Best Youth Sports Grants in Delaware

The Lawrence Saunders Fund Grant, established in memory of Lawrence Saunders, supports charitable endeavors with a focus on environmental projects, education for underprivileged children and adults, and social services for those in need. Created by his wife, Dorothy Love Saunders, the fund aims to enhance community welfare through strategic grants derived from its investment portfolio. This philanthropic initiative continues to impact various sectors, promoting sustainability and education.

The Lee & Florence Kvalnes Charitable Fund, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides small grants to support educational programming for at-risk families in Delaware. These grants aim to foster self-sufficiency through assistance with tuition, daycare, wellness classes, and transportation. Nonprofits must be 501(c)(3) organizations serving Delaware residents without discrimination. This initiative reflects a commitment to building equitable opportunities and strengthening community welfare.

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. Our vision is a Delaware where generosity expands opportunities for all.

In addition to partnering with donors, the DCF serves our community through direct grantmaking from our Delaware Forever Fund. Selected by a statewide committee composed of community leaders, grants from the Forever Fund target the state’s most pressing needs and fortify our nonprofit organizations’ infrastructures, strengthening their ability to focus on their missions.

Capital One Grant: Improving Community Vital Conditions

Each year, the DCF awards millions of dollars in grants to support the work of nonprofits addressing Delaware’s greatest needs and opportunities, with an eye to building opportunity and advancing equity.

Capital One’s Improving Community Vital Conditions grant is designed to expand economic opportunity for low- and moderate-income (LMI) consumers and communities. The Capital One grant program in collaboration with Healthy Communities Delaware (HCD) at the DCF is currently accepting applications for grants to support projects and services that focus on improving community vital conditions. Grant proposals should aim to improve one or more of the Vital Conditions for Well-Being within LMI communities.

The IDeA Networks of Biomedical Research Excellence (INBRE) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in underfunded states by fostering collaborations among research institutions. By supporting faculty research, mentoring, and student involvement, INBREs create pathways for undergraduate students to enter biomedical careers. This initiative not only promotes institutional partnerships but also strengthens research infrastructure, ultimately contributing to a more robust scientific community in IDeA states.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 1) is funded by the U.S. Department of Transportation to provide critical support for small businesses in the transportation sector. This initiative, under NOFO Number OST/OSDBU-2026-SBTTAC-Region 1-FY2026-1, aims to establish a center that offers technical assistance and resources for small and disadvantaged businesses, ensuring their growth and success in the transportation industry.

The Solar for Non-Profits and Public Libraries Grant aims to promote solar energy adoption among Delaware's nonprofit organizations. Funding is available for eligible 501(c) nonprofits to install solar panels, covering installation costs and necessary system components. This initiative supports sustainable energy practices while ensuring quality proposals through a competitive procurement process. Interested organizations should confirm eligibility with local electric utilities, as some areas may have restrictions on solar installations.

The NRA Foundation in Delaware provides grants to eligible organizations that promote firearms safety, education, and marksmanship. Organizations must be recognized under IRS 501(c)(3) or be government entities. Grant requests must align with the Foundation's mission, which includes fostering charitable and educational activities related to the shooting sports. Ineligible applicants include labor organizations, private businesses, and individuals. Funding is determined solely by the Foundation, ensuring compliance with IRS regulations.

Home4Good

The Delaware State Housing Authority (DSHA) and the Federal Home Loan Bank of Pittsburgh (FHLBank Pittsburgh) have established a partnership to provide grants to selected nonprofit organizations to support initiatives in Delaware that lead to stable housing for individuals and families who are homeless or determined to be at-risk of homelessness.

DSHA and FHLBank Pittsburgh have contributed a combined total of $1.23 million to the Home4Good grant program: $500,000 from DSHA and $730,000 from FHLBank Pittsburgh.

The Dave Ryerson Fund and the Beekhuis Community Fund provide small grants to support the arts in Delaware. These grants are aimed at both small organizations and larger entities with specific projects, promoting performing, visual, literary, media, or folk arts. The initiative focuses on reaching audiences with limited access to the arts, ensuring inclusivity in cultural experiences. Award amounts range from $1,000 to $2,500.

Walls & Turner & Freida Dolby Fund- Animal Welfare

These grants will fund programs that support animals and their welfare. This includes but is not limited to:

• Assist in the training of professionally trained seeing-eye dogs and service assistance dogs for blind individuals, deaf individuals and/or individuals with mobility impairments and/or other physical disabilities
• Provide support services in connection with the placements of such dogs with eligible recipients who are residents of the State of Delaware who demonstrate a drive to become more independent and who would not be able to acquire such dogs without financial assistance
• Encourage the humane treatment of animals in Delaware through education of the public, adoption of animals without owners, neutering, and enforcement of laws governing the humane treatment of animals.

