Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Georgia

The Auto Club Group Foundation focuses on creating a positive impact through grants that enhance traffic safety, driver education, and financial literacy across 14 U.S. states and two territories. With a mission rooted in community service, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations and government entities that align with its goals. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $15,000, addressing crucial areas such as traffic safety initiatives, financial literacy for K-12 students, and equitable access to driver education programs.

The Georgia Making the Shade Program Grant aims to enhance elementary school campuses by funding the planting of trees in playground areas. With grants up to $10,000, eligible applicants include schools, PTAs, and community groups. The program promotes healthier environments by reducing UV exposure, improving air quality, and creating shaded spaces for children. It encourages community involvement through local partnerships and aims to foster educational activities around tree planting and maintenance.

The Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The OSI Southern Cumberland Land Protection Fund aims to protect vital forest habitats in Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, focusing on areas crucial for biodiversity and climate change adaptation. Launched in 2012, this fund has already safeguarded over 30,000 acres through grants, enhancing wildlife habitats and expanding recreational access. By supporting high-priority projects, it plays a significant role in conserving the rich ecological landscapes of the Southern Cumberland Plateau, ensuring the long-term viability of unique species.

South Arts, Inc. offers Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations to enhance the skills and knowledge of Southern arts entities. These grants aim to support operational stability and growth, focusing on organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less. Eligible applicants include a range of arts organizations within South Arts' nine-state service area. The program emphasizes first-time opportunities and requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match, ensuring a commitment to professional development in the arts.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Georgia provide crucial funding to eligible communities facing emergencies that threaten safe drinking water availability. These grants support the construction and repair of water infrastructure, including transmission lines and treatment facilities. By addressing issues such as droughts, floods, and other disasters, the program aims to restore access to clean water, thereby enhancing public health and environmental sustainability in rural areas.

The James M. Cox Foundation Grant offers support to nonprofit organizations focused on conservation, early childhood education, family empowerment, and health. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and located in areas where Cox Enterprises operates. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines before Trustee meetings. Preference is given to organizations with a history of local engagement. This foundation embodies the philanthropic spirit of its founder, James M. Cox, by giving back to the community.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Trusteed Foundations Funds provide essential grant opportunities for nonprofit organizations in the metropolitan Atlanta area. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with specific review periods aligning with the foundation's operational calendar. The foundations seek to support initiatives in Leadership Development, Economic Mobility, Thriving Communities, and Education, ensuring that funds are allocated to organizations with a proven track record of community impact. This streamlined application process allows nonprofits to apply to multiple foundations through a single form.

South Arts, Inc. offers Literary Arts Grants to support Southern independent publishers and small presses with funding up to $5,000. These grants aim to amplify contemporary literary arts and foster community engagement through projects like reading series and festivals. Eligible applicants must be based in the South Arts Region and demonstrate a commitment to advancing literary traditions. This initiative enhances access to the arts and promotes cultural vitality across the Southern states.

South Arts Inc. is offering Literary Arts Grants to support writers, independent publishers, and literary organizations focusing on contemporary literature in the Southern U.S. Grants of up to $5,000 will fund projects in poetry, fiction, and other genres. Eligible applicants must be full-time residents of the South Arts region. The initiative aims to amplify the literary traditions of the American South, fostering creativity and community engagement through diverse literary projects.

The Lettie Pate Evans Foundation Grant Program primarily supports education and arts initiatives in Georgia, with occasional grants to Virginia institutions linked to Mrs. Evans. The foundation emphasizes community-driven projects with strong leadership, preferring to collaborate rather than serve as the sole funder. Grants are typically awarded for capital needs, historic preservation, and performing arts, targeting well-established organizations that demonstrate a proven track record of success and community support.

The Robert W. Woodruff Foundation offers the Community Development Grant to enhance life quality in Georgia through investments in health, education, and community initiatives. Grant applications are accepted year-round, with deadlines of February 1 and August 15 for review in April and November, respectively. The Foundation prioritizes projects that benefit downtown Atlanta, support regional cooperation, and have strong community backing. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) public charities located in Georgia to be eligible.

The Joseph B. Whitehead Foundation supports various initiatives in metro Atlanta, focusing on early childhood education, K-12 education, human services, health, and youth development. The foundation seeks to enhance educational opportunities and improve quality of life for vulnerable populations. Through collaborations with established organizations, it aims to address community needs and invest in proven solutions that empower children and families, ultimately fostering economic opportunities and health improvements in the region.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Jesse Parker Williams Foundation Grant aims to foster a healthy metro-Atlanta region by supporting organizations that provide comprehensive health services for women and children in Clayton, Cobb, Fulton, DeKalb, and Gwinnett counties. The foundation focuses on improving access to quality healthcare, promoting healthy behaviors, and enhancing organizational capacity. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with a strong commitment to addressing social determinants of health, with an emphasis on measurable outcomes and community collaboration.

