Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Fair Housing Initiatives Program (FHIP) aims to combat discriminatory housing practices through funding provided to various organizations. Established by Congress in 1988 and made permanent in 1992, FHIP supports entities that educate the public and enforce fair housing rights. The program offers competitive grants across four initiatives, including the Private Enforcement Initiative, which enables national non-profit organizations to investigate violations and uphold fair housing laws effectively.

The Jack Wicks and Phyllis Sethre Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports Montana high school graduates pursuing degrees in Agricultural Business with various concentrations. The scholarship aims to foster academic excellence and encourage innovative approaches in agricultural economics. Awards vary, and preference is given to students in junior or senior status, providing crucial financial support to help them succeed in their academic endeavors.

Virginia Board for People with Disabilities

The Virginia Board for People with Disabilities (the Board) is the Commonwealth’s Developmental Disabilities (DD) Council. The Board’s mission is to advance opportunities for independence, personal decision-making and full participation in community life for individuals with developmental and other disabilities. The Board’s grant and contractual investments are designed to advance its mission and support the tenets of full inclusion by working with organizations at the local, state, and national levels to achieve our goals. 

Creating Inclusive Communities: Pre-ETS

Through this RFP, the Board seeks to support local, regional, or statewide efforts that further the recommendations in the Board’s FFY 2025 assessment of access to pre-employment transition services through the special education transition process. Projects should be designed to achieve capacity building and/or systems change. Projects should also be culturally and linguistically competent. The Board encourages innovative proposals, based on promising or best practices.

Projects That Will be Considered for Funding

Applications must address the below target area. View the Board’s State Plan for more information about target areas. The Board is asking applicants to develop a grant project that meets the specified State Plan activity, using your expertise and creativity that will achieve the Board’s desired outcomes.

Target Area: Employment – Barrier Reduction

• State Plan Activity: To support the implementation of community-based initiatives that further the recommendations in the Board’s FFY 2025 assessment of access to pre-employment transition services through the special education transition process.

• State Plan Objective: By October 2026, the Board will support culturally and linguistically competent initiatives that reduce barriers to Virginians with developmental disabilities obtaining competitive, integrated employment.

• State Plan Goal: By October 2026, more Virginians with developmental disabilities, reflecting the state’s geographic and cultural diversity, will have (1) increased ability to participate and learn in an inclusive school environment; and (2) increased ability to prepare for, and obtain, competitive, integrated employment and other career goals and opportunities.

The selected grantee is required to contribute a minimum match (cash or in-kind) of 25 percent of total project costs (grant funds + match). Federal funds cannot be used as match. Please see the Grants Manual for information on match requirements. In light of the Board’s limited funds availability, applicants are strongly encouraged to use indirect costs towards the minimum match requirement. 

The Edward P. Suchecki Family Scholarship, established by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports local high school senior athletes pursuing a business career. Named after Ed Suchecki, a dedicated coach and businessman who valued education, this scholarship prioritizes financial need and favors football and golf players. Applicants must submit their transcripts and other required documents. This initiative aims to empower young athletes to achieve their educational goals.

The Connecticut Health Foundation offers sponsorship for health-related events that reflect its mission. Funding supports various events like conferences, forums, and community gatherings, with a focus on partnerships that provide recognition and promotional opportunities. Eligibility is limited to 501(c)(3) organizations or public entities, ensuring the events benefit Connecticut residents. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with foundation priorities and potential to enhance visibility for CT Health.

Okoboji Foundation

The Okoboji Foundation was started in 1988, by a group of dedicated lovers of The Lakes Region who wished to improve the quality of life of those who call this area home.

Originally named the University of Okoboji Foundation, Berkley Bedell served as the first Board Chairman.  In 2006, the foundation changed its name to the Okoboji Foundation to establish the organization as a Community Foundation. Over $5.24 million has been granted to more than 80 different nonprofit agencies located around The Lakes since its inception and preserving the stories that make Iowa Great Lakes a place of local legends.

