underscores Equitable Bank's commitment to improving quality of life and fostering community engagement.

The Curry Family Foundation Grant aims to support local non-profit organizations working to enhance the lives of endangered children and disadvantaged individuals. It offers funding for program development, operational expenses, equipment and building renovations, and matching funds. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations in the Kansas City metropolitan area, with specific ineligibilities including capital campaigns and discrimination based on race, creed, or other factors.