Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

Environmental Stewardship: Innovation Grants

FAO, through its Environmental Stewardship Pillar of Prosperity Fund, offers funding opportunities to advance conservation, environmental stewardship and the greater well-being of Appalachian Ohio.

Innovation grants invest in new and creative solutions that result in environmental good while encouraging environmental stewardship. Possibilities include areas such as upcycling materials or developing approaches to harmonize energy, economics, environment and health. FAO will also consider strategic initiatives and planning for communities leveraging larger funds. Innovation grants can support pilot projects that increase the region’s capacity to improve air quality; water quality; green energy generation, storage and adoption; and diesel emission reduction. At least $20,000 is available to support innovation grants.

Funding Areas

Foster greater community involvement (schools, nonprofits, businesses, etc.) in sustainable initiatives and projects with high impact across multiple sectors, including energy, economics, environment and health.

Support innovative projects that focus on developing new or improving upon existing methods for reducing and redesigning materials, driving forward-thinking solutions that benefit communities and the environment.

Strengthen the ability of local organizations to secure substantial funding from state, federal and national programs. Increasing access to these resources will amplify the impact of projects focused on large-scale and innovative approaches to cleaner air, cleaner water, green energy adoption and diesel emission reduction.

The Manufacturing PA Training-to-Career Grant program, part of Governor Wolf’s Jobs that Pay Initiative, aims to bolster Pennsylvania's manufacturing sector by funding projects that enhance workforce readiness and entry-level job placements. This initiative focuses on engaging youths and individuals facing barriers, ensuring they are aware of career opportunities in manufacturing. Funds can be allocated for various purposes, including training services, equipment purchases, and program development, thereby supporting local manufacturers and fostering community growth.

About PLTW Engineering Each PLTW Engineering course engages students in interdisciplinary activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, or exploring algae as a biofuel source. These activities not only build knowledge and skills in engineering, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.Through this partnership, Intel Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements: 

• Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Engineering program. 
  • Example expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Engineering course not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Engineering courses previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in PLTW Engineering courses for the 2027-2028 academic year.

• Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $15,000
  • 2027-2028: $15,000

The Community Food Grant program provides $1.7 million in funding for food pantries in Colorado to procure and distribute healthy, culturally relevant foods. This initiative aims to enhance access to nutritious options while supporting local agriculture. Eligible food pantries can use these funds to purchase produce, meat, and dairy from local sources, ensuring that community needs and diverse cultural identities are met. The program emphasizes equity in the charitable food system, fostering collaboration with the communities served.

About PLTW Gateway

PLTW Gateway (6-8) opens paths that create meaningful futures. It connects students to careers in areas they can, and can't, imagine. Through explorations of skilled trades, coding and robotics, flight and space, human body systems, and more, PLTW Gateway fuels students’ passion for discovery. As they engage in hands-on, collaborative problem solving focused on real-world challenges, students use and stretch their imaginations in brand-new ways that connect their learning to life.

Through this partnership, Intel Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

Program Requirements

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Gateway unit in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional unit in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different units in two years).
• Grantee may implement any PLTW Gateway units of their choosing.
• Grantee must complete two years of Grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $20,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000
  • 2028-2029: $10,000

The Marillac Mission Fund provides funding for capacity building grants aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of nonprofits focused on vulnerable populations. Eligible organizations must have a history of receiving MMF funding and be located in the St. Louis area. Grants can support various improvement activities including strategic planning and resource development, with a maximum award of $25,000 per year. This program seeks to empower nonprofits to better serve their communities and advocate for those in need.

About PLTW GatewayPLTW Gateway (6-8) opens paths that create meaningful futures. It connects students to careers in areas they can, and can't, imagine. Through explorations of skilled trades, coding and robotics, flight and space, human body systems, and more, PLTW Gateway fuels students’ passion for discovery. As they engage in hands-on, collaborative problem solving focused on real-world challenges, students use and stretch their imaginations in brand-new ways that connect their learning to life.Through this partnership, Intel Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.Program Requirements

• Grantee must use their grant funds to expand their existing PLTW Gateway program. 
  • Example : Expansion activities include but are not limited to adding an additional PLTW Gateway unit not previously offered, and/or adding additional class periods of an existing PLTW Gateway unit previously offered, and/or training additional teachers in a PLTW Gateway unit for the 2027-2028 academic year.

