Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

The Charles Lamar Family Foundation Grant supports projects in K-12 education, companion animal welfare, and water resources. Established in 2000, the foundation awards approximately $1 million annually to 501(c)(3) organizations through competitive rounds. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $400,000, and applicants must demonstrate community commitment and a sustainable project plan. A letter of intent is required for projects outside the foundation's primary focus areas.

The Creative Entrepreneur Accelerator Program provides $2,000 in funding to support creative entrepreneurs in Pennsylvania. This initiative aims to foster business growth by offering access to consulting services and resources tailored for those starting or developing a for-profit micro business. The program prioritizes diversity, equity, and inclusion, focusing on BIPOC entrepreneurs and those serving low-income communities, thus playing a vital role in economic recovery and innovation.

The William Penn Foundation invites proposals to reduce barriers to accessing and completing workforce training in Philadelphia. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of quality workforce programs for populations facing significant challenges, such as young individuals not in school or working, returning citizens, and immigrants. With $5 million available, the Foundation seeks projects that will help these groups transition to employment and ensure job retention, fostering economic mobility for themselves and their families.

The Illinois Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (CCLC) program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in high-poverty areas. It focuses on academic enrichment and offers various services including tutoring, youth development, and family engagement. Funded by the Illinois State Board of Education, the program supports partnerships to ensure equitable access to educational resources, with awards ranging from $50,000 to $600,000 to eligible entities serving low-income students and their families.

City of North Las Vegas

Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) 2027-2029

The ESG Program is administered by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and is authorized by the McKinney-Vento Act and amended by the HEARTH Act. The purpose of the ESG Program is to provide funding to: Engage homeless individuals and families living on the street, rapidly re-house homeless individuals and families, and prevent families and individuals from becoming homeless. ESG funds administered by City of North Las Vegas are being made available to eligible nonprofit organizations that provide critical services to individuals and families that are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Southern Nevada. There will be an emphasis on funding programs that rapid re-house homeless people and projects that assist with homeless prevention for low income households/individuals.

The Washington County Healthy Living Fund Grant, offered by the Bartlesville Community Foundation, aims to support local organizations addressing health challenges. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs that promote prevention and rehabilitation in Washington County. Eligible projects include educational initiatives, rehabilitation for offenders, and adolescent health services. This initiative strengthens community bonds and enhances overall well-being, enabling a healthier future for all residents.

The Iowa Women's Foundation Core Grants aim to support organizations that address barriers to women's economic self-sufficiency in Iowa. Since 1997, over $2 million has been awarded to initiatives that offer housing, transportation, education, employment, childcare, and mentorship. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and licensed childcare centers. The foundation encourages innovative solutions that empower women and girls, fostering their independence and leadership within the community.

The Alger Regional Community Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Alger County to enhance quality of life through various programs. With a focus on charity, education, health, and youth development, the foundation encourages innovative projects that meet community needs. Grants typically do not exceed $2,500 and are awarded based on the potential impact and collaborative efforts of applicants. The foundation prioritizes youth involvement, ensuring future generations benefit from its initiatives.

Mercy Health Freeport Area- Volunteer Services Scholarship Program

One $1,000 scholarship is available to a student pursuing a health care career. The student must be an active member of Mercyhealth’s Student Volunteer Program with a minimum of 40 career hours, and must reside in Stephenson, Jo Daviess, Carroll, Ogle, or Winnebago counties.

The student must currently be enrolled in an accredited program of study involving the following health care careers:

• Imaging/Radiology Technology (cardiac, diagnostic or vascular ultrasound, CT technology, MRI, radiology, or nuclear medicine)
• Medical Assistant
• Nursing (Registered Nurse or Licensed Practical Nurse)
• Rehabilitation Services (Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Language Pathology)
• Respiratory Therapy
• Surgical Technology

About

As the state economic development agency, the Wyoming Business Council leads economic growth in order to build resilient communities and create opportunities for people to thrive.

Community Economic Development Grant

Wyoming Business Council RD Grant

Community Economic Growth Grants can be used for projects that enhance a community’s quality of life through economic development projects. You will need to show that your project will support or enhance the economic opportunities of your stakeholders. Heavier consideration will be given to projects or initiatives that are collaborative on the organization, community, county, or regional level).

