Best Grants for Preschools in District of Columbia

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation

Who knew that a movie made 30 years ago would become the catalyst for the creation of a namesake non-profit, changing the lives of hundreds of thousands of kids by giving them access to learn and play music in school – keeping music education alive and strong across the country?

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation was inspired by the acclaimed motion picture Mr. Holland’s Opus, the story of the profound effect a dedicated music teacher had on generations of students. Michael Kamen, who wrote the score for the film, started the foundation in 1996 as his commitment to the future of music education.

The Foundation donates high-quality musical instruments to deserving, under-funded music programs, and provides an array of support services to school districts. By increasing the school’s inventory of quality, playable instruments, music teachers are given the tools they need to deliver a quality music education to students who want to learn. In collaboration with committed school districts, the Foundation’s investments are strategically placed as part of a K–12 district-wide plan to achieve positive and lasting results. Generations of students will benefit.

Instrument Grants

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation donates musical instruments to schools nationwide with a focus on increasing student access to music education programs in low-income communities.

Mr. Holland’s Opus Foundation grants consist of musical instruments and equipment only; no cash grants are provided. Our team handles sourcing, ordering, and delivering the instruments. As part of the application process, we work with the teacher to assess the program’s needs to determine the appropriate instruments and equipment. Note that only student model instruments are provided, and the brand is at the Foundation’s discretion.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

The Experiential Education Initiative (EEI) Internship, established in 2000, offers a semester-long, paid internship for individuals aged 19 to 30 with intellectual disabilities. This program enhances work-readiness skills while providing access to cultural arts experiences at the Kennedy Center. Interns gain valuable professional and social skills through integrated experiences with college students and staff specialists, ensuring a supportive environment for personal growth and career exploration in the performing arts.

About DMPSJ

The mission of the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice (DMPSJ) is to provide direction, guidance, support, and coordination to the District’s public safety agencies to develop and lead interagency public safety initiatives to improve the quality of life in the District’s neighborhoods.

Safe and Secure DC Nonprofit Fund

The Office of the Deputy Mayor for Public Safety and Justice (DMPSJ) is in year two of managing the Safe and Secure DC Nonprofit Fund. This program is designed to enhance the security and safety at the physical site(s) of a nonprofit organization located in the District of Columbia. The grant will improve and increase the physical/cyber security and facility/target hardening of nonprofit organizations’ facilities at risk of a terrorist of other extremist attack, safeguarding the lives and property of District residents and visitors.

District of Columbia Watershed Stewardship Project

DOEE seeks an eligible entity to provide a comprehensive watershed stewardship educational project to District residents. The proposed project will educate participants about the basics of watershed stewardship and provide hands-on experiences relating to the sources of pollution and different types of policies and practices. The amount available for the two-year project to a single grantee is $70,000.

Purpose of the Grant

The purpose of this grant is to design and implement a comprehensive watershed stewardship educational project for District residents, and to equip District residents with the knowledge, tools, and resources necessary to address sources of water pollution and work toward improving the overall health of local waterways while fostering education and continuous community involvement.

The Westinghouse Charitable Giving Program aims to strengthen community ties by providing financial support in key areas such as education focused on STEM, environmental sustainability, and community safety. This program welcomes applications from eligible organizations that meet specific grant criteria, including being tax-exempt and located within 50 miles of a Westinghouse site. The initiative underscores Westinghouse's commitment to advancing education, promoting environmental stewardship, and enhancing community well-being.

Climate Resilience and Insurance Industry Collaboration Grant

DOEE seeks eligible entities to support innovative partnerships that address climate-related risks in insurance markets. This grant aims to bring together public and private stakeholders to explore solutions that improve insurance affordability, strengthen climate resilience, and protect economic stability in the District. The amount available for the project is $25,000.

A grantee may use grant funds only for allowable grant expenditures. Grant funds related to work performed will be provided on a reimbursement basis, except that, in limited circumstances, an advance of funds may be provided for grant administration expenses for a good cause approved by DOEE at its sole discretion. 

Bird Friendly Buildings Grant

DOEE seeks eligible entities to reduce bird collisions in the District by promoting voluntary, high-impact retrofits of existing buildings.

This grant is intended to 

• Develop a priority list that identifies existing buildings that pose the greatest risk of bird collision to accelerate bird-safe improvements; 
• Educate building owners and operators about the benefits of bird friendly retrofits to their existing buildings; and
• Pilot the direct implementation of at least one high-risk building retrofit during the grant period.

The amount available for the project is $150,000.

The Mid-Atlantic Panel on Aquatic Invasive Species Grant Program invites proposals for funding to tackle aquatic invasive species (AIS) challenges. Key priorities include research on AIS management, innovative control methods, and educational outreach. Eligible applicants range from individuals in government agencies to non-profit organizations. The program seeks to support initiatives that align with the Aquatic Nuisance Species Task Force standards and aims to enhance regional AIS management strategies.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The PLTW Computer Science grant, funded by Lockheed Martin, aims to support schools in expanding or establishing PLTW Computer Science courses. This initiative addresses the critical shortage of skilled professionals in STEM fields, enabling students to gain essential knowledge and skills. Since 2007, Lockheed Martin has successfully partnered with PLTW to implement programs across the nation, impacting over 77,000 students. Schools are encouraged to apply for funding to enhance their computer science curriculum.

Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Grants Program delivered in partnership with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service supports efforts to improve the condition and connectivity of habitats for at risk and federally listed species.

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) is committed to operating in full compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and Executive Orders. We continuously monitor legal and regulatory developments to ensure our policies, procedures, and operations align with current federal directives. We encourage all applicants to do the same.  

The ability and extent to which NFWF is able to make awards is contingent upon receipt of funds from federal agencies and/or other funding partners. Final funding decisions will be made based on the applications received and the level and timing of funding received by NFWF.

The WILD Program Pillars are:

• Pillar 1: Restore, conserve, and connect fish and wildlife habitat
• Pillar 2: Improve water quality for fish, wildlife and people
• Pillar 3: Align the power of nature to adapt to changing landscapes
• Pillar 4: Expand access to nature and outdoor recreation for all Americans
• Pillar 5: Build partnership capacity to collaborate and coordinate actions

The Chesapeake WILD Grants Program has three distinct tracks:

• Collaborative Conservation
  • Grants of up to $200,000 will be awarded for projects that support and enhance the capacity of partnerships, networks, and other collaborative models working collaboratively to advance place-based, landscape-scale, and crossjurisdictional habitat restoration, conservation, and connectivity outcomes.
• Planning and Technical Assistance
• Implementation

Request for Applications

Youth 90-Day Emergency Shelter and Low Barrier Case Management Services Provider

As outlined in Solid Foundations DC, the District’s strategic plan to prevent and end youth homelessness, the District is working to expand the continuum of support and services for unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness. According to the 2026 Point in Time (PIT) count, 333 unaccompanied Transition Aged Youth (TAY) were reported of which 38% of TAY counted identify as LGBTQ+.

The District recognizes that youth ages 18-24 experiencing homelessness need early intervention, access to basic needs, when appropriate reunification with family or diversion services, and at times, connection to housing resources in the homelessness continuum. Under this solicitation, the District will continue its investment in one 90-Day Emergency Shelter (ES) Provider and one Low Barrier Case Management Services (LBCM) Provider.

Prospective Grantees services will include, but are not limited to, coordination with homeless outreach teams, Homeless Shelter Hotline, and youth serving providers to identify youth experiencing homelessness, assessment and case management services to facilitate rapid housing placement, participation in the District’s Youth Coordinated Assessment Housing Placement (Y-CAHP) system, documenting shelter center services in the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS); provision of showers, meals, onsite counseling, as well as mental and physical health services, employment identification and housing location supports, participation in the District’s Interagency Council on Homelessness (ICH) Youth Committee, Continuum of Care (CoC), and DHS sponsored training as appropriate.

The goal of the ES and LBCM is to provide homeless youth with:

a safe, inclusive, and accessible space infused with supportive services in a comfortable and respectful environment

assessments to facilitate rapid connections and reconnection to housing

access to basic needs including showers and meals

assistance with obtaining identification documents and income supports

physical, mental, and sexual health resources,

workforce development activities and connections to employment

housing navigation supports (outside of the continuum of care)

Through this solicitation, DHS is looking to the following:

• 90-Day Emergency Shelter: 54 beds
  • 24 beds must be dedicated to LGBTQ+ youth
• Low Barrier Case Management Services: Provide services for up to 20 youth.
  • 12 male identifying youth
  • 8 female identifying youth

The Prospective Grantee must demonstrate a youth development approach and cultural competency, language accessibility, and a system for reporting bullying and harassment in accordance with the HSRA (D.C. Official Code § 4-754.21(18)).

The TYLENOL Future Care Scholarship supports students pursuing healthcare careers, continuing a 30-year tradition of helping those dedicated to caring for others. Eligible applicants must be U.S. residents, graduate students or seniors enrolling in graduate school for the 2024-25 academic year, and provide proof of enrollment in an accredited healthcare program. Scholarships cover tuition, fees, and necessary supplies, ensuring that future healthcare professionals receive the support they need.

The goal of the Emergency Shelter and Low Barrier Case Management Services Provider is to provide homeless youth with: 1) a safe, inclusive, and accessible space infused with supportive services in a comfortable and respectful environment 2) assessments to facilitate rapid connections and reconnection to housing 3) access to basic needs including showers and meals 4) assistance with obtaining identification documents and income supports 5) physical, mental, and sexual health resources, 5) workforce development activities and connections to employment 7) housing navigation supports (outside of the continuum of care). 

