Best Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits in Colorado

Bates Philanthropic Initiative

Mission Statement

The Bates Philanthropic Initiative (BPI) is committed to making a positive impact on our community by ensuring that high school students in Colorado experiencing financial hardship have access to quality post-secondary education and career opportunities with a particular focus on career and technical education (CTE).

We provide scholarships to graduating high school seniors with a financial need who are pursuing post-secondary certifications, associate degrees, and apprenticeships in skills-based fields.

In addition to scholarships, BPI provides grants to nonprofit partners that deliver critical wrap-around services like transportation, childcare, language support, and mentoring to these financially disadvantaged young adults.

The BPI Scholars Program

The Bates Philanthropic Initiative (BPI) is proud to provide financial support for Colorado's financially disadvantaged high school seniors seeking an education in skills-based careers.

Our mission is to bridge the skills and opportunity gap for in-need graduating high school students by expanding access to career and technical education (CTE) and work readiness opportunities across Colorado. Becoming a BPI Scholar is both an academic honor and access to a support network of partners and resources designed for success.

We administer our own program, personally reviewing each applicant as a potential BPI Scholar. 

Scholarship Benefits

• Attend any Colorado Community College or Technical School
• Associate's degree or Certificates
• Receive Mentorship
• Networking Events
• Recognition as a BPI Scholar

Fields of Study

• Engineering, Construction
• Manufacturing, Automotive Tech
• Agriculture, Natural Resources
• Health Sciences, Criminal Justice
• Education, Human Services
• Electrical, Plumbing, HVAC, Welding
• Cosmetology, Barbering, Esthetics

Awards are not automatically renewable; however, students may reapply to the program each year they meet eligibility requirements.

The Shooting Range Small Grant Program, offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, provides funding for improvements at shooting range facilities in Colorado. Annually, $20,000 is available for projects ranging from $500 to $5,000, aimed at enhancing public access and amenities for hunter education and youth participation in shooting sports. Applicants must match the grant with non-state cash or in-kind services, ensuring projects fulfill community needs and support sustainable shooting practices.

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 Colorado Resource for Emergency and Trauma Education (CREATE) Education Grants support organizations in enhancing the emergency medical and trauma systems in Colorado. Eligible applicants include urban and rural emergency medical service agencies focused on education and training of providers. The grant aims to ensure high-quality emergency services across the state, fostering improved care and response capabilities in both urban and rural settings.

The Advanced Industries Export Grant, offered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, supports small to medium-sized advanced technology businesses in Colorado seeking to export. Eligible businesses can receive up to $15,000 to reimburse international marketing and business development costs. The program also provides access to the Global Consultant Network for consulting services that assist in expanding into international markets, ensuring businesses are export-ready and compliant with regulations.

The Colorado Shooting Range Grants provide essential funding to enhance shooting ranges across the state, with an estimated $750,000 available this year. This initiative, supported by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to improve safety, accessibility, and overall experience for recreational shooters. Eligible applicants include local governments, shooting organizations, and educational groups. Projects focus on public benefit and must adhere to guidelines for environmental stewardship. This program fosters community engagement and promotes responsible outdoor recreation.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Colorado Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, authorized by the Agriculture Improvement Act of 2018, aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crop growers. It supports state agriculture departments in marketing, promoting, and conducting research on fruits, vegetables, and other horticultural crops. The program addresses challenges faced by producers and expands access to specialty crops, ensuring a robust agricultural landscape in Colorado.

The Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, aims to enhance motorized recreation in Colorado. Funded through OHV registrations and Recreational Trails Program resources, it promotes responsible OHV use on public lands. Eligible applicants include local, state, and federal agencies, as well as nonprofit organizations. The program focuses on projects that align with state regulations, ensuring sustainable use of off-highway vehicles while fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship.

The Colorado Wildlife Habitat Program (CWHP) provides funding to landowners for the protection of vital wildlife habitats and public recreational access. Supported by the Habitat Stamp and Great Outdoors Colorado, this program has significantly improved habitat conservation efforts. Colorado Parks and Wildlife appreciates the contributions of hunters and anglers in maintaining this essential initiative, which aims to enhance the state's natural resources and wildlife populations.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant, administered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, assists small businesses in expanding internationally by funding essential business development activities. This grant offsets costs associated with international expansion, providing up to $10,000 per year for activities such as attending trade shows, conducting market research, and updating marketing materials. The program aims to enhance Colorado's economic growth and global presence.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

The CWAM Grants program, offered by the Colorado-Wyoming Association of Museums, aims to enhance professionalism in the CWAM region. Grants support new projects, such as improved collections storage, disaster planning, and staff training, with no financial match required. Organizations must be 501(c)3 nonprofits or local government agencies and CWAM institutional members in good standing. Applications for ongoing projects will not be considered, and recipients must submit a final report by October 31, 2026.

