Best Transportation Grants in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania Department of Transportation

The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) supports and manages the Commonwealth's vast transportation network, helping to enhance the quality of life in our communities and keep PA's economy moving. The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) oversees programs and policies affecting highways, urban and rural public transportation, airports, railroads, ports, and waterways.

Over 75% of PennDOT's annual budget is invested in Pennsylvania's approximately 122,000 miles of state and local highways and 32,000 state and local bridges. PennDOT is directly responsible for nearly 40,000 miles of highway and roughly 25,400 bridges, a system first established in 1911. PennDOT also administers the state's 11.8 million vehicle registrations and 10.2 million driver's licenses and IDs, and oversees safety and emission inspection programs.

5310 Private Non-Profit Vehicle Grants

The Federal Section 5310 program funds vehicles to enhances mobility for seniors and/or individuals with disabilities. These federal funds support the purchase of vehicles for local public transportation providers who provide Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Shared Ride service in Pennsylvania.

In addition, Pennsylvania awards funds to Private Non-Profit (PNP) Organizations through a competitive process. PennDOT’s Bureau of Public Transportation (BPT) partially funds the procurement of accessible vehicles for awarded applicants. PennDOT provides awards to PNPs to fill gaps in service that cannot be provided by local public transportation providers.

Capital Expenses

Vehicles eligible as capital expenses under the Federal Section 5310 program include:

PNPs:

• Accessible small buses
• Accessible vans
• Accessible minivans

Passengers

Federal Section 5310-funded vehicles must transport passengers who are seniors and/or individuals with disabilities.

• Seniors: individuals 65 years or older.
• Individuals with Disabilities: individuals with a temporary or permanent disability as defined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Local governments, Pennsylvania universities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on traffic safety data and programs in Pennsylvania can apply for funding to conduct a distracted driving observational survey and related behavioral initiatives. Pennsylvania Department of Transportation supports transportation and road safety projects that use data-driven strategies and include programmatic or behavioral safety components, not equipment-only requests.

Norfolk Southern Foundation provides Pennsylvania vocational and trade students with $5,000 scholarships for rail-related transportation careers. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a post-secondary trade, technical, community college, or railway training program in approved states and pursuing roles like locomotive engineer, conductor, maintenance, welding, electrical, safety, construction, or heavy equipment operation.

Focused on transportation infrastructure, this program invites Pennsylvania municipalities, councils of governments, businesses, economic development organizations, public transit agencies, and rail and freight ports to seek funding for multimodal projects. The Multimodal Transportation Fund supports development, rehabilitation, and enhancement of transportation assets, including streetscapes, lighting, sidewalks, pedestrian safety, connectivity, and transit-oriented development, with awards over US $100,000.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or a fiscal sponsor, working on environmental and climate justice, can seek funding for public transportation and mass transit initiatives in Pennsylvania. Scherman Foundation supports BIPOC-led, movement-building efforts that connect transit equity with climate resilience, racial justice, and related policy or grassroots organizing across New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

Tyson Foods invites sponsorship proposals that reflect its core values and contribute to community welfare, particularly in Springdale, Arkansas, and Dakota Dunes, South Dakota. Proposals should demonstrate clear community benefits, visibility of the event, and outline how funds will be utilized effectively. Organizations are encouraged to apply if they align with Tyson's mission of integrity and stewardship, ensuring that funding can support primary objectives while considering tax-deductible options.

Transportation and mobility-focused nonprofits in Pennsylvania can seek US $5,000 - US $10,000 to improve public transit, reduce congestion and accidents, and increase transportation accessibility. Grants from Bridgestone Americas Trust Fund help organizations advancing mobility, environmental conservation, and community well-being across the U.S., including projects that enhance public transportation and safer travel options.

The United Way of Southwestern Pennsylvania is launching its Multi-Year Grants program, with applications opening in January 2026 for funding starting in July 2026. This initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations addressing critical community needs across five counties. Key investment priorities include meeting basic needs, promoting financial stability, and enhancing educational success for youth. Interested applicants can attend information sessions from October to November 2025 to learn more about the grant process.

Pennsylvania transportation and history organizations can access funding through William G Pomeroy Foundation to install historic transportation markers at publicly accessible sites. Eligible 501(c)(3)s, nonprofit academic institutions, and government entities across the U.S. may propose canals, bridges, tunnels, railroads, or aircraft used for moving goods or people before 1945, supported by primary source documentation.

The Revitalizing Westmoreland Grant Program, managed by the Pittsburgh Foundation, aims to support vulnerable populations in Westmoreland County. By investing in both community and individual needs, the program facilitates revitalization projects for households living at or below 200% of poverty. Nonprofits based in or serving the county can apply for grants up to $20,000, ensuring a vibrant community where residents can thrive.

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 Smart Growth America Community Connectors Grant Program supports small and mid-sized cities in addressing divisive infrastructure caused by dangerous roads. With funding from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation, this program aims to reconnect communities through temporary street safety projects while fostering skills and partnerships. Eligible teams must represent populations of 50,000 to 500,000 and include both government and community-based organizations. Priority will be given to projects benefiting low-income communities historically affected by disinvestment.

Elderly professional blues musicians in Pennsylvania facing emergency medical or basic living expenses can receive US $500 in assistance for transportation to appointments, temporary home care, utilities, or similar needs. The Pinetop Perkins Foundation’s Pinetop Assistance League pays creditors directly, and may help with transport-related costs that support access to care and essentials.

