Best Dukes County Grants for Nonprofits in Massachusetts

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers grants to support arts and general education projects within a 50-mile radius of MetroWest Boston. Annually, they distribute approximately $300,000, funding 15-20 Single Year Grants up to $10,000, 3-4 Scholarship Fund Grants of $2,500, and Trilogy Grants totaling $35,000 over three years. Organizations seeking funds are encouraged to submit a Letter of Inquiry to initiate the application process.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers Trilogy Grants to organizations that have received at least three Single-Year grants. Each grant totals $25,000 over three years, with $10,000 in the first year and $7,500 in the following years. Limited to a 50-mile radius from MetroWest Boston, the Foundation prioritizes measurable projects in arts and general education. Only four Trilogy Grants are awarded annually, encouraging sustained educational engagement through hands-on experiences.

The Ramsey McCluskey Family Foundation offers Single-Year Grants to support projects in arts and general education for preschool through high school. With an annual budget of about $300,000, grants can reach up to $10,000. Priority is given to hands-on arts education projects, with 75% of the budget allocated to this area. Organizations must wait one year after receiving three consecutive grants before reapplying. Eligibility is limited to projects within a 50-mile radius of MetroWest Boston.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on affordable housing, skilled trades, clean water, sanitation, or community development projects in Dukes County, Massachusetts may be eligible for funding. Grants from Ferguson help U.S.-based nonprofits within its geographic footprint build partnerships that improve economic wellbeing and quality of life in local communities.

Nonprofit organizations and fiscally sponsored groups working on gender equity initiatives in Dukes County, Massachusetts can apply for Island Foundation’s Womxn and Girls Grant. Grants support womxn- and girls-led efforts advancing healthcare access, economic security, political voice, safety, trauma healing, and leadership, with a focus on womxn and girls of color and intergenerational, systems-change work.

The Couch Family Foundation supports nonprofits in the Upper Valley and Martha's Vineyard, focusing on enhancing child and family well-being through equitable opportunities. The foundation prioritizes organizations that demonstrate strong leadership, community impact, and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Grants are available for various needs, including general operating, project funding, and capital support, with an emphasis on collaborative community change.

Focused on environmental conservation, Island Foundation invites Dukes County, Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits to seek funding for marine and coastal resource protection and related initiatives. Eligible groups can request general operating or project support for work on climate change, sustainable fisheries and agriculture, environmental justice, conservation capacity-building, and connecting community health with environmental protection.

501(c)(3) public charities hosting date-specific community events in Dukes County, Massachusetts can seek event sponsorship funding for galas, golf tournaments, walks/runs, cultural performances, and similar activities. Rockland Trust Charitable Foundation supports nonprofits based in or serving select Massachusetts counties and Rhode Island that can provide required financial and organizational documentation.

The Coastal Resilience Grant Program, managed by the Massachusetts Department of Energy & Environmental Affairs, aims to support coastal communities facing challenges from storms, flooding, and climate change. This program offers financial and technical assistance for projects that enhance understanding of climate impacts, conduct vulnerability assessments, and implement adaptation strategies. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, and recognized tribes, focusing on proactive planning, public outreach, and shoreline restoration to ensure resilience against future climate threats.

Dukes County, Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits addressing child abuse, domestic violence, economic self-sufficiency, or basic needs for women and children can access funding through Southcoast Community Foundation. The Hawthorn Medical Associates Charitable Fund offers up to US $5,000 per organization to support prevention, education, treatment, advocacy, hotlines, shelters, and related support services.

The Comcast NBCUniversal Foundation offers Local Impact Grants to nonprofit organizations in 11 markets, providing $225,000 to support local programs addressing community issues. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits with a revenue exceeding $100,000 and must operate in one of the specified television markets. The grants aim to empower youth through education, promote diverse storytelling, and enhance community engagement. This initiative underscores Comcast's commitment to fostering inclusion and equitable opportunities for underserved communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local government agencies serving Dukes County, Massachusetts can seek US $1,000 - US $25,000 for community-focused programs through the PEMV: Community and Impact Grants. Focused on arts and culture, community services, health, and the environment, Martha’s Vineyard Community Foundation supports well-planned projects that benefit Martha’s Vineyard residents.

Organizations, collectives, and creative individuals in Dukes County, Massachusetts can apply for Save the Harbor / Save the Bay’s Better Beaches grants, awarding US $2,500 - US $8,500 for free public events on DCR beaches. Programs can include arts, culture, music, outdoor recreation, science, wellness, or family activities held June 1–September 30, 2026.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing social services to fishermen, their families, or low-income elders in coastal Massachusetts communities, including Dukes County, may be eligible for this annual grant. Sailors Snug Harbor of Boston provides primarily operating or program support, with preference for housing stability, homelessness prevention, and independent living services in traditional fishing communities.

