Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

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.

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 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.

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 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 Partners in the Outdoors Grant Program, administered by Colorado Parks and Wildlife, promotes collaboration in outdoor recreation and conservation across Colorado. This initiative supports non-profits and government entities by providing funding for projects that align with the Statewide Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan. Eligible applicants are encouraged to enhance their proposals with matching funds to maximize impact. The program seeks innovative solutions that ensure sustainable access to outdoor spaces for all Coloradans and visitors.

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 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 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 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 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 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 Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife, aims to enhance outdoor recreation by funding trail construction, maintenance, and planning projects. Grants can provide up to $250,000 to eligible applicants, including government agencies and non-profit organizations. This initiative supports the protection of wildlife and cultural resources while promoting sustainable outdoor activities. Interested parties can find additional information on project eligibility and funding specifics through the official CPW website.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

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 Nathan B. & Florence R. Burt Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing high school graduation rates and supporting early childhood development programs. Established in 1984, this private foundation aims to maximize its impact through financial support to tax-exempt organizations in Colorado. To qualify, applicants must maintain revenues under $2 million in the past two fiscal years and align with the foundation's funding priorities. Notably, grants are not available for general operating costs or political activities.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Non-Motorized Trails Grant Program, managed by Colorado Parks & Wildlife, supports projects that enhance outdoor recreation through planning, construction, and maintenance of trails. Funded by Great Outdoors Colorado and the Federal Recreational Trails Program, eligible applicants include local, county, federal, and tribal agencies, as well as 501(c)(3) organizations. Projects aim to protect wildlife and cultural resources while promoting sustainable recreational opportunities for all.

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 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 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 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.

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.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

Native Arts and Heritage Fund

The Native Arts + Heritage Fund (NAHF) is a community-rooted award program created to support Native American and Alaska Native artists, culture bearers, and cultural practitioners across the Creative West region.

Co-designed with Native-centered artists, advisors, and community leaders, NAHF centers care, cultural continuity, and self-determination. The fund honors Indigenous ways of knowing and values process over product, relationship over compliance, and well-being as a meaningful measure of impact. In addition to unrestricted funding, selected artists will participate in a three-month virtual cohort experience designed for connection, reflection, and shared learning.

NAHF is administered by Creative West, an organization that uplifts artists and culture bearers across the Creative West region by providing funding, mentorship, and culturally rooted support.

This is not a project-based grant.

This is an invitation into funding and relationships.

Applicants must provide a letter of support from an Alaska Native or Native American community member who can speak to their relationship to community and cultural work.

Unrestricted Funds May Be Used For:

• Taking time to create, reflect, or rest
• Purchasing tools, materials, or supplies
• Covering food, rent, childcare, or transportation
• Supporting wellness: physical, emotional, spiritual, or cultural
• Participating in cultural exchanges, mentorship, or learning
• Creating space to gather, teach, or share knowledge

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.

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 California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.