Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Targeted Runoff Management Grant Program

The Targeted Runoff Management (TRM) Grant Program offers competitive grants for local governments for the control of pollution that comes from diffuse sources, also called “nonpoint source (NPS)” pollution. Grants from the TRM Program reimburse costs for agricultural or urban runoff management practices in targeted, critical geographic areas with surface water or groundwater quality concerns.

The Wildfire & Forest Resilience Directed Grant Program, managed by the California Sierra Nevada Conservancy, aims to enhance community safety and forest health in California. By supporting projects that align with the state's Wildfire and Forest Resilience Action Plan, this program prioritizes funding for initiatives that benefit vulnerable populations. With up to $30.9 million allocated from Proposition 4, the program seeks to address urgent wildfire prevention and resilience needs. Proposals will be accepted until January 31, 2026.

Competitive Community Grant- Health & Human Services- Spring Cycle

All people are healthy and safe.

We will support organizations that work to improve the following outcomes in our communities:

• Access to affordable housing
• Food security
• Safety
• Access to health care
• Mental health services
• Healthy neighborhood living conditions
• Senior services

Through direct service, policy advocacy, and/or collaboration efforts, priority strategies will address:

• Affordable housing and shelter for homeless, rent-burdened, and at-risk populations, including eviction prevention
• Access to affordable and high-quality food, including food banks, pantries, and community centers that distribute food and promote healthy eating and work to address “food deserts”
• Efforts to address safety for vulnerable populations, including domestic violence and child abuse prevention, bullying prevention in schools, safety issues specific to immigrant populations, low wage workers and communities of color
• Access to health care, including programs providing un- and under-insured populations with culturally appropriate and equitable access to quality health and wellness programs services. Priority will be given to efforts applying social determinants of health lens to the work
• Mental health services, including school-based services, treatment, prevention, and rehabilitation programs targeting marginalized communities, and groups working on cultural and generational trauma
• Building healthy communities, including built environment and infrastructure, environmental quality (toxins and air/water quality), affordable and reliable transportation, and parks and recreation
• Providing services targeted at senior well-being, including memory care, depression, audiology, dementia, exercise, home care, hospice, and medication guidance.
• Systems change, including public policy, civic engagement, community organizing or public information to improve health and wellbeing of local residents

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project Capital Grant, offered by the Open Space Institute, supports vital conservation initiatives aimed at preserving biodiversity and enhancing landscape connectivity. Established in 1974, the OSI has protected over 2.5 million acres in the Eastern US and Canada, focusing on land that ensures clean drinking water and wildlife habitats. This grant is specifically for projects within the Appalachian Landscapes Project service area, promoting sustainable community benefits.

The Nevada Foundation Seed Program is designed to enhance the availability of high-quality, locally adapted native seeds for restoration efforts in Nevada. With the growing need for native plants due to wildfires, this initiative provides free seeds to producers who agree to return a portion of their yield to create a sustainable seed stock. This program also supports drought-resistant crops and encourages local farming practices to foster ecological resilience.

Department of Energy and Environment

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program

The mission of the District of Columbia’s Clean Water Construction (CWC) program is to fund the design and construction of voluntary projects that provide clean water to District streams and rivers.

Clean Water Construction Treatment Works Projects - Notice Of Funding Availability and Request For Partners (RFP)

DOEE seeks to identify collaborative partners for its fiscal year (FY) 2027 Clean Water Construction (CWC) grant application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Applications are requested for project partners in three categories of work: (1) Sewage Infrastructure Projects, (2) Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects, and (3) Stormwater Green Infrastructure Projects. This RFP is competitive.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program - Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects

Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects prevent or reduce discharge of stormwater pollution from industrial activities at municipal facilities into storm sewers, combined sewer systems, or District waterbodies. Industrial activities include those for which stormwater pollution prevention is required under the Multi-Sector General Permit (MSGP) permit, the District’s Municipal Separate Storm Sewer (MS4) permit, or other National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permits.

