Best Seed Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

The Colorado Masons Benevolent Fund Association offers a Matching Grant program for graduating public high school seniors attending Colorado institutions. Established in 1984, this initiative matches up to $500 of grant money presented by local lodges to students. Over $536,000 has been invested in this program, benefiting many students. Eligible applicants must be graduating seniors, with a focus on leadership, maturity, and need, ensuring a diverse range of candidates can access educational opportunities.

The State Historical Fund offers grants for Historic Structure Assessments in Colorado, aimed at evaluating the physical condition of historic buildings. These assessments must be conducted by qualified architects or structural engineers and are crucial for making informed restoration decisions. Eligible applicants include public entities and nonprofit organizations in Colorado. Grants help ensure compliance with preservation standards and facilitate future restoration efforts. While assessments are recommended, they are not mandatory prior to applying for physical work grants.

The State Historical Fund's Noncompetitive Micro Grant, administered by History Colorado, supports grassroots preservation projects across the state. It offers flexible application timing for smaller-scale initiatives, including internships, workshops, and small physical projects. Eligible applicants include public entities and nonprofit organizations based in Colorado. This grant aims to foster community engagement and enhance access to historical resources, ensuring that the state's rich heritage is preserved for future generations.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The State Historical Fund's Planning Grant, offered by History Colorado, supports public entities and nonprofit organizations in Colorado to develop planning documents essential for future preservation projects. This grant fosters collaboration with experienced consultants familiar with the Secretary of Interior's Standards. Eligible applicants include state agencies, local governments, and certified nonprofits. The funding aims to enhance historical preservation efforts, ensuring that critical planning is completed to facilitate successful project execution.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The RMS-SEPM Scholarships, specifically the Edwin D. McKee Grant, provides $2,000 for undergraduate and graduate students conducting sedimentological research in the Rocky Mountain region. Sponsored by the Society for Sedimentary Geology, this scholarship aims to support students at universities within the U.S. Preference is given to those studying in states like Montana, Colorado, and New Mexico, promoting a deeper understanding of sedimentology and its applications.

Bristol Myers Squibb Foundation Inc supports independent medical education to enhance healthcare professional competence and improve patient health outcomes. Their mission is to be a global leader in innovative medical education, focusing on evidence-based activities that address critical gaps in knowledge. By fostering excellence in healthcare, they aim to ensure measurable improvements in performance and patient outcomes across various disease areas.

The Equitable Community-Designed Outdoor Spaces Grant, offered by the Colorado Health Foundation, supports planning grants for designing and constructing inclusive outdoor spaces like parks and playgrounds in Colorado. This initiative emphasizes community engagement, allowing families and youth, particularly from low-income and communities of color, to co-design their recreational areas, fostering health equity and belonging. Grants range from $25,000 to $50,000 and prioritize projects that address historical disparities in access to safe outdoor amenities.

The Critical Needs List by Community Foundation Tampa Bay addresses urgent, unforeseen needs of nonprofits that threaten their ability to serve the community. This innovative program allows nonprofits to submit requests for funding up to $250,000 for critical expenses such as emergency repairs and essential equipment replacement. With a focus on supporting local organizations, the program aims to match funding with community philanthropists, ensuring timely assistance to those in need.

The Alumni Professional Development Fund, established by Creative West, focuses on supporting alumni of its leadership development programs. It aims to foster personal and professional growth through flexible funding, ensuring that artists can access resources that enhance their skills and contributions to the community. This fund emphasizes equity, storytelling, and the importance of democracy, wellness, and belonging in the creative economy, ultimately strengthening the arts sector nationally.

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 Office for Victims Programs (OVP)

The Office for Victims Programs (OVP) administers several state and federal grant programs that provide support for services to victims of crime. Grant funds are distributed to agencies that provide crime victim services through a competitive application process. The Crime Victim Services (CVS) Advisory Board reviews submitted applications and then provides their recommendations to the Executive Director of the Department of Public Safety for review and approval.

OVP: Prop KK Grant Fund

The Office for Victims Programs (OVP), a unit of the Division of Criminal Justice within the Colorado Department of Public Safety, announces the availability of approximately $1 million in Prop KK Grant Funds for a one-year grant period (1/1/27 to 12/31/27).

