Best Chemung County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Rochester Tooling and Machining (James M. Nieboer) Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

For students enrolled in the advanced manufacturing industry related curricula at an accredited community college, junior college, or technical post-secondary institution within the Finger Lakes region.

Allowed Use of Award

Expenses associated with higher education.

Renewability

This award is not automatically renewable; students may reapply each Fall and Spring semester.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established in 1993 by the Rochester Tooling and Machining Institute, Inc. to encourage students to engage in the metalworking industry.

The Rainbow Future Award is a scholarship aimed at supporting students from the LGBTQIA2S+ community residing in Chemung, Steuben, Schuyler, and Yates counties. Offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, this award recognizes individuals' contributions to advancing equity for diverse gender identities. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and adult learners committed to education and personal development, ensuring that financial barriers do not impede their academic aspirations.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Twin Tiers Christian Service Fund offers the Christian Holistic Living Grant, providing up to $2,500 to support holistic and spiritual living initiatives in Chemung and adjacent counties. This grant aims to enhance community engagement through events and training in spiritual practices. Priority is given to programs promoting equity, community impact, collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. Organizations must be registered 501(c)3 or have a fiscal sponsor to be eligible.

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 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 Margaret A. Drake Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners from Southside Elmira, NY. Applicants should demonstrate a B or C average and possess qualities such as compassion, friendliness, and a positive outlook. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers to education, ensuring deserving students can pursue college or job skills training in the Southern Tier of New York State.

The Fund for Women of the Southern Tier Achieve Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., provides financial assistance to women in Chemung, Steuben, Schuyler, and Yates Counties. This grant aims to eliminate barriers to educational pursuits, supporting expenses like textbooks, technical supplies, and tuition fees. By empowering women to continue their education, the fund fosters a spirit of community and opportunity in Upstate New York.

The Elijah and Gail Baity Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners from Steuben and Chemung counties in New York. Applicants must demonstrate strong character, community involvement, and maintain an average of 80 or higher. This scholarship aims to ensure that education remains accessible and affordable for deserving students, promoting opportunities for personal and professional growth.

The Janet Burger Appier Nursing Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., supports high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania who are pursuing nursing. Applicants must have a GPA of 80 or above and preference is given to those studying at CCC or Elmira College, and those attending Arnot Ogden Medical Center. This scholarship aims to eliminate financial barriers to education.

The Harvey & Celia Hutchinson Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to education, enabling deserving students to pursue college or job skills. Eligible applicants must be responsible citizens and demonstrate diligence in their studies, reflecting the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities in the region.

The Chemung Canal Trust Company Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, celebrates outstanding citizenship and leadership among high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a strong desire for higher education, with no specific grade requirements. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to education and support local students in achieving their academic and career goals.

The Carpe Diem Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, supports high school seniors and adult learners from Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible applicants must attend a Catholic college or university and have a minimum GPA of 2.0, along with a letter of recommendation from their pastor. This scholarship aims to remove financial barriers to education and promote access to higher learning.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to improving the health of our communities, making them better places to live, work, play, and raise a family. As a not-for-profit health plan, we strive to offer affordable access to health care. We aim to provide support for efforts focusing on health disparities, social determinants of health, and discrimination affecting our members and their communities. Our investment initiatives aim to help us reach this objective.

Investment opportunities

It is our mission to support impactful community programs, opportunities to seek and apply for funding, and continue to make a real difference. 

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 31-county region includes: Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Otsego, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates counties.

Sponsorship Program

These awards support programs and events that align with our mission to promote access to high-quality, affordable health care—such as fundraisers, health fairs, seminars, and other health-related events.

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield is committed to improving the health of our communities, making them better places to live, work, play, and raise a family. As a not-for-profit health plan, we strive to offer affordable access to health care. We aim to provide support for efforts focusing on health disparities, social determinants of health, and discrimination affecting our members and their communities. Our investment initiatives aim to help us reach this objective.