The CDPHE EMS and Trauma Funding program for fiscal year 2026 aims to allocate approximately $6.1 million to enhance Colorado's emergency medical and trauma services. This funding is intended for organizations providing EMS and trauma services, including ambulance and first response agencies. Awardees must match 50% of project costs and can receive reimbursement for eligible expenses, ensuring effective utilization of resources to improve public health and safety.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

Special Education Teacher Shortage Grant

The Colorado Department of Education’s (CDE) Office of Special Education is offering 2026-2027 IDEA grant funding to administrative units and local education agencies to address the critical shortage of special education teachers specific to Teachers of Students with Visual Impairments, Teacher of Deaf/Hard of Hearing, Early Childhood Special Educators and Special Education Generalists. These shortages have been the most frequently cited concern since the late 1990s and remain a persistent challenge. The funding aims to support a cohort of special education teacher candidates in meeting the requirements for full licensure.

CDE is requesting Local Education Agencies (LEAs) and Administrative Units (AUs) to act as fiscal agents in collaboration with university educator preparation programs to recruit, employ, and support teacher candidates from preservice to induction. By fostering partnerships at the state, regional, and district levels, we hope to create a robust support system that ensures every student, regardless of location, has access to qualified and dedicated educators.

Local Food Program

Farm to school programs connect schools with local producers to provide students with fresh, healthy food in school and summer meals. These programs promote healthy eating habits, support local agriculture and offer educational opportunities for students to learn about food systems, agriculture and nutrition through activities like school gardens and farm visits.

The Local Food Program offers funding to eligible sponsors for the purchase of Colorado grown, raised or processed products. The program has expanded to include all sponsors operating Healthy School Meals for All including individual charter schools, residential childcare institutes and facility schools. Sponsors are eligible to receive $0.25 per lunch served in SY 2024-25 for SY 2026-27.

The Local Food Program (LFP) offers eligible Child Nutrition Sponsors funding for the purchase of Colorado grown, raised, or processed products. The purpose of this grant program is to support small and mid-sized Colorado producers, while in return fostering nutrition education, bolstering nutrition activities in the state, and supporting Colorado producers, farmers and food manufacturers. This Colorado state funded grant program exists to:

• Provide funding to eligible school nutrition operators for the procurement of Colorado grown, raised, processed, and value-added products to be used in federal Child Nutrition Programs.
• Support implementation of Local Food Program requirements by utilizing a set percentage of the allocated funding for:
  • The mandatory advisory committee made up of students and parents (up to 12%)
  • Allowable costs associated with the administration of the Local Food Program (up to 10%)

Colorado products must be served to students in the School Breakfast Program and/or National School Lunch Program.

It is the General Assembly’s intent that these grant funds be used primarily to support small and medium sized farms and ranches.

Farm to School programs enrich communities with fresh, healthy food and support local producers by changing food purchasing practices. It is the intent of the LFP for students to gain access to healthy, local foods while strengthening Colorado’s economy. Farm to School and programs like the LFP can increase equitable financial opportunities, market growth, and customer diversification for local producers while simultaneously providing kids and teens access to nutritious, high quality, local food so they are ready to learn and grow.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

Anderson Ranch’s Artists-in-Residence Program, established in 1966, supports the creative growth of emerging and established visual artists in Aspen, Colorado. The program provides access to world-class facilities, studio time, and community engagement with peers and critics. Artists can pursue diverse projects in various disciplines, including ceramics and photography. Residencies are offered in Spring and Fall, with options for fully funded fellowships. This unique environment fosters artistic exploration and professional development.

The Southwest Intervention Fund, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supports preservation efforts of traditional cultures across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, West Texas, and Utah. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 are available for local partners, nonprofits, and government agencies to address emergency threats and promote preservation planning. Eligible projects include archaeological site surveys, public awareness workshops, and legal assistance for cultural resource management, ensuring the protection of vital historic sites.

Wages and Stipends Grant

Sponsors receive funding for the meals they serve through accurate meal counting and claiming. Additional funding opportunities are available to help sponsors support healthy, nutritious meals and innovative programs.

CDE Office of Grants Program Administration is dedicated to enhancing school improvement through federal and state grant opportunities. Education professionals can find detailed information on grants, awards, and other relevant opportunities available through various CDE offices.

The Wages and Stipends grant offers funding to eligible sponsors to provide wage increases and/or stipends to frontline food service workers. Sponsors can expect to receive up to $0.12 per lunch served in School Year 2024-25 for School Year 2026-27.

Available Funds and Duration of Grant

$0.12 per lunch served in the 2024-2025 school year is available for the 2026-2027 school year, with funding contingent on approval of appropriations from the State Legislature. At minimum, eligible applicants who opt-in to the program will be eligible to receive $3,000 if their calculated awarded amount is less than the minimum amount. Grants will be awarded for a two-year term beginning in the 2026-2027 fiscal year. Additional grant funding for subsequent years will be contingent upon annual appropriations by the State Legislature, and grantees meeting all grant, fiscal, and reporting requirements.