Today, the Okoboji Foundation is the center point of giving for vital capital projects. Current funding priorities focus on arts & culture, economic development, lake quality & environment, and outdoor experiences & recreation. It’s through the generosity of donors that the Okoboji Foundation continues to make a positive, lasting impact in the Lakes community.

Areas of Focus

We fund projects in the Iowa Great Lakes Region that align with one or more of the following:

• Arts & Culture – Enriching community life and sustaining nostalgia and legacy for residents and visitors.
• Outdoor Recreation – Expanding opportunities for active, healthy lifestyles.
• Lake Quality & Environment – Protecting and sustaining our lakes and natural resources

What We Fund

We fund VITAL CAPITAL PROJECTS, such as buildings, equipment, or physical property that will be available for many years of use in our Lakes communities. We want to help develop communities where people want to live, work, visit, and play

Projects should be visible, available to a large portion of the public, and have a long lasting impact in the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Professional signage must be included on structures or property funded by Foundation grants. The Okoboji Foundation will provide official logos and style guidelines for signage.

Funding Levels

There are two categories of funding: Leadership Grants and Community Needs Grants.

Community Needs Grants

Grant requests under $25,000 will be considered by the Youth In Philanthropy student led committee. Any unfunded grants in this category will then be reviewed by the Okoboji Foundation grant committee. Projects should be completed and request reimbursement with receipts totaling amount of grant award within one year of the award notification.

The Illinois Department of Transportation’s Bureau of Safety Programs and Engineering (BSPE) is actively working to meet the goal of zero fatalities on Illinois roadways. In order to make this goal a reality, BSPE offers grant opportunities for funding to state and local agencies and qualified organizations. Due to the size, population, and high traffic volume on Illinois roadways, BSPE partners with state and local agencies and qualified organizations to make this goal a reality.

28-0343-01 State Agency Enforcement Program (sTEP)

I. INTRODUCTION

High-visibility enforcement is paramount in the reduction of fatalities and injuries for Illinois road users. Increased enforcement deters unsafe driving behaviors while detecting and sanctioning those in violation of the law.

The Illinois Department of Transportation's (IDOT) Bureau of Safety Programs and Engineering (BSPE) annually provides state law enforcement agencies throughout Illinois with highway safety funding for enforcement activities. These highway safety-funded state law enforcement agencies can focus their enforcement efforts on occupant protection, impaired driving, speed, distracted driving, pedestrian safety, and other traffic-related violations.

II. PROJECT GOAL

Increase high-visibility enforcement on Illinois roadways to prevent fatalities and serious injuries.

III. GRANT PROPOSAL GUIDANCE

This grant program will have a multi-facet statewide enforcement emphasis focusing on interstates, US routes, state routes, and local roadways. The State Agency Enforcement Program (sTEP) will contribute to BSPE’s performance measures and targets. The state law enforcement agencies should partner with local and county enforcement on implementing enforcement during the scheduled enforcement campaigns.

This program focuses on the support of enforcement activities.

Educational, awareness, and/or training programs are more suited in the non-enforcement notice of funding opportunity (NOFO 28-0343-02 State Agency Non-Enforcement Program).

The Greater Fostoria Community Foundation (GFCF) supports local charitable organizations by awarding grants from its endowment. Established in 1998, GFCF emphasizes community improvement through funding in areas such as education, health, and the arts. Grants are available twice a year to 501(c)(3) organizations, fostering innovative programs that meet emerging community needs. Over $3 million in grants have been distributed to enhance the quality of life in Fostoria and surrounding areas.

The Robert B. Taylor Fund, managed by the San Antonio Area Foundation, supports students pursuing higher education in vocational fields or those seeking associate degrees. Available to high school seniors, college students, and adult learners, it emphasizes financial need and academic performance, specifically a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to Black or African American students and those enrolled in Alamo Community Colleges. This fund aims to enhance educational opportunities and community growth.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Everest Institute Alumni Fund Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to a graduating senior from a community of color residing in our 8-county region who plans to attend Golisano Institute for Business & Entrepreneurship or pursue a similar post-secondary business degree or certificate program.

Number and Size of Awards

Number of recipients and award amounts vary; paid in one lump sum.

