Best Community and School Garden Grants

The Region Grants Open Grant Round: Hunger Relief, sponsored by the Land O'Lakes Foundation, aims to combat food insecurity in rural communities. Grants between $1,000 and $20,000 are available for organizations supporting food banks, meal programs, and community gardens. With a total investment of $500,000 annually, this initiative prioritizes nonprofits with 501c3 status serving specific regions in the East and West. The program seeks to enhance the vibrancy of member-owner communities while fostering educational and community vitality.

The Sand Hills Garden Club Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation for the CSRA, aims to enhance the quality of life in Augusta, Georgia. This program supports projects that promote gardening knowledge, environmental protection, and the preservation of native plants. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public entities. The focus is on ecology, horticulture, conservation, and education, fostering community engagement and collaboration for local initiatives.

The Impact 100 Chicago Grant provides $100,000 annually to local nonprofits addressing critical social issues in Chicago. This initiative supports high-impact projects and programs, encouraging organizations to apply by selecting a primary focus area such as culture, education, family, health, or sustainability. The grant cycle runs from September to May, with eligibility requiring 501(c)(3) status, operational presence in Chicago, and compliance with financial reporting. Unrestricted funds can be utilized for various organizational needs.

The West Seattle Garden Tour Grant supports organizations that promote horticulture, education, and artistic endeavors in West Seattle and neighboring communities. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, with larger and smaller amounts occasionally awarded. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations or have fiscal partners with that status. Presentations are required for consideration, highlighting project goals and their alignment with the Garden Tour's mission, and must follow specific guidelines.

The Cutler Bay Community Fund aims to enhance the quality of life in Cutler Bay by supporting 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Established in 2013, it prioritizes educational, aesthetic, environmental, cultural, and social services projects. Grant amounts range from $500 to $2,500, focusing on local initiatives that meet evolving community needs. The Fund is managed by a Board of Directors, including the Mayor and Town Council, ensuring strategic oversight and community engagement.

The Neighborhood Matching Grants Program (NMG) enhances community engagement by providing funds to neighborhood-based organizations in Charlotte. Established in 1992, it aims to build capacity, prioritize improvements, leverage local resources, and foster partnerships between residents and the city. Projects may include beautification, community gardens, and public safety initiatives, encouraging collaboration and volunteerism. By matching city funds with local contributions, the program strengthens community ties and supports diverse neighborhood projects, making them more vibrant places to live.

Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties

The Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties, Inc., strengthens our communities by leading philanthropy and solutions through our direct work in partnership with donors, nonprofits and the community. Our 501(c)3 nonprofit Foundation is the foremost resource for convening partners to elevate people, improve lives and make our community a better place to live.

Grants & Scholarships

Grants power our nonprofit partners on the frontlines of pressing local issues, filling the opportunity gaps through direct-to-people programming.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors. 

The Community Foundation offers both need and merit based scholarships.

Boone Horticultural Scholarship Fund

Scholarship Eligibility

• Graduating high school senior from any Palm Beach or Martin County high school
• Must major in Horticulture
• Open to adult students studying in the field
• Demonstrate financial need

The Community Foundation of NCW is a tax-exempt philanthropic organization that helps individuals, families, businesses, and agencies support charitable causes throughout Chelan, Douglas, and Okanogan counties.

Melvin P. 'Mel' & Lyndell Crowder NCW Memorial Horticulture Scholarship

The Melvin P. ‘Mel’ and Lyndell Crowder NCW Memorial Horticulture Scholarship Fund was established in 1993 in memory of Mr. Crowder, by his widow and children. After Mr. Crowder’s distinguished Naval service during World War II, he adn his wife purchased a hillside orchard in Manson. Determined to become the best grower possible, Mr. Crowder sought to learn everything he could about horticulture. Spanning three decades, Mel worked diligently with orchardists from Yakima to the Canadian border to help them grow the very best apples. As a charter member of the Washington Horticulture Association in 1985, Mr. Crowder was recognized as a leader in the apple industry. He remained active in the industry even after his retirement in 1985 from his position as Operations Manager at Trout, Inc. in Chelan. Keeping abreast of new developments and operating Crowder Horticultural Services, a tree and pollen sales and horticultural consulting business, kept him in touch with apples. Mel Crowder passed away on July 22, 1993.

