Best Capacity Building Grants for Nonprofits

History

When Benjamin Franklin left 1,000 pounds in his will to the city of Boston for the “encouragement of worthy apprentice boys,” he did not know that as the needs and interests of our nation continued to change, the intent of his gift would no longer be applicable. It took more than 200 years for the courts to intervene and change his will so that his gift could again be relevant to our society (in fact, the Lancaster County Community Foundation is proud to manage a portion of this original trust).

In 1914, a new “community foundation” movement emerged that would change the way donor interests are met while adapting to changing circumstances. The Cleveland Foundation, a pioneer community trust, worked to ensure that charitable bequests live on in perpetuity, especially when original charitable purposes are no longer applicable. This innovative concept has now spread throughout the country in over 700 Community Foundations.

Lancaster County Weaver Awards

It might feel like everything is coming apart at the seams. That we’re disconnected from each other and can’t make a difference. That tuning out is the only way to get through the day.

But look around, and you’ll find there are more people weaving the social fabric of our community together than people trying to unravel it. In fact, you won’t have to look far to spot weavers. 

Instead of tuning out, weavers turn up. 

What’s a Weaver Award?

The Weaver Awards celebrate and support the people doing good in our community. 

20 local individuals or small organizations throughout Lancaster County will be chosen to receive awards of $2,500 to grow their local impact and spark new connections. 

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Title I Parent and Family Engagement Initiative

Program Description

The purpose of this program is to provide support to School Systems and ESCs by providing access to best practice resources and strategies to improve student achievement.

The Minnesota Teacher of the Year Award honors outstanding educators who inspire students and elevate the teaching profession. Nominations for 2026 are now open, inviting communities to recognize exceptional teachers who embody dedication and excellence. The award will be presented on May 3, 2026, at the Saint Paul RiverCentre. This prestigious recognition not only celebrates local talent but also positions the winner as Minnesota’s representative for the National Teacher of the Year.

The Brockport Arts Fund, supported by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the cultural landscape of Brockport in 2025. This initiative focuses on funding performing arts events and public art installations that benefit both residents and visitors, promoting community engagement and artistic expression. By aligning with the Foundation's mission of supporting equity and vibrant neighborhoods, the fund seeks to create a lasting impact through accessible and inclusive arts programming.

The OAC Rural Arts Opportunity Grants aim to enhance access to the arts for residents in select rural Oklahoma counties. With grants up to $5,000, this initiative focuses on bolstering arts programming and establishing essential infrastructure in underserved areas. The Oklahoma Arts Council supports capacity building and professional development, fostering economic growth and cultural enrichment. This funding opportunity emphasizes community engagement and artistic collaboration, ensuring that more Oklahomans can participate in vibrant arts experiences.

The Kenny Family Foundation Grant offers micro-grants to local 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in New Castle County, Delaware. The foundation supports a variety of community initiatives, providing assistance through ShopRite gift cards, typically averaging $100. Organizations must submit a formal request along with IRS documentation to be considered. Since its inception in 2008, the foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life and promoting social welfare in the region.

The Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership (ORLP) program, funded by the Land and Water Conservation Fund, aims to enhance urban outdoor recreation in communities with populations over 30,000. By providing grants for projects like park renovations and new recreational facilities, it addresses the need for accessible green spaces in disadvantaged areas. Priority is given to projects in economically challenged regions, ensuring sustainable outdoor recreation opportunities for all residents.

The Lots of Compassion Grant, supported by KidsGardening and Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day, aims to transform vacant urban lots into thriving community gardens. By providing $20,000 to each of the 10 selected grantees, the initiative focuses on empowering under-resourced communities, fostering social connections, and enhancing mental health. The grant prioritizes organizations that involve diverse participants and demonstrate significant community impact, ensuring that the gardens not only flourish but also cultivate kindness and compassion.

The Van Metre Companies Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in education, medical, and human welfare services. With a legacy of nearly 70 years, Van Metre prioritizes innovation and community involvement, ensuring financial stability while delivering exceptional value through technology. Recognized as a Best Place to Work, their culture empowers employees and fosters a collaborative environment, reflecting a commitment to excellence and strategic growth in the Northern Virginia market.