Awards will range from $2,500 to $7,500.

The Quintin E. Primo Jr. Fund for Racial Justice and African American Empowerment Fund, managed by the Delaware Community Foundation, will open for applications in March 2025. This fund offers small grants ranging from $1,000 to $2,500 to support educational programs and initiatives that promote racial justice and empower African American communities. It aims to foster positive change and enhance opportunities for education and engagement.

Delaware Community Foundation

Each year, the DCF awards millions of dollars in grants to support the work of nonprofits addressing Delaware’s greatest needs and opportunities, with an eye to building opportunity and advancing equity.

21st Century Children's Fund: Education or Financial Assistance

Education programming or Financial assistance programs for at-risk children or young adults up to age 21 to participate in programs or experiences that help them define their strengths, improve their self-esteem, and build a sense of hope for the future. 

These small grants will fund programs that have a direct line of sight to the child or children benefiting from funding. These programs can include but not limited to scholarships, field trip experiences, extra-curricular activities and more for at-risk children or young adults up to age 21. 

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EIFF) offers grants for Combined Heat and Power (CHP) projects in Delaware, supporting non-residential facilities in enhancing energy efficiency. Grant funding can cover up to 60% of project costs, with a maximum award of $250,000 per address annually. Eligible projects must demonstrate energy savings and sustainability, with a focus on supporting minority, women, and veteran-owned businesses, small businesses, and non-profits. Pre-approval is encouraged to secure funding.

The Bayard Long Award supports students researching plant species in the Philadelphia area and surrounding regions. With a typical funding of $2000, it encourages studies that enhance understanding of local flora, including field and herbarium work. Eligible projects must include at least one native plant species, promoting both academic and practical botanical endeavors. This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in degree programs at any post-secondary institution, furthering educational and scientific exploration in botany.

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EIFF) offers grants for energy assessments and improvements in non-residential facilities in Delaware. With a focus on energy efficiency, the program supports businesses in upgrading to more efficient systems. Grants cover up to 60% of project costs, with limits of $250,000 per year per facility. Eligible projects must exceed minimum energy code requirements, fostering sustainability and reducing operational costs in the community.

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EEIF) offers Custom Pathway Grants to non-residential facilities in Delaware, promoting energy-efficient upgrades. These grants encourage complex energy improvements beyond standard measures, supporting both retrofit and new construction projects. Eligible projects can receive up to 60% funding, with a maximum award of $250,000 per year. The program aims to enhance energy efficiency, reduce operational costs, and support diverse community sectors, including minority and veteran-owned businesses.

The Energy Efficiency Investment Fund (EIFF) offers Prescriptive Pathway Grants to non-residential facilities in Delaware to enhance energy efficiency. These grants cover up to 60% of project costs, with a maximum award of $250,000 per location annually. Eligible projects include upgrading lighting, HVAC systems, and appliances to energy-efficient models. Applicants must reserve funding before purchasing equipment, and a pre-approval process is recommended to ensure eligibility. This initiative supports diverse community sectors, including small and minority-owned businesses.

The Transportation Infrastructure Investment Fund (TIIF) Grant in Delaware supports infrastructure improvements that assist new or expanding businesses. Eligible projects include site entrance work, traffic signals, and public transportation enhancements. Funding is provided as reimbursement for completed work, requiring a Reimbursement Request Form. Applicants must be licensed entities with public endorsement, creating jobs and providing public benefit. Ineligible costs include residential projects and work on private properties. This initiative fosters economic growth and infrastructure development.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

The Borkee Hagley Fund, supported by the Delaware Community Foundation, provides grants aimed at enhancing clinical research and emotional support for patients with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The fund encourages nonprofits to apply, particularly those addressing critical needs and promoting equity in Delaware. By focusing on comprehensive care, the fund aims to improve the quality of life for affected families and individuals, making a significant impact in the community.

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.

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.

June J. and Russell W. Peterson Fund

Purpose of the Fund: To support programs submitted by Delaware organizations that serve the poor through one or more of the following fields: jobs, housing, health care, education, and community members re-entering society.

John A. & Marion B. Smitheman Scholarship

Award:

4-year award of $7,500 per year. Recipients will be reviewed annually and must maintain a 2.8 cumulative GPA and remain in their major.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.