Best Grants for Global Health in District of Columbia

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Seaboard Foundation Grant aims to enhance education, ensure food security, and foster animal welfare in communities where Seaboard operates. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a U.S. Federal Tax ID. The Foundation's mission is broad, allowing for flexibility in focus and grant-making activities as determined by its Board of Directors. Applications are encouraged to be submitted early, adhering to the specified deadlines for consideration.

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Mineral Sciences, established in 2018, supports graduate students focused on geological studies at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week fellowship includes a stipend of $10,000, a research allowance of $5,000, and relocation funding, fostering the next generation of natural history researchers. Open to U.S. and non-U.S. citizens, applicants must be enrolled graduate students, fluent in English, and committed to full-time residence in the NMNH community.

The Third-Party Competitive Grant (DC) aims to support DC-based nonprofit organizations with proven success in enhancing academic outcomes for public charter school students. This funding, part of the SOAR Act, encourages projects that directly impact student achievement or strengthen charter LEAs' operational capacity. With a funding pool exceeding $2 million, organizations can receive up to $400,000 per award for direct or indirect assistance. Interested entities are advised to submit a Notice of Intent and attend pre-application webinars.

The Mid-Atlantic Older Adult Ministries Endowment Fund, supported by the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic, provides essential funding for programs aimed at older adults. This endowment, maintained by the Presbyterian Foundation, ensures that the income generated will directly benefit ministries catering to the needs of older adults within the community. Contributions are vital for sustaining these efforts, and various donation methods are welcomed to support this important cause.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The TowerCares Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations that support children in need and military families in the Baltimore/Washington area. New organizations must consult a Foundation Ambassador before applying. The Foundation prioritizes specific project funding over general operational support. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the Foundation's mission, enhancing community welfare and ensuring a brighter future for those in need.

The Allianz Foundation for North America aims to empower young people by providing opportunities for personal and professional growth. Established in 2002, the Foundation focuses on enhancing the potential of youth aged 16-25 in select North American cities. Grants ranging from $50,000 to $25,000 are available for non-profit organizations that support initiatives fostering leadership, self-reliance, and social consciousness. The Foundation seeks impactful projects that address the future of communities and individuals, ensuring a secure environment for the next generation.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

FY26 Rhode Island Avenue Support Grant Program (RIASGP)

Section A. General Information

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (“DMPED”) invites the submission of applications from qualified organizations for the FY26 Rhode Island Avenue Support Grant Program (“RIASGP” or “Program”). The purpose of the Program is to provide grants to support businesses that (i) sign long-term leases of at least five (5) years with a minimum of three (3) years remaining on an existing lease in the Rhode Island Avenue Corridor in the District of Columbia (“District”) and (ii) offer retail, educational programs, community connections and attract foot traffic to the corridor.

The Program will provide up to $350,000 in total grant funding in FY26 to eligible businesses to offset the costs of rent or tenant improvements, contingent on the availability of an appropriated budget in such amount. Awards are anticipated to range from $10,000 to $100,000. Successful applicants may receive the awarded amount in the form of a one-time payment, subject to the availability of funds, successful certification of an active lease agreement outlined in this RFA, and compliance with the terms and conditions of the grant agreement.

The Deep Time Peter Buck Postdoctoral Fellowship Program offers a two-year research opportunity in Paleobiology at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History, starting in early 2025. This fellowship not only provides a stipend of $62,000 per year along with research allowances but also emphasizes the importance of advancing science education and outreach. The program seeks to enhance public understanding of the connections between environmental change and the history of life on Earth.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

Department of Behavioral Health

The Department of Behavioral Health provides prevention, intervention and treatment services and supports for children, youth and adults with mental and/or substance use disorders including emergency psychiatric care and community-based outpatient and residential services.

DBH serves eligible adults, children and youth and their families through a network of community based providers and unique government delivered services. It operates Saint Elizabeths Hospital—the District’s inpatient psychiatric facility.

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Planning Grant

The DBH, Adult Services Administration is soliciting applications from qualified organizations to implement the Substance Use and Mental Health Administration (SAMHSA) Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Planning Grant. The purpose of the CCBHC Planning Grant is to provide up to two (2) selected clinics with funding and support to plan to adopt the CCBHC model and participate in the CCBHC Demonstration. This will include training and technical assistance on staffing, covered services, technology systems, prospective payment systems, performance metrics reporting and quality measurement, referrals, and Designated Collaborating Organization (DCO) partnerships. Grantees will also provide ongoing input for CCBHC design and implementation, including certification requirements.

Cooperative Leaders and Scholars Program

The Cooperative Leaders and Scholars (CLS) provides cross-sector leadership development and builds professional networks for new and emerging cooperative leaders and scholars. This 8-month fellowship provides opportunities to participate in multi-sector programming and events, and to engage with thought leaders, policymakers, and other stakeholders. This community empowers and trains its fellows to build a more inclusive economy in North America, together. The experience is open to new and emerging cooperators: current employees or board members, post-secondary students, or others interested in working for, creating, or leading a cooperative or cooperative organization.

Designed to deepen and broaden knowledge of cooperatives and the role the model plays in meeting economic and social needs of communities, the program is structured to empower participants to shape their experience for maximum value as they connect and collaborate with peers and industry experts.