About KIP:D+ Cultural Heritage

Kresge Innovative Projects: Detroit Plus (KIP:D+) funds projects in Detroit, Hamtramck and Highland Park neighborhoods that support the vision and creativity of residents. We support inclusive, collaborative processes that authentically engage community members in planning, design and implementation.

Through project funding, capacity building, and support for transformative initiatives, KIP:D+ enables grantees to foster resilience, collaboration, and meaningful change.

This round of KIP:D+ focuses on Cultural Heritage. We’re funding arts, culture, and community projects that help neighborhoods remember their history, share stories and traditions, and carry forward community legacy.

The Our Fund Foundation

The Our Fund Foundation was launched in 2010 by a small group of committed activist philanthropists in response to the low ratio of philanthropy directed to LGBTQ organizations in the region, and across the country.

Our Mission: To promote philanthropy, manage enduring investments, and conduct impactful grant-making to improve the lives of LGBTQ people in South Florida.

Our Vision: To make South Florida the most livable and thriving place in the country for LGBTQ people.

LGBTQ Arts & Culture Grant

Our Fund Foundation recognizes the importance of arts and culture to inspire, empower and transform individuals and communities. Grants from this fund promote South Florida artistic expression that amplifies LGBTQ voices and works in the service of preserving, telling and celebrating LGBTQ stories and promoting LGBTQ equality and social justice.

Agencies interested in applying for and receiving grants from the LGBTQ Arts & Culture Fund are encouraged to attend to have questions answered about the application, process, and priorities for the LGBTQ Arts & Culture Fund grants.

The NEA Arts and Artifacts International Indemnity Program, established in 1975, supports the exhibition of significant art and artifacts by minimizing insurance costs for international exhibitions. Administered by the National Endowment for the Arts, it covers U.S. owned art during exhibitions in the country. The program evaluates applications through advisory panels and the Federal Council on the Arts and Humanities, ensuring that vital cultural works are accessible while providing necessary financial protections.

Stanislaus Community Foundation provides scholarship opportunities for students in order to help them achieve their educational and career goals. We believe that by investing in our students, we are investing in a brighter future for Stanislaus. 

Robert Woolley Scholarship

Open to graduating seniors from Stanislaus County attending a four-year university to study horticulture.

Award Amount:

• $10,000

The Kent-Holbert Scholarship, established by Mrs. Jean Holbert Kent in 2014, offers a $4,000 renewable award to students pursuing degrees in health care or related fields. Eligibility includes historical ties to Augusta or Nelson County. The scholarship prioritizes academic performance, financial need, and personal qualifications, requiring a minimum GPA of 2.0. Managed by the Community Partnership Committee of the Augusta Health Board, this scholarship honors the memory of Kenneth Nelson Kent and the Holbert family.

The NEA Arts and Artifacts Domestic Indemnity Program, administered by the National Endowment for the Arts, ensures that U.S. museums can exhibit significant art and artifacts without the burden of high insurance costs. Established in 1975, it provides indemnity against loss or damage, promoting access to cultural heritage. The program evaluates applications through expert advisory panels and typically meets three to six months after deadlines to decide on indemnity requests, thereby supporting the arts and enriching public engagement.

The NEA Arts and Artifacts Domestic Indemnity Program provides museums and cultural institutions in the U.S. with financial protection against loss or damage to significant artworks during exhibitions. Established in 1975 and expanded in 2007, the program aims to enhance public access to art by minimizing insurance costs. Managed by the National Endowment for the Arts, it involves thorough evaluations by expert panels to ensure eligibility and compliance, facilitating the safe display of invaluable cultural treasures.

The John B. Davis Scholarship, established by the Augusta Health Board of Directors, honors the late board member's contributions to healthcare and community service. This $1,200 scholarship supports graduating high school students from Augusta County pursuing healthcare degrees or allied health certificates. Applicants must demonstrate academic achievement with a minimum 2.0 GPA and a commitment to community service. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of healthcare professionals dedicated to serving their communities.

The Bedford Community Health Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations delivering direct health services to the Bedford community. It prioritizes proven programs and innovative initiatives that address health disparities, including access to healthy foods and neighborhood conditions. First-time applicants must discuss their organization's leadership, mission, and financial status prior to applying. The foundation has awarded over $6 million to enhance the health and well-being of local residents.

The Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship in Science & Technology Studies at Cornell University invites applications for a two-year position beginning August 1, 2026. Open to PhD scholars, the fellowship emphasizes research on the interplay between science, technology, and governance, particularly from 1900 onwards. Successful candidates will engage in independent research (65%) alongside teaching (35%). The program aims to foster collaboration and mentorship within a supportive academic environment, addressing critical social dimensions of science and technology.

Greater Northwest Kansas Community Foundation

Our mission is to empower our donors, affiliates and charitable partners through education, stewardship and regional collaboration, to create thriving communities and impact present and future generations.

Russell Schools Apple Seed Fund

The Russell Schools Apple Seed Fund was established to promote and enhance the education of public school students within the city of Russell (presently USD 407 schools).

Success Criteria

Successful applicants will meet or address one or more of the following items:

• Items and events which directly benefit the students of the Russell schools and which would not be considered a normal or necessary budget item for basic education.
• Educational trips or experiences, excluding a senior class trip.
• Programs of significant or cultural and/or educational value not otherwise available to students.
• Equipment and materials with significant cultural and/or educational value, otherwise not available to the students.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Texas Education Agency (TEA) administers federal and state grant awards to its subgrantees to carry out a program. Such entities include primarily school systems (referred to as local educational agencies [LEAs] in statutes), including independent school districts and charter schools; education service centers (ESCs); and, to a lesser degree, institutions of higher education (IHEs), nonprofit organizations (NPOs), and other statutorily allowable organizations.

Career and Technical Education Nontraditional Support Grant

Program Description

The Career and Technical Education Nontraditional Support Grant is to provide services, resources, and professional development to CTE programs across the state to address the promotion and understanding of non-traditional fields and employment activities for students (as defined by Perkins V) as written into the Perkins V State Plan.

The Planetary Science Enabling Facilities (PSEF) program by NASA invites proposals for research facilities that support the Planetary Science Division. It aims to enhance scientific collaboration and innovation by providing resources to a diverse range of institutions, including emerging and undergraduate colleges. Proposals should highlight the scientific merit and community need for these facilities, ensuring that they serve a broad user base committed to advancing planetary science.

Criminal Justice Grant Program, FY2027

Purpose:

The purpose of this announcement is to solicit applications for projects that promote public safety, reduce crime, and improve the criminal justice system.

Available Funding:

Federal Funds are authorized under 34 U.S.C. §10152 Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program (JAG). JAG funds are made available through a Congressional appropriation to the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance. All awards are subject to the availability of appropriated federal funds and any modifications or additional requirements that may be imposed by law.

The Joseph E. and Marjorie B. Jones Foundation is a private philanthropic organization committed to enhancing life quality in the greater Washington, D.C. area. The foundation focuses on human services, healthcare, and educational initiatives, believing in the inherent dignity of all individuals. It supports projects that foster community trust and partnership while avoiding funding for basic research, scholarships, or sectarian activities. The foundation aims to inspire and uplift communities through strategic partnerships.

The Arts Council for Long Beach offers Professional Development Microgrants to support local artists in enhancing their skills through workshops and conferences. Open to individuals and representatives of arts organizations, these grants cover up to half of the conference fees, with a maximum of $500 for events outside Long Beach. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life through artistic engagement, ensuring that artists have access to valuable professional development opportunities.

The Matthew Isakowitz Commercial Space Scholarship, presented by the Commercial Space Federation and the Matthew Isakowitz Foundation Programs, is an annual scholarship aimed at college students passionate about the commercial space industry. Recipients are awarded $1,000 and gain internship consideration and networking opportunities with industry leaders. The program emphasizes the importance of space policy knowledge, encouraging students to follow Matthew Isakowitz's legacy of kindness and generosity while pursuing careers in this evolving field.

Pennsylvania Environmental Council's Mini Grant Programs: Capacity Building for Trail Organizations

PEC was awarded funding from DCNR to administer the Capacity Building for Trail Organizations Mini Grant Program. 

This grant program is designed to strengthen the long-term sustainability and effectiveness of local partners. Through this program, organizations will have access to resources that help build organizational capacity, improve trail management practices, enhance user experiences, and foster greater community engagement. 

Applicants can request $2,000 to $10,000. Projects require a 20% match of the total project cost, up to the maximum grant award of $10,000. Total project cost cannot exceed $50,000.