Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Detroit Industrial School Grant provides vital funding for projects benefiting children in the Tri-County area. With grants up to $5,000, the foundation prioritizes support for non-profit agencies addressing basic needs, educational programs, and resources for disabled children. The grant aims to help those in greatest need, ensuring no racial or religious discrimination in service. Eligible projects include tutoring, field trips, and skill training, fostering a brighter future for local youth.

Green Partners Grant

Engage, educate, act and collaborate for the environment

Hennepin County provides funding and support to organizations to actively educate, engage and motivate residents to become environmental stewards and make positive behavior changes.

Through the Green Partners program, Hennepin County contracts with organizations to implement projects that engage youth and adults in becoming environmental stewards. Projects engage youth in learning about environmental topics and taking leadership on environmental issues as they get older. Green Partners also supports projects to engage our adult residents in helping the county reach it’s zero waste and climate goals by preventing waste, composting organic waste, reducing, reusing, recycling, and repairing and caring for our natural resources by improving water quality, caring for trees, and creating habitat to protect birds, bats, and pollinators.

Types of Grants

Hennepin County has three Green Partners programs.

• Environmental Action Program
• Youth Environmental Leadership Program
• Youth Environmental Education Program

Youth Environmental Leadership Program

Youth environmental leadership projects encourage environmental leadership and/or exposure to green jobs for young people in high school up to age 24, (collectively, the “Project”). Project activities should encourage an environmental stewardship mindset that lasts beyond the program. Projects may provide opportunities for youth leadership in their school or community and exposure to green jobs or investigation into the green aspects of jobs they are interested in pursuing. Climate change projects related to zero waste and protecting natural resources are priorities for this program. Preferred projects incorporate county identified project ideas.

Levels of Funding

• If you have received a Green Partners award before, you can apply for up to $25,000 for a one-year project or, if you meet the criteria, up to $50,000 for a two-year project.
• If you have never received a Green Partners award before, you can apply for up to $12,000 for a one-year project. 

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

The Sills Family Foundation provides grants to nonprofits focused on early childhood education, environmental justice, arts and culture, and support for families in crisis. They prioritize programs benefiting communities affected by the criminal justice system, as well as refugees and asylees. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with an emphasis on systemic change and community-based solutions. The foundation operates primarily in metro New York City and California, accepting applications for one-year grants only.

The Sturgis Area Community Foundation (SACF) offers the Other Charitable Interest Funds to support a variety of charitable needs, including education, health, and community development. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities serving St. Joseph County, Michigan. SACF prioritizes sustainable and impactful projects that enhance the quality of life in local communities. Organizations with unmet charitable needs are encouraged to reach out for additional funding opportunities.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

The Lancaster Thrives Together Grant, offered by the Lancaster County Community Foundation, allocates $375,000 to support community benefit organizations in Lancaster County, PA. This competitive funding aims to foster economic stability by addressing root causes of poverty and assisting underserved populations. Projects focusing on financial literacy, job training, healthcare access, and supportive services are encouraged. The initiative emphasizes innovation and holistic approaches to empower vulnerable communities and promote long-term self-sufficiency.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company empowers employees to make a significant impact through collective fundraising, supporting nonprofit organizations in their communities for over 60 years. The Houston Chapter focuses on delivering essential health and human services to diverse groups, ensuring equitable support regardless of gender, race, or background. With employee-led grantmaking initiatives, the ECF fosters community engagement and enhances local welfare, reflecting its commitment to corporate social responsibility.

About VHCB

Our Mission: VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

Clean Water Programs

VHCB administers two separate funding programs to support a healthy and clean Lake Memphremagog Basin—the Memphremagog Clean Water Service Provider, funded through the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation, and the Leahy Memphremagog Clean Water Program, funded through the Great Lakes Fishery Commission.

Leahy Memphremagog Clean Water Program

The Vermont Housing & Conservation Board (VHCB) has grants available on a competitive basis for aquatic habitat improvement work in the Memphremagog Basin. These grants are designed to improve fisheries habitat, enhance water quality and aquatic ecosystem health, and support capacity among organizations supporting watershed health in the Memphremagog Watershed. 

