Best Erie County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

County governments operating jails in Erie County, Pennsylvania can apply for up to US $250,000 to expand medication-assisted treatment and comprehensive substance use disorder services for incarcerated individuals and recent reentrants. Grants from Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency help Pennsylvania counties build MAT programs using FDA-approved medications and coordinated reentry support.

Arts, culture, and heritage 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities in Erie County, Pennsylvania can apply for Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority’s Community Assets grants, awarding up to US $15,000 for capital improvements and programming. Funding can cover project-related administration, marketing, facilities, equipment, construction, contracted services, and outcomes measurement that benefit Erie County residents.

Erie County, Pennsylvania 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving local women and families through projects like transportation, health, workforce training, housing, childcare, or food access can seek approximately US $30,000 for community gap initiatives. With a mission to strengthen women and families, Erie Community Foundation provides project support through the Furchak-Ferko Annual Grant Program.

The PNC Foundation's Grow Up Great Grant is a significant initiative aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for children from birth to age 5. With a commitment of $500 million, this program focuses on improving school readiness through support in vocabulary development, social-emotional learning, and the arts. By partnering with community-based nonprofits, PNC aims to foster stronger, smarter, and healthier communities, ensuring a brighter future for the next generation.

WalkWorks Community Capacity-Building Pre-Planning Assistance Program

The Department of Health is working to increase equity and ensure that communities most in need are able to pursue WalkWorks planning funds.

WalkWorks is pleased to announce its fourth round of technical assistance to support low-capacity, high-interest municipalities with the pre-planning steps they must undertake to be ready to apply for funding to develop Active Transportation Plans. 

Purpose of Program

Creating healthier places for all is the basis for the program’s technical assistance support. Preparing communities to invest in pedestrian-, bicycle-, ADA accessibility-, and public transportation-supportive plans and facilities will in turn create opportunities for people to engage in physical activity as they travel to everyday destinations. Physical activity helps to maintain a healthy weight and reduces risk for many chronic diseases. The prevalence of obesity and overweight for both adults and children has reached epidemic proportions throughout the nation, as well as in Pennsylvania. In addition, many people suffering from anxiety, depression, and mood swings find walking has a calming effect on mood. The Pennsylvania State Health Improvement Planiii (SHIP) identifies a goal to increase the population at a healthy weight through increasing availability and accessibility of physical activity.

Grants to support animal welfare programs in Erie County, Pennsylvania help 501(c)(3) pet welfare organizations fund capacity building, capital improvements, and program or spay/neuter work. Grants from Nestlé Purina may benefit eligible shelters and rescues within its listed service counties that promote the well-being of pets and the people who love them.

Research institutions and other organizations conducting fisheries and ichthyology research in Erie County, Pennsylvania can apply for Great Lakes Fisheries Trust’s ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations grants, with awards up to US $1,300,000 for ecological and biological studies that inform fisheries management. Nonprofits may be eligible when leading hypothesis-driven research or related tools, resources, or capacity-building efforts.

The IMPACT: Neighborhoods & Communities Renaissance Block Grant aims to revitalize neighborhoods in Erie County by combating blight and encouraging local investment. With a budget of $400,000 over two years, it provides financial incentives for property improvements, ensuring neighborhoods become more attractive and walkable. Eligible applicants include IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities. By addressing housing blight and enhancing curb appeal, the program also seeks to boost the municipal tax base and support local contractors, fostering community growth.

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

The IMPACT: Quality of Place initiative aims to enhance community well-being, encourage civic pride, and stimulate tourism in Erie County by supporting community centers. These centers are crucial hubs that offer vital services such as job training, education, and nutrition to residents, including children and seniors. By funding capital improvements and programming, the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority seeks to strengthen these community assets and ensure they continue to serve diverse populations effectively.