The use of these funds will be limited to projects that will provide direct emergency financial assistance to crime victims. Amounts requested must be a minimum of $100,000 and a maximum of $200,000 per application. Applications will be deemed ineligible if the request does not meet these thresholds. This grant will be on a cost reimbursement basis. Any organization (community-based or systems-based) providing direct victim services, excluding for-profit entities and individuals, is eligible to apply for this funding opportunity. 

Transportation Safety Grants

The Highway Safety Office (HSO), a division of the CDOT Office of Transportation Safety, administers behavioral programs designed to cultivate a safer driving culture in Colorado. Our primary goal is to reduce the frequency and severity of traffic crashes through data-driven outreach and education.

Our Mission

Reduce the incidence and severity of motor vehicle crashes and the associated human and economic loss.

Core Focus Areas

Our programs are strategically designed to address the most significant risks on our roadways. We prioritize intervention in the following areas:

High-Risk Driving Behaviors:

• Impaired Driving: Reducing DUI and DUID incidents through enforcement and awareness.
• Speeding: Encouraging safe travel speeds on all state roadways.
• Distracted Driving: Combatting the use of devices while behind the wheel.
• Seatbelt Survey: Using systematic field data to determine the actual percentage of drivers and passengers who buckle up.

Vulnerable Populations:

• Age-Specific Safety: Tailored resources for younger drivers and our aging population.
• Motorcyclist Safety: Enhancing rider skill development and increasing motorist awareness to reduce motorcycle-involved crashes.
• Pedestrians & Bicyclists: Improving visibility and infrastructure awareness for our most vulnerable non-motorized road users.
• Occupant Protection: Promoting the consistent and proper use of seatbelts and child safety restraints.

The Delta Dental of Colorado Foundation Grant aims to promote oral health equity by addressing the unique needs of diverse communities. Through funding initiatives focused on prevention, access to care, and workforce development, the foundation seeks to eliminate health disparities linked to race, income, and geography. By supporting programs that target root causes of oral health issues, the foundation is committed to fostering long-term change and ensuring that everyone has access to a healthy mouth.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The Colorado Wildlife Rehabilitation Grants program, offered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, supports wildlife rehabilitation efforts across the state. The program prioritizes licensed wildlife rehabilitators and considers factors like species rehabilitated, project feasibility, and cost-effectiveness. It aims to enhance wildlife care through funding for food, infrastructure upgrades, and public education, while ineligible expenses include salaries and lobbying. Preference is given to established facilities, ensuring effective use of grant funds.

Coover/Rural Schools Partnership Rural Ready Grant Program

The Louis L. and Julia Dorothy Coover Foundation, a partnership between Community Foundation of the Ozarks and The Commerce Trust Company is proud to offer the Rural Ready grant program. It is designed to give rural schools the flexibility to address the needs and opportunities that matter most in their communities. Rural Ready grants will support projects that prepare students with the knowledge, skills, experiences, and relationships they need to thrive in our ever-changing world while strengthening the communities they call home. 

Funding

• Total amount to award is $185,000.00. 
• Applicants may apply for up to $7,000 in funding for this grant cycle.

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 Preschool Development Grant Birth Through Five (PDG B-5) SMART Grant aims to enhance early care and education systems in the U.S. by supporting targeted investments in technology and data analytics. This initiative, led by the Administration for Children and Families, encourages states to improve program quality, family choice, and data-driven decision-making for children from birth to five years old. The funding is designed to create measurable outcomes and strengthen coordination within the mixed-delivery system.

The Best and Brightest Management Fellowship Program in Colorado aims to connect students with local governments, providing valuable internships and fellowships that enhance their public service experience. Targeting high school and undergraduate students, as well as graduate students in public administration, the program promotes diversity and leadership within communities. By collaborating with universities and municipalities, it ensures that future leaders reflect the demographics of their communities while gaining essential skills for effective governance.

The RMS-SEPM Scholarships: The Donald L. Smith Research Grant offers $2,000 for Ph.D. candidates conducting sedimentary geology research in the Rocky Mountain region. This grant honors Professor Donald Smith and is open to students at U.S. universities, with preference for those in states like Montana and Colorado. The funding aims to enhance understanding of the geology in these areas through dedicated research efforts.

The McKesson Foundation Grant provides funding above $25,000 to support health equity initiatives across North America. Founded in 1943, its mission focuses on removing barriers to quality healthcare for vulnerable communities. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with strategic pillars: reducing cancer burdens, preparing the healthcare workforce, and enhancing crisis response. Eligible organizations include national and local nonprofits. Funding is limited to specific regions and assessed based on demonstrated need and expected impact.