Donor Information

This scholarship was created by contributions from Everest Institute alumni; the fund was transferred from a bank to the Community Foundation in 1991.

The DCCF Large Project Grants offer funding between $1,500 and $15,000 to support innovative projects that address significant needs in Decatur County. Priorities include initiatives that foster community engagement and can leverage additional funding. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits or governmental agencies serving Decatur residents. The foundation discourages funding for individuals, political activities, and projects solely reliant on DCCF support. Grants are awarded three times a year, emphasizing impactful community contributions.

The DCCF Small Project Grants offer funding of up to $1,500 for organizations aiming to implement impactful small-scale projects in Decatur County. The foundation supports initiatives in various areas such as community development, education, health, and the arts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, governmental agencies, and educational institutions, provided their projects benefit the local community. This grant encourages innovative projects that foster community participation and significant positive change.

The AWS Foundation offers Traditional Grants aimed at supporting organizations in Northeast Indiana that assist individuals with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities. These grants provide funding for various programs, capital needs, and operations that align with their mission of promoting independence and community inclusion. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) and serve specific counties to qualify. The foundation values innovative approaches that significantly impact the lives of beneficiaries.

The Nestlé Foundation offers Re-Entry Grants to support post-graduate students from developing countries as they return to their careers. By facilitating research in human nutrition, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable development and capacity building in low-income regions. Eligible projects should address critical public health issues, focusing on maternal and child nutrition, and must demonstrate collaboration between local and international researchers. Grants are non-renewable and may last up to three years.

The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, supports initiatives that enhance community life in Three Lakes. With over $120,000 in grants awarded, the foundation aims to foster partnerships among local nonprofits and enhance services in education, health, and the arts. They invite grant requests from organized groups, ensuring a focus on projects that benefit the public and uphold community values. The foundation prioritizes innovative ideas that differentiate Three Lakes from other communities.

The Three Lakes Community Foundation, established in 2013, provides Short Form Grants under $1000 to support local innovative projects. These grants aim to enhance community quality of life, support education, arts, and community development, and foster collaboration among local nonprofits. Eligible applicants include local nonprofits, schools, and government entities. The Foundation prioritizes projects that promote community efficiency and distinguish Three Lakes from other areas, ensuring the longevity and vibrancy of the community.

The Local Partner Core Operations Grants, offered by the State of Washington Department of Ecology, support local clean air agencies in enhancing air quality. These grants fund various activities, including enforcement, permitting, monitoring, public education, and technical assistance. Eligible applicants include local clean air agencies and Ecology regional offices. Applications are accepted during the summer of odd years, specifically from July to August, promoting community-driven efforts to comply with Clean Air Acts.

Okoboji Foundation

The Okoboji Foundation was started in 1988, by a group of dedicated lovers of The Lakes Region who wished to improve the quality of life of those who call this area home.

Originally named the University of Okoboji Foundation, Berkley Bedell served as the first Board Chairman.  In 2006, the foundation changed its name to the Okoboji Foundation to establish the organization as a Community Foundation. Over $5.24 million has been granted to more than 80 different nonprofit agencies located around The Lakes since its inception and preserving the stories that make Iowa Great Lakes a place of local legends.

Today, the Okoboji Foundation is the center point of giving for vital capital projects. Current funding priorities focus on arts & culture, economic development, lake quality & environment, and outdoor experiences & recreation. It’s through the generosity of donors that the Okoboji Foundation continues to make a positive, lasting impact in the Lakes community.

Areas of Focus

We fund projects in the Iowa Great Lakes Region that align with one or more of the following:

• Arts & Culture – Enriching community life and sustaining nostalgia and legacy for residents and visitors.
• Outdoor Recreation – Expanding opportunities for active, healthy lifestyles.
• Lake Quality & Environment – Protecting and sustaining our lakes and natural resources

What We Fund

We fund VITAL CAPITAL PROJECTS, such as buildings, equipment, or physical property that will be available for many years of use in our Lakes communities. We want to help develop communities where people want to live, work, visit, and play

Projects should be visible, available to a large portion of the public, and have a long lasting impact in the Iowa Great Lakes region.