The Cultural Humility Training Grant, offered by the District of Columbia Mayor’s Office on Volunteerism & Partnerships, aims to empower community-based organizations (CBOs) to enhance cultural competency and provide affirming spaces for youth, particularly those experiencing homelessness. This two-year initiative supports CBOs in delivering tailored training, improving service delivery, and fostering inclusive environments. The grant period extends from October 1, 2025, to September 30, 2027, focusing on evidence-based practices to better serve vulnerable populations.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The District of Columbia Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) aims to replace diesel vehicles with zero-emission equivalents to enhance community health. The grant supports replacing medium- and heavy-duty vehicles registered in the District, with available funding totaling $2,396,457. Non-governmental organizations, faith-based groups, universities, and private enterprises are encouraged to apply for rebates on vehicle replacement costs, promoting a cleaner environment and reduced NOx emissions.

The Department of Employment Services (DOES) connects District of Columbia (District) residents, job seekers, and employers to opportunities and resources that empower fair, safe, and effective working communities. DOES provides a range of programs and services to jobseekers, including job development, job search assistance, self-directed job search, vocational training, apprenticeship, unemployment insurance, transitional employment, and referrals to supportive services and educational programs.

DOES, Office of Workforce & Federal Programs Out-of-School Youth Program (OSY) provides occupational skills training, career awareness counseling, work readiness modules, basic education, GED preparation, supported internship experiences, vocational skills training, and pre-apprenticeship. Out-of-School programs serve young adults ages 16 - 24 who are no longer attending secondary or post-secondary school. It is a training vehicle that assists youth in achieving short and long term educational and employability goals through relevant occupational skills training and guidance.

OSY Pre-Apprenticeship Grant

Purpose

The goal of OSY Pre-Apprenticeship grant is to equip out-of-school youth ages 16 – 24 in Washington, DC with pathways to high-demand careers through traditional and nontraditional industry-aligned training, stackable credentials, and unsubsidized job placement. This structured program, up to 16-weeks in length, provides participants who are actively seeking unsubsidized employment with the opportunities to build career readiness, strengthen both technical & workplace skills, as well as gain exposure to the workforce. Program providers are responsible for delivering comprehensive career readiness training, recruiting and maintaining partnerships with pre-apprenticeship employer host sites, and facilitating participant placement and matching appropriate work experiences in the following industries. The goal is to prepare participants for entry into a registered Apprenticeship program or direct placement into unsubsidized employment within the pre-apprenticeship scope, while maintaining and creating sustainable pathways to longterm career success.

The Safe Passage, Safe Blocks RFA aims to enhance student safety during their commutes by funding community-based organizations to provide a visible adult presence along designated routes. This initiative seeks to reduce violence and disruptions while fostering positive youth engagement, creating a supportive environment for students, families, and school communities in priority areas. The program utilizes trained Safe Passage Ambassadors to identify and intervene in potential threats, ensuring safer travel for all.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) Capacity Building opportunity aims to enhance the capabilities of university researchers in eligible states. Managed by the DoD, this initiative focuses on increasing the number of researchers capable of conducting relevant science and engineering research. The program also seeks to strengthen institutions of higher education and improve their competitiveness for federal research funding, ultimately fostering long-term growth in financial assistance for scientific research.

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.

Substance Use Disorder HIV Early Intervention Services

The Government of the District of Columbia, Department of Behavioral Health, Adult Services Division is soliciting applications certified substance use disorder (SUD) providers to conduct human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) early intervention services (EIS) to individuals seeking treatment services in the District of Columbia.

The goal of this funding is to prevent the spread of HIV by increasing awareness and education through counseling, screening/testing, data collection, linkage and referral to treatment service within the SUD/ Behavioral Health continuum of care provider network.

The DBH will fund grantees to implement HIV EIS to include the following four areas:

• Promotion of prevention and education to increase awareness.
• Provide HIV Screening and testing services.
• Ensure linkage and coordination of follow-up care and referrals to treatment.
• Develop a monitoring system to collect the data that aligns with the HIV early intervention process.

The Nonprofit Resource Training Grant offers up to $1,000 for tax-exempt organizations to send employees to essential training and conferences. This initiative supports community-based groups that serve low- to moderate-income populations and align with The Ready Commitment. By enhancing employee skills, the grant aims to strengthen nonprofits and their impact in the community, ensuring they provide valuable services effectively.

The Emeril Lagasse Foundation offers Community Grants aimed at supporting 501c3 non-profit organizations that focus on culinary, nutrition, and arts education, with an emphasis on life skills development. Grants are available to organizations in communities where the foundation operates, including Greater New Orleans, Austin, and Southern California. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and align with the foundation's vision of empowering youth to reach their full potential.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

The AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation Grant aims to prevent and mitigate adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to promote healthier outcomes for children. With a focus on empowering families, healing behaviors, and access to healthcare, the foundation supports nonprofit organizations that provide comprehensive care and resources. Grants range from $100,000 to $250,000, totaling up to $1.945 million for project-specific initiatives. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in states where AmeriHealth Caritas Medicaid markets exist.

The General Operating Support Grant Program offers essential funding to non-profit organizations focused on arts and humanities. Applicants must demonstrate a commitment to diverse artistic expressions and community engagement, aligning with the DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities' goals. The program reviews applications based on three categories: Generalists, Service Organizations, and Capacity Building, ensuring that a significant portion of resources is dedicated to arts and humanities initiatives.