Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Colorado

Ent Credit Union

Ent’s mission is to improve our members’ financial quality of life. We make the communities we serve more vibrant and believe it is part of our responsibility to make a lasting, positive impact through our work as a financial cooperative and as a philanthropic partner. We foster mutually supportive relationships with, and strive to amplify the message of, the charitable organizations we support. 

Community Advocacy

By definition, a “community advocate” has a vested interest in the development of a neighborhood or community. At Ent, we believe that being an advocate for the numerous neighborhoods and communities we serve across the Front Range is crucial for our communities to thrive. 

Helping our communities across Colorado

For decades, Ent has contributed millions of dollars to support communities across Colorado as a part of our mission to improve our members’ financial quality of life. As a “community advocate” we have a vested interest in supporting the communities where our owner-members live, work and play.

We are partnering with the Pikes Peak Community Foundation to help us raise awareness of the funding available to organizations through Ent, identify volunteer opportunities for Ent employees and to maximize the impact of our financial contributions.

Ent provides funding to various nonprofits along the Front Range that fall into any of the following impact categories:

• Youth: Primary program impact focuses on children under the age of 18 with emphasis on impact in housing, food, behavioral and/or mental health.
• Education: Primary program impact supports classroom learning at all levels, with an emphasis on organizations that design and manage these educational initiatives. For higher education, the focus is primarily on providing scholarships to students attending Colorado-based universities and community colleges.
• Community: Primary program impact addresses major community issues with a focus on community enrichment, food banks, homelessness, and/or poverty.
• Legacy: Primary program impact does not fit into any categories above but may continue to receive support based on Ent’s Colorado Springs heritage.

Applicants who have received Community Advocacy and/or YES Grants funding within the same calendar year may still qualify for an additional grant. However, if funding is limited, priority will be given to new applicants. Applicants may reapply if their initial application is denied.

The William Russell Stoneman Memorial Scholarship, offered by the ACEC Colorado Foundation, supports full-time college students pursuing ABET-accredited engineering or surveying degrees at Colorado universities. Funded by a generous gift, this scholarship has no specific additional requirements, making it accessible to eligible applicants. With the ACEC National Research Institute's assistance, it connects students to over $415,000 in available scholarships annually, promoting education in the engineering field.

The ACEC Colorado Scholarship & Education Foundation Awards provide financial support to full-time college students pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering or surveying at ABET-accredited institutions in Colorado. This 501(c)(3) organization collaborates with the ACEC National Research Institute to offer access to over $415,000 in scholarship funds annually. Scholarships are awarded directly to students for educational expenses, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic and professional aspirations in the engineering field.

The Kalliopeia Foundation Grant focuses on supporting projects that foster cultural and ecological renewal through a deep reverence for the Earth. By prioritizing US-based organizations that demonstrate strong community relationships and intergenerational leadership, the foundation seeks to empower marginalized voices and traditional practices. With an emphasis on land care and Indigenous leadership, Kalliopeia aims to cultivate a resilient future where diverse ways of knowing and being thrive harmoniously with nature.

The Advocacy and Justice with Communities of Color Fund Grant, provided by the Colorado Health Foundation, aims to empower organizations led by people of color to promote health equity. This initiative supports advocacy efforts that address systemic inequities and fosters long-term movement-building. Through grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 annually for two to five years, the Foundation seeks to strengthen community-led advocacy that influences policy changes, ensuring health opportunities for underserved populations.

The WINcome Grant, launched by the Women's Foundation of Colorado, is a multi-year grant opportunity set to commence in 2024. Emphasizing economic advancement through trust and decision-making, this initiative aims to empower individuals and families. The grant will support organizations with flexible cash assistance and general operating funds, fostering systemic changes that promote gender, racial, and economic equity for women and families in Colorado. Application cycles will resume in 2027.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The Colorado Tourism Marketing Grant, managed by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, funds innovative tourism marketing campaigns that inspire responsible exploration of Colorado. With a funding range of $2,500 to $49,000, the grant prioritizes initiatives celebrating Colorado's diverse heritage and cultures, particularly for the America 250 - Colorado 150 Commission. This program aims to strengthen Colorado's brand, enhance tourism, and ensure inclusivity across the state.

The Community Development Block Grant Planning and Feasibility Studies Grant supports Colorado communities in planning economic development projects aimed at creating or retaining permanent jobs. Eligible projects must create or retain at least one full-time job per $20,000 funded, with a focus on benefiting low- to moderate-income individuals. Annually, up to $75,000 is available per grant to foster job growth in rural areas and assist local economies.

NextGen Ag Leadership Grant Program

The NextGen Ag Leadership Grant Program provides grant funding to organizations and educational institutions to support leadership development opportunities for Colorado’s emerging food and agriculture leaders.

Applications should be for projects that support Coloradans’ careers in food and agriculture and prepare them to become industry leaders.

Colorado’s food and agriculture industry is broad and diverse. This program is geared toward not only farmers and ranchers, but also people working across the food and agriculture system.