Professional signage must be included on structures or property funded by Foundation grants. The Okoboji Foundation will provide official logos and style guidelines for signage.

Funding Levels

There are two categories of funding: Leadership Grants and Community Needs Grants.

Leadership Grants

Grant requests of $25,000 or more will be reviewed by the Okoboji Foundation grants committee. The committee may request an in person follow-up presentation by the nonprofit. Projects should be completed and request reimbursement with receipts totaling amount of grant award within three years of the award notification.

The Ruth M. Cogan Foundation Trust Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, supports students from Stark County, Ohio pursuing college education in music. This fund aims to help graduating seniors or current college students who demonstrate a passion for music and embody the spiritual qualities exemplified by Ruth. Since 1963, the Foundation has evolved from a grantmaker to a community leader, transforming lives through philanthropy.

The DISC5 Awards, funded by the California Institute for Regenerative Medicine, aim to support innovative research in stem cell technologies that enhance patient care. Grants of up to $1.5 million for individual projects and $3 million for team efforts are available, with a project duration of up to three years. These awards encourage collaboration and focus on addressing critical knowledge gaps in regenerative medicine, promoting diversity and inclusivity in research.

The ASSP Foundation Career Development Grant supports individuals in the environmental health and safety field by providing financial assistance for certification and professional development activities. Since its inception in 1990, the foundation has awarded over $6 million in grants and scholarships, aiming to enhance the skills and careers of safety professionals. Preference is given to applicants who have not previously received a grant, promoting a sustainable talent pipeline within the industry.

The Compass Society Grantmaking, part of the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville, aims to foster high-impact, collaborative projects that enhance the community's quality of life. Grants of $50,000 will support innovative initiatives across various focus areas, including arts, education, and health. Priority is given to projects demonstrating significant community collaboration and visionary goals. This funding opportunity invites organizations to partner and create sustainable changes for the Greater Huntsville area.

The Katherine P. Douglas Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben, Chemung, and Schuyler counties pursuing degrees in math, science, health sciences, nursing, or public health at Corning Community College. Applicants must be in the top 15% of their graduating class and provide three recommendations. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, fostering access to higher learning.

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.

Society of Fire Protection Engineers

The Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE) established the Educational and Scientific Foundation in 1979. The SFPE Foundation's mission is to enhance the scientific understanding of fire and its interaction with the social, natural, and built environments, towards the vision of engineering a resilient, sustainable, fire-safe world for all.

The SFPE Foundation, an affiliate of the Society of Fire Protection Engineers, partners with a wide range of global stakeholders to create, develop, promote, facilitate, disseminate, and support innovative research, education, and applied engineering methods that advance the science and practice of fire engineering where it’s needed most.

The Foundation is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in the United States of America, specifically the state of Massachusetts.

Frederick W. Mowrer Global Scholar Award

Annual $2,000 scholarship to a student involved in fire safety engineering or a related discipline at a post-secondary educational institution in a developing nation.

The goal of this scholarship is to support students to contribute to the development of fire protection expertise in countries with rapidly expanding infrastructure.

This scholarship is named after Dr. Mowrer to recognize his impact on the field of Fire Protection Engineering and the development of Fire Protection Engineering as an international academic discipline.

The CRSS Success Program, managed by the Illinois Department of Human Services, aims to enhance the behavioral health workforce by providing comprehensive recovery support training and practical experience for individuals seeking Certified Recovery Support Specialist (CRSS) or Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS) credentials. This initiative addresses systemic inequities while promoting inclusivity across diverse demographics, ensuring that those with lived experiences in mental health and substance use recovery have the support needed to succeed in their roles.

The John E. and Ruth L. Fisher Scholarship, provided by the Central Indiana Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors and past graduates of Noblesville High School under the age of 30. This scholarship aims to foster educational opportunities for students demonstrating financial need, covering expenses for various accredited postsecondary programs, including vocational and technical schools. Preference is given to students of color, enhancing diversity and inclusion in education.