Best Grants for Preschools in Colorado

The Colorado Garden Foundation's Annual Grant Program supports horticultural projects that enhance Colorado's communities. With over $10 million awarded to date, the program emphasizes education and community improvement through initiatives like therapy gardens and community gardens. Eligibility is limited to nonprofit and government agencies, and grants are not available for homeowners associations or political organizations. This initiative aims to foster a deeper understanding of horticulture while benefiting the local environment.

The Lowe Fund Grant, established by the Lowe family in the 1960s and managed by The Denver Foundation, aims to support Colorado nonprofits focused on training and research related to developmental disabilities, including cerebral palsy. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in Colorado, with an emphasis on those in rural areas. The fund particularly seeks initiatives that directly assist individuals with these disabilities, fostering effective treatments and advocacy.

Marathon Petroleum Corporation's Community Investment Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic partnerships with 501(c)(3) non-profits and government entities. The focus areas include workforce development, sustainability, and thriving communities, reflecting the company's commitment to making a measurable impact in regions where they operate. Eligible organizations must be U.S.-based and recognized as non-profits. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its values and community needs, ensuring support for impactful projects.

The Edward Madigan Foundation, established in memory of Edward J. Madigan, supports public charities focused on education, health, human services, and religion. With an annual giving of approximately $70,000, it aims to promote a strong work ethic and moral values, particularly among at-risk youth. Grants range from $5,000 to $10,000, with 10 to 15 grants awarded each year. The foundation does not fund individuals or organizations with fiscal sponsors.

The Saint John’s Cathedral Grant Program supports Colorado-based nonprofit organizations addressing critical issues like mental health, homelessness, food insecurity, and advocacy for immigrants. Grants range from $1,000 to $10,000 and prioritize inclusion and social justice. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations or have a fiscal sponsor. The program aims to make a meaningful impact in the community while aligning with the cathedral's mission of service and support.

The AFW Corporate Giving and Sponsorship Program, led by CEO Jake Jabs, has a 40-year legacy of community support. Although unable to fulfill every sponsorship request, AFW strives to assist numerous causes through donations of items for auctions, monetary contributions, and event sponsorships. This program focuses on supporting initiatives connected to Colorado, Arizona, and Texas, ensuring a positive impact in the communities where they operate.

The Veterans Assistance Grant (VAG) supports the health and well-being of Colorado veterans through services like mental health, job training, and housing assistance. Established by the State General Assembly in 2014, it aims to enhance self-sufficiency and access to healthcare. Nonprofit and governmental entities may apply, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria. The grant excludes funding for administrative costs and memorials, focusing instead on direct support for veterans and their dependents.

The Grace Isabelle McNaught Charitable Trust Grant offers year-round funding to organizations in Colorado focused on education, health, and human services. Applications must be submitted by September 1 for consideration at the annual meeting in November. The Trust prioritizes general operating support and initiatives that directly benefit Colorado residents, while excluding capital needs and political activities. This grant reflects McNaught's legacy of community support and dedication to improving local lives.

The Nonprofit Sabbatical Grant Program, funded by The Colorado Health Foundation, offers up to $100,000 to support nonprofit leaders in Colorado. This initiative allows executives to take a much-needed sabbatical of three to four months, fostering rejuvenation and innovative thinking. The program emphasizes diversity in its grantee selection, aiming to address entrenched inequities while ensuring sustainability in organizational operations during the absence of leaders. By investing in interim leadership and staff development, it enhances the capacity of nonprofits to serve their communities effectively.

The Direct Effect Awards, presented by the Colorado Housing and Finance Authority (CHFA), aim to support nonprofit organizations in Colorado that enhance affordable housing and community development. Eligible entities must align with CHFA's mission by promoting affordable home ownership, rental housing, and economic development. Priority is given to organizations that serve rural communities, special needs populations, and those innovating in construction and service delivery, ensuring housing stability and economic prosperity for all Coloradans.

