Best Economic Services Grants

The John T. Vucurevich Foundation Grant focuses on supporting low-income families by addressing essential needs such as food access, health services, and transportation. The foundation aims to foster community collaboration and strategic partnerships to enhance the well-being of families and children in the Rapid City Area. Grant applications are accepted for projects that demonstrate community need and secure additional funding, with a commitment to transparent and engaged grantmaking.

The PACF: Special and Urgent Needs (SUN) Grants provide up to $4,000 to support organizations facing unforeseen emergencies or opportunities requiring immediate funding. Open to 501(c)(3) non-profits and public institutions in the PACF’s 11-county service area, these grants aim to quickly address urgent community needs. Applications can be submitted anytime to the Foundation's Senior Program Officer, ensuring timely assistance for critical projects.

The Community Foundation of Jackson County offers Fall Grants aimed at enhancing education, economic development, human services, and arts and culture within Jackson County, Indiana. The foundation prioritizes applications from organizations demonstrating responsible money management and a commitment to charitable purposes as defined by the IRS. These grants are designed to foster community improvements and ensure that local residents benefit from innovative programs and services.

The Inspire Giving Fund Grant, established by the Sacramento Region Community Foundation, aims to promote civic engagement and philanthropy in the Sacramento area. It supports organizations focusing on Community and Economic Development and Affordable Housing, offering monetary contributions up to $10,000. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)3 status, a strong operational history, and a commitment to enhancing local quality of life. This initiative encourages collaborative efforts for a vibrant community by funding impactful projects.

The Gheens Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for residents in metropolitan Louisville and Lafourche and Terrebonne parishes, Louisiana. With a commitment to grant-making, the foundation prioritizes education and social services. It allocates approximately 5% of its assets annually to support eligible organizations. Applicants should have a verified IRS status and meet revenue criteria. Notably, the foundation excludes certain entities, including endowments and private schools, from funding.

The Foster Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Pacific Northwest that align with priority funding issues such as social services, education, medical research, and community engagement. The foundation seeks to cultivate long-term partnerships and is committed to improving community life through various initiatives. Eligible organizations must hold a 501(c)(3) status and address one of the foundation's priority issues while ensuring that funds are used within the designated geographic reach.

The Fairfield County Foundation Grant supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofits aimed at enhancing community well-being. Established in 1989, the Foundation connects resources to address local needs, prioritizing quality of life and inclusivity. With both restricted and unrestricted funds, it empowers organizations to apply for grants that align with their community-focused missions. The Foundation encourages partnerships with nonprofits that serve the Fairfield County area, fostering collaboration for a sustainable future.

The Equitable Charitable Foundation Grant aims to support various charitable initiatives within Equitable Bank's communities, focusing on community development, education, and health care. The foundation prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations that contribute to affordable housing, job training, and enhancing cultural access. Organizations seeking funding must demonstrate clear, measurable goals and reflect the diverse needs of the community. This initiative underscores Equitable Bank's commitment to improving quality of life and fostering community engagement.

The Growing Greenwood Fund, managed by the Emporia Community Foundation, provides essential financial support for education, community development, health care, and recreation projects in Greenwood County. This fund aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents by funding innovative programs that meet changing community needs. Organizations seeking assistance should be non-profit and not directly tax-supported. Funding excludes operational expenses such as salaries and utilities.

The Trusler Foundation, established in 1957 by Harold and Irene Trusler, provides significant financial support for charitable, religious, scientific, literary, and educational purposes in Lyon, Chase, and Coffey counties. With a minimum grant request of $10,000 starting January 1, 2018, priority is given to projects that positively impact the region's economic development. Only one application per organization is allowed each year, ensuring focused support for long-term community benefits.

The Doheny Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofit organizations in Greater Los Angeles that align with its mission and four focus areas: Social Welfare, Health and Wellness, Education, and Religion. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) organizations and can only apply once per year. The Foundation emphasizes initiatives that enhance the lives of vulnerable populations and promote economic self-reliance, while avoiding funding for specific exclusions such as political activities or work outside the U.S.

The Foundation for Southeast Texas Grant supports civic and social projects focusing on arts, education, health, and community development. Eligible organizations are 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government entities operating for over a year in Hardin, Jefferson, or Orange Counties. Grants are awarded annually based on available funds, with a focus on emerging community needs. Applicants must adhere to strict guidelines, and funds must be used exclusively for the approved project.

The Jones Family Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the vitality of Red Wing by addressing critical community challenges. It prioritizes equitable access to resources and transformative ideas in areas such as education, economic vitality, and arts & culture. The foundation supports qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits within a 30-mile radius of Red Wing, considering special projects, start-up costs, and program expansions. However, it does not fund ongoing operating expenses or religious/political programs.

The Bangor Savings Bank Foundation Grant Making program provides funding between $2,000 and $25,000 to support initiatives that enhance community vitality in Northern New England. The foundation prioritizes projects that leverage additional resources, produce measurable results, and foster collaboration between public and private sectors. Quarterly and bi-annual reviews ensure timely consideration of applications. With a commitment to improving workforce and economic development, the foundation aims to make a meaningful impact in education, health, and civic services.

