Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Ruby Bridges Walk to School Day Mini-Grant supports events that honor civil rights activist Ruby Bridges by encouraging students to walk to school and engage in discussions about activism, anti-racism, and anti-bullying. Grants of $500 or $1000 are available based on the number of students reached. This initiative aims to inspire positive changes within communities and promote meaningful dialogue among young people about social justice issues.

The DCNR Community Recreation and Conservation Planning Grants support planning projects aimed at enhancing parks and recreational facilities. Eligible applicants, including municipalities and qualified organizations, can develop comprehensive plans for land conservation, indoor facility feasibility, and site development. The program emphasizes community involvement and requires a 50% match for funding. It fosters sustainable management of natural resources, ensuring a balanced approach to conservation and recreation.

Stewartville Area Community Foundation

The Stewartville Area Community Foundation was formed on April 3, 2000. The Foundation serves as a tax advantage conduit for donated funds to benefit specific community projects. 

In the past years, over $475,000 has been received and used for the betterment of the Greater Stewartville Area by:

• Enhancing our Aquatic Center
• Building Tennis Courts at Bear Cave Park
• Facilitating & Improving Walking/Biking Trails throughout the Community
• Funding Projects for the Bear Cave Master Plan including the Bear Cave Amphitheater

Our Mission

The Stewartville Area Community Foundation (SACF) strives to build a dynamic community by encouraging generosity, promoting civic engagement and providing the opportunity to enhance the quality of life by creating community partnerships.

Our mission for the Stewartville Area Community Foundation is to serve the greater Stewartville area by supporting programs and projects that improve the quality of life and build a stronger community.

SACF Grant

The SACF awards grants to support programs and projects that improve the quality of life and build a stronger sense of community in the Stewartville area. Possible areas of funding include but are not limited to education, engaged seniors, arts & culture, civic & community improvement and health & wellness.

The SACF awards grants in the form of matching funds with an upper limit. This is to encourage organizations asking for grants to be actively involved in fund raising. Generally, the SACF will match up to 50% of the project. Grants are awarded as funding permits and based on the decisions of the SACF Board of Directors. The SACF Board of Directors will have 30 days to act on a funding decision. Grant requests will be reviewed at the end of each quarter. The SACF will provide a written notice of award after their review. 

The Social Justice and Resiliency Fund offers vital support to nonprofits addressing systemic inequities in Clark, Cowlitz, and Skamania counties. By providing flexible, unrestricted funding, the fund empowers organizations led by Black, Indigenous, and People of Color to implement impactful changes. Grants focus on capacity building and systemic change, ensuring communities are equipped to respond to future crises. This initiative fosters equity and social justice, creating a more resilient and diverse nonprofit landscape.

The Albertsons Foundation - Intermountain is dedicated to enhancing community welfare through strategic funding. It supports nonprofit organizations in areas such as health services, diversity inclusion, and education, particularly in the Intermountain region (ID, MT, WY, UT, NV, ND). By partnering with local entities, the foundation ensures that its contributions address essential community needs while promoting access to vital services, fostering inclusivity, and encouraging educational success for all children.

J.B. Hunt Transport Services offers financial support for various community projects through its Company Giving program. Focused on four key areas—Health Care, Veterans' Support, Education, and Crisis Management—this initiative aims to enhance the well-being of local communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and civic groups, while organizations that primarily benefit their members or have high management overhead may be excluded. The program underscores J.B. Hunt's commitment to corporate social responsibility.

Worthington Area Community Foundation

A one-stop community organization for charitable contributions that benefit the place we call home. It is a permanent resource for the community that provides leadership and financial resources to meet community needs. It also offers a variety of giving options to help donors meet their unique philanthropic goals. It is managed by a volunteer board of directors, who are connected to the community and who understand local issues and opportunities that arise.

The Worthington Area Foundation (WAF) helps make the community an even better place to live and work by awarding grants to worthy organizations and projects through its own general endowment and related funds.

Mission Statement: The mission of Worthington Area Foundation is to promote charitable giving by assisting donors in the establishment of funds and memorials, which will provide lasting benefits to the Worthington, Minnesota area.

The WAF Endowment Fund:

• Was established in 1991
• Is a permanent community resource because the principal is permanently retained
• Enables the board to award grants annually to meet community needs

Foundation Grants

Foundation grants are made to non-profit and non-political groups. Priority areas include: arts & culture, environmental causes, youth development & education, recreational or civic activities essential to building and strengthening our community.

The Worthington Area Community Foundation is a tax-exempt, non-profit philanthropic organization funded by large and small donations from generous contributors. 

Mission and Areas of Interest

The Brook J. Lenfest Foundation is a charitable foundation established by Brook J. Lenfest in 2000. It is dedicated to making people aware of positive life choices and providing support and opportunities for those motivated to pursue them. Its grants focus mainly on education, job training and mentoring programs.

