Best Health Care Grants in Delaware

The Standard Arsht Cannon Grants, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, aim to foster community-based philanthropy and advance equity in Delaware. The grant application will be available to approved applicants starting on February 1, 2026, following an approved Letter of Intent. This funding opportunity is designed to support impactful projects that align with the foundation's mission, while maintaining a focus on equitable community development.

What We Do

Since our creation by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest private conservation foundation. We work with both the public and private sectors to protect and restore our nation’s fish, wildlife, plants and habitats for current and future generations.

NFWF supports conservation efforts across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Since our founding, we've funded over 23,300 rigorously evaluated projects, awarded to both large environmental organizations and small local initiatives. We do not fund advocacy or litigation, and do not conduct membership campaigns. Instead, we focus on achieving results and building a better future for our world.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal-state Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) partnership, is soliciting pre-proposals through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants program to improve water quality and reduce nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Major funding for the INSR Grants program is provided by EPA, with other important contributions from Altria Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Forest Service. 

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

Department of Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture has a dedicated staff that strives effectively and efficiently to accomplish our mission, to sustain and promote the viability of food, fiber, and agricultural industries in Delaware through quality services that protect and enhance the environment, health, and welfare of the general public.

Delaware Forest Resiliency Fund

The Delaware Forest Service received $1.5 million from the U.S. Forest Service to establish the Delaware Forest Resiliency Fund, a cost-share program through which landowners can address forest resiliency through tree planting, invasive species removal, and prescribed fire.

Program Goals

• Create a cost-share program to improve forest health by using forestry resiliency practices.
• To increase the amount of forest in Delaware.
• To improve forest conditions to increase resiliency.
• To promote practices supported in improving carbon management.
• To support the goals of the 2020 Delaware Forest Action Plan

Through the cost-share program, landowners can address forest resiliency by planting trees, removing invasive species, and using prescribed fire.

Eligible Projects

Reforestation Projects

From a pine monoculture or severely high-graded hardwood stand to include oak species, shortleaf pine, Atlantic white cedar, bald cypress, and pitch pine. All species used will be site-appropriate.

• Site preparation practices are eligible for funding.
• Post-planting maintenance, such as mowing and spot spraying, is eligible for funding.
• Tree shelters are eligible for funding.

Afforestation Projects

To include any native species besides loblolly pine.

• Site preparation practices are eligible for funding.
• Post-planting maintenance, such as mowing and spot spraying, is eligible for funding.
• Tree shelters are eligible for funding.

Invasive Species Removal or Control

Invasive species are a significant threat to the forest as they outcompete and displace native plant species, impact available food, and cover resources for native wildlife.

• Removal or control of any invasive plant as defined by the Delaware Invasive Species Council
• Must be in a forest as defined by the United States Forest Service.

Prescribed Fire Practices

Implementing prescribed fire allows native species that require fire as part of their life cycle to return to the landscape, and invasive species that flourish without fire are removed.

Install permanent vegetative fire breaks.

• Burn plan writing.
• Implementation measures.
• Other practices that are needed to perform a prescribed fire safely.
• Must be in a forest as defined by the United States Forest Service.

Program Rules

• All applicants must complete the Delaware W-9 form online and register as suppliers with the State of Delaware at https://esupplier.erp.delaware.gov.

• Applications will be reviewed to determine the level of cost-share payments. Most cost-share payments will be made at 90% unless otherwise outlined below for the specific project area. Landowners who have owned forestland in Delaware for a total of 10 years or less, own properties in priority areas, are limited resource producers or are veterans of any U.S. Armed Forces who were honorably discharged in the prior 10 years will receive a 100% cost-share payment.

• Prescribed Fire and Invasive Species projects will have a cap of $10,000 dollars per landowner. These payments will be made as reimbursements to the landowner once proof of implementation has been received and verified.

• Tree Planting projects have no maximum payment. Payments for tree planting projects will be directly made to suppliers and contractors.

• Applications will be taken on a rolling basis and approved on a first-come, first-served basis, as funding allows.

• Forest Stewardship Plans are required for any landowner who owns or will own 10 forested acres after afforestation efforts. The landowner can choose to use a private consultant or a Delaware Forest Service forester.

• Applications for prescribed fire practices and invasive species projects should include 3 bids from qualified contractors who will be considered to do the work. This is not required for tree-planting projects.

