Best Grants for Preschools in District of Columbia

About Us

Who We Are

The National Federation of the Blind is the oldest and largest nationwide organization of blind Americans. Founded in 1940 and currently headquartered in Baltimore, the NFB consists of affiliates, chapters, and divisions in all fifty states, Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico.

What We Do

Through our network of blind members, we coordinate many programs, services, and resources to defend the rights of blind Americans, provide information and support to blind children and adults, and build a community that creates a future full of opportunities.

What We Believe

We are the only organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people and has the power to transform our dreams into reality. We believe in blind people because we are blind people—from our democratically elected leaders to our diverse nationwide membership.

Scholarship Program

Thanks to our generous partners, there are thirty $10,000 merit-based scholarships currently available. All scholarships are awarded on the basis of academic excellence, community service, and leadership. The finalists are announced every spring. They then attend our national convention in July when the winners of each individual scholarship are selected. 

The American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults Scholarship

For more than 100 years the American Action Fund for Blind Children and Adults has strived to improve the lives of blind and Deafblind children and adults. Best known for annually producing and gifting Braille Calendars, sponsoring the free Braille books for blind children program, and administering the Braille Readers are Leaders contest, the American Action Fund leads in promoting Braille literacy. The American Action Fund is proud to award this scholarship to a deserving and talented blind person. 

The Wilson Center Fellowship offers scholars, practitioners, and journalists an opportunity to conduct impactful research on pressing foreign policy challenges. Applicants must have a PhD or equivalent experience, and projects should align with the Center's scholarship pillars, including strategic competition and technology innovation. The fellowship includes remote work and a trip to Washington D.C. for presentations, fostering engagement with policymakers and other experts. The program emphasizes nonpartisan research and aims to translate academic insights into actionable policy recommendations.

Department of For-Hire Vehicles (DFHV)

Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) FY 2027 Transport DC Grant Program

The Government of the District of Columbia, Department of For-Hire Vehicles (“DFHV” or “Department”), is soliciting applications from all eligible DFHV licensed taxicab companies (“Taxicab Companies”) with current DFHV Digital Taxicab Solution (“DTS”) licensing and Operational Authority to operate DFHV’s Transport DC (“TDC”) program. The TDC program has been in operation for the past seven years providing an alternative transportation service to the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s paratransit services entitled MetroAccess. Current TDC providers support a cost-effective, curb-to-curb service for eligible and active MetroAccess customers. Transport DC customers may take up to ten (10) one-way trips (or five (5) round trips each month) to any destination within the District of Columbia (“DC”).

This program is expected to start at the beginning of Fiscal Year 2027 (“FY27”) and throughout the year without interruption after potential applicants are awarded a grant. DFHV will expect the awardee, or awardees, to participate and commitment staff to monthly advisory meetings, monthly provider meetings, and respond to any information and reporting requests immediately or upon a reasonable response time. An applicant should describe in detail who those program points of contacts shall be and tour of duty schedule.

DFHV is seeking candidates with an expertise in paratransit, on-demand, and pre-booking up to twenty-four hours of a requested pick-up. In addition, the selected applicant must be located within the District of Columbia and must comply with Title 31 of the District of Columbia Municipal Regulations in its entirety with an emphasis on: Chapter 9, Insurance Requirements for Public Vehicles-For-Hire in its entirety including Applications and Scope pertaining to WAV vehicles; Chapter 16, Dispatch Services and District of Columbia Taxicab Industry CO-OP, and Chapter 18, Wheelchair Accessible Paratransit Taxicab Services. DFHV is seeking to leverage the capacity of the local for-hire vehicle industry and use innovations and best practices to include on-demand mobility fields to provide an innovative TDC transportation solution to enhance an already popular and highly visible program while including advocates, DFHV’s Project Lead, and other stakeholders’ input and suggestions.

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 Nora Roberts Foundation, established in 2001 by best-selling author Nora Roberts, prioritizes literacy as a fundamental human right. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to literacy, the arts, children, social justice, and environmental initiatives. Grants typically average $5,000, with recommendations for first-time applicants to request between $3,000 and $5,000. Preference is given to local groups in Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington DC, particularly those with 501(c)(3) status.

