Best Grants for Charities in Colorado

The Wallerstein Foundation for Geriatric Life Improvement is dedicated to enhancing the lives of elderly individuals through targeted support for non-profit organizations. Grants focus on critical areas such as dementia care, wellness programs, and community engagement initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that meet the unique needs of seniors, promoting health and active lifestyles. By funding specific projects rather than general support, the foundation aims to make a meaningful impact on the quality of life for senior citizens.

United Health Foundation

The United Health Foundation was established by UnitedHealth Group in 1999 as a nonprofit, private foundation dedicated to improving health and healthcare. To date, the United Health Foundation has committed $880 million to programs and communities around the world, including a $100 million commitment to help support the healthcare workforce.

Grants

Our Philanthropic Partnerships

The United Health Foundation partners with local and national organizations to help build healthier communities. We focus on expanding access to care and improving health quality and outcomes by:

• Advancing and supporting the healthcare workforce
• Addressing mental and behavioral health
• Improving maternal and infant health outcomes
• Helping individuals manage chronic conditions

The Assisting Specialty Crop Exports initiative aims to enhance U.S. specialty crop market access by developing low-oxygen storage and packaging systems for tree nuts. By addressing phytosanitary requirements and pest control, the initiative supports producers in maintaining product quality while complying with international standards. This funding opportunity from the Foreign Agricultural Service encourages innovative solutions that can improve export processes and reduce reliance on costly fumigation methods, ultimately benefiting U.S. agribusiness and ensuring competitiveness in global markets.

The John C. Bock Foundation supports the preservation and enhancement of natural land areas, particularly those near Lake Mendota, Wisconsin. It aims to educate builders and developers on the importance of conserving mature woodlands and old-growth forests. The Foundation funds educational activities and research while supporting qualified conservation organizations committed to protecting these valuable landscapes. Its mission is centered on public education and the custodianship of natural resources.

The Cigarette Litter Prevention Program (CLPP) Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to significantly reduce cigarette waste in public spaces across the U.S. since 2003. The program has successfully implemented strategies in over 1,800 communities, achieving an average 50% reduction in litter. Eligible applicants include KAB affiliates and local organizations focused on recycling and public education. Priority is given to partnerships and projects that expand the program's reach, especially those targeting clean water initiatives.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

Food as Medicine Initiative

The Food as Medicine Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to address food insecurity as a critical driver of health outcomes for uninsured and medically underserved patients. Research continues to demonstrate the strong connection between food insecurity and poor health, including increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and certain cancers. Through this initiative, NAFC will provide $20,000 grants to member free and charitable clinics to implement or expand food insecurity screening and patient-centered interventions that improve access to healthy food and nutrition education as measured by the US Household Food Security Module or Hunger Vital Signs and patient education focused on food as medicine for eligible patients in order to increase the percentage of patients with improved food security scores within one year of project implementation.

The Scaife Family Foundation Grant has been supporting vulnerable community members for nearly 40 years, providing over $180 million in donations to non-profits. The Foundation aims to match organizations with aligned goals, focusing on women and children, addiction prevention, and animal welfare. It offers grants for general operating and program support, prioritizing impactful programs that address societal issues. Notably, the Foundation considers proposals that foster healthy relationships and promote treatment for addiction, enhancing the welfare of both humans and animals.

The Robert E & Evelyn McKee Foundation Grant focuses on charitable purposes, primarily supporting organizations that qualify under 501(c)(3) of the IRS Code. It awards funds in various areas including civic, cultural, education, healthcare, and youth activities. Eligible recipients are local charities and certain selected colleges for scholarships. However, the foundation does not fund other foundations, organizations outside the U.S., or individual financial aid. Awards are guided by IRS minimum requirements.