This is an Economic Growth Grant. Economic development is creating a vibrant community where people want to live and work through wealth creation. It's also about transforming economies where people have limited resources (think jobs, money, and opportunity) and choices into ones with greater resources and choices.

Economic development improves the quality of life by:

• Creating jobs
• Attracting and retaining businesses
• Increasing tax revenue
• Promoting local industry
• Developing skilled workers
• Improving public infrastructure necessary for many businesses

About DHHS

Mission

The Utah Department of Health and Human Services will support and serve all individuals and communities throughout Utah. It will do so through effective policy and the operations of an effective and efficient seamless system of services and programs that is centered around the individuals and communities the department serves.

PATH 1.1 Rural Food Infrastructure

The Utah Food Security Grant Program strengthens Utah's food supply chain through strategic investments in agricultural production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, and local food promotion. By supporting grant projects across the food system, from farm to consumer, the program helps expand opportunities for Utah producers, strengthen rural communities, and increase the availability of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food. 

FY27 funding is provided through the Rural Health Transformation Program, opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab in partnership with the Utah Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

Eligible Projects and Expenses

This grant supports projects that increase the production, processing, storage, distribution, market access, or safe delivery of Utah-grown and Utah-raised food to Utah consumers, with an emphasis in rural Utah. Eligible projects may address needs across the food supply chain. All proposed expenses must directly support an immediate increase in the availability of minimally processed eligible Utah-grown or Utah-raised food in rural Utah. Honey and added-sugar products are not allowable. For detailed eligibility requirements and a full list of allowable and unallowable foods and expenses, please review the Request for Applications (RFA), opens in a new tab, opens in a new tab.

Below is a non-exhaustive list of eligible projects:

Production

Equipment and infrastructure that increase agricultural production or extend the growing season, including:

• tractors, harvesters, tillers, and other farm implements
• high tunnels, greenhouses, and indoor growing systems
• irrigation improvements
• frost protection equipment and supplies

Processing

Equipment that adds value to agricultural products or increases processing capacity, including:

• washing, peeling, slicing, chopping, shucking, pasteurizing, or other processing equipment
• bottling, bagging, labeling, packaging, and packing equipment
• slaughter and meat processing equipment

Distribution

Equipment and technology that improve the movement of food from producers to markets, including:

• refrigerated trucks, vans, or trailers or renovating existing distribution equipment for cold storage
• cold-storage upgrades for existing delivery vehicles
• inventory management and logistics software
• dock levelers and weather seals
• forklifts, pallet jacks, and other material handling equipment
• logistics software to map the most efficient distribution routes, minimizing fuel costs and reducing the time highly perishable food spends in transit
• inventory tracking systems to track the location and distribution status of pallets or bins as they move from storage to the wholesale or retail destination. If you don’t have this system, you are encouraged to apply for it to report on your outcomes. 

Dry and cold storage

Equipment and non-construction facility improvements that preserve product quality and extend shelf life, including:

• Walk-in coolers, freezers, CoolBots, and cold storage systems
• Humidity, ventilation, and HVAC improvements
• Backup generators for cold storage
• Insulated storage bins and containers

Market access

Equipment, technology, and other investments that help producers reach new customers, access new markets, or expand sales capacity, including:

• e-commerce and online sales platforms
• point-of-sale systems
• inventory management, customer ordering, and sales software
• equipment or technology required to meet buyer requirements or enter new markets
• other equipment or technology that increases market access or sales capacity
• certification and Training - Certifications and training that help businesses meet industry standards, comply with buyer or regulatory requirements, or access new markets, including:
• good Agricultural Practices (GAP)
• hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP)
• safe Quality Food (SQF)
• other certifications or training that support food safety, regulatory compliance, market access, or business growth
• cooperative marketing initiatives that promote Utah-grown or Utah-raised products and benefit multiple producers or food businesses 

Food Safety

• Equipment and systems that improve food safety and regulatory compliance, including:
• commercial washing and sanitation equipment
• steam-cleaning and sanitation systems
• temperature and humidity monitoring equipment
• other food safety improvements that support safe handling and storage

Minor construction, defined as building modifications or retrofitting that does not expand the existing building footprint, and upgrades to existing equipment may be funded but are subject to additional restrictions and limited available funding. Applicants should only include these costs when they are necessary to support an eligible equipment purchase or project. New and used equipment purchases are not subject to these restrictions.