The Brook J. Lenfest Foundation only accepts letters of inquiry or grant proposals from qualified tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The foundation will consider requests for operating support, specific program or project support and for capital support. Typical grants range from $5,000 to $50,000.

Central Kentucky Community Foundation

Established in 1960 as North Central Education Foundation, Central Kentucky Community Foundation is one of more than 780 community foundations in the United States today. We serve the Lincoln Trail Region, offering our donors and partners a variety of ways to touch our community through philanthropic giving.

Youth Sports Fund of Grayson County - Fall Football

CKCF’s Youth Sports Funds encourage and support youth participation in recreational sports, making these opportunities available to any player, regardless of their financial situation. Our Youth Sports Funds offers scholarships for families who need financial assistance for children to play sports.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the sports league, not to the individual participants. Funding is limited, and scholarships are not guaranteed to all applicants.

The K.D. and M.L. Steadley Memorial Trust Grants support charitable organizations in Carthage, Missouri, focusing on scientific, educational, literary, and artistic pursuits. Established in 1959, the Trust considers proposals for capital support of public parks and outdoor recreation programs. Eligible applicants must promote the well-being of the community, while general operating support is limited. The majority of grants are awarded for one year, emphasizing project and program funding.

Boone County Community Foundation, Illinois

The Boone County Community Foundation exists to improve the quality of life in Boone County for today, tomorrow and the future by building a culture of giving in our community and by connecting donors. We are a tax exempt, non-profit, philanthropic organization with the long-term goal of building permanent, named funds for the broad-based charitable benefit of the residents in Boone County and to strengthen our community through philanthropy. We offer the best tax advantages for charitable donations operating as a 501©(3) organization of the internal revenue code. 

We help raise the level of local giving and help keep charitable dollars in the local community. The Boone County Community Foundation will help to ensure that charitable endowment gifts given to help our community will remain effective and relevant over long periods of time.

Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund

The Boone County Community Foundation invites charitable organizations in Boone County to apply for a community grant funded by the Melvin & Mildred Banks Grant Fund and the Wilbur & William Cummings Grant Fund.

The Banks farmed and ran numerous businesses in Boone County their entire lives. Melvin & Mildred were both active and supportive community members. They have graciously endowed an unrestricted fund for Boone County non-profit organizations. The purpose of this funding is to award grants for projects that enhance the quality of life in Boone County.

The James E. Huffer and Betty J. Huffer Foundation aims to support non-profit organizations that enhance community welfare through educational, artistic, and humanitarian initiatives. The foundation prioritizes multidisciplinary efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to regional service and impactful contributions. Focus areas include arts, environmental stewardship, health sciences, and youth education. Organizations must confirm tax-exempt status and provide financial documentation to be considered for funding.

2025-27 Violence & Delinquency Prevention Programs

Overview

The Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) is now accepting applications under the 2025-27 Violence and Delinquency Prevention Programs (VDPP) solicitation. The primary purpose of this competitive solicitation is to advance state and local projects that align with priorities and needs articulated in Pennsylvania’s 2025 Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Plan (“2025 Plan”) and PCCD’s 2026-2030 Strategic Framework. The 2025 Plan includes recommendations and strategies identified by PCCD’s Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention Committee (JJDPC) as essential for improving the Commonwealth’s prevention, diversion, intervention, and juvenile justice system infrastructure.

The goal of this initiative is to strengthen community-based strategies that prevent youth violence, delinquency, and other problem behaviors, expand diversion and deflection opportunities, and support successful reentry in accordance with Balanced and Restorative Justice guiding principles.

VDPP funds will focus on priorities identified within the 2025 Plan, especially activities/needs that cannot be addressed meaningfully using other available PCCD funding streams.

The anticipated impacts resulting from this solicitation may include: 

• Improved effectiveness of local early prevention programs and practices;
• Increased use of diversion and deflection practices to reduce unnecessary or deepened juvenile justice system involvement;
• Reduced recidivism by youth coming out of the juvenile justice system through the development of improved competency and life skills;
• Increased youth engagement and direct involvement in improving policies, practices, and the programming provided across the entire continuum of care from early prevention through reentry/aftercare; and
• Improved cross-system collaboration and innovation to increase coordination of services and programming available to youth and families in all communities of the Commonwealth.

The Rum River Community Foundation Grant, a philanthropic initiative by the Initiative Foundation, aims to enhance community livability through funding for parks, recreation, and youth engagement in the cities of Bock, Foreston, Milaca, and Pease. Grants are awarded to eligible nonprofit organizations, school districts, and local governments, focusing on proposals that foster community involvement and pride. The maximum grant size is $1,000, not exceeding 50% of total project costs.