The Edison Scholars Program, sponsored by Edison International, offers $12,500 annually to thirty high school seniors pursuing degrees in STEM fields at accredited U.S. colleges. This renewable scholarship supports students who demonstrate financial need and reside in Southern California Edison’s service territory. Scholars also gain access to a paid summer internship after their first year. Eligible majors include engineering, mathematics, and computer sciences, fostering the next generation of innovators and leaders.

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund, established in 2024 through a partnership with the American Floral Endowment (AFE), is dedicated to advancing floriculture research and education. With over 120 years of combined funding experience, it supports innovative projects across various fields related to floriculture. Grants are available for substantial research initiatives at U.S. universities and institutions, focusing on outcomes beneficial to the public, while ensuring projects are reviewed annually for renewal.

The Arkansas Audubon Society Trust Grants support conservation, research, and education projects focused on Arkansas bird species and their habitats. Established in 1972, the trust offers grants ranging from $100 to $1200, prioritizing projects within the state but considering broader initiatives as well. Eligible applicants include individuals, students, educators, and nonprofits. Proposals are accepted biannually, with meetings held to discuss funding decisions, fostering a community dedicated to avian conservation.

The AHRQ Small Health Services Research Grant Program (R03) invites applications for health services research focused on enhancing healthcare quality and patient safety. This funding opportunity supports diverse research settings, including hospitals and home healthcare. Projects may involve collaboration with various stakeholders such as patients, clinicians, and policymakers. By addressing AHRQ research priorities, this initiative aims to improve healthcare delivery and practice while promoting effective partnerships across the healthcare spectrum.

St. Mary's Bank Charitable Foundation Community Support Grants aim to enhance community welfare by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With a commitment to 'people helping people' since 1908, the foundation focuses on areas like youth programming, homelessness, and civic support. In 2023 alone, they donated over $200,000 to 190 organizations, reflecting their dedication to improving lives in New Hampshire. They prioritize funding for nonprofits within their service areas, ensuring impactful contributions to local communities.

The Humanity United Grant focuses on addressing human exploitation and violent conflict through a strategic approach. It emphasizes support for registered charities and initiatives globally, particularly in regions like Asia-Pacific and South Sudan. The grant fosters collaboration among partners to promote human dignity, racial justice, and peacebuilding. Interested organizations are encouraged to align their proposals with the outlined themes and engage with the funder for potential support.

The NAILBA Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support small, well-managed U.S. charities that assist those in need, particularly children. Grants are available to organizations with backing from a NAILBA member and that meet specific criteria, such as nonsectarian operation and appropriate fiscal accountability. Since its inception in 2002, the foundation has invested in community transformation by funding initiatives that directly engage in beneficial services, thereby enhancing the welfare of underprivileged groups.

The AHRQ Health Services Research Projects (R01) aims to fund innovative health services research that aligns with AHRQ's priorities, such as enhancing healthcare quality and safety. This initiative encourages applications from various healthcare settings including hospitals and home care, promoting collaboration among diverse stakeholders like patients and policymakers. By addressing key areas of healthcare delivery improvement, this funding opportunity seeks to foster advancements in patient care and overall health system performance.

The Institutional Challenge Grant aims to foster collaborative research by requiring institutions to adapt their policies and enhance capacities for meaningful partnerships. It encourages applications from diverse leadership teams in youth-serving areas, focusing on addressing inequalities in youth outcomes. The grant outlines four key goals: strengthening partnerships, pursuing a joint research agenda, facilitating institutional change, and enhancing collaborative capacities for producing actionable research evidence.

The AHRQ Health Services Research Demonstration and Dissemination Grants (R18) aim to support innovative health services research that addresses priorities in quality, safety, and effective healthcare delivery. These grants encourage collaboration among various stakeholders, including patients and policymakers, to enhance healthcare practices across diverse settings. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization. This initiative fosters improvements in healthcare outcomes and delivery systems.