The Georgia Emergency Solutions Grants program offers critical support for individuals facing homelessness through services like street outreach, emergency shelter, and rapid re-housing. Local government and non-profit organizations receive funding to implement these essential services, ensuring a continuum of care that helps vulnerable populations achieve housing stability. This initiative, supported by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, aims to prevent homelessness and promote sustainable living conditions across the state.

The Georgia Health Foundation Grant, established in 1985, supports nonprofits in Georgia addressing local health issues while encouraging collaboration. Grants are awarded to organizations eligible under IRS guidelines, focusing on charitable, scientific, or educational purposes. Applicants are urged to propose sustainable programs with regional or national health impacts. Note that the application deadline is June 1, with initial reviews in July. The foundation typically does not fund capital projects or campaigns.

The Clark and Ruby Baker Foundation Grant aims to support charitable organizations that align with the philanthropic mission of the Baker family, focusing on Methodist-affiliated educational institutions, aid for disadvantaged children, and assistance for the sick in Georgia. The Foundation considers funding for construction projects of educational and medical facilities, ensuring that grants are awarded to meet specific community needs and promote long-term benefits.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Georgia aim to support small rural businesses by providing essential technical assistance and training. Eligible areas for funding include rural towns outside urbanized regions. There is no maximum grant amount, with priority given to smaller requests. Funds can be allocated for various projects, including training, land acquisition, and community development initiatives. This program is open to a range of rural public entities, ensuring a broad impact on local economies.

The Detwiler Family Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of children in local communities through support for educational and artistic programs. The foundation focuses on assisting children facing life challenges, including those experiencing food insecurity, mental health needs, and disabilities. Grants are awarded to nonprofit organizations in specific U.S. regions, prioritizing projects that foster community growth and empowerment. This initiative exemplifies a commitment to enriching children's well-being and ensuring access to vital resources.

The Georgia ReLeaf Grant Program, initiated by the Georgia Tree Council and Georgia Forestry Commission, aims to restore community forests affected by tornadoes in 2011. It funds tree planting and giveaway projects to enhance environmental health and promote tree equity in underserved areas. The program emphasizes canopy restoration, supports diverse community forests, and involves local governments in project planning and implementation. Funding is available for tree purchase and related costs, empowering communities to combat climate change and improve urban landscapes.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Georgia, managed by the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, aims to enhance the security of nonprofits at high risk of terrorist attacks. This program supports the development of security measures, addresses identified vulnerabilities, and fosters collaboration among community organizations and security agencies. By providing essential funding for equipment, training, and planning, NSGP strengthens the overall resilience of communities against extremist threats.

South Arts Inc

Headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia, South Arts is a nonprofit regional arts organization empowering artists, organizations, and communities, and increasing access to arts and culture.

In partnership with the National Endowment for the Arts and the State Arts Agencies of Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee — with additional funding from other public and private donors such as the Doris Duke Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and Mellon Foundation — South Arts supports artists and organizations through a rich and responsive portfolio of grants, fellowships, and programs. Why? Because South Arts believes that the arts elevate the region, increasing connectedness and inspiring meaningful change in the process.

Our mission: Advancing Southern vitality through the arts.

Arts in Community Grants

Program Description

Arts in Community Grants are designed to support deeper engagements between Southern communities and artists. Through these grants supported by the National Endowment for the Arts, we aim to increase access to the arts, expand audiences for artists, and broaden our reach. Eligible projects require a Southern artist/company visiting another Southern state for public activities, offering access to arts programming by professional artists. Funding supports Southern film directors, traditional artists, visual artists, performing artists, or writers:

• film (documentary, fiction, experimental, and animation),
• traditional arts (music, dance, storytelling, and visual arts/crafts),
• visual arts (crafts, drawing, experimental, painting, photography, sculpture, and mixed media),
• performing arts (theater, music, opera, musical theater, and dance), and
• literary arts (fiction, creative nonfiction, and poetry).

Projects require an artist or artist ensemble and a host or partner organization. Project must include at least two in-person or live, virtual public activities – both a public presentation (a film screening, performance, reading, or exhibition) and an educational/community engagement activity (a workshop, demonstration, lecture, facilitated discussion, or master class). The grant requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match.

The CFCSRA: Women in Philanthropy Grant supports organizations that enhance the lives of women and children in Georgia and South Carolina. With over 200 members, the initiative funds high-impact projects while emphasizing collaboration and community engagement. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or similar entities. The grant does not support individual grants, capital campaigns, or projects typically funded by government sources. This initiative aims to cultivate generosity and strengthen local nonprofits.