Best Grants for New Nonprofits in District of Columbia

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Charles A. Lindbergh Chair in Aerospace History Fellowship is a prestigious 12-month opportunity for senior scholars to advance their research in aerospace history. Offering up to $100,000 for living expenses in Washington, D.C., this fellowship encourages interaction with museum professionals and participation in seminars. Applications are due December 1, two years prior to the fellowship start date, ensuring scholars have ample time for necessary arrangements.

General Operating Support (GOS)

The DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is soliciting applications from qualified arts, humanities, or arts education organizations for its Fiscal Year 2027 General Operating Support Grant Program (GOS). Award amounts vary. An award to an individual organization with an annual operating budget exceeding $115,000 may not exceed 50% of the organization's annual operating budget exclusive of funds granted by the Commission on the Arts and Humanities.

Applicants may submit one (1) grant application to this program per fiscal year cycle.

• Single Year Applicants
• Multi-year Applicants
• Capacity Building Applicants

Multi-year Applicants

Applicant organization must have received funding through CAH’s GOS Single Year grant program in FY26. Additionally, applicant organization must have received funding for two additional years in one of CAH’s GOS grant programs between FY22 and FY25.

Organizations in receipt of funding through GOS in the FY26 cycle along with funding for two yearsof GOS grant cycles between FY22 and FY25 are eligible to apply to the multi-year cycle. All applicants to this cohort will undergo internal compliance review but will not be paneled by a peer review committee. Should applicant organizations be deemed eligible, CAH will endeavor to fund them as close to the funding level received in their FY26 award. Organizations must reapply to the GOS program as Single Year applicants following the second year of multi-year funding. There is no third year of multi-year funding.

The Safe Commercial Corridors Grant Program, managed by the District of Columbia Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice, aims to enhance public safety and health in local commercial districts. This initiative allocates funding for activities such as relationship-building among community members, assisting with security improvements, and providing safe passage for individuals. The program underscores the importance of community engagement and resource connectivity to foster a safer environment for residents, workers, and visitors.

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment seeks partners for the Specialty Crop Block Grant Program FY 2025 to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops such as fruits, vegetables, and horticulture. This initiative aims to market specialty crops, support research and development, increase access, and tackle challenges faced by producers. The grant request is for $223,561, with multiple partners expected to be selected for funded projects.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The ISF Congressional Policy Fellowship is a prestigious, nonpartisan program designed to enhance diversity and inclusion in government. Over a 9-month period, selected fellows will gain valuable experience in policy-making while working closely with Congressional members. The fellowship offers mentorship, professional development, and opportunities to engage in tasks such as drafting legislation and conducting policy research. This initiative aims to empower American Muslims in public service, ensuring their voices contribute to shaping effective public policies.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

District of Columbia Prevention Centers (DCPC)

Overview

The Government of the District of Columbia, Department of Behavioral Health, Children and Youth Services Division is soliciting applications from qualified organizations to implement and establish one of four (4) DC Prevention Centers. This solicitation includes one (1) application opportunity under the District of Columbia Prevention Centers (DCPC).

This initiative is funded by the United States Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, & Recovery Services Block Grant (SUPTRS) and the State Opioid Response (SOR) grant.

The District of Columbia Opioid Response (DCOR) grant, guided by LIVE.LONG.DC., the District’s Plan to Reduce Opioid Use, Misuse, and Related Deaths (LLDC), is focused on increasing access to medication for opioid use disorder (MOUD) treatment, reducing unmet treatment needs, and reducing opioid overdose-related deaths in the District of Columbia through the provision of overdose prevention, treatment, and recovery support services (RSS) to individuals with OUD and/or STUD.