The McInnes Charitable Trust, founded by Sally and John McInnes, aims to support organizations in Colorado focused on animal welfare, children's health, education, and empowerment. The Trust prioritizes funding for exempt organizations under Section 501(c)(3) with a proven track record. It typically does not fund capital improvements or multi-year commitments. By fostering a spirit of generosity, the Trust honors the McInnes family's legacy and commitment to various charitable causes.

The NRF Foundation x Licensing International Scholarship offers a $5,000 tuition scholarship and a trip to New York City for undergraduate students pursuing careers in brand licensing. Eligible candidates must be enrolled full-time at an accredited U.S. college, have a minimum GPA of 3.0, and be available to attend the NRF Foundation Student Program in January 2026. Bilingual students are especially encouraged to apply, enhancing diversity in the retail industry.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) seeks proposals for Arctic research to enhance understanding of the rapidly changing Arctic environment and its social systems. This initiative encourages innovative research that connects the Arctic region with lower latitudes, aiming to improve projections of future changes. Collaborations with federal and international partners are encouraged for co-reviewing proposals. Proposals that extend beyond the Arctic must clearly articulate their relevance to Arctic knowledge advancement.

The Change Happens Foundation Grant focuses on supporting charitable initiatives aligned with environmental science, education, and human services. With a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations holding 501(c)(3) status, while advocating for innovative solutions to pressing global challenges. Grants aim to foster systemic change, empower underrepresented communities, and bridge gaps in access to nutrition and healthcare. The foundation operates nationally and internationally, seeking to create significant impact through strategic investments.

The AERA Minority Dissertation Fellowship in Education Research aims to enhance diversity in education research by supporting doctoral dissertation projects from advanced graduate students belonging to historically underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. By providing a $25,000 stipend and opportunities for mentorship, the program encourages high-quality research across various educational topics, including STEM education and achievement gaps. This fellowship not only aids in academic development but also fosters the competitiveness of minority scholars in higher education.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, administered by the American Water Works Association, offers a $5,000 scholarship to graduate-level students pursuing careers in the water industry. Recognizing the vital role of future professionals, AWWA aims to support education in water supply and wastewater management through this scholarship initiative. Founded in 1886, American Water is the largest U.S. investor-owned water utility, emphasizing the importance of investing in education for sustainable water solutions.

The SCALE initiative aims to combat injury, violence, overdose, and suicide, the leading causes of morbidity and mortality among individuals aged 0-44. By enhancing implementation and outreach, this funding opportunity seeks to empower organizations to implement effective prevention strategies, especially in underserved communities, including tribal areas. The program encourages collaboration and continuous improvement to achieve sustainable reductions in these critical public health issues.

Native Forward awards are allocated based on the financial aid information provided by the institution’s Financial Aid Office. Awards can vary, ranging from $100 to $30,000 per academic year.

Native Forward Scholars Fund members of federally and state-recognized Tribes as well as first and second-generation descendants. However, Native Forward Scholars Fund scholarship opportunities have different Tribal eligibility requirements and can be determined by submitting a Tribal Eligibility Certificate.

Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund Scholarship

The Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund is provided in honor of members of the Hillman, Barnett, and Adkins families. The purpose of the Hillman Barnett Adkins Endowed Fund is to provide financial assistance to eligible American Indian and Alaska Native vocational, undergraduate, and graduate students enrolled at an accredited not-for-profit college/university, vocational school, or Tribally controlled college or university (TCU) and pursuing degrees with a focus in Fine Arts (studio arts), Performing Arts (music, drama, musical theater, dance), Creative Writing, Art History, Visual Communication, Photography, Culinary Arts, Film (Cinematography, Screenwriting), or Fashion Design & Jewelry Design.

This opportunity is a merit-based award.

The Kars4Kids Small Grant Program aims to support educational initiatives globally, impacting the lives of children. This program welcomes applications from IRS-recognized nonprofit organizations focused on youth development, mentorship, and education. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, depending on mission alignment and available funds. Kars4Kids, a national Jewish nonprofit, is dedicated to nurturing productive community members through educational and mentoring opportunities.