• Grantee must complete one year of grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $10,000
  • 2027-2028: $10,000

Erin Marie Masling Memorial Scholarship

This scholarship encourages students who have the potential and desire to pursue a post-secondary education despite the effects of an ongoing medical condition or illness.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; minimum award $500. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The National Breastfeeding Support Initiative aims to enhance maternity care quality by engaging diverse partners and providing training to healthcare organizations. It focuses on implementing evidence-based practices to support breastfeeding, ensuring safe and effective maternity care in hospitals across the U.S. and territories. By fostering collaboration and utilizing data for quality improvement, the initiative seeks to create a sustainable impact on maternal and infant health.

Joel Ayite Ajavon Memorial Scholarship

The Scholarship was established by friends and family to honor the life of Joel Ayite Ajavon who left this world far too early. To be awarded to graduating high school seniors with a primary interest in studying science, technology, engineering, math, nursing, or trades at a two-year community college in Western New York.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $4,000; may be split between two recipients. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Minimum award $2,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The AmeriCorps State Formula Fund Grant in North Dakota supports programs that recruit, train, and supervise AmeriCorps members to address vital community issues. These grants focus on areas such as education, disaster services, health, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunity, as well as serving veterans and military families. Through this funding, communities can enhance their capacity to meet pressing needs and improve overall well-being.

For Good. Forever.

Southeastern Colorado is full of contrasts and character from the rugged peaks of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains to the wide-open plains of Baca County.

E.M. Christmas Fund

Preference will be given to E.M. Christmas Fund requests that encourage or enhance leadership in some way and are granted to Pueblo County organizations.

The majority of grants awarded are $2,000-$5,000.

The Stanford Medicine Children’s Health Center for IBD and Celiac Disease offers funding for postdoctoral fellows and instructors to conduct innovative research focused on pediatric IBD and celiac disease. This initiative aims to nurture future researchers and prepare them for independent funding opportunities. Eligible research includes basic, clinical, epidemiological, and health policy studies related to maternal and child health. Funding supports substantial salary and benefits, ensuring commitment to impactful research in this critical area.

The Innovation Grant Program by the Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana Foundation aims to enhance the health and wellbeing of Louisianians through innovative projects. Grants, typically under $25,000, support new ideas and interventions that can potentially disrupt negative trends in health and education. This initiative promotes a research-based approach to philanthropy, encouraging applicants to challenge the status quo with fresh, impactful solutions. Projects are expected to be completed within a year.

The Compassion Fund Grants, provided by the Womens Foundation of New Jersey, support agencies responding to natural disasters and community crises, such as floods, fires, and health emergencies. This funding is crucial during traumatic events, including the COVID-19 pandemic. To quickly access assistance, applicants can complete the Letter of Inquiry form on the foundation's website, ensuring timely support for urgent needs.

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

The Bike Safety and Awareness Grant, offered by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, aims to enhance community education on bike safety and coexistence with vehicles. With a total of $17,000 available, two grants of up to $8,500 each will be awarded. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) designated and promote cycling safety in California. This initiative honors Maggie, a dedicated advocate for bike safety, reinforcing the Foundation's commitment to impactful philanthropy.

Commodity Supplemental Food Program

1.2 Program Description

The Commodity Supplemental Food Program (CSFP) is a federally funded grant program of the Food and Nutrition Service (FNS), an agency of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). The grant is administered through the Minnesota Department of Health in the Supplemental Nutrition Program section of the Child and Family Health division.

CSFP provides a monthly food package of USDA commodity foods to augment the diets of those who are 60 years of age and older, of low income and considered to be at nutritional risk.

Subject to the availability of federal funds, MDH awards grants to qualified local agencies to operate the program in designated geographic service areas within the State.

The Minority Health Month Grants, initiated by the Ohio Commission on Minority Health, aim to promote health awareness and disease prevention among economically disadvantaged minority populations. Celebrated in April, this campaign engages African Americans, Asian American/Pacific Islanders, Hispanics/Latino Americans, and Native Americans through various activities. The goal is to enhance health knowledge and practices, benefiting not only minority Ohioans but anyone seeking appropriate health services.

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Title I - Youth Program Services

Provides services to in-school youth ages 14-21, and out-of-school youth ages 16-24 that are intended to help youth focus on career pathways, longer-term academic and occupational learning opportunities, and provide long-term comprehensive service strategies.

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (MTDLI), in compliance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is seeking applications from experienced and qualified organizations to execute essential workforce development through the WIOA Title I - Youth Program.

In doing so, the Department is seeking applicants who:

• Implement service deliver strategies that align with the 406 JOBS initiative and America's Talent Strategy, including:
  • use of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training models,
  • training in Industry Recognized Credentials,
  • employer engagement to ensure industry-driven strategies, and
  • outreach to hard to reach populations.
• Coordinate with WIOA core partners.
• Deliver strong performance outcomes with respect to employment, wages, credential attainment, and skill gains.