• Landowners are required to maintain records related to this program for a minimum of three years after the closure of this grant period. The USFS may audit these funds.

• Any work completed before signing a contract with DFS will not be eligible for reimbursement.

The Delaware Division of the Arts provides Education Resource grants to foster partnerships between schools, arts organizations, and artists, enhancing arts education for Pre K-12 students. These grants promote student engagement in the arts through hands-on programs, extended-time arts initiatives, and integration with other subjects. Eligible applicants include nonprofit arts organizations and public schools in Delaware. The program aims to supplement existing arts education while ensuring compliance with state regulations.

The Delaware Division of the Arts offers ongoing Artist Residency grants aimed at enhancing arts education in schools. These grants support residencies with professional artists who engage students and teachers in creative processes, aligning with state arts standards. Eligible applicants include Delaware public, charter, private, and parochial schools, as well as not-for-profits providing preschool services. Applicants can request up to 75% of artist fees, not exceeding $450 per day, to facilitate meaningful artistic experiences in educational settings.

The Community Based Organizations: Arts Access Grant, offered by the Delaware Division of the Arts, supports nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities in presenting various art forms. Grants can cover up to 80% of eligible expenses, not exceeding $1,250. This initiative encourages community engagement through arts programs and is intended for groups that may not qualify for other funding categories. Applications must be submitted six weeks prior to the event, with early submissions recommended.

The Community Based Organizations: Project Support Grant, offered by the Delaware Division of the Arts, aims to support arts initiatives led by non-profit organizations whose primary mission is not the arts. This grant encourages community engagement through artistic projects, allowing for diverse cultural expressions and collaboration among various groups. Eligible applicants include Delaware-based organizations with stable governance and the capacity to manage projects exceeding $5,000 in direct cash expenses.

The Arts Access Grant by the Delaware Division of the Arts supports nonprofit organizations offering occasional arts programs. This grant aims to enhance public access to artistic experiences, foster collaborations between artists and community groups, and promote lifelong learning in the arts. Organizations eligible for funding must be based in Delaware and manage programs involving professional artists. The application process is ongoing, with reviews conducted starting in July each year.

The Delaware Division of the Arts offers the StartUp Program Grants aimed at strengthening the management capacity of emerging arts organizations in Delaware. This program provides modest support for operating expenses and serves as an entry point for these organizations into the Division's General Operating Support grant program. New applicants are encouraged to contact the Division before submitting a Letter of Intent to ensure a smooth application process.

Delaware Community Foundation

The Delaware Community Foundation (DCF) is a nonprofit organization focused on partnering with donors to build opportunity and advance equity in Delaware.

Our mission is to strengthen Delaware by maximizing community-based philanthropy.

Lewes and Rehoboth Canal Fund

These small grants will support scientific, educational, historical, cultural and artistic programs focusing on the canal, as defined as from Roosevelt Inlet in Lewes at the north and to the mouth above Dewey Beach emptying into Rehoboth Bay.

Purpose of the Fund

The purpose of the Fund shall be for grants exclusively for charitable, scientific or educational objectives, subject to the purpose and intent of the DCF, applicable law and Internal Revenue Service regulation. The Fund is intended to provide grants to qualified charitable organizations that support scientific, educational, historical, cultural and artistic programs focusing on the canal, as defined as from Roosevelt Inlet in Lewes at the north and to the mouth above Dewey Beach emptying into Rehoboth Bay. 

Community Reinvestment Fund

The Community Reinvestment Fund, a capital grant program, shall be used for community redevelopment, revitalization and investment capital projects which will improve the economic, culture, historical, and recreational health of Delaware communities.

Eligible applicants include county and local governments, community-based nonprofit organizations, and private sector nonprofit organizations. All nonprofit organizations must hold a 501(c)3 designation at the time of application submission in order to be considered eligible. State agencies, school districts, charter schools, private schools, institutions of higher education, childcare facilities, churches, fire companies, fiscal agents, and for-profit organizations are not eligible for funds from the Community Reinvestment Fund.

The Washington Biologists' Field Club (WBFC) Research Awards Competition offers grants to support field research focused on the Mid-Atlantic Region's natural history. This includes studies on biodiversity, ecology, and conservation, with a particular emphasis on organisms from Plummers Island and the Potomac River. The WBFC encourages proposals that enhance understanding of lesser-known taxa and has funded diverse research topics, such as fish behavior and conservation genetics.

