Best Grants for Preschools in District of Columbia

MBSYEP Pathways to STEM Grant

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.

The Office of Youth Programs (OYP) develops and administers workforce development programs for District youth. OYP provides occupational skills training, work experience, academic enrichment and life skills training to facilitate the development of work habits and skills that are essential for success in the workplace.

DOES, through OYP, is seeking applications for the District’s Marion Barry Summer Youth Employment Program (MBSYEP) Youth Pathways to STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) Grant. The MBSYEP Youth Pathways to STEM Grant will provide District youth who are interested in becoming STEM professionals with a 6-week learning experience that includes 5-weeks of in-person career exploration and five (5) days must be dedicated to visiting colleges and universities across the country to experience student life in a STEM-related major.

Up to $150,000.00 is available in total for awards through this RFA.

The Building Opportunities & Sustainable Startups (B.O.S.S. UP) Grant aims to empower out-of-school youth by providing essential skills and resources for entrepreneurship. This initiative offers hands-on business training, mentorship, and financial literacy education. Selected organizations will deliver a structured curriculum and facilitate work experiences. The grant supports sustainable business launches, ensuring young entrepreneurs have the necessary tools to succeed in their ventures. Awarded for one year, with potential extensions based on funding.

The Hatfield Fellowship Program, established by the Confederated Tribes of the Grand Ronde Community of Oregon, offers a unique nine-month internship for a Native American to work in the Washington, D.C. office of an Oregon congressional delegate. This program aims to foster understanding between tribal communities and congressional leaders, empowering fellows with skills and experience in public service. Preference is given to members of Oregon's federally recognized tribes, ensuring a strong representation of Native American voices in politics.

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 AAFP Family Medicine Chapter Alliance Grant Awards support the philanthropic efforts of AAFP Constituent Chapters and Chapter Foundations. Since 2006, these grants have been designed to fund activities that align with specific priority areas including education, outreach, and public health initiatives. Eligible applicants include AAFP Chapters and Foundations, focusing on projects that promote community health and wellness.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Kristian Fauchald Polychaete Research Fellowship offers funding for polychaete biologists at all career stages to conduct independent research at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This fellowship promotes global collaboration in polychaete studies, providing access to extensive resources and facilities. Fellowships are awarded biannually, supporting projects of one week to six months, with eligible expenses including relocation and research costs. Applicants must engage actively in collections-based research and contact the curator before applying.

The Sara E. and Bruce B. Collette Postdoctoral Fellowship in Systematic Ichthyology, funded by the Smithsonian Institution, supports postdoctoral research in collections-based systematic ichthyology. Established in 2017, this fellowship aims to foster the next generation of researchers through access to the National Museum of Natural History's extensive collections. Awardees receive a stipend of $62,000 annually, as well as allowances for research, travel, and health insurance, making it a prestigious opportunity for scholars in the field.

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Anthropology supports graduate students engaged in research on indigenous communities, linguistics, and cultural diversity at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week fellowship offers a stipend of $8,000 and additional allowances for research and relocation. Applicants must be enrolled graduate students fluent in English, eligible for both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens, while previous Smithsonian employees are ineligible.

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Invertebrate Zoology offers short-term fellowships for graduate students researching invertebrate zoology at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week program, which includes a stipend of $10,000 and a research allowance of $5,000, prioritizes applicants who have not previously conducted research at NMNH. Fluency in English and full-time residency at NMNH are required for eligibility.

The Morton K. and Jane Blaustein Foundation Grant supports initiatives addressing climate justice, racial equity, and immigrant rights. It prioritizes organizations working towards sustainable climate solutions, advocating against racial injustices, and protecting the rights of immigrants and refugees. The foundation focuses its efforts particularly in areas affected by institutionalized racism and climate change, with a geographic emphasis on Baltimore, New York, and the DC Capital Region. Proposals are welcomed on a rolling basis.

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 Wayne Shirley Fellowship, awarded by the Society for American Music, supports short-term research residencies at the Library of Congress, focusing on the diverse musics of the Americas. This annual fellowship honors Wayne Shirley's legacy as a dedicated librarian and music specialist. With a maximum award of $1,000, it encourages scholars at all career stages to explore American music and its cultural significance.