The CNS Pantex Community Investment Grant Program, administered by the Amarillo Area Foundation, invites nonprofit organizations in the northern Texas Panhandle to apply for funding. This program prioritizes basic needs, education, health, and community development. Eligible applicants must possess 501(c)(3) status and serve local communities. The focus is on projects that address pressing community needs, fostering support for families, youth, and essential services. Proposals from outside the designated counties will not be accepted.

The Ira W. DeCamp Foundation Grant, established in 1970, supports health, social services, and education projects primarily in the New York metropolitan area. The foundation prioritizes community-based health care, foster care initiatives, and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities, while ineligible recipients include individuals and private foundations. The foundation emphasizes capacity-building, project funding, and capital enhancements to strengthen community resources and support innovative programming for vulnerable populations.

The Cloud County Public Health Fund, established by the Kansas Health Foundation, aims to enhance the quality of life in Cloud County. It supports local health initiatives through grants, scholarships, and awards. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. The fund prioritizes projects that promote public health and well-being. However, it does not support political projects or those with operating deficits, ensuring funds contribute to meaningful community impact.

The Capital & Naming Rights Grants support initiatives that enhance community equity in San Antonio. This funding is aimed at organizations that align with key impact areas, including cultural vibrancy, livable communities, successful aging, and youth success. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit organizations operating in specific Texas counties and demonstrate a commitment to addressing community needs through innovative projects. Proposals may include capital project expenses as well as operating costs post-project completion.

The Enchanted Life Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing educational and social opportunities for communities in southern New Mexico. It supports nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status, prioritizing local needs such as scholarships, English proficiency, and faith formation. The foundation aims to foster community development while being open to assisting diverse groups, reflecting a commitment to social justice and educational advancement.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project - Capital Grants Application Fall 2025 by the Open Space Institute aims to enhance conservation across the Appalachian Mountain region. With a focus on biodiversity, climate resilience, and community benefits, this initiative supports the acquisition of land and conservation easements. As a vital climate refuge, the Appalachians play a crucial role in safeguarding habitats and providing public recreation opportunities for the 26 million residents living in this area.

The Yawkey Foundation's Strategic Investment Grant supports nonprofit organizations aiming for strategic growth through board-approved plans. Grants, ranging from $250,000 to $1 million, may fund regional expansions, collaborative efforts among nonprofits, and organizational mergers. Initial Proposals are highly competitive and must demonstrate strong leadership, proven impact, and alignment with the Foundation's Areas of Giving. Review periods for proposals can take 6-12 months, during which feedback is not provided.

The Giving in Action Grants - Community Action Grant by the Moline Regional Community Foundation offers funding between $5,000 and $24,999 for nonprofit organizations in various sectors, including arts, education, and health. Open to all charitable nonprofits in designated counties, this grant encourages innovative community projects. Note that organizations primarily funded through tax support are ineligible. This initiative aims to strengthen community action and support meaningful programs that enhance the quality of life.

The Idaho Humanities Council's Action Grants support programs that engage with history, culture, and literature, fostering public conversations. With grants up to $750 awarded monthly, the focus is on projects that connect with Idaho’s diverse communities. Eligible applicants include government entities, museums, and nonprofits, with a preference for first-time organizations and those serving underserved groups. Notably, the grants cannot be used for advocacy or art creation, ensuring a focus on humanities-based initiatives.

The Madelaine G. von Weber Trust Grant supports impactful charitable projects across New Hampshire, honoring Mrs. von Weber's legacy. The Trust seeks innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance community welfare through funding for diverse initiatives, including environmental conservation, arts, and social services. With a focus on capital projects that promise lasting benefits, the Trust encourages applications from well-governed 501(c)(3) nonprofits that demonstrate strong community support and a clear rationale for funding needs.

The Central Montcalm Community Foundation aims to improve the quality of life in the Central Montcalm area by providing grants funded through annual earnings from endowments. These funds support long-term community programs in arts, health, environment, and recreation. The foundation ensures the principal of each fund remains untouched, while the generated earnings are utilized to meet community needs and cover administrative costs.

The McMillen Artist Community Reverse Scholarship Program supports visual artists in Washington State by offering competitive grants aimed at fostering artistic excellence and community engagement. This program encourages artists to share their involvement in community initiatives, thereby enhancing cultural understanding and addressing social justice issues. With a focus on debt relief, the program helps artists achieve their creative career goals while building a vibrant artistic community.

The Giving in Action Grants - Make a Difference Grant provides funding between $25,000 and $50,000 for nonprofits serving the areas of Arts & Culture, Community & Economic Development, Education, Environmental & Conservation, and Health & Human Services. Organizations located outside the service region are eligible to apply. This initiative supports special projects and expanded programming to benefit communities in specific counties of Illinois and Iowa.