The Jazz Touring Network (JTN) fosters the presentation of jazz across the mid-Atlantic region, supporting both novice and experienced presenters. Through an open and competitive application process, JTN members engage in professional development and collaborate on annual jazz tours. Eligible organizations must be located in specific states and maintain a strong history of presenting touring artists. The JTN prioritizes diversity and inclusivity, ensuring that programming reflects the vibrant landscape of contemporary jazz.

The DE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP): Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) offers support to private and tribal landowners for protecting and restoring wetlands impacted by agricultural practices. It provides financial and technical assistance, allowing for various enrollment options including permanent and 30-year easements. The program enhances wildlife habitats, improves water quality, and promotes biodiversity, while prioritizing applications that benefit migratory birds and other wildlife. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in Delaware, managed by the Delaware Emergency Management Agency (DEMA), aims to enhance security for nonprofits at risk of terrorist attacks. This competitive, reimbursement-based grant supports both physical and cybersecurity improvements, ensuring organizations can safeguard their operations. In FY 2025, funds will be allocated to nonprofits in designated high-risk urban areas and those outside these zones, bolstering Delaware's emergency preparedness and response capabilities.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

The Highmark BluePrints for the Community grant, administered by the Delaware Community Foundation, offers funding between $51,000 and $250,000 for health-related projects that address critical community needs in Delaware. Eligible nonprofits can apply for quarterly grants focused on healthcare access, economic stability, social context, and community infrastructure. Since 2007, this initiative has contributed over $27 million to improve health outcomes and advance equity across the state.

The DE Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) supports the protection of agricultural lands by limiting nonagricultural uses. Through Agricultural Land Easements (ALE), NRCS assists eligible partners, including governments and organizations, in conserving working agricultural lands. Financial assistance can cover up to 75% of the easement's market value for special grasslands. This initiative aims to sustain agricultural viability and enhance conservation values, thereby fostering long-term agricultural productivity and environmental integrity.

The Robinson Foundation Grant, established in 2016, aims to alleviate hardships faced by individuals and communities, demonstrating God's love through charitable contributions. As a family-operated foundation, it focuses on creating meaningful, long-term impacts in various areas including animal welfare, education, and disaster relief. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) public charities. The foundation prioritizes fiscally responsible projects with the potential for tangible results, while not supporting capital projects.

The DE Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) offers essential support for farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners to integrate conservation practices into their operations. Through financial and technical assistance, EQIP addresses critical natural resource concerns, including soil health, water quality, and habitat improvement. Eligible applicants include agricultural producers and owners of non-industrial private forestland. This program aims to enhance environmental sustainability while promoting efficient agricultural practices, ultimately benefiting both the land and the community.

The Highmark BluePrints Small Grants program, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, allocates funds to nonprofits addressing critical health-related issues in Delaware. Grants up to $50,000 support initiatives focused on enhancing health care access, reducing disparities, and fostering early childhood development. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) public charities and certain government agencies. The program emphasizes community equity and welcomes applications for innovative solutions that improve health outcomes for underserved populations.

The DE Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) empowers agricultural producers and non-industrial forestland owners to enhance their conservation practices. With year-round applications, CSP offers personalized consultations to identify suitable enhancements based on existing efforts. Participants can receive annual incentive payments for practice implementation, with options for bundled enhancements for higher rates. This program not only promotes sustainable land management but also supports the long-term viability of agricultural operations throughout Delaware.

The Delaware Nonpoint Source Section 319 Grant Program, administered by the DNREC, provides funding for projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution in Delaware. This program supports initiatives that implement best management practices to combat pollution from diffuse sources like agriculture and construction. By addressing these issues, the grant aims to protect both surface and ground waters, ensuring a healthier environment for the community.

The DE Community Water Quality Improvement Grant (CWQIG) supports projects aimed at enhancing water quality in impaired watersheds across Delaware. Funded by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), grants range from $25,000 to $75,000. Eligible projects include stormwater retrofits and stream restoration that align with established environmental strategies. This initiative aims to address pollution and improve the ecological health of Delaware's waterways.

The Sprouting School Gardens Grant, provided by the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, supports school-based gardening and cooking programs to foster healthy eating habits in children. Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 help cover program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Eligible applicants include schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas served by Sprouts Farmers Market, promoting meaningful connections between local teams and school gardening initiatives.