This initiative addresses the following LLDC goals:

• PC. 1: Provide age-appropriate, evidence-based, education and prevention initiatives in all public schools and public charter schools regarding the risk of illegal drug use, prescription drug misuse, and safe disposal of medications
• PC 2: Conduct outreach and training activities in community settings to engage youth, parents, educators, school staff, and childcare providers on effective communication and engagement strategies to support individuals impacted by substance use disorders.
• PC 3: Coordinate across stakeholders, wards, and jurisdictional/regional areas to connect consumers, review data, and inform progress

The goal of the DCPCs is to prevent the early onset of alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs (ATOD) use, including stimulants and opioids, while reducing risk and increasing protective factors for children, youth, families, and adults. The geographical locations and coverage areas for the DCPCs are: one (1) serving Wards 1 & 2, one (1) serving Wards 3 & 4, one (1) serving Wards 5 & 6, and one (1) serving Wards 7 & 8.

The Rec for All - SUPPORT, ENGAGEMENT, AND EVENTS (SEE) Grant, provided by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, aims to enhance recreational opportunities for underserved youth aged 6 to 18. With funding up to $10,000, organizations can support community programs and events that promote skill development and physical wellness, fostering an inclusive environment for all participants. This initiative aligns with Mayor Bowser's commitment to engaging youth through quality recreation services.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Wawa Foundation offers in-kind support to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations within its six-state area, focusing on health, hunger, and everyday heroes. Organizations can request product donations, such as Wawa brand beverages, or gift baskets for fundraising events. Requests must be made at least four weeks in advance, and support is subject to availability. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and enhance local philanthropy through meaningful contributions.

The William L. Fisher Congressional Geoscience Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for individuals to engage with the legislative process in Washington, D.C., for 12 months. This fellowship, with a stipend of $78,000, is designed for candidates with a strong geoscience background and excellent communication skills. Applicants must have a Ph.D. by the appointment date and be U.S. citizens or eligible to work in the U.S. This position aims to apply geoscientific knowledge to federal policy issues.

The Camille Dreyfus Teacher-Scholar Awards Program supports talented early career faculty in the chemical sciences by providing an unrestricted research grant of $100,000. Nominees must demonstrate outstanding research achievements and a commitment to education. Each institution can submit one nomination annually. The program emphasizes innovation and leadership in research while considering factors such as awards, publication success, and contributions to education, particularly at the undergraduate level.

The Audrey Flack Short-Term Fellowship offers a $5,000 stipend and travel allowance for a one-month residency in Washington, D.C. from June 2026 to May 2027. It is open to predoctoral, postdoctoral, and senior scholars in American art research, particularly those unable to commit to longer residencies. The fellowship promotes diversity and inclusivity, welcoming applications from underrepresented groups. Participants will have access to resources and opportunities for professional development at the Smithsonian.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum Fellowship Program invites applications for its prestigious fellowships, which support full-time research in American art. This program is open to PhD candidates, postdoctoral researchers, and senior scholars. Fellowships have varying stipends, with senior fellowships offering $57,000 per year, and predoctoral fellowships offering $45,000. Applicants are encouraged to align with a research advisor from the museum's staff to enhance their application. The deadline for submission is November 1st.

About Us

The District of Columbia Public Library is a vibrant center of activity for residents and visitors in the nation’s capital. The library provides environments that invite reading, learning and community discussion and equips people to learn all their lives, to embrace diversity and to build a thriving city. We are proud to be a recognized force in the community for engaging the mind, expanding opportunities and elevating the quality of life.

DC Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants

The primary mission of the District of Columbia Public Library (DCPL) is to provide public library services to the residents of the District of Columbia. DCPL is also considered a state library administrative agency (SLAA). As the SLAA for the District of Columbia, DCPL is responsible for carrying out the provisions of the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States program in the District.

Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) Grants to States Program

The Library Services and Technology Act is a component of The Museum and Library Services Act of 2010. The LSTA program is administered at the Federal level by the Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS). It is the only federal program exclusively for libraries. Under the requirements of the legislation, IMLS provides funds to state library administrative agencies using a population-based formula. (See the most current State Allotments.) IMLS has been working with the SLAAs to develop focal areas to guide states in use of their funding. These six focal areas are:

• Lifelong Learning
• Employment & Economic Development
• Human Services
• Civic Engagement
• Information Access
• Institutional Capacity

DCPL’s LSTA Plan 2023-2027 includes four goals that align with the focal areas identified by IMLS. These goals are: 

• GOAL 1: RECOVER TOGETHER: The library will strengthen existing services and develop new ones that  support District recovery priorities, such as improving personal health, education, career prospects, and digital inclusion.  
• GOAL 2: WELCOME EVERYONE: All local residents will feel welcomed to an accessible library where their needs are centered.    
• GOAL 3: INVEST IN US: District residents will benefit from improved library services through enhanced investment in staff training and development and innovative collections, technology, and opportunities.  
• GOAL 4: STAY ROOTED: D.C. history and culture will be celebrated through community-centered  programming, exhibits, and collections.

Sustainable Communities Grants Program

National Park Trust, in partnership with Pepco, is excited to offer the 2026 Sustainable Communities Grants Program. Municipalities and nonprofit organizations from across the Pepco service area in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties in Maryland, and Washington, DC are eligible. This program provides $100,000 in support for environmental stewardship and community resilience projects.

• Environmental Stewardship Grants: Open space is a major driver of quality of life in the DC Metro region. These projects will enhance resiliency in this region by stewarding open space and protected lands, which protect water quality in streams and rivers, mitigate urban heat island effects, and promote social benefits such as health, a sense of place, and community connections.
• Community Resiliency Grants:Though the Washington metropolitan region is known for its rich diversity, it remains one of the most socioeconomically segregated urban areas. As a result, many communities do not have the resources to prepare for or mitigate the impacts of extreme weather or other emergencies. These grants will focus on projects that demonstrate innovation in providing a safe and reliable resource that minimizes potential impacts to the community during a time of emergency. 

Pepco values the environment and is always working to deliver a cleaner, brighter future for communities. For Pepco and its parent company, Exelon, diversity, equity, and inclusion are core foundational values both in the workplace and in outreach to the people it serves. The company strongly encourages underrepresented communities to apply for the Sustainable Communities Grant. Prospective applicants are encouraged to consider collaborating with neighboring municipalities and/or local nonprofit organizations to propose projects with regional implications and benefits.

Grants will be awarded to support community environmental stewardship and resiliency projects:

Environmental Stewardship Grants

• Awards up to $10,000
• Total of $60,000 awarded
• Up to 7 awards expected

Community Resiliency Grants

• Awards up to $20,000
• Total of $40,000 awarded
• Up to 2 awards expected

Request for Applications - Lead Poisoning Prevention Outreach for Expectant and New Parents

DOEE seeks one or more eligible entities to provide education and outreach activities focused on lead poisoning prevention to the expectant and new parent community in Washington, D.C. The amount available for the project is $67,281.

The Violence Prevention & Response Team Grant, offered by the District of Columbia's Mayor’s Office, seeks applications from community-based organizations (CBOs) dedicated to serving underrepresented communities. This grant prioritizes services in victim response or violence prevention outreach. CBOs will collaborate to provide tailored support and outreach services, addressing the needs of crime victims and individuals affected by opioid-related overdoses. This initiative promotes a holistic approach to community safety and resilience.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

The Brown Rudnick Community Grants program aims to support front-line educational workers in underserved communities across cities like Boston and New York. With grants up to $2,000, it addresses immediate educational needs that traditional funding overlooks. This initiative encourages collaboration with educators to enhance learning environments and foster positive change, ensuring that impactful projects receive the necessary support to thrive within a year of funding.

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

Office of Victim Services and Justice Grants (OVSJG) is seeking applications for funding to maintain the comprehensive network of trauma-informed services available to victims of crime; to address the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, stalking, and sexual assault in a manner that promotes victim safety and offender accountability; to improve the treatment of victims of crime by providing them with the assistance and services necessary to aid their restoration after a criminal act, and to support and aid victims as they move through the criminal and civil justice processes. 

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.