DC Health aims to reduce racial/ethnic  disparities in preterm and birth and infant mortality in the District of Columbia. Funding under this RFA will support the implementation of evidence-based strategies to reduce mental risk factors and the occurrence of preterm births among  high-risk District residents. 

The Capital Projects Grant Program, offered by the DC Commission on the Arts & Humanities, supports organizations that own or rent facilities, intend to own facilities, or seek capital project support for permanent assets in the arts and humanities. It aims to promote stability and growth, preserve infrastructure, ensure access to quality spaces, reduce displacement risk, and foster access for all residents.

The East Arts Grant Program supports BIPOC-centered non-profit organizations in the northeast and southeast quadrants of Washington, DC, providing high-quality arts and humanities experiences. This initiative aims to enhance community identity and elevate the creative excellence of artists through various disciplines, including dance, visual arts, and literature. By fostering access to these experiences, the program enriches the cultural landscape and quality of life for local residents.

Humanities DC offers Community Culture and Heritage Grants aimed at enhancing the quality of life and promoting the understanding of local history in Washington, DC. Founded in 1980 as an affiliate of the National Endowment for the Humanities, HumanitiesDC supports diverse humanities programs that foster cross-cultural appreciation. These grants are designed to enrich neighborhoods through various cultural initiatives, ensuring a vibrant community heritage.

The Latham Fund Grant supports organizations in the Washington, DC area focusing on medical research for disease cures, particularly clinical applications. It also aids financially challenged patients requiring medical, nursing, or hospital care. Established in 1972, the Charles and Mary Latham Fund has positively impacted the community by funding various health-related projects. Grants are not available for research involving animals or individual support, ensuring a focus on collective health advancements.

Equitable Food Access Initiative: Healthy Corner Stores RFA

The Department of Health (DC Health) is requesting proposals from qualified applicants to implement evidence based or evidence informed strategies that increase food access and improve food environments for District residents through corner stores.

The purpose of this funding is to improve food access and food environments in communities experiencing inequities that contribute to food insecurity. The District of Columbia, Department of Health (DC Health), Community Health Administration (CHADistrict of Columbia to implement evidence-based, multi-level interventions designed to improve food environments, food access, and food security for vulnerable residents across the lifespan.

The total funding amount of up to $750,000 is anticipated for one (1) award for the first budget period

Equitable Food Access Initiative: Produce Incentives

The total funding amount of $2,100,000 is anticipated for one (1) award for the first budget period. 

The mission of DC Health is to promote and protect the health, safety, and quality of life of residents, visitors, and those doing business in the District of Columbia. The agency is responsible for identifying health risks; educating the public; preventing and controlling diseases, injuries, and exposure to environmental hazards; promoting effective community collaborations; and optimizing equitable access to community resources.

The Community Health Administration (CHA) within DC Health works to prevent the leading causes of death, protect and promote the health of mothers and children, and eliminate racial and ethnic health disparities. CHA’s approach targets multiple factors that influence health through evidence-based programs, policies, and systems change.

The purpose of this funding is to attract qualified applicants to implement evidence-based or evidence-informed strategies to increase food access and improve food environments for District residents with lower incomes through farmers’ market produce incentives.

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). 

The Youth Workforce Development Program by the District of Columbia Department of Youth Rehabilitation Services aims to prepare justice-involved youth for successful transition into adulthood. Through structured job training, skill development, and real-world experience, the program facilitates pathways to sustainable employment. It emphasizes collaboration with community partners and focuses on proven results for youth aged 18 to 21. By fostering a supportive environment, this initiative seeks to empower young individuals and promote their reintegration into society.

The A. W. Mellon Postdoctoral Fellowship at the National Gallery of Art supports research in the history, theory, and criticism of visual arts across various periods and regions. This two-year residential program allows fellows to engage in seminars and teach at local universities, enhancing scholarly contributions in understudied areas. The fellowship offers a stipend of $55,000 per year, along with allowances for medical insurance and travel, fostering a vibrant academic community.

