Best Erie Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

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 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 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 Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

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 J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

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.

The Coastal Zone Management Grant Program, managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, supports projects that protect coastal resources in Pennsylvania's Delaware Estuary and Lake Erie. Open for applications from September 9, 2024, to October 21, 2024, the program promotes initiatives focused on coastal hazards, public access, and ecological preservation. Eligible applicants include local governments, educational institutions, and nonprofits. Grants help fund planning, construction, and research projects essential for sustaining coastal ecosystems and enhancing public access.

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 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 Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

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 Investing in Our Future Grants by Erie Insurance aim to enhance educational outcomes in the Erie region by addressing poverty through quality education. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on two key areas: aligning instructional programming with out-of-school activities and ensuring school readiness. By supporting local nonprofits, Erie Insurance seeks to foster measurable changes that benefit students and their families, ultimately contributing to a more vibrant and sustainable community.

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.

August Corso Scholarship Fund

Scholarships shall be awarded to residents of Erie County, Ohio pursuing a post-secondary education. Preference shall be given to students pursuing a degree in Horticulture, Environmental Science or Agricultural Business. Financial need is a consideration for the scholarship award.

Scholarships are available for students planning to attend an accredited nonprofit college or university, or planning to receive licensure, accreditation, or a certificate from a nonprofit vocational or apprenticeship program in the United States.

The scholarship may be renewed for a second, third, and fourth year.

The William & Martha Buckingham Scholarship - Renewal, managed by the Ashland County Community Foundation, supports graduating seniors from Ashland County high schools with a GPA of 2.75 or higher. This scholarship aids students accepted into accredited colleges or universities and can be renewed for up to three years with proof of enrollment and academic standing. Established by Bill and Martha Buckingham, it reflects their commitment to giving back to the community they adopted as their own.

The Erie Women's Fund Grant aims to empower women and families in Erie County by providing financial support to local nonprofits. Since its inception in 2007, the fund has awarded over $1.1 million to organizations that share its mission. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits, with a focus on collaborative projects. This grant promotes community engagement through educational forums and gatherings, fostering a strong network of support for local initiatives.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

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.

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 Mission Main Street Grant Program, established by the Erie County Gaming Revenue Authority, aims to revitalize Erie County's main streets by supporting small businesses and enhancing community development. With funding opportunities for planning and implementation, the program encourages local governments and nonprofits to improve streetscapes, promote tourism, and foster economic growth. Grants of up to $200,000 are available, emphasizing community engagement and adherence to historic preservation principles.

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.