Investment opportunities

It is our mission to support impactful community programs, opportunities to seek and apply for funding, and continue to make a real difference. 

Excellus BlueCross BlueShield’s 31-county region includes: Broome, Cayuga, Chemung, Chenango, Clinton, Cortland, Delaware, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Hamilton, Herkimer, Jefferson, Lewis, Livingston, Madison, Monroe, Montgomery, Oneida, Onondaga, Ontario, Otsego, Oswego, Schuyler, Seneca, Steuben, St. Lawrence, Tioga, Tompkins, Wayne and Yates counties.

Health Equity Innovation Awards

These awards recognize programs or initiatives that demonstrate a strong commitment to reducing health disparities and achieving measurable improvements in health outcomes. Proposals should include specific examples of how the program is innovative, such as:

• Introducing a novel approach or reaching a new audience
• Integrating technology to enhance impact
• Driving organizational change
• Building meaningful collaborations and partnerships

The M&T Charitable Foundation Grants provide essential support to a variety of organizations focused on enhancing community well-being. With a mission rooted in corporate responsibility, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with 501(c)(3) organizations in sectors such as arts, health, education, and human services. By investing in local initiatives, the foundation aims to create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders involved.

The Intensive and Sustained Engagement Teams (INSET) RFP by the New York State Office of Mental Health aims to enhance trauma-informed and equitable mental health support for underserved individuals. By contracting with peer-run organizations, the initiative seeks to implement INSET in areas lacking this service, promoting community engagement and support for those traditionally disengaged from mental health services.

The F26AS00084 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants to Great Lakes Tribes, funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support the development and implementation of Tribal Aquatic Invasive Species Management Plans. Eligible Great Lakes tribes can apply for competitive grants to address invasive species issues within the Great Lakes Basin, including outreach and prevention efforts. This initiative focuses on early detection and control, significantly contributing to the health of the Great Lakes ecosystem.

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

The Great Lakes Fisheries Trust offers grants for ecological and biological research aimed at enhancing ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations. These grants support competitive fisheries research, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and stakeholder value. The next funding cycle will open with a request for proposals in late 2026 for the 2027 program year, promoting innovative research and capacity-building efforts within the fisheries sector.

New York State Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) oversees a large multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals each year. This includes operating 23 psychiatric centers and overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. OMH regulates and certifies more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

Housing First Scattered Site Supportive Housing for Homeless Adults Western New York and Long Island Region

The Office of Mental health is announcing funds to develop 45 units of Housing First Supportive Housing for homeless individuals in the following counties:

• 20 units in Steuben and Chemung counties
• 25 units in Nassau and Suffolk counties

Notification of intent to apply should be made to the Local Governmental Unit (county director of community services) for each county to be served under the program application, as defined in Section 41 of the New York State Mental Hygiene Law. Proof of this notification is required to be uploaded in SFS and should not be sent directly to the procurement unit.

Target Population

Individuals eligible for this program will be homeless and be enrolled in a Safe Options Support (SOS) team, Intensive and Sustained Engagement Team (INSET), or Assertive Community Treatment (ACT) Team. SPOA/SPA referrals are not a requirement of this RFP.

Please note that within this target population group, individuals with an Assisted Outpatient Treatment (AOT) order must receive priority access. 

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The Triangle Fund Grant supports programs in Steuben, Chemung, and Schuyler counties, aimed at fostering relationships among families, schools, and communities to benefit disadvantaged youth. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, the fund focuses on positive youth development, creative activities, educational achievement, workforce preparation, and support services. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) tax-exempt groups whose missions align with the fund's vision of community engagement and support.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

The Fusion City University Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Elmira-Corning and the Finger Lakes, Inc., provides financial assistance to high school seniors and adult learners in Upstate New York and Northern Pennsylvania. Eligible candidates must complete 50 hours of community service at a Christian Church organization. This scholarship aims to remove barriers to education and supports those in need of funding to pursue college or vocational training.