Community Foundation of Louisville

Founded in 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville mobilizes people, networks, and capital to spark meaningful change in and beyond Louisville. Just as our name signifies, here, community comes first. With over $874 million in assets, over 2,200 charitable funds, and collaborations with hundreds of local partners, we connect real investments with relevant causes. The Foundation has addressed and continues to address a wide range of community needs. The key priorities of the Foundation’s mission are to remove barriers to accessing capital and resources and to open opportunities for all. Working with neighbors, changemakers, and community investors, we’re inspiring greater generosity to move us all forward.

Scholarships

Since 1984, the Community Foundation of Louisville has provided tens of millions of dollars in scholarships to support students with their educational goals. We assist donors in establishing scholarship funds so that a quality education can be available for everyone.

Thaddeus Colson & Isabelle Fitzpatrick Memorial Scholarship

The Thaddeus Colson and Isabelle Saalwaechter Fitzpatrick Memorial Scholarship was established by Isabelle Smith in memory of her parents. This fund is designed to provide scholarship assistance in the form of grants to help defray college or university expenses of a female student majoring in an environmentally related program and displaying a commitment to the environment.

The School Garden Grant, administered by the Nevada Department of Education, supports K-12 public schools in creating and maintaining gardens, including hydroponic systems. Funded by Senate Bill 104, the initiative aims to enhance STEM education through project-based learning, promote healthy eating, and foster community involvement in Nevada's unique environmental context. This program encourages educational equity and enriches students' learning experiences while connecting them with their local environment.

The Cashman Family Scholarship at Montana State University supports full-time students pursuing a degree in Environmental Horticulture, requiring a minimum 2.7 GPA. Preference is given to Montana high school graduates and residents. This scholarship fosters student success, aligning with MSU's mission to enhance education and community engagement while promoting research that benefits Montana's economy.

The Wisconsin Garden Club Federation Della H. Balousek Scholarship honors a dedicated garden club member, providing three $3,000 non-renewable scholarships for tuition to full-time students at Wisconsin schools. This fund ensures Della Balousek's legacy of education and community spirit continues, supporting students in their academic pursuits. Eligible candidates must demonstrate commitment to their studies and maintain an acceptable major. The scholarship aims to empower the next generation of leaders in the gardening community.

The Wisconsin Garden Club Federation Irene Straus Scholarship offers a $1,000 non-renewable award for tuition expenses to a full-time student at a Wisconsin institution. This scholarship honors Irene Straus, a dedicated member of the garden community, recognized for her long-standing contributions to enhancing Madison's beauty through horticulture. Applicants must maintain an acceptable major to remain eligible. This scholarship aims to support students who are passionate about gardening and landscape design.

The Wisconsin Garden Club Federation Myrtle B. Ogilvie Scholarship offers a $1,500 non-renewable award for students pursuing higher education at Wisconsin colleges or universities. Inspired by Myrtle B. Ogilvie's legacy in gardening and education, the scholarship supports full-time students with acceptable majors, emphasizing the importance of academic commitment. The award is payable in the fall semester and aims to encourage students to engage with their communities through horticultural interests.

The 2026 SCBGP Additional Assistance for Limited Resource Applicants Program, funded by the California Department of Food and Agriculture, aims to enhance the competitiveness of California's specialty crops through personalized application support. This program facilitates participation from small and limited resource organizations by providing tailored assistance, including feedback on proposals and direct communication. It is essential for improving the overall performance of California's specialty crop industry in various markets.

The City Gardens Club of New York offers annual grants ranging from $500 to $5,000 for projects that promote environmental beauty and education in New York City's five boroughs. Since 1981, these grants have helped schools engage students in hands-on horticulture, fostering a love for gardening and farming among diverse communities. The program highlights the importance of nature in education, benefiting both children and adults while adhering to the club's mission of public benefit through education.

