Best Fayette County Grants for Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

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.

The Region Grants Open Grant Round: Community Vitality, supported by Land O'Lakes Foundation, aims to enhance the vibrancy of dairy communities in the East and West Regions. With a total investment of $500,000 annually, grants ranging from $1,000 to $20,000 are available for organizations focused on rural development, education, and community resources. Eligible applicants must have a 501c3 status and serve specific geographic areas, ensuring support reaches those in need.

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.

The Hamer Foundation

Our Mission:

The mission of The Hamer Foundation is to provide support to nonprofit organizations within a 100-mile radius of State College PA in the following areas: 

• Environmental Support – 50% of donations 
• Community Support – 35% of donations 
• Educational Support – 15% of donations 

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.

The Allegheny Foundation Grant supports initiatives in Southwestern Pennsylvania, focusing on historic preservation, civic development, and education. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. The Foundation does not fund individuals or organizations reliant on government subsidies. Requests can be submitted at any time, and grants are considered quarterly. Proposals for event sponsorships, endowments, or government agencies typically face rejection. This grant offers a valuable opportunity for community-focused nonprofits.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

The Jefferson Regional Foundation Grants aim to enhance the health and well-being of communities served by Jefferson Hospital through community engagement and research. Organizations can submit Letters of Intent year-round. The Foundation focuses on health, education, and community engagement, with specific funding priorities targeting basic needs, workforce development, and social determinants of health. Grant requests are reviewed at three board meetings each year, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's mission and community needs.

The Albert B. Craig, Jr. Award for Innovation in Behavioral Health honors individuals who inspire fresh thinking and innovative solutions in the field of behavioral health. Established in memory of Dr. Albert B. Craig, Jr., this award recognizes contributions that improve lives through unique partnerships or novel approaches, including products or processes that alleviate mental illness or addiction. Recipients are not limited to Southwestern Pennsylvania, but their work must benefit individuals in the region.

The PLTW Gateway grant, funded by the EQT Foundation, supports schools in implementing PLTW Gateway programs for the upcoming academic year. Eligible applicants are public and charter schools in specific counties, including Greene County, PA, and Marshall County, WV. Grantees must offer at least one PLTW unit and complete two years of reporting. The funds cover necessary program expenses, such as training and equipment, while certain costs like meals and infrastructure improvements are unallowable.

The EQT Foundation offers the PLTW Launch grant to support schools in expanding their existing PLTW Launch programs. Eligible schools must actively participate in PLTW Launch and can utilize the funds for program enhancements, such as adding new modules or training more teachers. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities in STEM for students in specific counties of Pennsylvania and West Virginia, ensuring broader access to innovative learning.

The PLTW Launch - New Program grant, provided by the EQT Foundation, aims to support schools in implementing PLTW Launch programs for the upcoming academic year. Eligible public and charter schools in Greene and Fayette Counties, PA, and Marshall and Wetzel Counties, WV, can apply for funding to cover participation fees, required technology, and necessary training expenses. This initiative will enhance STEM education and prepare students for future careers.

The Pittsburgh and Western PA Trusts, managed through PNC Bank, support diverse projects that enhance community well-being. They prioritize initiatives that provide direct services, address community needs, and benefit underserved populations. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and demonstrate a commitment to measurable outcomes and financial accountability. Funding is not available for general operating costs or for-profit entities. Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire via email for further details.

The Wish Book Grants program by the Pittsburgh Foundation supports nonprofits in specific Pennsylvania counties. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) certified, allow only one wish submission, and focus on general operating support. The grants, capped at $5,000, aim to enhance community services. In 2023, $670,000 was raised for 100 organizations. The program thrives on donor contributions and seeks to align with the Foundation's areas of interest, including arts, economic mobility, and social justice.