The Rapid Evaluation, Stabilization and Treatment (REST) Center, part of the Rural Health Transformation Federal Grant Program, aims to establish up to four 23-hour crisis stabilization centers in Connecticut. These centers will provide accessible mental health and substance use treatment, emphasizing a 'no wrong door' approach for individuals in crisis. The initiative seeks to enhance the continuum of care for adults, ensuring services are person-centered, community-based, and delivered in a trauma-informed manner.

The HI AmeriCorps State and National Competitive Grants aim to enhance community service through AmeriCorps members by supporting organizations that address pressing social issues. Priorities include serving marginalized communities, improving youth mental health and substance use recovery services, enhancing veterans' quality of life, promoting environmental stewardship, and fostering civic engagement. By funding these initiatives, AmeriCorps seeks to strengthen communities and encourage active participation in national service.

The FL AmeriCorps Competitive Grant provides opportunities for approximately 200,000 Americans to engage in vital community service across Florida. Funded by AmeriCorps and administered by Volunteer Florida, this program focuses on addressing pressing community needs, including education, disaster response, and environmental conservation. Participants receive training, stipends, and professional development, contributing to the state's workforce and enhancing the quality of life within its communities.

New Leaf Fund - Summer Cycle

Community Foundation of Greenville administers grants to preserve parks, open spaces, and historical and cultural assets through the New Leaf Fund.

The New Leaf Fund was established in 2025 by a Greenville native with a passion for conservation.

The Foundation encourages grant requests that include the protection of land and waterfront areas, increased tree cover and access to green spaces, and the protection and restoration of historical properties, in the City of Greenville, in Greenville County, and, to a lesser degree, in the Upstate.

Additional Information

• Awards typically range from $20,000 to $100,000
• Applicants may apply for more than one grant annually
• Funding opportunities may include
• Projects including acquisition, development, preservation, or restoration of land
• Projects including acquisition, development, preservation, or restoration of historical and cultural assets
• Planning, survey, appraisal or design fees for implementing such projects

The CT AmeriCorps Formula Funding Opportunity aims to enhance community engagement through service and volunteering, focusing on pressing challenges. This initiative prioritizes organizations addressing concentrated poverty, mental health, and substance use recovery, while promoting environmental stewardship and civic bridgebuilding. Eligible AmeriCorps members can earn education awards and receive benefits, enhancing their capacity to serve diverse and underserved communities effectively.

Urban Agriculture

CDA's Urban Agriculture program focuses on supporting agricultural producers in and around Colorado's communities as they work to create local food systems and networks.

The goals of CDA's Urban Ag program are:

• Supporting and uplifting urban producers in providing access to fresh, local agricultural products for their communities
• Connecting urban producers with existing resources
• Conserving natural resources on urban farms

Urban Agriculture Microgrant Program

The purpose of the Urban Agriculture Microgrant Program is to aid Colorado’s agricultural producers in building a more resilient and sustainable food system by supporting and uplifting urban producers in providing access to fresh, local agricultural products for their communities and conserving natural resources on urban farms.

Due to limited funding, the Conservation Services Division has decided to use this microgrant opportunity to concentrate on small scale projects crucial to expanding urban production, implementing conservation practices, educating community members, and addressing other common challenges faced by urban producers.

The Aquatic Lands Enhancement Account supports the protection and enhancement of aquatic lands in Washington State. Established in 1984, it funds projects that improve public access and restore ecological health. Eligible applicants include local and state agencies, as well as Native American tribes. Projects may involve the acquisition or restoration of aquatic lands, with a funding cap of $1 million, of which $500,000 can be allocated for development or restoration efforts.

The PNASH Pilot Project Program at the University of Washington focuses on enhancing agricultural safety and health through innovative research and outreach. The program supports both early-stage and experienced investigators in developing preliminary data, adapting proven tools, and exploring new research directions. With funding of up to $30,000 for pilot projects and an additional $5,000 for education grants, this initiative aims to improve workplace safety for agricultural workers, including those in fishing and forestry. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

About Rose

Our Mission, Vision, and Roots

Rose believes that environmental stewardship, community justice, and consumer rights are all inextricably linked.