Individuals in Pennsylvania receiving treatment in the U.S. for cancer-related behavioral health conditions can receive up to US $2,000 from the HealthWell Foundation for prescription drug copays, counseling, psychotherapy, and transportation. This national program may benefit patients facing travel costs to access behavioral health services connected to their cancer care.

Emergency and medical workers in Pennsylvania needing help affording behavioral health prescriptions, counseling, psychotherapy, or related transportation can receive up to US $2,000 in copay assistance through the Emergency/Medical Workers Behavioral Health Fund. Focused on behavioral health access, HealthWell Foundation supports underinsured workers receiving treatment in the U.S., which may include transportation to appointments.

Nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsorship providing transportation for healthcare and human or social service appointments in Pennsylvania can use this mini grant for Lyft, Uber, or SEPTA rides. Grants from Phoenixville Health Care Foundation help invited partners in the greater Phoenixville area offer up to US $2,500 in Ride for Health support.

Municipalities, councils of governments, and nonprofits working with municipalities in Pennsylvania can receive up to US $50,000 to plan and design pedestrian and bicycle transportation projects that enhance active travel connections. Grants from Allegheny County help fund planning, engineering, and design for bike- and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure consistent with county transportation and health improvement plans.

Pennsylvania state and local governments, Tribal governments, transit agencies, port authorities, and similar public project sponsors can seek funding for surface transportation infrastructure projects with significant local or regional impact. These BUILD grants from the US Department of Transportation support multi-modal, multi-jurisdictional public transportation and infrastructure projects, with awards up to US $25,000,000 across eligible U.S. jurisdictions.

Grassroots, community-led organizations in Pennsylvania working on climate justice and related issues like public transportation, housing, food access, health, or racial justice can receive capacity-building support through this fund. Bread & Roses Community Fund offers US $15,000 for organizing training, strategy development, and strengthening climate justice campaigns centered on impacted communities.

Grassroots, community-led organizations in Pennsylvania implementing climate justice organizing strategies can use this grant for campaigns, direct actions, coalition building, and mobilizing residents, including around public transportation and transit equity. Grants from Bread & Roses Community Fund provide US $25,000 to small groups, especially those in Philadelphia County, with budgets under $500,000 and leadership from climate-impacted communities.

The ATTAIN Competitive Grant Program, overseen by the DOT Federal Highway Administration, aims to fund advanced transportation technologies that enhance safety, mobility, and efficiency. By prioritizing innovation and economic competitiveness, the program seeks to improve core infrastructure and reduce roadway congestion. Applications will be evaluated based on their potential benefits to families and communities, ensuring that funded projects align with the Trump Administration's objectives for revitalizing America's transportation systems.

The Hillman Foundation, established in 1951, aims to enhance the quality of life in Pittsburgh and southwestern Pennsylvania. It focuses on strategic grantmaking for economic development, health, education, human services, the arts, and the environment. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that foster community growth, support arts and culture, and address social determinants of health. It primarily funds tax-exempt organizations serving the ten counties of southwestern Pennsylvania.

The Adams County Community Foundation Grants aim to support nonprofits serving vulnerable residents in Adams County through capacity building, program, and collaboration grants. Each grant type has specific funding limits, with a focus on affordable housing initiatives. Eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and adhere to nondiscrimination policies. The foundation provides special consideration to those addressing housing issues, ensuring impactful community development and self-sufficiency for low-income residents.

Oregon Department of Forestry

Vision: Complex and resilient forest ecosystems that endure and adapt.

Mission: To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

US Dept. of Transportation Grant - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity is to solicit applications for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants.

Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 SS4A grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructural, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators.

The SS4A Grant Program includes: 1) Planning and Demonstration Grants; and 2) Implementation Grants.

Implementation Grants

Implementation Grants fund projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan that address roadway safety problems. Implementation Grants may also fund supplemental planning and demonstration activities, as well as project-level planning, design, and development activities for projects and strategies identified in an Action Plan (e.g., project-level 21 National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) compliance, associated environmental review activities, permits and approvals, construction design, etc.). 

• Expected number of awards: 40 to 70

Oregon Department of Forestry

Vision: Complex and resilient forest ecosystems that endure and adapt.

Mission: To protect and promote resilient forests that benefit all Oregonians.

US Dept. of Transportation Grant - Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program

The purpose of this Notice of Funding Opportunity is to solicit applications for Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grants.

Funds for the fiscal year (FY) 2026 SS4A grant program are to be awarded on a competitive basis to support planning, infrastructural, behavioral, and operational initiatives to prevent death and serious injury on roads and streets involving all roadway users, including pedestrians; bicyclists; public transportation, personal conveyance, and micromobility users; motorists; and commercial vehicle operators.

The SS4A Grant Program includes: 1) Planning and Demonstration Grants; and 2) Implementation Grants.

Planning and Demonstration Grants

Planning and Demonstration Grant Eligibility Requirements

Eligible activities for a Planning and Demonstration Grant include: develop a new Action Plan, conduct supplemental safety planning to update an existing Action Plan, or carry out safety demonstration activities to inform the development of or update to an Action Plan.

These activities may be bundled in any combination, provided that the requirements in this Notice are met. DOT encourages complementary but distinct activities, including but not limited to safety demonstration activities that will help inform the development of an Action Plan. Any applicant that meets the eligibility requirements may apply for a Planning and Demonstration Grant to develop an Action Plan. 

• Expected number of awards: 400 to 700

Schools and nonprofit entities in Pennsylvania can apply for up to US $40,000 to pilot a one-year program improving access to basic human needs and community resources. Berks County Community Foundation seeks a partner to staff and manage a localized resource guide, networking events, and collaboration efforts in Northern Berks County, including public transportation information.