Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in District of Columbia

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

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 John Franzén Grant for the Arts, established by the Capitol Hill Community Foundation, offers a $25,000 annual award to support visual, performing, and architectural arts programs that foster community engagement on Capitol Hill. This grant honors John Franzén, a dedicated community leader, and aims to enhance the cultural landscape by helping artists and organizations increase their outreach and impact. Since its inception in 1989, the Foundation has invested over $6.6 million in community projects.

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

The Truancy Reduction Service Grant, offered by the District of Columbia Department of Human Services, focuses on providing essential services to combat truancy among youth aged 10-17 in selected schools. This initiative, aimed at enhancing mental health, mentorship, and family support, emphasizes the importance of culturally competent strategies and outreach. Applicants must demonstrate experience with at-risk youth and ensure services are accessible in Spanish, targeting diverse populations, including those facing housing instability and special needs.

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 Buprenorphine Drug Assistance Program (BUP-DAP) provides vital support for low-income individuals diagnosed with Opioid Use Disorder (OUD) in Washington, D.C. By offering approved Medication for Opioid Use Disorder (MOUD), the program enhances access to quality treatment for those lacking health care coverage. It aims to integrate these individuals into a comprehensive system of care, fostering recovery and improving overall community health. This initiative emphasizes collaboration with Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) to maximize outreach and effectiveness.

The FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

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 Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

LSC’s Basic Field Grants aim to enhance access to civil legal services for low-income individuals across the U.S. and territories. These grants support eligible organizations for up to three years through a competitive application process. The funding is allocated to specific service areas, which change annually, and focuses on providing comprehensive legal assistance. The program includes three types of service areas, ensuring diverse populations, including agricultural and Native American communities, receive necessary legal support.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

The Mid-Atlantic Environmental Justice Fund aims to promote environmental justice through community forestry initiatives. This grant supports workforce development in forestry, focusing on job training for historically marginalized communities. It encourages partnerships with educational institutions and local organizations to create equitable job opportunities in tree planting and maintenance. The fund is co-led by the Chesapeake Bay Trust and various community partners, emphasizing a collaborative approach to improve health and sustainability in the Mid-Atlantic region.

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 RiverSmart Homes Rain Barrel Installation and Rebate Program, administered by the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE), aims to reduce stormwater runoff and enhance water conservation in Washington, D.C. This grant invites eligible nonprofit organizations, faith-based entities, and educational institutions to apply for funding to install rain barrels, recycle them, and issue rebates. The program seeks to improve public understanding of stormwater management and its impact on local waterways.

Department of Energy and Environment

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Private Fleet Diesel Electrification and Low-NOx

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) solicits grant applications from eligible entities. The goal of this Request for Applications (RFA) is to improve public health by reducing diesel emissions in the District by replacing class 4+ medium- or heavy-duty diesel-powered vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents. The number and amount of grants will vary depending on DOEE’s evaluation of the applications.

Purpose of the Grant

The purpose of this grant is to select and replace diesel vehicles with zero-emission vehicle equivalents, when these replacements will have a significant community benefit. DOEE will rebate a portion of the cost of vehicle replacements in fleets owned by non governmental organizations, faith-based organizations, universities, or private enterprises.

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.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

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

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

Department of Energy and Environment

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program

The mission of the District of Columbia’s Clean Water Construction (CWC) program is to fund the design and construction of voluntary projects that provide clean water to District streams and rivers.

Clean Water Construction Treatment Works Projects - Notice Of Funding Availability and Request For Partners (RFP)

DOEE seeks to identify collaborative partners for its fiscal year (FY) 2027 Clean Water Construction (CWC) grant application to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Applications are requested for project partners in three categories of work: (1) Sewage Infrastructure Projects, (2) Stormwater Grey Infrastructure Projects, and (3) Stormwater Green Infrastructure Projects. This RFP is competitive.

Clean Water Construction Grant Program - Sewage Infrastructure Projects

Sewage Infrastructure Projects include work on devices or systems that collect liquid municipal waste, including sanitary sewage and combined stormwater and sanitary sewage, convey these waste waters to a central location, process them to reduce their pollutant potential, and provide for proper disposal of residues and byproducts resulting from wastewater treatment.

Project examples

• New, expanded, or rehabilitated wastewater treatment works, including Biological Nutrient Removal;
• Infiltration/inflow correction;
• Replacement/rehabilitation of sanitary and/or storm sewers;
• Replacement/rehabilitation of collector, trunk, and interceptor sewers and of pumping stations;
• Combined sewer overflow abatement;
• Repair or replacement of damaged sanitary or combined sewer infrastructure that leaks untreated sewage into District waters;
• New, expanded, or rehabilitated sludge handling and disposal facilities;
• Water treatment plant filter backwash and sludge treatment; and
• Measures to reduce energy consumption for publicly-owned treatment works.

Housing Opportunities for People Living with HIV/AIDS

Funding Opportunity Description:

This funding opportunity is to support rental assistance and housing-related supportive services for eligible District and Maryland residents living with HIV through the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS program.

Overview

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 mission of HAHSTA is to protect and improve the health of District residents by preventing, diagnosing, treating, and reducing the transmission of HIV, viral hepatitis, sexually transmitted diseases, and tuberculosis, while ensuring access to high-quality, coordinated, and culturally responsive care and support services for individuals and communities most impacted by these conditions.

The mission of the Capacity Building, Housing and Community Partnership Division (CBHCP) is to strengthen the HIV service delivery system by expanding access to stable housing, enhancing organizational and workforce capacity, and fostering strategic community partnerships that improve health outcomes, promote service coordination, and address structural barriers impacting people living with HIV in the District of Columbia.

The mission of the Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) program is to provide stable, affordable housing and housing-related supportive services for low-income individuals living with HIV and their households, recognizing housing stability as essential to improved health outcomes, sustained engagement in care, and overall well-being.

Purpose

The purpose of this funding is to support the delivery of HOPWA-funded housing assistance and housing-related supportive services for eligible District and Maryland residents living with HIV and their households. Funding is intended to prevent homelessness, reduce housing instability, and promote long-term housing stability through time-limited and facility-based housing interventions, coordinated supportive services, and intensive case management.

Funds awarded under this opportunity will be used to implement HOPWA-allowable activities that support housing stability, improve continuity of care, and advance health outcomes, in alignment with federal HOPWA requirements and DC Health program priorities.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

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 Programming Grant, offered by the DC Department of Parks and Recreation, aims to promote inclusive recreational opportunities for all community members. This grant supports initiatives that enhance physical, social, and emotional wellness while fostering a sense of community. By encouraging diversity and lifelong learning, the grant seeks to improve the overall quality of life for individuals of all ages and abilities.

The DC Department of Parks and Recreation is offering the Rec for All - Fort Dupont Ice Arena Grant to support inclusive recreational programming for youth. Organizations can request up to $235,000 for innovative programming that promotes physical and emotional wellness, with categories including leisure and competitive activities. This initiative aims to foster community engagement and personal growth while providing structured opportunities for youth at Fort Dupont Ice Arena.