Goals of this Grant Program

We have received funding from the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission to fund capacity building, land acquisition, and on-the-ground projects and infrastructure that have a positive impact on fisheries habitat, water quality, and aquatic ecosystem health. The priority behind this grant is to help fill gaps that exist in fisheries habitat and surface water quality improvement work in the region and fund proposals for which other sources would be impractical, insufficient, and/or unsuitable.

Capacity Grants

Awards will be used to close organizational and programmatic funding gaps that currently exist in the Memphremagog Watershed. Funding can be used to increase the capacity and coordination of partners working in the region to support public education and research and improve water quality and watershed functions. Funding may also be used to support capacity funded by a previous VHCB grant under this program. Another priority for funding is supporting collaboration between U.S. and Canadian organizations, and we encourage projects that propose to enhance these collaborations.

The Climate Justice Organizing Fund - Track Two supports grassroots organizations focused on implementing climate justice strategies. This funding aims to empower groups addressing interconnected issues such as racial justice, food security, health equity, and affordable housing. Eligible organizations must have an annual budget of $500,000 or less and prioritize community voices impacted by climate change. The fund emphasizes direct action, coalition building, and mobilizing communities to engage with policymakers, ensuring a robust response to climate challenges.

The Hollingsworth Funds Grant aims to support nonprofit organizations in Greenville County that work towards removing systemic barriers based on race, place, and socioeconomic status. The grants focus on strengthening pathways to career opportunities, enhancing educational outcomes, and improving access to essential services like affordable housing and transportation. With a commitment to equity, the fund encourages proposals that align with its vision of creating a just and inclusive community where all individuals can thrive.

The Long Foundation Grant aims to support Texas Hispanic youths by addressing the high school dropout rate and enhancing their economic and social potential. Through annual grants to nonprofits and educational institutions, the foundation seeks programs that promote caring adult relationships, safe spaces, health, and marketable skills. With a focus on the Austin Metropolitan area, at least 75% of beneficiaries must be Hispanic, ensuring inclusivity while prioritizing this demographic's needs.

The Chesapeake Bay Restoration Fund Grant supports projects aimed at enhancing environmental education and conservation efforts in the Chesapeake Bay area. Funded activities include educational training for educators, increasing public involvement in restoration activities, and projects that mitigate pollution and restore habitats. The grant favors proposals that demonstrate clear objectives, community engagement, and practical benefits to the Bay, ensuring a positive impact on local environmental challenges.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Recreational Trails Grants offered by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks aim to enhance and maintain trails for both motorized and non-motorized recreational activities. Administered by KDWP, the program allocates funds to various projects that promote outdoor recreation, ensuring a sustainable connection between communities and nature. With a commitment to conservation, these grants support diverse recreational uses, encouraging collaboration among trail enthusiasts to create vibrant outdoor spaces for all to enjoy.

The Rapid Response Fund for Community Power, launched by HealthSpark Foundation, offers quick, flexible funding to Montgomery County organizations facing urgent challenges. With a budget of approximately $50,000, grants range from $500 to $5,000, supporting community-led initiatives that enhance civic engagement and social equity. This fund aims to empower local voices and strengthen community influence over policies affecting their lives, aligning with HealthSpark's mission to foster healthy and equitable communities.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

Texas Health Community Impact

A Department of Community Health Improvement

We invest in community health and well-being through grantmaking and strategic collaborations. From data-driven, home-grown regional strategies to technical assistance, Texas Health Community Impact collaborates with community leaders to offer creative grant opportunities to North Texas organizations with a mutual desire to transform health and well-being in innovative ways.

Texas Health Community Impact Grants (Request for Proposals)

Texas Health Community Impact requests proposals to fund local organizations collaborating on innovative solutions that address barriers to community health and wellbeing. Up to $5 million is available across nine counties for the 2027-2028 grant cycle.

These community health improvement grants are made possible by Texas Health Resources—a faith‑based, nonprofit health system that cares for more patients in North Texas than any other provider.

Key Requirements

Applications must fulfill four key requirements: 1. Propose an innovative approach. 2. Demonstrate a collaborative effort between two or more organizations. 3. Align with strategic priorities. 4. Promote sustainability. Read Grant Key Requirements.

Project Implementation

Applicants must demonstrate the ability to begin implementing activities within four months of the execution of the MOU. Exceptions may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Prior Applicants

Organizations that applied for a previous Texas Health Community Impact grant cycle and were not awarded are eligible to apply. 