As a participant, you will:

• Participate in an 8-month program designed to deepen and broaden your knowledge of cooperatives and the role of the co-op model in meeting the economic and social needs of communities
• Be a part of a community that can provide ongoing peer support and professional development opportunities
• Co-create a capstone project 
• Participate in exclusive networking events 
• Learn from industry experts in a series of webinars
• Get to know the cohort in-person at a weeklong event in Hudson Valley, NY and NYC from April 20- 24 that will include co-op tours and training workshops. 
• Attend a weeklong event in Washington, DC from October 5 - 9 featuring NCBA CLUSA's Co-op IMPACT Conference, CDF's Cooperative Hall of Fame reception and induction ceremony, a one-day course from the International Centre for Co-operative Management at Saint Mary's University, and co-op tours.

Fellowship includes:

• Registrations for the Co-op IMPACT Conference, Cooperative Hall of Fame, and International Centre for Co-operative Management at Saint Mary's University course
• Hudson Valley, NY, NYC, and Washington, DC co-op tours
• Access to exclusive networking events and webinars from industry experts
• Peer-to-Peer and Mentor-to-Mentee opportunities
• Travel stipend ($1,000 total), accommodations, and meals for two in-person events
• $30 metro card for Washington, DC
• $600 honorarium

DC Immunization Coalitioin Funding Grant

The District of Columbia, Department of Health (DOH), Community Health Administration (CHA), is seeking proposals from qualified applicants to build and sustain a coalition of immunization stakeholders to promote vaccination of the District's residents and visitors. This funding is available through the Title V Maternal and Child Health Services Block Grant through the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA). 

Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice (DMPSJ) was reconstituted in 2011 to provide guidance, support and coordination of public safety and justice agencies of the District of Columbia. The role of the agency was expanded to include oversight of service programs that previously operated as independent agencies. DMPSJ provides agency oversight and support for citywide public safety and justice related policies, activities and initiatives under its jurisdiction including:

• Developing and supporting policies and programs to improve the delivery of services by government agencies and contracted providers;
• Coordinating interagency activities and initiatives;
• Identifying opportunities for reducing redundancies, leveraging resources, creating economies of scale, and improving outcomes;
• Ensuring compliance with local and federal mandates; and
• Collecting and disseminating performance data for agency activities and initiatives.

Safe and Secure DC Nonprofit Fund

Purpose

The grant will improve and increase the physical/cyber security and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack, safeguarding the lives and property of District residents and visitors. All grant activities must be linked to enhancing the security and safety at the physical site of the nonprofit organization. This grant will prioritize preparedness activities of nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of a terrorist or other extremist attack, with broader state and local preparedness efforts.

The grant will fund activities implemented by nonprofits in three focus areas (enhancing the protection of soft targets/crowded places; planning; and/or exercises and training). The Program shall be funded in accordance with D.C. Official Code § 1-301.192 (d)(1) and will be awarded as a grant to the selected recipients.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The FY25 MBSYEP Career Exploration NOFA invites qualified providers to submit applications for delivering structured workforce development training to District youth aged 14-15. This program aims to equip participants with essential skills for future employment through a 6-week program focused on career exploration and skill development. Grants of up to $50,000 will support these initiatives, fostering valuable summer work experiences in diverse sectors.

The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Health Policy Fellows program offers a unique opportunity for exceptional midcareer professionals to engage in health policy and science in Washington, D.C. This comprehensive fellowship emphasizes a full-time commitment, requiring a minimum 12-month residency. Participants will meet influential leaders, develop skills in legislative processes, and contribute to significant health policy initiatives. With funding available for eight fellows, this program aims to cultivate future leaders who will impact health and healthcare across the nation.

The M&T Charitable Foundation Grants provide essential support to a variety of organizations focused on enhancing community well-being. With a mission rooted in corporate responsibility, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with 501(c)(3) organizations in sectors such as arts, health, education, and human services. By investing in local initiatives, the foundation aims to create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders involved.

Washington, DC Global Soft Landing

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development (“DMPED”) invites the submission of applications from qualified organizations for a grant under the Washington, DC Global Soft Landing (“GSL”) initiative (the “Program”). The purpose of the GSL Initiative is to support international entrepreneurs, startups, and companies seeking to establish operations in the District of Columbia (“District”).

The GSL initiative connects international entrepreneurs and startups to a network of economic developers, local government, universities, chambers of commerce, and business service providers to support a successful market entry into Washington, DC. Through the Program, DMPED intends to award funds to a Program Operator to manage and coordinate a comprehensive suite of services for international companies navigating the U.S. market entry process (“Project”). Grant funds are intended to support the day-to-day operations of the GSL initiative, as further outlined in the RFA

The ASCAP Foundation Mariana & Paul Williams "Sunlight of the Spirit" Award supports organizations dedicated to addiction recovery through music. Established by the ASCAP Foundation and Paul Williams, the award recognizes efforts that improve lives affected by addiction. Eligible nominees must be 501(c)(3) organizations with a commitment to music-based recovery. The award includes a $5,000 prize to further their impactful work in the community, fostering healing through the therapeutic power of music.

The Lemelson Center Fellowship Program offers support for innovative projects that delve into the history of invention and technology in American society. It encourages research on diverse inventors and technologies, particularly those related to under-represented groups. Fellowship tenure is flexible, with stipends of $850/week for pre-doctoral and $1,100/week for post-doctoral applicants. The program provides access to Smithsonian resources, fostering academic exchanges and presentations to enhance scholarly contributions in the field.

The Youth Pathways to the Finance Industry RFA aims to provide enriching summer work experiences for District youth aged 14 to 24 through the Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program. This initiative seeks qualified organizations to develop a structured program that exposes youth ages 16-18 to finance careers, including professional development and internships. Applicants must demonstrate effectiveness in meeting the needs of this target population and are encouraged to attend a pre-application conference.