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.

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 DC Commission on the Arts and Humanities (CAH) is an independent agency in the District of Columbia government. First established in 1968, it evaluates and initiates action on matters relating to the arts and humanities. Additionally, CAH encourages programs and the development of programs that promote progress in the arts and humanities. CAH is the designated state arts agency for the District of Columbia. It is supported primarily through District government funds. Additionally, it receives partial support from the National Endowment for the Arts.

Projects, Events, or Festivals

Projects, Events, or Festivals (PEF) furthers CAH’s mission by encouraging progress in the arts and humanities in the District of Columbia by supporting Individuals and non-profit arts, humanities, arts education, and service organizations who significantly contribute to the District of Columbia as a world-class cultural capital. This grant opportunity program goals:

• Provide access to high-quality arts and humanities experiences for all District of Columbia residents.
• Improve quality of life by supporting vibrant community projects within the arts and humanities.
• Strengthen the creative economy through investments in local individuals and organizations.

PEF is open for projects of all sizes that show District impact and engage District residents and visitors.

CAH encourages community-based projects that share characteristics such as geographic location, common interests, or community impact. Arts and humanities projects may include but are not limited to: concerts; visual arts exhibitions; literary readings; or festivals that feature dance, folk art, film, music, theatre and other art forms. 

The Ward 6 DC Main Streets Support Grant Program, managed by the District’s Department of Small and Local Business Development, allocates $350,000 to support DC non-profits enhancing small businesses and community development. Applications open on March 24, 2025, for two funding pools: $100,000 for 5-10 grants ($5,000-$20,000 each) and $250,000 for 1-3 grants ($75,000-$250,000 each). Eligible applicants include only DC-incorporated non-profits.

The Betsy James Wyeth Fellowship in Native American Art offers a unique opportunity for scholars to engage in a 12-month residency focused on Native American artists and methodologies. With a stipend of $53,000 and additional funding for research trips, this fellowship fosters scholarly exchange and professional development at the Smithsonian. Ideal candidates include predoctoral and postdoctoral researchers committed to Indigenous arts and cultures, ensuring a vibrant academic environment for innovative 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.

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.

T7 Social Impact GrantsThe T.D. Jakes Foundation (TDJF), in partnership with Wells Fargo, is proud to launch the Social Impact Grant Challenge, a transformative funding opportunity designed to identify, support, and amplify nonprofit organizations creating meaningful change in communities across the United States.

Designed around the T.D. Jakes Foundation's pillars of service (Educational Access & Workforce Readiness, financial inclusion, and community transformation and well-being), the Challenge seeks innovative nonprofit organizations that are addressing critical social issues through impactful, scalable, and sustainable solutions.

Finalists selected through this process will have the opportunity to showcase their organization through a live presentation at the inaugural Thriving Seven (T7) Summit, taking place November 12 –14 in Atlanta, Georgia. In addition to competing for grant funding, finalists will gain national visibility for their work and connect with nonprofit leaders, funders, and changemakers from across the country.Grant Funding: A total of $1,500,000 in grant funding is anticipated to be awarded: 

• One (1) - $500,000 grant
• One (1) - $250,000 grant
• Two (2) - $100,000 grant
• Eleven (11) - $50,000 grant

The Gratis Foundation Grant supports organizations focused on education, health care, humanitarian services, and at-risk youth. Applications are accepted in specific periods: October 1 to January 31 for health and medical research; February 1 to May 31 for education; and June 1 to September 30 for military and animal welfare. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and located in designated areas. The foundation emphasizes achievement and leadership in its funding decisions.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

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.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The Arthur Molella Distinguished Fellowship, endowed by The Lemelson Foundation, supports senior scholars in technology and innovation studies at the Smithsonian Institution. Eligible candidates include experienced authors and scholars from various related fields. The fellowship offers flexible funding of $35,000 for sabbaticals, short visits, or residencies, encouraging research that highlights diverse inventors and innovations. The program fosters participation in museum activities and provides necessary support for non-US citizens.

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.