The AAF Capital Grants program supports Colorado animal welfare organizations seeking over $100,000 for long-term projects that enhance the lives of shelter animals and provide community services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities with a history of funding from the Animal Assistance Foundation, demonstrating community commitment and collaboration. Grants are limited to organizations improving the quality of life for animals, ensuring sustainability and long-term impact within their communities.

The California Casualty Thomas R. Brown Athletics Grant aims to support public middle and high school sports programs facing funding challenges due to budget cuts. Established by California Casualty, this grant provides financial assistance for purchasing equipment and covering travel costs for competitions. Eligible applicants must be active employees of public schools and members of affiliated education associations. Awards cannot be used for individual student recognition or fundraising projects.

The Colorado Dental Association Foundation Grant aims to enhance community oral health through funding projects that address documented needs for underserved populations. The CDA prioritizes proposals demonstrating a proven track record of effective service delivery and ensuring sustainable outcomes beyond the grant term. Eligible applicants include charitable nonprofits, government agencies, and dental clinics focused on underserved communities. This initiative seeks to create lasting improvements in access to dental care across Colorado.

About Us

Next50 is a private, national foundation based in Denver, Colorado. Since 2016, Next50 has been working toward creating a world that values aging.

The mission of Next50 shall be to promote independence and dignity for the aging population, to include the needs of low and moderate income persons encompassing individuals with physical, cognitive and/or behavioral disabilities, by encouraging and supporting innovative, affordable and coordinated services and initiatives.

Ways we Support Affordable Aging

At Next50, we believe in maximizing our impact by deploying our capital across a range of diverse investment tools and strategies – a polycapital approach.

Next50’s philanthropic approach blends responsive and proactive strategies to drive meaningful, lasting change across our priority areas. By actively engaging with the communities we serve, we gain critical insights that allow us to bridge gaps, anticipate challenges, and amplify impact.

Through polycapital, we leverage a full spectrum of financial and non-financial tools – including grants, investments, policy, advocacy, and community engagement – because creating a world that values aging requires a multifaceted and adaptive strategy.

Sudden and Urgent Need (SUN)

Providing small, Colorado-based organizations serving marginalized older adults with one-time funding to address sudden and urgent needs.

SUN funding is available for efforts such as:

• An organization providing mobile technology training for low-income older adults in a rural area has an unexpected issue that has arisen with their mobile training vehicle and needs a replacement part to be able to continue providing services.

• A small organization providing a financial boot-straps course for low-income older adults has a water leak in their building and must shut down classes until the leak is fixed.

• A small organization serving older adults in rural Colorado receives unexpected notice that its lease will not be renewed, requiring sudden legal and moving expenses to secure new space and maintain operations without disruption.

Sudden & Urgent need

The organization must demonstrate that their need is unbudgeted, unforeseen, time-sensitive, and significantly interferes with their ability to serve older adults and/or their caregivers or provides an immediate opportunity to enhance services. The request must be for an expense that is a one-time need and is not a part of the organization’s general operating or ongoing expenses.

Improving economic well-being for older adults

Applicants must demonstrate how the work of their organization contributes to the economic well-being of the older adults they serve.

Alignment with priority areas

Applicants should be able to briefly describe how their work with older adults aligns with one or more of Next50’s priority areas – Ending Ageism, Advancing Digital Equity, and Supporting Aging in Place

Population served

Requesting organizations must demonstrate a current focus on serving marginalized populations aged 50+ and/or their caregivers. Marginalized refers to the systematic social, economic, and political exclusion or disadvantage faced by individuals or groups, particularly those with intersectional identities. Please refer to our list of priority populations. Applicants who demonstrate a strong understanding of the intersectional identities of the older adults they serve and actively work to dismantle systemic barriers to access will be prioritized.

Impact

Applicants must explain the potential to have an immediate impact on the organization’s ability to serve older adults.

Need For Funds

Applicants must clearly describe their organization’s financial need for requested funds. We will consider both an organization’s need for funding and its financial sustainability. If you have significant cash reserves or a budget surplus, please explain why the requested funds are needed. Similarly, if you have low cash reserves or a budget deficit, please share how the requested funds will help improve financial sustainability and/or how you plan to improve your financial position.