Project examples

• Leachate pretreatment at municipal landfills and trash transfer stations;
• Infrastructure to prevent stormwater from coming into contact with contaminants; and
• Any method, conveyance, equipment, or infrastructure used as part of a system for treating stormwater to remove pollutants.

The Cemala Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the quality of life in Greensboro by supporting strategic investments in community projects. With an emphasis on early childhood development, transformational spaces, and workforce training, the foundation aims to build a thriving community. Organizations promoting Continuous Quality Improvement are encouraged to apply for funding. This grant is vital for initiatives that address the evolving needs of Greensboro residents and foster sustainable growth.

The UP Sustainable Forest & Wildlife Grant supports projects that enhance the quality of life in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. It aims to fund initiatives focused on research, education, and wildlife habitat improvement, prioritizing collaborative efforts that benefit the public. Grants typically do not exceed $1,000 and are exclusively available to non-profit organizations that serve the local community. Political purposes and operational expenses are ineligible for funding.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) announces funding opportunities for the Reproductive Health and Family Planning Grants, specifically the Women’s Health Block Grant. This program aims to enhance access to critical reproductive health services, including pregnancy testing, cervical cancer screening, and STI prevention. With a total funding amount of $1,328,000 available for each grant period, up to 30 grants will be awarded to facilitate comprehensive health services for women across Wisconsin in 2026.

The Department awards grants from State appropriations, federal awards, and other funding sources. Since the award and appropriation of these funds do not always conform to the State Fiscal Year, the information included in this directory is based on anticipated grant awards that will begin in the period from July 1 through June 30 of each State Fiscal Year. The ability of the Department to make grant awards is expressly dependent upon the availability of funds appropriated by the State Legislature from State and/or federal revenue or such other funding sources as may be applicable.

Stillbirth Awareness Campaign NOFA

The grant will be used to develop and maintain a state-wide, evidence-based, stillbirth prevention public health campaign that increases awareness of stillbirth prevention measures and decrease New Jersey's high stillborn rate.

Estimate amount of money in the grant program

• $99,700

The Montana Department of Natural Resources & Conservation provides Conservation District Grants to empower local conservation efforts. These grants fund projects aimed at preserving Montana's natural resources through planning, education, and innovative practices. With funding amounts ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, applicants can implement on-the-ground projects or develop strategic plans. This initiative supports community-led conservation, ensuring sustainable management of vital resources for future generations.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

County Forest Land Acquisition Grants

Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program

In 2007, the Wisconsin Legislature made changes to the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program (s. 23.0953, Wis. Stats.) allowing counties with lands entered under the County Forest Program (s. 28.11, Wis. Stats. [exit DNR]) to compete for land acquisition funding under Stewardship.

Grant applications are evaluated jointly by a ranking panel consisting of staff from DNR Forestry and the Wisconsin County Forests Association (WCFA) and selected for funding based on ranking criteria and priorities set forth in s. NR 51.960, Wis. Adm. Code [exit DNR].

HFW Strategic Grants

Healthcare Foundation of Wilson seeks ideas from organizations located in Wilson, NC with a desire to provide programming and services related to our focus areas.

• Access to Healthcare
• Active Living / Healthy Eating
• Alcohol / Substance Misuse
• Behavioral / Mental Health

Request Range

• The amount of the grant can vary but needs to support the development of the program.
• The board of directors prefer to be a partner in a project and not the funder of the entire project.

Funding Priorities

The foundation prioritizes:

• Innovative ideas that support the development or expansion of one or more of our four focus areas.
• Programs focused on youth through age 29.
• Eligible organizations who implement or have a desire to start evidence-based program models identified as having significant outcomes in one or more of the four focus areas.