The LGBT Fund, managed by the Erie Community Foundation, aims to empower the LGBTQ+ community in the greater Erie region through impactful proposals. With a focus on equity and inclusion, the fund supports initiatives addressing youth homelessness, mental health, and safe environments. Grants of up to $7,500 are available for registered 501(c)3 organizations or their partners, fostering innovative solutions that promote well-being and opportunities for all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity.

The IMPACT: Quality of Place - Special Events Grants, administered by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, aim to enhance community engagement and economic growth in Erie County. Grants support public events that foster inclusivity and attract visitors, ultimately boosting local economies and improving the quality of life. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 organizations and municipalities based in Erie County, demonstrating the potential economic impact of their events.

The Area Development Grant Program, managed by the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), supports economic growth in Appalachia through investments in critical infrastructure and workforce development. Targeting 423 counties across 13 states, the program encourages local communities to collaborate with state governments to identify and implement impactful projects. Key focus areas include enhancing utilities, promoting entrepreneurship, and strengthening local leadership. This initiative aims to uplift the 26 million residents of Appalachia, fostering sustainable economic opportunities.

The Charles Barton Scholarship Fund honors the memory of Judy Barton, a dedicated nurse, and is awarded annually to graduating seniors from North East High School pursuing a degree in healthcare. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. The application deadline is April 15, ensuring support for future healthcare professionals.

The Erie Community Foundation offers Marketing Sponsorships to support local nonprofit events and fundraisers, emphasizing community engagement and inclusive philanthropy. Applications are invited for amounts up to $2,500, with priority given to events that allow Foundation participation and serve diverse Erie residents. Funding decisions are made biannually, and applications should be submitted at least six weeks prior to the event. This initiative strengthens ties between the Foundation and the community it serves.

The Erie Community Foundation offers Community Impact (CI) Sponsorships aimed at supporting free community events that benefit marginalized groups. With a focus on education and multicultural values, these sponsorships typically do not exceed $2,500. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, with specific review dates throughout the year. Organizations must have a DEI strategy and be located in or serve Erie County, PA to be eligible.

The Multi-Municipal Collaboration Grant, offered by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, supports innovative partnerships among local governments and organizations in Erie County. Launched in 2012, this program aims to enhance economic growth and foster cooperation among municipalities. Grants provide essential matching funds for projects that improve community resources, promote quality of life, and advance strategic initiatives in areas like small business development and municipal operations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until November 30, 2024.

Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA

The Catholic Foundation provides a permanent and secure funding stream to strengthen and grow the Church’s mission and ministries in Northwest Pennsylvania by

Helping donors establish permanent charitable funds to create long-lasting support for the causes they care about.

Offering parishes, schools and other Catholic organizations cost-effective, socially responsible investment management to keep endowment assets growing.

We identify ways to better support our Catholic mission and ministries, choose socially responsible investments that align with our core Catholic ideals, steward donors’ charitable gifts of any size, honor donor intent, distribute funds to sustain the Catholic church, and assist Catholic parishes, schools and ministries in meeting their long-term financial needs.

Faith Formation Grant

Grants are available for parish and/or diocesan-based parish faith formation projects that focus on:

• Projects that promote life-long faith formation activities
• Projects that welcome absentee and/or non-Catholics into the church
• Projects that promote faith formation through technology
• Projects that provide spiritual support to families, singles, youth and young adults

Requirements

• Pastor or diocesan office supervisor (if not the applicant) must be aware of the grant request and have given their approval by signing the project endorsement form included in the application.
• Parishes or diocesan offices may only submit one Faith Formation Grant application per year. If more than one application per parish/diocesan department is submitted, all will be rejected.
• Funds are released to the parish or diocese only with an executed grant agreement on file at the Foundation.
• A follow up grant report from the grantee is required for every grant awarded by the Foundation.

Catholic Foundation of Northwest PA

The Catholic Foundation provides a permanent and secure funding stream to strengthen and grow the Church’s mission and ministries in Northwest Pennsylvania by

Helping donors establish permanent charitable funds to create long-lasting support for the causes they care about.

Offering parishes, schools and other Catholic organizations cost-effective, socially responsible investment management to keep endowment assets growing.