We amplify community voices by making grants, building capacity, and fostering the next generation of environmental leaders.

Environmental Justice for California’s Environment and Communities Fund

This funding opportunity is borne out of a partnership with the California Department of Toxic Substances Control to receive Supplemental Environmental Project money associated with the agency’s enforcement actions. The Rose Foundation for Communities and the Environment is administering these funds to support organizations working on hazardous waste related issues throughout the area affected by the facility’s violations. The funding opportunity is expected to be offered on an annual basis once established, though availability is dependent on DTSC enforcement actions. 

The Texas Pride Community Foundation (TPCF) offers Community Grants to support historically disadvantaged LGBTQ+ communities in Texas. Grants up to $10,000 are available for non-profits addressing community needs without requiring specific project plans. TPCF prioritizes funding for underserved geographies, people of color, and individuals with disabilities, fostering an inclusive approach to grantmaking. The foundation emphasizes community-driven solutions to systemic injustices, aiming to enhance the safety and well-being of diverse populations.

The Greater Pine Area Endowment Grant provides vital funding to support long-term economic and community development initiatives within ISD 578. This grant focuses on projects that create quality jobs, enhance community pride, and improve the lives of vulnerable populations. Organizations eligible for funding include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government units, aiming to foster growth and well-being in the greater Pine area.

The Buhl Foundation Grant Program supports initiatives in Southwestern Pennsylvania that enhance community vitality and foster economic development. The foundation prioritizes projects in education, health, and employment, particularly those benefiting Pittsburgh's Northside neighborhoods. By focusing on resident-led initiatives, the foundation aims to empower local communities and ensure sustainable growth. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations, with funding preferences for projects that revitalize neighborhoods and improve access to vital resources.

Davie Community Foundation

Founded in 1988, Davie Community Foundation is a nonprofit corporation dedicated to improving the lives of Davie County residents, today and for generations to come.

Mission: The Davie Community Foundation inspires philanthropy to strengthen Davie County for present and future generations. Vision: We envision Davie County as a vibrant community where everyone can thrive!

Pearls of Empowerment Grants

Pearls of Empowerment is a dynamic giving circle of women that seeks to improve the lives of women and children in Davie County. We recognize that each woman gives in her own way, through time, talent, and treasure, and that individuality is what makes each of us a unique Pearl.

Inspired by the legacy of a cherished strand of pearls, passed from grandmother to daughter to granddaughter, our circle brings together women of all ages, backgrounds, and life experiences. We’re connected not just by our generosity, but by our commitment to growth, learning, and meaningful impact.

Pearls of Empowerment welcomes nonprofit organizations to apply for grants that create meaningful change in the lives of women and children in Davie County. To be considered, programs or projects must focus on one or more of the following areas:

• protecting women and children from abuse
• providing stable and safe housing
• improving mental health and emotional well-being

The NLSLA Post-Law School Fellowship offers opportunities for law graduates to engage in impactful legal work in Los Angeles. Focused on social change, the fellowship encourages projects that address systemic issues while providing direct legal services to underserved communities. Ideal candidates will propose initiatives in areas like education, health equity, and workers' rights, particularly those affecting vulnerable populations. NLSLA emphasizes collaboration and innovative solutions to enhance access to justice and improve lives in the region.

The RI Agricultural Management Assistance program, administered by USDA's NRCS, provides financial aid to agricultural producers to manage risks through diversification and conservation practices. Eligible participants can receive up to 75% of installation costs for conservation projects, with a maximum payment of $50,000 per fiscal year. This program supports sustainable farming by allowing producers to enhance water management, improve soil health, and transition to organic practices, thereby promoting environmental stewardship in Rhode Island.

The CDC's K01 Mentored Research Scientist Development Award aims to support new investigators in conducting vital research to prevent interpersonal violence and suicide among children and adolescents. This grant encourages proposals that address critical public health issues, including adverse childhood experiences and youth violence, while fostering research independence. Applicants are expected to explore the impact of technology on violence and demonstrate the relevance of their findings to prevention efforts.