The Schilling Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, provides six $3,000 scholarships to graduating high school seniors from select schools. Renewable for up to three years, recipients must maintain a 3.0 GPA, enroll in 12 credit hours, and major in Agriculture. An essay submission is required, and applicants must demonstrate financial need by submitting their FAFSA-SAI. This scholarship aims to support students pursuing degrees in various Agriculture fields.

The FH Vinecore Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of North Central Washington, supports Douglas County students attending Washington State University. Eligible applicants include high school seniors or graduates from Douglas County, with preference for those from Orondo and majoring in Horticulture or Business Administration. This scholarship aims to empower local students to pursue higher education while nurturing community ties.

The Mid-South RC&D Council Grant aims to improve the quality of life in Autauga, Bullock, Butler, Elmore, Lee, Lowndes, Macon, and Montgomery counties. Established in 1993, this nonprofit organization focuses on community needs through education and resource enhancement. Key priorities include community improvement, workforce development, emergency preparedness, and youth and adult programs. The council supports initiatives that promote economic development, training, and technology resources to benefit local citizens.

The LBK Garden Club, established in 1969, is dedicated to promoting gardening and environmental conservation. Each year, they award grants to tax-exempt organizations focused on these areas, with amounts ranging from $100 to several thousand dollars. Applications are due by March 15th, with recipients announced in early April. Grant winners are recognized at the Club’s Annual Meeting on Earth Day. Previous recipients must submit an Annual Report detailing grant usage by March 1st.

The Longboat Key Garden Club offers scholarships to support eligible college students in Florida pursuing degrees in natural or marine sciences. Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000, aimed at enhancing educational experiences for dedicated students. This initiative encourages studies in diverse fields such as Botany, Marine Biology, and Ecology. By investing in future leaders, the Garden Club fosters academic achievement and inspires students to pursue their professional dreams in environmental stewardship.

The ENF Community Investments Program - Beacon Grants offers a unique opportunity for Elks Lodges to initiate and lead charitable projects in their local communities. This program encourages Lodges to develop sustainable initiatives, allowing them to address community needs effectively. By fostering collaboration and providing resources, the Beacon Grants enhance the quality of life for residents, including veterans and families. In 2025-26, all Lodges will have the chance to participate, promoting a culture of giving back.

The INPS Biodiversity Grants, offered by the Indiana Native Plant Society, support projects that promote the appreciation and preservation of Indiana's native plants. Grants are available for research on native plant species, demonstration gardens, and land management efforts. Eligible projects must be open to the public, while funds cannot be used for transportation or lodging. This initiative aims to educate the community about the ecological significance of native flora.

The John Sage Foundation supports projects that enhance the relationship between people and the natural environment, primarily in Maine. Since its inception in 1992, it has funded various initiatives, including land acquisition, water testing, and environmental education. The foundation is open to funding a range of projects but may concentrate its resources on a single entity in a grant cycle. Notably, it does not support political advocacy efforts.

The Fred C. Gloeckner Foundation Research Fund Grant, established in 2024, supports innovative floriculture research and education. This partnership between the Gloeckner Foundation and AFE aims to enhance advancements in floriculture through substantial funding. Grants are available for university and college projects, emphasizing significant research importance and public accessibility. Projects can include funding for research assistants and must be accompanied by detailed outlines. Indirect costs and salaries are not covered.

The NASGA Research Grants aim to enhance strawberry production sustainability in North America by addressing critical research priorities, including cultivar development, pest management, and production efficiency. Proposals that improve fruit quality, reduce environmental impacts, and align with growers' needs are prioritized. The program welcomes submissions from all researchers, with a focus on innovative solutions that promote economic viability and environmental stewardship in the strawberry industry.

The Colegrave Seabrook Foundation International Scholarship, established by horticulturist Ed Markham, supports students pursuing careers in floriculture or horticulture. With awards of $4,500, this scholarship promotes international exchange between U.S. and European students. Applicants must be U.S. or Canadian citizens or residents, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.0. This initiative highlights the importance of global learning in horticulture, encouraging students to explore marketing through international experiences.