The Beinecke Postdoctoral Fellowship at the Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts supports research in the history and theory of visual arts across various cultures and periods. This prestigious fellowship offers a two-year residency in Washington, D.C., providing access to valuable resources and opportunities for collaboration. Applicants must hold a PhD obtained within the last five years and demonstrate proficiency in two languages, with a focus on historically marginalized fields. The fellowship includes a stipend of $55,000 per year.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts offers Beinecke Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars to conduct full-time research in the visual arts. This program provides access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery of Art and the Library of Congress. Fellows, who must hold a PhD for five years or equivalent experience, receive stipends ranging from $7,000 to $8,000, along with housing subject to availability. Applications are welcomed from diverse disciplines, enhancing the study of visual culture.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery of Art offers Paul Mellon Visiting Senior Fellowships aimed at scholars researching the history and theory of visual arts across all periods and regions. Recipients receive a stipend of $7,000 or $8,000, along with housing, to support two months of full-time research. Applications are open to those holding a PhD or equivalent professional experience, with an emphasis on interdisciplinary insights into visual artifacts.

The Center for Advanced Study in the Visual Arts at the National Gallery offers Leonard A. Lauder Visiting Senior Fellowships for scholars engaged in research on the history and criticism of visual arts. Fellowships support full-time research and include access to extensive resources, including the National Gallery and Library of Congress. Applicants should have held a PhD for at least five years and demonstrate proficiency in two languages. The program encourages applications from historically marginalized fields.

The FY26 Comprehensive Literacy State Development Grant aims to enhance literacy skills for children from birth through grade 12, focusing on disadvantaged groups such as those living in poverty and English learners. Administered by the District of Columbia Office of the State Superintendent of Education, the grant supports evidence-based literacy practices and professional development. It seeks to bridge critical literacy gaps, improve instructional quality, and prioritize funding for entities serving low-income families.

National Geographic Society: Request for Proposals

Award Overview

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for academic researchers and graduate students investigating topics related to geography education in select states and locations. Awards of up to $10,000 (for researchers) and $5,000 (for graduate students) are available to support research projects.

At NGS we spark curiosity, empower exploration, and inspire change. We fund inspiring changemakers around the world who use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. 

We welcome submissions from researchers across disciplines but successful proposals must include research related to educational approaches or processes including but not limited to specific learning activities, learning outcomes, or educational tools that advance knowledge. Research that illuminates barriers and/or advances access for those farthest from opportunity is encouraged. 

Research proposals should generate new knowledge, and can either be new or scaled up versions of existing successful projects (e.g. evaluating a different group of learners or geographic area). 

The Group Violence Reduction Strategy Grant, administered by the DC Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, aims to reduce gun violence in Washington, D.C. This initiative seeks applications from organizations providing violence intervention services to engage high-risk individuals aged 18-35. By fostering community partnerships and implementing effective intervention strategies, the grant supports efforts to prevent violence and offer alternatives to crime, ultimately enhancing safety and well-being in local neighborhoods.

Anacostia River Watershed Trash Trap Maintenance RFA

DOEE seeks eligible entities to propose ways to monitor and maintain trash traps, provide environmental workforce development, and educate District residents about pollution that impairs the District’s waterbodies. A successful applicant will propose ways to design and implement a trash trap maintenance program for eight (8) trash traps in the Anacostia Watershed for one (1) year: to collect the trash; to collect data on the amount and types of trash being captured; to recruit, train, and employ District residents to assist; and to coordinate opportunities for volunteers to assist with maintenance and learn about the need for trash reduction in District waters and watersheds The amount available for the 12-month project is $160,000.

The Rauschenberg Dancer Emergency Grants offer one-time financial assistance of up to $3,000 for professional dancers facing urgent financial crises. Applicants must demonstrate a critical need due to circumstances like housing instability, healthcare costs, or food insecurity. Eligible dancers must be 21 or older, reside in the U.S., and have an income below specified thresholds. This program aims to support dancers in overcoming financial hardships exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic and other unforeseen challenges.

The Equitable Food Access Initiative: Home Delivered Meals, led by the DC Department of Health, aims to enhance food access for District residents. This program invites proposals from qualified community and non-profit organizations to implement effective strategies for delivering meals to those in need. By focusing on evidence-based approaches, the initiative seeks to improve food environments and ensure equitable access to nutritious food options for all residents.

The Vicky Collins Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support children with special needs in the Washington Metropolitan area. Established in memory of Vicky Collins, who suffered from Locked-in Syndrome after a stroke, the foundation has awarded nearly $2 million since its inception. Funding has been allocated to various initiatives, including the Arlington Pediatric Clinic and providing accessible vehicles for families of disabled children, ensuring improved quality of life for those affected.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.