Best Community & Civic Engagement Grants

Ideas to Innovation (i2i) Activation Grants

In spring 2026, CDFA hosted an i2i (Ideas to Innovation) symposium focused on strengthening social infrastructure in New Hampshire communities. Social infrastructure refers to the places, relationships, organizations, and services that create opportunities for people to connect, belong, and participate in community life. When these connections are strong, communities are more resilient and better positioned to support economic vitality, civic engagement, and sustainable community development.

As part of this convening, CDFA is soliciting proposals that advance social infrastructure and connectivity within New Hampshire’s communities. Proposed ideas may span a wide range of topics and community contexts but should be grounded in creating inclusive, accessible spaces and experiences that foster connection, shared identity, and a strong sense of place. The proposals could also help spark or expand community engagement efforts showcased through the i2i event. 

The Ideas to Innovation “i2i” Activation Grant opportunity is designed to help spur new ideas and encourage creative thinking and innovation in community development efforts throughout New Hampshire. More specifically, CDFA seeks to provide resources for initiatives, public events and partnerships that:

• Recognize the value of mutual relationships (e.g. interconnectedness) of various community systems (e.g. economic, social, environmental, public health, employment, and livability); and
• Generate actionable ideas and innovative thinking that can potentially lead to new and replicable policies, incentives, or financing models that advance and/or compliment multiple systems in New Hampshire communities.

The focus of the i2i Activation Grant shifts each year based on community needs, evolving trends and feedback from partners. 

The Innovation Grant Program, offered by the South Carolina Department of Education, aims to support innovative initiatives in public schools to enhance student achievement. Priority is given to projects that address measurable benchmarks, innovative strategies for closing achievement gaps, and evidence-based practices. The program particularly favors applications from high poverty districts, focusing on areas like literacy, STEM, and character development, ensuring all students are prepared for future success.

The M J Murdock Charitable Trust offers the Strategic Projects: Program & Staff Grants to support nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. These grants focus on capacity-building for mission-driven projects and infrastructure investments. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to community flourishing, with funding available for new programs or expansion of existing ones. The Trust prioritizes initiatives that align with its strategic goals, fostering sustainable nonprofit growth and impact in the region.

The M J Murdock Charitable Trust offers Strategic Projects: Equipment & Technology Grants to nonprofits in the Pacific Northwest. These grants focus on capacity-building projects and essential equipment, requiring recipients to cover at least 50% of costs. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and tribal entities. Priority is given to projects enhancing community services, education, and environmental stewardship, supporting initiatives that foster human flourishing and demonstrate diversified funding.

The Strategic Projects: Capital Grants by the M J Murdock Charitable Trust offer vital funding opportunities for nonprofit organizations in the Pacific Northwest. These grants support transformative projects that enhance community well-being through construction, renovation, and infrastructure investments. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities. The Trust emphasizes projects that demonstrate strong community impact and funding diversification, ensuring sustainable growth and lasting benefits for the communities served.

The Song Foundation's Trust-Based Grantmaking prioritizes equitable funding for Black, Brown, and immigrant-led organizations in Southeast Michigan, including Flint, Detroit, Dearborn, Ypsilanti, and Ann Arbor. By focusing on diverse leadership, inclusive technology, and transformative social justice, the foundation seeks to empower local communities. Small grants under $150,000 may receive immediate funding, while larger requests could involve further engagement. Organizations are encouraged to align with the foundation's core funding areas.

The Saab Family Foundation Grant offers support to tax-exempt organizations in Rockingham and Hillsborough Counties in NH, as well as Essex and Middlesex Counties in MA. Established in 2010, the foundation focuses on enhancing the lives of individuals in need, particularly in education, youth services, elderly care, and housing assistance. Grants are aimed at public charities that foster social responsibility and contribute to positive community outcomes.

The Knight Foundation Advised Fund supports innovative projects that enhance democracy and community engagement in Columbia, SC. With grant amounts typically not exceeding $75,000, it focuses on revitalizing downtown areas and riverfront development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities or similar entities serving Columbia or Richland County. The foundation prioritizes civic engagement, smart design, and the arts to foster inclusive public life, while avoiding funding for debt reduction, capital campaigns, or projects with discriminatory practices.

The Colorado AAPI Circle Fund, supported by The Denver Foundation, aims to empower Asian, Asian-American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in Colorado. By increasing resources and enhancing civic engagement, the fund seeks to uplift these communities, particularly those facing significant challenges. Organizations that connect with this mission and meet eligibility requirements, including being a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, are encouraged to apply for funding to further these vital initiatives.

The V4 Gen Mini-Grant aims to support cross-border mobility for youth aged 12 to 30, promoting democratic values, civic participation, and community engagement. Eligible projects must involve participants from at least two V4 countries or Ukraine and can receive up to €10,000 in funding. The initiative encourages collaboration through joint events and presentations, fostering inclusiveness and cultural exchange while addressing critical themes like sustainability, health, and civic virtues.