The Baptist Health Mobile Health Unit (MHU) provides essential healthcare services to underserved communities in Arkansas. This mobile clinic offers a variety of services, including preventative screenings, vaccinations, and health education. Staffed by a team of healthcare professionals, the MHU aims to enhance access to healthcare and improve the overall health of the community. By addressing health disparities, Baptist Health is committed to creating healthier lifestyles and ensuring that necessary medical services are available to all.

The Classroom Enrichment Grant, offered by the Kent Schools Foundation, aims to enhance educational experiences for students in the Kent School District. This initiative supports projects in art, music, STEM, and emotional well-being, among others, with grants typically capped at $500. Educators, including teachers and counselors, are encouraged to apply, ensuring innovative learning opportunities that resonate with students. The Foundation prioritizes applications that align closely with the grant's mission.

About MDWFP

Mississippi's legislative leadership recognized the need for wildlife conservation in our state and founded the Mississippi Game and Fish Commission in 1932. Since then, the Agency has been the state's premier conservation organization.

In 1989, the Bureau of Parks and Recreation merged with the Mississippi Department of Wildlife Conservation to form the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks (MDWFP). The MDWFP is a large state agency charged by state statute to conserve, develop, and protect Mississippi's natural resources and provide continuing outdoor recreation opportunities.

Land and Water Conservation Fund Program

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program was established by the LWCF Act of 1965. Federal funds are appropriated by Congress through the Department of Interior and administered on the federal level by National Park Service (NPS) and on the state level by the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Outdoor Recreational Grants division.

The Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) program was established to stimulate a nationwide action program to assist in preserving, developing, and assuring to all citizens of the United States, of present and future generations, such quality and quantity of outdoor recreation resources as may be available. The program provides matching grants to States, and through the States to local units of government, for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreation sites and facilities. Funding for the program is provided largely from Outer Continental Shelf mineral receipts, with additional income from the Motorboat Fuels Tax, recreation user fees, and through the sales of federal surplus property. Federal LWCF obligations have been matched by state and local contributions, for a total recreation investment of over $6 billion dollars.

How are projects funded?

• The LWCF program requires a fifty percent match by the project sponsor. This match can include cash, in-kind services, and donations of land/material/services.
• The composition of the sponsor's matching share must be approved by the ORG staff. Only costs and donations incurred during the project period are eligible for reimbursement. The appraised value of land donated for the project area can be used as all or part of the matching share for development.
• Title to a donation of or "fee simple purchase" of park land cannot be transferred to the sponsor prior to project approval by National Park Service.

What can be funded?

In order for an application to be considered, it must be a viable project (e.g., ballfield, soccer field, splash park, etc.). Applications for support facilities only do not qualify. Projects can be a combination of both.

• Acquisition: Acquisition-only projects can be submitted but will be ranked low in the ratings. According to NPS guidelines, land that is acquired must be developed.
• Development: Physical facilities such as sports and play fields, tennis courts, picnic facilities, etc.
• Acquisition/Development: Land acquired by donation or negotiated purchase followed by development of facilities on that land.

The Imogene Coca Compassion in Care Scholarship, offered by the Delaware Community Foundation, aims to support Delaware residents pursuing degrees in nursing or medical fields. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and either have been employed for at least five years or hold an Associate's degree from a community college. This one-time award of $2,000 is part of DCF's broader commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and equity in Delaware.

The Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatohepatitis Fund, established by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients facing chronic illnesses. It provides critical support for expenses related to prescription copays, insurance premiums, and transportation for treatment. With a maximum award of $8,000, the fund ensures that individuals can access necessary healthcare services without financial strain. This initiative emphasizes the commitment to improving health outcomes for those affected by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis.

The Mantle Cell Lymphoma Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, provides financial assistance to underinsured patients diagnosed with Mantle Cell Lymphoma. The fund covers prescription drug copays and Medicare Part B premiums, with a maximum award of $8,500. Eligible patients must have insurance that covers their medication and meet specific income guidelines. The foundation aims to reduce financial barriers to essential treatments, ensuring that patients receive necessary care without undue financial strain.

The Hyperoxaluria Fund, managed by the HealthWell Foundation, aims to alleviate financial burdens for underinsured patients suffering from hyperoxaluria, a condition characterized by excessive oxalate in urine. This fund assists with prescription drug copays and insurance premiums, providing vital support for treatments. In 2024 alone, HealthWell allocated over $1.2 billion in grants, ensuring access to essential medications for those in need. The organization is committed to improving healthcare access and reducing disparities for affected individuals.