The Wildland Fire Fund Grant, established by El Pomar Foundation, aims to support volunteer fire agencies and first responders in Colorado with essential emergency resources. Since its inception in 2002, it has provided over $6 million in grants. Eligible applicants include 501c3 organizations and government agencies, ensuring that local communities receive priority support. The competitive grant process allows for vital assistance in acquiring personal protection equipment and addressing urgent needs in wildfire response.

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The Gates Family Foundation offers strategic grants focusing on K-12 education, natural resources, and community development, accounting for 60% of its annual budget. These grants support innovative educational strategies, sustainable resource management, and community resilience. While unsolicited proposals are not accepted, potential applicants are encouraged to explore the Foundation's priorities and engage with program officers. This funding promotes long-term partnerships aimed at achieving impactful outcomes in Colorado's communities.

The WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

The Donald W. and Glennis A. Kaufman Research Award supports ecological research in the Great Plains and Canada Prairie Provinces, focusing on native mammals, especially rodents and shrews. Offered by the American Society of Mammalogists, this annual $2,500 award is available to graduate students (master's or Ph.D.) from any nationality. Applications are open to those enrolled in relevant programs, promoting vital research in these unique ecosystems.

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 Christian Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations that embody Christian values, focusing on those with annual budgets under $1.5 million. They prioritize projects that provide essential services where public funding is lacking, assist vulnerable populations, and promote self-sufficiency among the disadvantaged. Preference is given to specific programs rather than general operating expenses, while applications are evaluated fairly without sectarian bias. However, they do not fund organizations outside the U.S. or requests for research and long-term support.

The Colorado Bar Foundation Grant supports nonprofits in Colorado by funding programs that improve legal services for the disadvantaged, promote law-related education, and enhance the administration of justice. With a 70-year history and over $2.5 million awarded, the Foundation emphasizes community needs and innovative projects. Organizations are encouraged to apply for specific program expenses, with a focus on clarity, financial stability, and the likelihood of success. Applications are accepted annually from March 1 to May 24.

The Colorado Health Foundation is offering funding to support nonclinical programs aimed at aiding Coloradans in recovery from mental health and substance use challenges. This initiative emphasizes community and purpose, fostering culturally responsive peer support services that enable individuals to engage with their heritage, find meaningful employment, and build supportive networks. Organizations must align with the Foundation's health equity goals and serve diverse populations to be eligible for funding.

The National Trust Preservation Funds provide grants ranging from $2,500 to $5,000 to support local preservation projects and ongoing work. These funds aim to enhance community engagement in preservation, foster technical expertise, and stimulate financial participation from the private sector. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofit organizations focused on planning and education efforts related to preservation. The program is particularly interested in initiatives that reach new audiences and further the preservation movement.

The Conservation, Outdoor Recreation, and Environment (CORE) Grant, initiated by the Western Colorado Community Foundation, supports impactful projects in conservation and outdoor recreation across western Colorado. Launched in 2019, it funds initiatives like the Outdoor Wilderness Lab and the Colorado Water Trust's river flow projects. With a commitment to enhancing community resources, the CORE Fund aims to foster environmental stewardship and recreational access for residents in the region, ensuring the sustainability of natural landscapes and community health.

The Reisher Graduate Scholarship, offered by the Denver Foundation, supports alumni of the Reisher Scholars Program in pursuing advanced degrees in Colorado. This scholarship provides financial assistance for tuition, fees, and educational expenses, with award amounts ranging from $5,000 to $20,000. Applications are accepted in three cycles starting in Fall 2025, and eligibility requires prior funding from the Reisher Scholars Program and enrollment in a graduate program.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Choose When grant by Caring for Colorado aims to reduce financial barriers to contraception, ensuring affordable access to reproductive healthcare for all Coloradans, especially young people aged 9-25 and those in rural communities. Launched in 2017, it focuses on eliminating health disparities by funding local clinics to provide long-acting reversible contraception. The initiative emphasizes support for marginalized groups, addressing systemic barriers to care and promoting equitable health outcomes across Colorado.