Best Erie County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

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.

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.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Erie County, Pennsylvania can seek funding for local community services, development, and civic leadership projects through mini grants of up to US $3,500. Corry Community Foundation supports efforts that improve quality of life for Corry residents, with bimonthly awards and deadlines in January, March, May, July, September, and November.

The Partnerships for Opportunity and Workforce and Economic Revitalization (POWER) Initiative aims to revitalize communities impacted by coal industry transitions. This initiative provides funding for projects that diversify local economies, enhance job training, and create new employment opportunities. By fostering collaboration among various stakeholders, the POWER Initiative supports strategic investments that align with regional economic development plans, ensuring a more resilient future for coal-affected areas.

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.

Highmark Health

For over two decades, the Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community has been a powerful force for positive change, uniting individuals and organizations in the shared pursuit of healthier communities. This annual fundraising event is a cornerstone of Highmark's Bright Blue Futures initiative, dedicated to improving equitable access to care, enhancing quality of life, and fostering economic resilience.

Our Mission: To empower local health and human service nonprofits and inspire community members to prioritize their well-being. How We Make a Difference: Highmark proudly underwrites all event costs, ensuring that 100% of every dollar raised by participants goes directly to the participating nonprofits. This allows these organizations to focus on their vital missions, providing essential services and support to those in need.

Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community Program

The Highmark Walk for a Healthy Community offers a unique opportunity for health and human service nonprofits to significantly expand their fundraising efforts. We are seeking dedicated organizations to partner with us in our mission to build healthier communities.

By participating in the Highmark Walk, you're not only investing in your own health through physical activity but also making a tangible contribution to a healthier and more vibrant community for everyone. We invite you to join us in this vital effort.

Nonprofit organizations in Erie County, Pennsylvania with established, year-round community, education, health, arts, or environmental programs can apply for grants of approximately US $4,069 to support direct services. Grants from Harry Winslow Foundation help organizations with at least three years of operations and proven program impact continue serving local needs.

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 ECF Helping Today Grant supports Erie County nonprofits addressing urgent community needs, prioritizing projects in health, economy, and education. Grants do not exceed $50,000 and must be utilized within 12 months. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)3 status or those partnering with a fiscal sponsor. The grant aims to enhance nonprofit capacity for operations, programming, planning, marketing, capital purchases, facilities improvements, and evaluations, fostering impactful community solutions.

The ECF Shaping Tomorrow Grants aim to empower nonprofits in Erie County by funding projects that promote inclusivity and equitable impact. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000 for initiatives lasting 12-18 months, focusing on measurable community change in health, education, and economic growth. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, demonstrate community engagement, and align with ECF priorities. This program seeks to enhance organizational capacity and support collaborations that drive sustainable development.

The Erie Community Foundation offers ECF Urgent Grants to support nonprofit organizations facing unexpected crises that disrupt their essential activities. This funding is available to nonprofits that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and located in or serving Erie County. Grants aim to empower organizations to navigate urgent situations effectively, ensuring that they can continue their vital missions in education, health, and community development.

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.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Emerging Erie Fund, established by The Erie Community Foundation, aims to support local initiatives that enhance the Erie community. This grant encourages innovative project proposals focusing on workforce development and creating safe neighborhoods. With a commitment of $100,000 available, eligible applicants include Erie County 501(c)3 nonprofits with project budgets of $2.5 million or less. Projects must primarily serve Erie and demonstrate community impact within 18 months of funding.

Students pursuing two-year vocational or academic programs in Erie County, Pennsylvania can receive scholarship support to enhance skills and employment prospects. With a mission to strengthen local education and training, Erie Community Foundation provides the Jane Schieber Laskowski Kickstart Scholarship for part-time or full-time students maintaining at least six credits and a C average, with preference for working adults 21 or older.

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.

Erie County, Pennsylvania engineering students pursuing a BS at Penn State Behrend or Gannon University can receive scholarship support for ABET-accredited programs. The Hugh M. Nelson Engineering Scholarship from Erie Community Foundation considers academic performance, faculty recommendations, campus involvement, a goals-focused applicant letter, and financial need for Erie County sophomores and juniors.

The Erie Insurance Giving Network Grant supports organizations focused on community building, safety, and environmental responsibility. Grants under $10,000 can be submitted at any time, while larger requests follow specific deadlines. Priority is given to organizations with community representation in their governing bodies. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and municipalities. The initiative emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with ERIE's corporate values.

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.

Nonprofit and public entities restoring fish habitat in Erie County, Pennsylvania and other Great Lakes areas can seek funding to improve degraded coastal and freshwater ecosystems. With a mission to restore coastal habitats, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) provides support to projects advancing Great Lakes Restoration Initiative goals, with awards from US $250,000 - US $30,000,000.

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.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The Greater Erie Economic Development Corporation (GEEDC), founded in 1974, promotes diversity in workforce development through its grant program. By supporting nonprofit organizations and businesses, GEEDC helps address community needs and offers opportunities for marginalized individuals. Past recipients include Zenedge Energy Drinks and East Side Renaissance. GEEDC grants are available annually, aiming to enhance local economic growth and workforce diversity, making a significant impact on the Erie community.

The GEEDC Scholarships, funded by the Greater Erie Economic Development Corporation, provide essential financial support to BIPOC students in Erie County. Established over 50 years ago, these scholarships aim to enhance educational opportunities for marginalized communities. Annually, more than $100,000 is awarded to help students pursue post-secondary education, pre-apprenticeship training, and internships across various fields, including health services and trades. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in education.

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 Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.