Best Grants for Land Conservation in Wyoming

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Wyoming Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) supports agricultural producers in enhancing their conservation practices while improving land management. This program provides technical and financial assistance to address natural resource challenges and aims to increase crop resilience, improve grazing conditions, and develop wildlife habitats. Participants can receive annual payments for implementing conservation practices on their lands. CSP is ideal for working lands and encourages sustainable agricultural practices across Wyoming.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offered by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service in Wyoming provides vital financial and technical assistance to farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners. This program focuses on integrating conservation practices into working lands to improve water and air quality, enhance soil health, and promote wildlife habitat. EQIP aims to mitigate resource concerns such as soil erosion and water conservation while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust

The Wyoming Legislature created the Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust in 2005. Funded by interest earned on a permanent account, donations and legislative appropriation, the purpose of the program is to enhance and conserve wildlife habitat and natural resource values throughout the state.

The Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust is an independent state agency governed by a nine-member citizen board appointed by the Governor. Legislative oversight is guided by a select committee of six members, three each from the House and Senate.

The trust account is governed by a Board of nine citizens, each representing a geographic district, and collectively reflecting "a broad spectrum of experiences including wildlife, agriculture, energy, sportsmen, and tourism" (WS 9-15-104a). Income from the trust account will be used to fund a wide variety of wildlife and natural resource conservation programs.

Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust Funding

Projects

Any project designed to improve wildlife habitat or natural resource values is eligible for funding.

Wildlife and Natural Resource Trust funding is available for a wide variety of projects throughout the state, including natural resource programs of other agencies. Some examples include the following: 

• Projects that improve or maintain existing terrestrial habitat necessary to maintain optimum wildlife populations may include grassland restoration, changes in management, prescribed fire, or treatment of invasive plants.

• Preservation of open space by purchase or acquisition of development rights, contractual obligations, or other means of maintaining open space.

• Acquisition of terrestrial or aquatic habitat when existing habitat is determined crucial/critical, or is present in minimal amounts, and acquisition presents the necessary factor in attaining or preserving desired wildlife or fish population levels.

• Mitigation of impacts detrimental to wildlife habitat, the environment and the multiple use of renewable natural resources, or mitigation of conflicts and reduction of potential for disease transmission between wildlife and domestic livestock.

Funds may be used for planning, development, and monitoring programs at the sole discretion of the Board.

Public Benefit

Projects are required to provide a public benefit. Applicants are encouraged to fully document all public benefits, such as continued agricultural production to maintain open space and healthy ecosystems; enhanced opportunities for outdoor recreation; enhancements to air, land, or water quality; maintenance or enhancement of wildlife habitat; preclusion of soil loss or disease; or other perceived public benefits.

Project Size

Projects are designated legally as either "large" or "small" in scale. Large projects are defined as individual projects which require $400,000.00 or more in funding from the WWNRT and projects spanning multiple years will be considered as a single project. Applicants should understand that approval of large projects will require a sufficient amount of time for both board and subsequent legislative review prior to approval.

The Wyoming Wildlife & Natural Resource Trust Grants support projects that enhance and conserve wildlife habitats and natural resource values across Wyoming. Established in 2005, this initiative provides funding to non-profit and governmental organizations for various projects aimed at improving terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Eligible projects include habitat improvement, open space preservation, and water enhancement. The Trust's mission is to maintain Wyoming's rich natural heritage while ensuring public benefits through sustainable practices.

The Wyoming Department of Agriculture's Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops through marketing, research, and addressing industry challenges. Projects may include improving food safety, investing in research, supporting organic farming, and increasing access to specialty crops in underserved areas. This initiative promotes climate resilience and sustainable practices, encouraging innovation in the specialty crop sector to benefit local producers and communities.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

The Tucker Foundation Grant Program aims to support nonprofit organizations that foster character development in youth and conserve the environment. The foundation focuses on education, environmental conservation, arts, and social improvement, primarily in Tennessee and Wyoming. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status, while ineligible activities include political lobbying, purely religious efforts, and requests benefiting individuals. The foundation seeks to empower communities through meaningful projects.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Maki Foundation Grant Program, established in 1981, focuses on environmental protection in the western United States. Grants range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at organizations where modest support can create significant impact. Priorities include wilderness protection, river conservation, biological diversity, and public lands management. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within specific states. The foundation avoids funding large groups or projects involving community recreation facilities and wildlife rehabilitation.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.