Best Foundation Grants for Nonprofits in North Dakota

Tax-exempt 501(c)(3) and 509(a) nonprofits offering education, human services, conservation, health, or cultural programs can apply for McGraw Foundation’s grants, typically ranging from US $2,000 - US $10,000. Although grants generally favor organizations in the greater Chicago area, North Dakota nonprofits with qualifying programs may be eligible for support, including operating or project funding.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance solutions for current water industry challenges. Focused on water-related research, American Water Works Association invites applicants whose work may ultimately benefit nonprofits and communities in North Dakota and beyond.

Agricultural producers and forest landowners in North Dakota can receive financial and technical assistance to enhance conservation on working lands through the Conservation Stewardship Program. With a mission to improve natural resources, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides support for practices that boost soil health, water quality, wildlife habitat, and overall operation resilience via five-year CSP contracts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in North Dakota working on economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, or community arts and culture may be eligible for this funding. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help groups that address multiple “work, home, and play” pillars, advance diversity, equity, and inclusion, and serve designated U.S. Bank communities.

Nonprofit organizations serving women, children, and families with humanitarian aid or self-sufficiency programs in North Dakota can access funding through The Father's Table Foundation. Grants up to US $750,000 support efforts like homelessness services, education, job readiness, food security, anti-trafficking, child welfare, health care, and related community-strengthening initiatives.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions conducting biomedical research in North Dakota can access funding through the National Institutes of Health; awards up to US $375,000 support small-scale research projects and student research experiences. NIH provides U.S. colleges and universities with limited prior NIH funding an opportunity to strengthen their research environment and training capacity.

North Dakota agricultural landowners, Indian tribes, and eligible conservation partners can secure funding for agricultural and wetland conservation easements that protect working lands and restore wetlands. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of North Dakota supports easement purchases and restoration costs, helping preserve farmland, grasslands, and wetland habitats while enhancing environmental quality and open space.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in eligible low- and middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored clinical research and career development. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help North Dakota-based nonprofits partnering with LMIC investigators advance work in cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health, environmental health, and related medical fields.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in low- or middle-income countries, including those connected with North Dakota nonprofits, can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award from the National Institutes of Health. Awards of approximately US $140,000 support 3–5 years of mentored health-related research and career development aligned with their country’s health priorities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations can seek US $5,000 - US $20,000 for education-focused programs, youth initiatives, arts and culture, community services, and related efforts, including in North Dakota. Focused on education, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust invites nonprofits to propose new or enhanced programs, short-term bridge support, matching grants, or final capital campaign dollars.

Nonprofits, institutions, and similar organizations in North Dakota can seek funding for medical or scientific congresses, events, or initiatives that offer Biogen tangible benefits like exhibits, banners, or marketing opportunities. Biogen Foundation considers a wide range of neurological and related disease areas, with decisions based on alignment, event details, and geographic location.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations can seek US $5,000 - US $50,000 in general operating support for grassroots work in regenerative agriculture, healthy food access, climate justice, and pollution-free environments. Focused on community-based environmental and food systems change, Clif Family Foundation invites North Dakota nonprofits, especially smaller, grassroots groups, to apply to its twice-yearly open call.

Eligible organizations in North Dakota can apply for the ND 2025-26 AmeriCorps Formula Fund to support AmeriCorps members delivering community service across focus areas like education, disaster services, economic opportunity, health, environment, and veterans. This state-administered program from North Dakota Department of Commerce may benefit nonprofits seeking to expand service and volunteer initiatives.

Nonprofit conservation and agricultural support organizations in North Dakota can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 to expand regenerative agriculture and habitat conservation on private lands. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program funds technical assistance that helps landowners plan, implement best practices, engage in Farm Bill programs, and improve soil, water, and wildlife outcomes.

Free and charitable clinics in North Dakota that are NAFC members can apply for the NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund, awarding US $30,000 - US $50,000 to launch or grow clinical programs. Funding can support services like behavioral health, women’s health, telehealth, chronic disease management, dental, vision, mobile clinics, and other patient care expansions.

Students pursuing natural resources or environmental studies in North Dakota can receive scholarship support for full-time study at accredited colleges or universities. With a mission to support education, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois provides funding for fields like ecology, forestry, hydrology, soil science, and related conservation disciplines; nonprofits may share this opportunity with eligible students.

Research scientists organizing agriculture, forestry, food, or fisheries events in OECD Co-operative Research Programme member countries can seek conference, workshop, or symposium sponsorship to share innovative scientific developments. With a mission to strengthen scientific knowledge, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development provides North Dakota nonprofits and research institutions with support that may help inform policy makers, industry, and academia.

Environmental and sustainability-focused 501(c)(3) organizations in North Dakota can apply for Implementation/Collaboration Grants supporting research implementation and evidence-based practices. Grants from Renewable Natural Resources Foundation provide US $50,000 - US $200,000 for multidisciplinary projects in areas like air quality, water resources, regenerative agriculture, recycling, and renewable energy that involve RNRF member collaborators and U.S.-based partners.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, established by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has distributed over $16.3 million in grants since 1999. It supports charitable organizations and local governments in eleven Oregon counties, as well as Native American initiatives across the U.S. The fund prioritizes education, health, public safety, addiction prevention, housing, arts, and environmental preservation, ensuring the Tribe's commitment to community support and cultural heritage.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

Sanofi Philanthropic Donations support non-profit organizations aligned with Health Equity, STEM Education Equity, and Local Communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review process of 8 to 16 weeks. The initiative focuses on improving healthcare access, fostering innovation, and addressing social determinants of health. Sanofi emphasizes collaboration and sustainable solutions, advocating for equal opportunities in health and education, and nurturing future talent to tackle medical challenges.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible states by increasing the number of university researchers and institutions conducting relevant science and engineering research. Sponsored by the Department of Defense, this program will fund multiyear awards to promote research aligned with national security needs. Applications require a multi-stage submission process, emphasizing early registration and timely proposal submissions.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation offers the BUILD Grants Program aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of rural communities in North Dakota. This initiative addresses social determinants of health and focuses on key areas such as economic stability, education access, healthcare quality, neighborhood environments, and community context. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 will be awarded, prioritizing applicants with strong community collaborations and sustainability efforts.

The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.