The Staunton Farm Foundation Grant aims to enhance the lives of individuals facing mental health and substance use challenges in southwestern Pennsylvania. By supporting evidence-based practices and collaborations among stakeholders, the foundation seeks to eliminate stigma and improve treatment outcomes. Priority areas include innovation, advocacy, and public communication to foster understanding and acceptance of behavioral health issues. This initiative focuses on measurable impacts and sustainable community partnerships to drive positive change.

The Bradley “Ace” Schaffner Scholarship Fund, established by the Pittsburgh Foundation, supports students from Southwestern Pennsylvania pursuing a 4-year liberal arts degree. This scholarship honors Ace's legacy and aims to assist those with a GPA between 2.0 and 3.5 who demonstrate ambition for a helping profession. Preference is given to non-traditional students, encouraging a diverse range of applicants to achieve their academic goals while contributing positively to their communities.

The Local Share Account (LSA) program in Fayette County, administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, aims to enhance community and economic well-being. Funded by local share assessments from licensed gaming facilities, LSA supports various projects focused on economic development and public interest. This initiative ensures that resources are allocated effectively to foster a resilient and thriving community, benefiting residents and local businesses alike.

The EQT Foundation Grant Program supports nonprofits with a focus on community enrichment, education, and environmental preservation in areas aligned with EQT Corporation's business operations. Since 2003, it has awarded over $74 million, emphasizing impactful, evidence-based proposals that foster safe and sustainable communities. Eligible organizations must be tax-exempt and demonstrate effective resource management. The foundation prioritizes projects that promote STEM education, community engagement, and conservation efforts to enhance quality of life in the regions it serves.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Pennsylvania

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Pitcairn-Crabbe Foundation Grant focuses on supporting religious work, Christian education, community welfare, and the overall improvement of humanity's condition, particularly in Pennsylvania. The foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes, address significant challenges, and show potential for leveraging additional support. Applicants must submit an online Letter of Inquiry (LOI) to outline their organization and funding needs. Grants are typically limited to agencies within a 100-mile radius of Pittsburgh.

The Educational Foundation of America (EFA) supports the Reproductive Health & Justice Grant Program to enhance access to abortion and contraception throughout the U.S., particularly in Appalachia, Alabama, and Florida. EFA funds innovative organizations that advocate for reproductive rights, provide direct support to abortion services, and leverage impact investing strategies. This commitment aims to ensure reproductive freedom, foster equity, and promote sustainability in underserved communities.

The Alice R. Moomy Pennsylvania State University Scholarship, offered by the Erie Community Foundation, awards funds to Erie County students pursuing degrees in STEM or nursing at any Penn State campus. With over $800,000 distributed in 2023, this scholarship aims to support academically promising individuals, particularly encouraging female applicants with a minimum GPA of 3.0. It reflects a commitment to enhancing educational opportunities within the community.

No one sees the world like we do. At Eden Hall Foundation, we view our work through a woman’s lens to improve the quality of life for all people across our region. This perspective is unique. And it’s always served us—and Southwestern Pennsylvania—well.

The Focus of Our Work  

Improve the quality of life for women, the disadvantaged, and all those who live in southwestern Pennsylvania

• Advance and disseminate useful knowledge
• Improve health and wellness
• Enhance civic and community resources and amenities\
• Increase access to the arts for all.

Eden Hall Foundation entertains grant proposals for:

• Innovative or evidence-based programming
• Capital Projects
• Capacity Building
• Technical Assistance
• Scholarship Funds

The Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank Impact Grants provide essential funding to organizations facing barriers in delivering food assistance. These small grants, typically ranging from $1,500 for child nutrition programs to $7,500 for agency partners, aim to enhance capacity and improve service delivery. By addressing specific needs, such as equipment or facility repairs, these grants create significant and lasting impacts on food security in the community.

The Colcom Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing local environmental and community projects in southwestern Pennsylvania. It supports initiatives in advocacy, land conservation, and community development to improve quality of life and promote ecological sustainability. Eligible projects may include arts and culture, health services, and environmental education, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to regional heritage and stewardship. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations to engage in meaningful work that addresses pressing community and environmental needs.

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.