We identify ways to better support our Catholic mission and ministries, choose socially responsible investments that align with our core Catholic ideals, steward donors’ charitable gifts of any size, honor donor intent, distribute funds to sustain the Catholic church, and assist Catholic parishes, schools and ministries in meeting their long-term financial needs.

Education Grant

Grants are available for funding towards religious education projects and ministry training/spiritual formation opportunities that benefit people within the 13 counties of the Diocese of Erie. Projects must fit at least one of the following four categories:

• Religious education and faith formation projects
• Technology for parish faith formation programs and for Catholic schools (NOTE: Two (2) bids/proposals are required when applying for technology funding in excess of $5,000).
• Lay ministry education, training and worship formation including education toward obtaining professional ministry certifications, attending workshops, conferences, ministry formation and spiritual formation opportunities (NOTE: If multiple people from your organization are seeking funding to attend a ministry opportunity, please submit one application for the entire group).
• Diocesan-wide scholarship and tuition-assistance programs (NOTE: Applicants limited to the Catholic Schools Office of the Diocese of Erie.)

Requirements

• Pastor, school principal/president, or diocesan office supervisor must be aware of the grant request and give their approval by signing the project endorsement form included in the application.
• Funds are released to the parish, school or diocese only with an executed grant agreement on file at the Foundation.
• A follow up grant report from the grantee is required for every grant awarded by the Foundation.

The CFNWPA Catholic Social Ministry Grant supports projects that align with Catholic social teachings and serve the 13 counties of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Erie. Funding is available for initiatives that provide counseling services, marriage support, community building, elderly care, and emergency services for the poor. Eligible organizations include Catholic nonprofits and parishes. The grant prioritizes projects that demonstrate sustainability and community impact, fostering long-term support for vital ministries.

The Union City Community Foundation, established in 2003 by LaRue Ottaway, aims to enhance the quality of life for Union City residents through charitable endowments and community leadership. With over $800,000 awarded in grants and scholarships, the foundation supports local initiatives, including the Ottaway/Saint Vincent Health Center Fund, which is valued at over $1.5 million. Through donor generosity, it strengthens local organizations and addresses pressing community issues.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

Erie County students pursuing science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or nursing majors at any Penn State University campus can receive scholarship support through the Alice R. Moomy Pennsylvania State University Scholarship. Administered by Erie Community Foundation, this award requires at least a 3.0 GPA and gives preference to female candidates.

Students from Pennsylvania high schools or cyber schools pursuing psychology, art, education, or technology degrees at Allegheny College or Edinboro University can receive renewable scholarship support, including those from Erie County, Pennsylvania. Focused on academic scholarship programs, Erie Community Foundation assists undergraduates with a 3.0 GPA or higher who have completed their first year of study.

BASF Corporation, a leading chemical company based in Florham Park, New Jersey, is committed to charitable giving that aligns with its corporate social responsibility goals. The focus areas include science education, environmental sustainability, and health and safety. Donations are only made to eligible non-profit organizations under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code, ensuring that contributions support initiatives that enhance the quality of life in BASF communities and promote a sustainable future.

The Lake Erie Environmental Justice Grant, awarded by the Ohio Lake Erie Commission, aims to support restoration projects in historically underserved communities within Ohio's Lake Erie watershed. Funded through the U.S. EPA’s Great Lakes Environmental Justice Grant Program, this initiative focuses on enhancing stormwater management, strengthening coastal resilience, and advancing environmental justice. With a significant grant of up to $750,000, OLEC collaborates with partners like Black Environmental Leaders and Rural Action to ensure equitable resource distribution and impactful outcomes.

Nonprofit organizations serving community development and services in Erie County, Pennsylvania can apply for Corry Community Foundation’s competitive grants, with awards of more than US $3,500. Funding supports efforts that improve quality of life for Corry residents, including community revitalization, economic development, civic leadership, volunteerism, and philanthropy-focused initiatives.