The Consumers Energy Foundation Grant aims to assist Michigan communities by funding innovative projects that enhance people's lives, protect the environment, and promote economic prosperity. Eligible applicants must align their initiatives with the foundation's focus areas, which include reducing poverty, environmental preservation, and economic development. Notably, the foundation primarily supports tax-exempt organizations based in Michigan, while also considering projects that significantly benefit the state. Applicants are encouraged to review eligibility criteria and grant standards before applying.

The New Brunswick Wildlife Trust Fund, established in 1997, aims to enhance wildlife conservation through public participation and funding for various projects. Managed by the New Brunswick Wildlife Council, it supports initiatives that protect fish and wildlife habitats. Funding sources include conservation fees from licenses and donations. The fund covers up to 75% of project costs, fostering partnerships to promote appreciation and knowledge of wildlife conservation efforts in New Brunswick.

The DEEP Clean Water Act Section 319 Nonpoint Source Grants program invites proposals for FY25 to combat nonpoint source water pollution. Funded by the EPA, these grants support projects aimed at improving water quality through community engagement and environmental justice initiatives. A 40% match from non-federal sources is required. Priority is given to projects benefiting environmental justice communities in Connecticut, addressing critical environmental issues and fostering equity.

Foundation for Delaware County

Our Mission

To ensure an equitable, vibrant future for Delaware County by promoting generosity, inspiring participation and partnership across our communities, and improving the quality of life for all.

The Foundation for Delaware County works with individuals, private foundations, nonprofits, and businesses to move Delaware County forward.

Partners in Giving RFP

This collaborative effort between The Community’s Foundation (TCF) and The Foundation for Delaware County (the Foundation) is designed to support nonprofits serving Delaware County by reducing duplication, improving access to resources, and creating a more seamless funding experience. Through greater alignment of processes, shared expertise, and coordinated opportunities, nonprofits can more easily navigate support systems, strengthen their organizational capacity, while maximizing the collective benefit to the community.

Rather than duplicating efforts, TCF and the Foundation will work side-by-side to identify where joint action can yield greater results, whether through shared tools that make grant applications more accessible, coordinated timelines that reduce administrative burden for grantee partners, or aligned funding priorities that direct resources toward the community’s highest needs.

This approach fosters stronger relationships between the two foundations and with the nonprofit sector, builds mutual understanding of local challenges and opportunities, and reinforces the shared commitment to equitable, high-impact philanthropy in Delaware County.

This spirit of partnership is reflected in specific initiatives that make it easier for nonprofits to engage with both foundations and focus more of their energy on delivering impact.

Funding Priorities

For the 2026 Partners in Giving Grant cycle, this collective effort will consider awarding grant funds to organizations that focus on community development, health, hospice and homecare, support for cancer survivors, and youth development.

Eligible organizations may apply for funding under any of the funding priorities, selecting one area that aligns most closely with their mission and proposed activities. The application should demonstrate outcomes within at least one of the following types of outcomes:

Types of Outcomes

Safety Net – Provide basic assistance to ensure well-being and prevent dire outcomes for individuals facing economic hardship, health issues, or other challenges.

Preventive – Intervene before problems arise, reducing factors that lead to negative outcomes and enhancing protective factors that contribute to well-being and success. This can include Out-Of-School Time programming.

Systems Change – Target the root causes of social issues to change structures, such as public policies and regulations that enable systems to function better.

Organizational Development – Strengthen effectiveness and capacity through planned change in an organization’s processes, systems, structures, or leadership.

Eligible organizations may submit one application to support their efforts in advancing the funding priorities above. Organizations can apply for a single year only.

Partners in Giving: Health

The 2026 Partners in Giving initiative will consider awarding grants of up to $10,000 to organizations that improve the health and well-being of children, families, and vulnerable populations living in Delaware County, including through LGBTQIA+ inclusive and affirming approaches. Funding may support health education, prevention, supportive services, coordination, and advocacy efforts that strengthen access to behavioral health (including mental health), health care, maternal and child health services, preventive care, nutrition, and food security, with an emphasis on improving outcomes for low-income and historically marginalized communities.