Nonprofit organizations supporting military service members, veterans, or their families with mental, physical, or educational needs in Dukes County, Massachusetts can apply for funding from ES Veterans Association. Focused on veterans services across New England, this program supports efforts that help veterans successfully live and work in civilian life.

The PEMV Emergency Response Fund Grants, established in March 2020, address urgent needs arising from the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund supports Island nonprofits that assist vulnerable populations, particularly those affected by the crisis. Notably, it has provided essential resources to Venezuelan migrants and other community members, ensuring access to food, shelter, and legal assistance. The fund continues to adapt to evolving challenges, reinforcing the community's commitment to helping those in need.

The Nellie Mae Event Sponsorship Fund supports one-time events that promote education justice and racial equity in New England. Organizations targeting local communities, with annual budgets under $2 million, can apply for funding for events scheduled in 2025 or early 2026. The foundation prioritizes public entities and 501(c)3 educational organizations, ensuring equitable access to educational opportunities for all students. Note that operational costs and online fundraising are not eligible for funding.

Dukes County, Massachusetts 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(6) organizations addressing community development can access funding through Santander Consumer USA Foundation for programs over US $10,000. Eligible work includes affordable housing, homeownership support, small business development, workforce readiness, financial education, human and social services, and neighborhood revitalization within Santander Bank’s operating footprint.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and qualified public entities addressing community development needs in Dukes County, Massachusetts can apply for charitable sponsorship support from Santander Bank Foundation. Funding may assist programs in affordable housing, small business and job creation, financial education, workforce development, youth development, neighborhood revitalization, disaster relief, and broader economic mobility within low- to moderate-income communities in Santander’s Northeast footprint.

Nonprofit and public organizations addressing estuary habitat loss, coastal resilience, water quality, or invasive species in eligible NEP watershed areas can seek US $200,000 - US $500,000 for restoration and protection projects. Dukes County, Massachusetts environmental nonprofits may be eligible if their work falls within one of the designated National Estuary Program boundary areas.

The Sullivan Family Foundation Grant provides support for organizations dedicated to enhancing the lives of people and animals in the community. Grant requests are accepted on a rolling basis, with quarterly determinations made. This opportunity is ideal for initiatives that align with the foundation's mission to foster positive change and community well-being.

Educational institutions and nonprofits in Dukes County, Massachusetts that run aviation-focused STEM or certification programs for underrepresented communities can apply for grants up to US $50,000. With a mission to inspire future aviation professionals, JetBlue Foundation provides funding for programs in aviation technology, engineering, operations, maintenance, and sustainable aviation.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing social services to fishermen, their families, or low-income elders in coastal Massachusetts communities can seek multi-year support for operating, program, start-up, or special projects. Sailors Snug Harbor of Boston provides Dukes County, Massachusetts nonprofits with flexible funding, with preferences for homelessness prevention and traditional fishing communities like Gloucester, New Bedford, and Cape Cod.

The Capital Improvements Grant by the Franklin Square House Foundation offers funding up to $100,000 for 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations in specific Massachusetts counties. This grant focuses on projects that create new childcare slots, enhance administrative capacity, and ensure financial stability. Applicants must demonstrate readiness to start projects within 90 days and show a commitment to serving underprivileged children. Past grantees must adhere to reporting requirements to maintain eligibility.

The Franklin Square House Foundation offers grants for capital improvements to shelters supporting women and their families. Since its inception in 2008, the Foundation has awarded over $13 million. Eligible organizations must be 501(C)3 nonprofits located in specific Massachusetts counties. Projects should enhance safety and capacity, demonstrating readiness for funding and matching contributions. Notably, the Foundation does not fund operating costs or projects already in progress. Interested applicants must contact the Executive Director prior to submission.

The John W. Alden Trust Grant supports organizations in Eastern Massachusetts that provide care and services to children and youth (ages 0-24) with disabilities or those at risk due to social factors. Grants can fund capacity building, program support, and more, but applicants must demonstrate a focus on high-risk youth and meet specific criteria. The Trust emphasizes sustainability and may require matching funds for grant approval.

Nonprofit organizations serving children, adolescents, and young adults with intellectual disabilities, learning disabilities, mental illness, or substance use disorders in Dukes County, Massachusetts can apply for grants of US $15,000 - US $50,000 to support programs and services. Grants from Peter & Elizabeth C Tower Foundation help strengthen community programming and organizational capacity in these focus areas.