The Small Community Initiative Grant provides essential funding to rural Oregon communities, fostering enhanced quality of life and sustainable economic development. The program offers up to four annual grants of $10,000 to support local initiatives. It encourages community participation and collaboration among stakeholders to drive meaningful change. This grant prioritizes towns with populations under 15,000, emphasizing the importance of community-led efforts in creating lasting revitalization and connections to broader regional economic opportunities.

The RI Beacon Foundation Grant aims to enhance community welfare by supporting U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Rhode Island. The Foundation seeks to promote goodwill, sponsor impactful initiatives, and foster partnerships through donations and volunteerism. By focusing on health, education, and civic causes, it endeavors to create a significant positive impact within the community while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity and non-discrimination.

The Hartford Foundation for Public Giving has launched the $100,000 Greater Together Community Fund Grant for Newington. This initiative aims to empower local communities by fostering ownership of their needs, promoting inclusive civic engagement, and strengthening the Foundation's presence in towns. Eligible applicants include any 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serving West Hartford residents, regardless of their base. The GTCF Committee will facilitate a process to identify community needs and ensure impactful grantmaking.

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 Georgia Bar Foundation provides grants to enhance access to justice in Georgia. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it supports organizations that assist low-income individuals, children in the justice system, and initiatives promoting legal education and understanding of democracy. Funding primarily comes from the IOLTA program, ensuring that qualified organizations can receive necessary resources to further their missions and impact the community positively.

The Sumners Foundation Grant aims to engage and educate the public about self-government through various programs, including civic education, democracy reform, and teacher training. Grants are available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, supporting activities that foster civic engagement and understanding of democratic principles. The Foundation emphasizes direct involvement in the political process and does not fund political activities or provide individual grants.

The AJ Muste Foundation's Rapid Response Grants support U.S.-based organizations engaged in grassroots activism for social justice. These grants, up to $5,000, are aimed at addressing immediate needs of groups fighting for equality and liberation. The funding is designed for unexpected opportunities and emergencies, promoting powerful organizing efforts. The foundation prioritizes groups lacking traditional funding sources and those focused on systemic change rather than individual support.

Watertown-area public entities and 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking to expand civic and community engagement programs can apply for Watertown Community Foundation’s Community Engagement Grants, offering up to US $5,000 for direct program costs. Eligible projects increase access to community programs, foster intercultural communication, or strengthen community connections for Watertown residents.

Nonprofits, public schools, and certain local agencies in Broome, Chenango, Delaware, Otsego, and Tioga counties can seek US $500 - US $10,000 for racial justice and equity initiatives. Grants from The Community Foundation for South Central New York help community and civic engagement efforts in leadership, health, economic opportunity, arts, youth education, and related capacity building.

Rhode Island 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for organizational planning, strategy, or DEIA-focused capacity work can apply for the Rhode Island Foundation’s Capacity Building Grants, offering up to US $15,000. Funding and technical assistance can strengthen strategic, business, fundraising, communications, financial management, and board development efforts that advance community and civic engagement priorities.

Grants from Patterson Family Foundation help Kansas and western Missouri nonprofits, school districts, and government entities test innovative community engagement projects in rural communities. Eligible applicants located in or serving the foundation’s catchment can request US $25,000 - US $500,000 to strengthen civic participation, volunteerism, and cross‑generational involvement in local life.

Nonprofit organizations in Barnstable County, Massachusetts with operating budgets of at least $25,000 can apply for The Cape Cod Foundation’s Open Door Grants, which award up to US $10,000 for general organizational needs and capacity-building. Groups advancing community development, civic engagement, education, health, housing, arts, or environmental initiatives may be eligible.

Nonprofits, government entities, and academic institutions in Rhode Island can seek multi-year funding for collaborative civic engagement and education initiatives, with awards up to Up to US $250,000. Grants from The Rhode Island Community Foundation support innovative, DEIA-centered projects that catalyze lasting community change across priorities like education, health, housing, climate resilience, and equity.

Nonprofits and other providers offering adult basic skills, literacy, and civics education in New Jersey can apply for funding to deliver Adult Education and Family Literacy Act services. With a mission to strengthen workforce readiness, the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development supports programs that build literacy, career pathways, and civic understanding for adult learners and immigrant communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and other IRS-approved entities serving the Aurora, Marionville, and Verona area can seek up to US $3,000 to fully fund a single community-strengthening project. Community Foundation of the Ozarks’ Hometown Partners Giving Circle supports initiatives that build civic engagement, community services, and local revitalization in Lawrence County, Missouri.

Graduating high school seniors interested in communications, journalism, leadership, or historic preservation can apply for the Jeannett Slesnick Community Spirit Scholarship, awarding US $500 - US $2,500 toward college tuition. Students from Coral Gables High, Miami Senior High, or ISPA planning full-time study at a four-year institution may benefit, including those in civic engagement fields.

Rural-focused 501(c)(3)s, community foundations, tribal and local governments, cooperatives, and similar entities in the U.S. can seek up to US $25,000 to run experimental civic participation programs that engage residents in shaping community priorities and solutions. Community and civic engagement nonprofits in eligible regions may be referred to the Trust for Civic Life’s Civic Experiment Grants, distributed via local Civic Hubs.