All grant proceeds must be used to provide programs and services in and for Delaware County residents.

The Valley Kids Foundation Grants are designed to provide essential support to children in the Fox River Valley area of Wisconsin. With zero operating expenses, all contributions directly assist children under eighteen years old in need of medical help, educational assistance, and recreational opportunities. The Foundation is committed to using donations efficiently and complying with all regulations, ensuring that every dollar helps make a significant difference in the lives of local children.

The WSRCO Community Forests Grant Program empowers Washington communities to safeguard their working forest heritage. It balances ecological preservation with recreational opportunities, ensuring that forestlands remain resilient against development pressures. Eligible applicants include cities, tribes, and nonprofit organizations, enabling diverse groups to engage in vital conservation projects. Typical initiatives include purchasing land for forest conservation and enhancing habitat health. This program plays a crucial role in maintaining the environmental and cultural integrity of Washington's forests for future generations.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Maine provides essential funding for the development and improvement of clean drinking water systems, sanitary sewage disposal, solid waste management, and stormwater drainage in eligible rural areas. This program supports state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes that lack access to reasonable commercial credit. Funds can also cover legal fees, land acquisition, and other necessary project costs, ensuring reliable water services for communities.

The North Wilkesboro Grant Program, managed by Speedway Children's Charities, aims to support nonprofits focused on children in Wilkes County. In 2024, over $320,000 was distributed to local organizations. The program prioritizes aid for homeless individuals, orphans, foster youth, and victims of sex trafficking, alongside critical medical and educational services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a focus on children's welfare, ensuring equitable opportunities for all.

The Specific Cultural Projects (SCP) Grant, funded by the Florida Department of State: Arts and Culture, aims to support cultural projects, programs, and exhibitions that align with the state's cultural objectives. This grant is available to both organizations and individual Florida artists to promote arts education, community development, and enhance cultural partnerships. Eligible entities include public entities and non-profit corporations. The application period runs from July 1 to June 30.

The Installation and/or Replacement of Utilities Grant by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) aims to enhance the quality of life in Illinois through funding for permanent capital improvements. This includes installation or replacement of utilities like water and electrical systems, fire hydrants, and drainage improvements. Eligible entities can apply for bondable costs associated with these projects, contributing to a cleaner environment and improved infrastructure.

The Wish Book Grant, initiated by the San Jose Mercury News, supports local nonprofits in the Bay Area by providing funding through a holiday fundraising campaign. Each year, approximately 20 grantees are selected based on their impactful initiatives that address community needs, including homelessness, food insecurity, and systemic racism. Since its inception, the program has raised over $12 million, connecting readers with opportunities to support meaningful causes during the holiday season.

The Main Street Matters program aims to revitalize downtown areas and surrounding neighborhoods through grants for planning, business support, and aesthetic improvements. Eligible entities include local governments, redevelopment authorities, and nonprofits. Funding supports various projects, such as building rehabilitation and infrastructure improvements, with a minimum 50% match required. This initiative promotes community development, safety, and sustainability, helping districts recover from disasters while fostering vibrant local economies.

The Community Forestry Grant (SD) aims to enhance urban tree cover and forest maintenance through educational programs, financial assistance, and technical support. Awarded by the South Dakota Department of Agriculture & Natural Resources, grants up to $5,000 are available for local governments and eligible nonprofits. This initiative promotes awareness of tree benefits, encourages sustainable practices, and implements tree planting programs to improve air quality and combat climate change.

The Amazon Loudoun County Community Fund Grant, a $150,000 initiative by Amazon and the Community Foundation for Loudoun and Northern Fauquier, aims to empower local nonprofits and organizations. This program supports transformative projects that enhance inclusion, resilience, and community well-being in Loudoun. Grants ranging from $500 to $10,000 will address critical areas such as health, food security, and homelessness, fostering a strong and connected community for residents.