The Nevada State Bank Grant supports community development initiatives aimed at benefiting low and moderate-income individuals and areas. With over a million dollars donated annually, the Bank encourages financial literacy, economic development, and various community services. It invites applications from non-profit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code, focusing on projects that enhance education, health, and overall community livability.

The Siemer Family Foundation Grant Program focuses on enhancing educational opportunities and literacy for children in central Ohio. It supports initiatives that prepare young children for school, improve overall academic achievement, and assist underprivileged families in achieving stability. Guided by Barbara Siemer, the foundation emphasizes programs that foster parental involvement and community engagement to ensure a brighter future for children and families.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Ramble Charitable Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in Buncombe County by supporting projects in education, economic development, and health care. Grants range from $2,500 to $10,000 for nonprofit organizations and public agencies. Priority is given to initiatives that provide substantial community benefits, with a focus on the Shiloh and South Buncombe areas. Projects must be completed within a year, and only one application per eligible organization is allowed annually.

The Community Sustaining Fund Grant supports innovative projects that strengthen communities and the environment in Thurston County. With over 36 years of experience, the fund has awarded more than $125,000 to over 200 local organizations and individuals. CSF prioritizes grants for grassroots initiatives that promote social justice, community building, and environmental sustainability. This program embodies a commitment to diversity, equity, and community-driven solutions, fostering a vibrant and resilient local ecosystem.

The Charles B. Degenstein Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organizations within a 75-mile radius of Sunbury, PA. Established in 1989, the Foundation seeks to enhance community quality of life through funding in areas like conservation, health care, social services, and education. Applications should demonstrate community support and clear project goals. Note that grants do not cover all costs, and applications focused on political activities are discouraged. For more information, visit their website.

The Chicago Commitment: Vital Communities Grant aims to promote racial equity and inclusivity within Chicago by supporting diverse initiatives and organizations. This grant focuses on community-driven development, addressing historical disparities and fostering economic growth through place-based strategies. It encourages community engagement in planning to mitigate the risk of displacement while enhancing access to arts and culture. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a commitment to equitable development and have a track record of community involvement.

The McKeesport Community Fund, established in 2017 by Trulieve under the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to enhance community welfare by supporting local 501(c)(3) nonprofits. It focuses on education, job training, youth initiatives, and economic development, providing around $50,000 annually for projects that benefit McKeesport residents. Eligible organizations can apply for grants between $1,000 to $50,000, depending on the project scope, ensuring vital resources for community revitalization.

The MetroWest Human Services Grant Program, managed by the Foundation for MetroWest, aims to build strong families and communities by providing general operating grants to organizations serving underrepresented individuals. In 2023, priority will be given to those assisting low-income households, homeless individuals, and vulnerable populations such as immigrants and the disabled. This initiative strives to eliminate barriers to essential resources, fostering an inclusive environment for all residents in the MetroWest region.

Community Engagement Grants

Community Engagement Grants support outreach, events, trainings, workshops, celebrations and other activities that serve and engage communities experiencing poverty.

What Community Engagement Grants Support

• Activities focused in at least one of the Foundation’s focus areas:
  • economic mobility
  • housing security and/or health care
• Activities serving any of South Carolina’s 46 counties.
• One-time or occasional activities that engage communities experiencing poverty. These grants are not meant to support an organization’s core programs and activities (for example, a free medical clinic’s health care services).
• Activities that are occurring within six months of the funding date.
• Activities that benefit from a small one-time funding. Grant requests can be up to $1,500.
• Organizations cannot receive both a Community Engagement Grant and a Systems Change Grant from the Foundation in the same year. That means, if your organization has received a Systems Change Grant, you cannot apply for this grant.
• Organizations can receive one Community Engagement Grant annually.

Community Engagement Grant recipients do not need to submit reports to the Foundation.

The Vermont Community Foundation's Spark Connecting Community Grant supports grassroots projects that enhance social capital and community connections in Vermont. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, it prioritizes initiatives from under-represented counties, fostering collaboration among local champions. The program seeks innovative projects that promote civic engagement, health, and resilience, while encouraging first-time grant seekers and organizations with smaller budgets to apply for funding.

The WEDC Capacity Building Grants aim to enhance local development efforts in Wisconsin by supporting nonprofit organizations and educational institutions. These grants facilitate the creation and expansion of cooperative initiatives, ensuring that communities have the resources needed to thrive. By addressing economic development challenges, the program fosters collaboration among various stakeholders, allowing for innovative solutions that benefit all Wisconsin residents. This flexible funding approach enables rapid responses to emerging needs and promotes sustainable growth.

The Cherokee County Community Foundation Grant aims to inspire philanthropy and strengthen the local community by providing funding for projects that address critical needs in areas such as crime and safety, economic development, education, family and youth, and public health. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and educational institutions serving Cherokee County, SC. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that create community gain and improve the quality of life for residents.