Request for Proposals by Region

The Texas Health Community Impact Grant requests proposals by regions: 1) Collin Region; 2) Dallas and Kaufman Region; 3) Denton, Wise and Parker Region; 4) Southern Region; and 5) Tarrant Region.

Texas Health is investing a total of $5 million in grants across its five regions, which spans nine counties. Groups seeking to work collaboratively on innovative upstream approaches to address priorities identified in each region are encouraged to apply for this competitive funding opportunity.

Dallas & Kaufman Region

Pilot Interventions to Improve Health Outcomes

Dallas & Kaufman Region Goal: To promote long-term health by investing in pilot programs focused on preventing complex health issues and improving well-being in communities with poor health outcomes.

Piloting interventions to improve health and well-being offer community-based organizations an opportunity to conduct risk assessments, improve resources, and gather insights, elements essential for positioning applicants for future success.

The Detroit Auto Dealers Association (DADA) Charitable Foundation Fund empowers charitable organizations focused on enhancing the lives of children and youth in southeast Michigan. Since its establishment in 1999, it has allocated over $6.4 million to support local nonprofits. The fund prioritizes sustainability, regional impact, collaboration, and leveraging additional resources to ensure lasting benefits for the community. Applications are welcomed from 501(c)(3) organizations serving the defined region, with an emphasis on impactful, collaborative projects.

The EPOC Grant Program provides funding to non-profit and not-for-profit environmental advocacy groups, as well as community-based organizations, for local projects that enhance the environment. Eligible projects include property clean-ups, reforestation, biodiversity initiatives, and environmental education efforts aimed at youth. Applications will be evaluated based on the environmental benefits they propose, with a focus on improving Connecticut's ecosystems.

About Us

Georgia’s Own Foundation, Inc. is the charitable arm of Georgia’s Own Credit Union and was founded in 2016 as a way to deepen and amplify the outreach efforts of the organization.

Mission

Since 1934, Georgia’s Own Credit Union has been committed to the “people helping people” philosophy. We not only strive to serve our members’ financial needs, but to give back to our communities and empower local youth through financial assistance and volunteer opportunities. Our goal is to improve what matters by helping people get ahead, get involved, and own their future.

Georgia's Own Grant

At least 85% of the Foundation’s grants must fall within our mission of empowering local youth. Past grantees have used their funds to promote children’s wellbeing through financial literacy, sports-based youth development, access to healthcare, food, and housing, education, the arts, and more.

Each year a small amount may be allocated outside these areas, which enables us to respond to unplanned opportunities and meet unknown needs.

Grant Size

Georgia’s Own Foundation is proud to partner with non-profits in our community through an annual grant program. The total amount awarded will be determined by the previous year’s fundraising efforts, and individual grants may vary in size—up to, but not to exceed $10,000. Larger grants will be made possible through special fundraising events such as our annual Golf Challenge.

What We Support

The Georgia’s Own Foundation funds proven programs OR new/expanding initiatives run by qualified nonprofits that empower local youth in the following categories:

• Literacy
• Financial Literacy
• Food Insecurity
• Sports-Based Youth Development
• Children’s Healthcare
• Career Readiness/Workforce Development
• Mentorship
• Arts Education
• Mental Health
• Disability Services

The North Carolina Wildlife Federation Scholarship supports aspiring wildlife professionals by offering financial aid to students enrolled in accredited colleges in North Carolina. With a history of awarding over 300 scholarships since the 1970s, this year the federation will provide up to seven grants, including two standout awards of $2,500. Eligible candidates must be full-time students majoring in wildlife, fisheries, forestry, conservation, or environmental studies, with a minimum GPA of 2.5.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The NV Agricultural Management Assistance (AMA) program, managed by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers vital financial assistance to agricultural producers. By supporting practices like water management and resource conservation, the AMA aims to mitigate financial risks associated with farming. Participants can receive up to 75% funding for conservation efforts, with annual payments capped at $50,000. This program is crucial for enhancing sustainable agriculture and supporting historically underserved producers in Nevada.

The AllOne Foundation Grant seeks to fund programs in five key impact areas: Behavioral Health, Women & Children, Autism, Opioid Solutions, and Food Security. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, serve specific counties in Pennsylvania, and employ at least one paid staff member. The foundation aims to enhance healthcare delivery and address critical issues in the region, fostering innovative solutions to improve community well-being.