 This program runs on the State’s fiscal year: July 1 to June 30 of the following year. Projects, other than scholarship projects, must be completed by June 30 of the year following the award. Scholarship projects must be completed no later than September 30 of the year following the award.

Program priority areas:

• Develop individual leadership or entrepreneurial skills;
• Enhance organizational leadership and capacity building; and
• Create educational or training opportunities.

Eligible entities may submit one or more applications for projects up to $25,000. Targeted projects with smaller budgets ($5,000 - $10,000) are encouraged.

The FCGS Foundation offers financial support ranging from $500 to $1,000 for master’s degree candidates conducting geologic research in Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, and Arizona. Eligible applicants must be full-time graduate students in accredited institutions, U.S. citizens, and not related to selection committee members. The thesis should enhance regional geologic knowledge and must meet the approval of the selection committee. This grant has been active since 1991, promoting advancements in various geologic disciplines.

The Intercultural Harmony Initiative Grant, provided by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, supports collaborative projects that foster understanding and cooperation among diverse cultural groups. With funding up to $25,000 for implementation and $5,000 for planning, the initiative prioritizes projects that engage various community members, enhance intercultural communication, and demonstrate tangible benefits. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states, with a focus on grassroots participation and addressing community needs.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Jack and Martha Carter Grant, offered by the Native Plant Society of New Mexico, supports projects that enhance public understanding of native plants and their conservation. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $5,000, aimed at educational, ecological, and botanical research initiatives. Both members and nonmembers are eligible, with a focus on practical, innovative proposals that align with the Society's mission. Applicants must report on their project outcomes, fostering accountability and continued support for environmental efforts.

The Colorado Disability Funding Committee Grants aim to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities by funding innovative programs. Under the Laura Hershey Disability Support Act, the committee invites proposals from nonprofit entities that can provide new solutions for accessing disability benefits and improving independence. With $800,000 available in this grant round, each grant will not exceed $50,000, focusing on projects that prioritize those facing significant barriers.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Dr. Virgilio Licona Community Health Leadership Award honors exceptional leaders in Colorado who tackle significant health barriers and promote health equity. This annual award recognizes individuals for their impactful contributions to community health, encouraging innovative solutions that address critical issues. Awardees receive a $20,000 donation to support their nonprofit or another organization enhancing the health of Coloradans. The initiative aims to inspire others to pursue excellence in community health leadership.

The Greenwood Fund Grant, managed by The Denver Foundation, offers small grants for the conservation of museum artifacts and collections care in Colorado, New Mexico, and Wyoming. Targeting small museums with conservation budgets under $1 million, it prioritizes projects focused on the treatment of art and collections care. Eligible entities must be 501(c)(3) organizations and open to the public. The fund does not support expenses like building expansions or digitizing projects.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is offering the Failure Award Scholarship, providing $20,000 to a high school senior in Colorado who exemplifies creativity and a willingness to risk failure. This innovative scholarship focuses on a student's unique project demonstrating originality and creative risk-taking, rather than academic achievements. The award supports students pursuing higher education at accredited institutions or trade schools, with funds distributed over four years to encourage ongoing educational pursuits.

Janet M. Blackburn Scholarship

This scholarship is available to Colorado high school seniors or College students who are enrolled in an accredited university or 4-year college in Colorado, pursuing a major in liberal arts or natural sciences, and are engaged in violin, viola, cello, or bass at the institution.

Scholarship amount:

• $10,000

Number of awards:

• 2

Scholarship awards are one-time awards. The amount awarded to a selected recipient may be used for the cost of attendance. All scholarships will be paid directly to the recipient's school and must be used for the upcoming academic year. Award disbursement is contingent upon the outside scholarship policies of a recipient's college or university.

The Rex Monahan Geological Scholarship, funded by the Colorado Section of the AIPG, supports students pursuing geoscience degrees at Colorado colleges. Each year, two scholarships of $1,000 are awarded to undergraduate and graduate students who are AIPG Student Members. This scholarship aims to ease educational costs and encourage participation in the geoscience field. Applications are considered automatically through the National AIPG scholarship program, making it accessible for eligible students.

The Special Fall 2025 CO Section Student Scholarship, provided by the American Institute of Professional Geologists (AIPG) Colorado Section, offers two $2,000 scholarships each for graduate and undergraduate students pursuing geology or earth science. Eligible applicants must be current AIPG Student Members and enrolled in an accredited college or university in Colorado. This initiative supports students in their educational pursuits while encouraging participation in the AIPG community.

The Ralph William Bole and Helen Frances Rakowski Bole Memorial Scholarship Fund, established by Bonnie M. Orkow, supports students enrolled at the Colorado School of Mines pursuing a degree in geology. This scholarship aims to assist those demonstrating financial need, reflecting the legacy of community support and educational advancement emphasized by the Pittsburgh Foundation since 1945. Inquire about the application period for further details.