Best Literacy Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

Nonprofits, schools, municipalities, and first responder agencies in Colorado can seek funding for traffic safety, driver education, or K–12 financial literacy initiatives from the Auto Club Group Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $15,000. Programs that incorporate literacy or financial literacy education for youth may be especially relevant.

Colorado nonprofits working on education, basic needs, health, economic development, or community safety can access funding through BOKF Foundation to enhance quality of life and economic wellbeing. Organizations offering literacy or broader educational programs, basic human services, workforce development, or related community initiatives in BOK Financial’s Colorado service counties may be eligible to apply year-round online.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

Colorado 501(c)(3) organizations and government equivalents offering youth development, K–12 education reform, or early childhood education programs can apply for Daniels Fund support. Grants of approximately US $75,000 may fund specific literacy-related projects within these areas, general operating support, or capital campaigns, when aligned with the fund’s eight designated funding areas.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting youth health, education, development, or welfare can apply for Dan Paul Foundation grants up to US $15,000. Focused on enriching children’s lives worldwide, it funds programs such as early childhood development, child advocacy, homelessness and poverty services, refugee enrichment, and related educational initiatives that may include literacy work in Colorado.

Focused on safety, education, and community development, State Farm Companies Foundation invites Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits, educational institutions, and eligible government programs to seek support for literacy, STEM, and broader academic initiatives. Funding may also assist projects in community safety, affordable housing, financial literacy, job training, and neighborhood revitalization across the U.S.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

Nonprofit and for-profit social enterprises in Colorado working on education or youth programs for urban low-income children can apply for more than US $50,000 from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation for project support or scaling. Eligible projects must be located in the U.S. and may include literacy initiatives within broader education efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Colorado communities where PNC operates can seek funding for early childhood education, literacy-related learning, and community economic development initiatives. Grants from PNC Foundation help education-focused nonprofits serving low- and moderate-income children and families with classroom programs, educator development, family engagement, and community services that strengthen local neighborhoods.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Colorado literacy and human services nonprofits can access funding through Semnani Family Foundation to support health, education, and humanitarian programs for marginalized communities. Organizations working on literacy, health care access, child welfare, or related social services in the U.S. may be eligible for support that prioritizes vulnerable populations’ well-being.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

Colorado nonprofits, schools, and government entities serving Weld County residents with health or education programs, including literacy initiatives, can access funding through The Weld Trust’s triannual Cycle Grants. Support covers projects in childhood literacy, access to resources, food security, housing stability, behavioral and physical health, and workforce development, with up to 15% allowed for indirect costs.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Colorado 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, and libraries working on environmental or human services programs can access funding through the Lawrence Foundation, with typical awards of US $5,000 - US $10,000 for program or operating support. Literacy-focused organizations that fit these priorities may receive unrestricted grants, including reasonable indirect costs, for work in Colorado or beyond.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing education, human services, or healthcare programs that address the roots of poverty can seek program or operating support to expand their impact. With a mission to create sustainable change, William G. McGowan Charitable Fund supports efforts including out-of-school learning, adult education, and related literacy-focused services in Eagle County.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits, fiscally sponsored projects, and public entities providing literacy, family services, or other human and social services can seek US $5,000 - US $10,000 from Anschutz Family Foundation. Funding supports general operations or projects that strengthen families and communities, with attention to economically disadvantaged, youth, seniors, people with disabilities, and rural Colorado programs.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Colorado serving children and youth, including literacy and educational access programs, may be eligible for YES Grants supporting crucial, life-changing services. Ent Credit Union supports youth-focused nonprofits in the communities it serves, helping fund efforts such as literacy initiatives, shelter for abused children, and food assistance.

Colorado 501(c)(3) public charities and some government entities planning capital projects can apply for Gates Family Foundation’s GFF Capital Grants to support land, facility, or infrastructure campaigns. Projects that strengthen education, community development, and services for children, youth, and families—including facilities with literacy or adult education components—may be competitive, especially in rural or low‑income areas.

Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations can receive more than US $50,000 to develop storytelling projects that highlight their community impact in preservation, education, or wellness. Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation funds U.S. organizations, and literacy or education programs that fit these pillars may be eligible if they have a compelling story to share.

Colorado nonprofits, public housing authorities, and local governments working on affordable housing, economic development, food access, or education in Colorado can apply for Direct Effect Awards of US $5,000 - US $50,000. Focus areas include financial education, housing counseling, job training, and other services that strengthen low- and moderate-income Coloradans’ stability and opportunity.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with youth-focused education, community, food security, or environmental programs in Colorado can seek US $30,000 - US $350,000 to expand their impact. Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards support initiatives such as academic enrichment, leadership development, housing support, hunger relief, and environmental stewardship benefiting children and families.

Colorado 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups serving children ages 0–12 with literacy, nature and environment, or arts education programs can seek funding for early learning initiatives. Focused on early childhood education, The Denver Foundation invites applications to the Gorham/McGee Early Learning Fund, awarding US $5,000 grants, with two grants available this year.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.