Best Energy Efficiency Grants for Nonprofits in Arizona

Arizona accredited charities running community, humanitarian, education, environmental, or arts projects may be eligible for philanthropic support that promotes sustainable development and engages Roche expertise and employees. Roche supports high-quality local initiatives worldwide, so Arizona nonprofits with strong social, environmental, or educational impacts may fit their Corporate Donations and Philanthropy priorities.

Helen Frankenthaler Foundation

The Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports the artist’s legacy through a variety of initiatives, including exhibitions, loans of artworks, research and publications, conservation, grants, educational programs for the public and the scholarly community, and the publishing of a catalogue raisonné. It is dedicated to promoting greater public interest in and understanding of the visual arts.

Established and endowed by the artist during her lifetime (1928-2011), the Foundation became active in 2013, on the closing of Frankenthaler’s estate. As the principal beneficiary of Frankenthaler’s estate, the Foundation maintains an extensive collection of her work in a variety of mediums, as well as her collection of works by other artists and original papers and materials pertaining to her life and work.

Frankenthaler Climate Initiative

The Frankenthaler Climate Initiative (FCI) is a pioneering grantmaking program established by the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation. Since its inception in 2021, FCI has distinguished itself as the foremost private national initiative in the United States dedicated to combating climate change specifically within the visual arts sector.

FCI provides visual arts institutions with up to $100,000 to undertake ambitious sustainability and energy efficiency initiatives that directly address carbon reduction and energy efficiency. The scope of its support is broad, encompassing everything from modest, rapid-response projects to comprehensive efficiency audits and feasibility studies, and extending to financial contributions for significant infrastructural renovations and strategic planning for new buildings and major initiatives.

Building on the core values of the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation, the initiative aligns a commitment to environmental stewardship with a belief in the vital importance of the visual arts and arts education. Through strategic funding and partnerships focused on tangible infrastructure, FCI aims to catalyze a sector-wide shift toward zero carbon operations, promoting a future where the visual arts thrive—while contributing to a more sustainable and ecologically conscious world.

Who We Fund

FCI funds nonprofit institutions in the United States and its territories whose primary focus rests in the visual arts. The visual arts includes but is not limited to painting, drawing, sculpture, printmaking, photography, and installations in clay, glass, metal, wood, fiber, paper, film, and mixed media.

Most of our grantees are art museums, nonprofit galleries, archives, noncollecting institutions, art schools, university museums, and artist-endowed foundations.

What We Fund

FCI funds energy efficiency and clean energy generation projects.

FCI meets arts institutions at every stage of the work, through four kinds of grants:

• Catalyst — first actions and stand-alone projects with a quick turnaround
• Scoping — energy audits and assessments that establish a baseline
• Technical Assistance — detailed planning for technically demanding projects
• Implementation — comprehensive capital work addressing a building's environmental impact at multiple levels

Technical Assistance Grants

Technical Assistance grants support projects that have finished initial assessments, and need procurement and financing support for an identified efficiency project. This may include providing designs, specifications, or fees for working with energy services companies (ESCOs) for project support. These grants also support more complex studies or analysis required for pursuing major implementation projects. At the conclusion of a Technical Assistance grant, the applicant should be sufficiently informed to implement a project.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits running skilled trades training or capacity‑building programs, including those serving Arizona and working on energy efficiency and conservation, can apply for US $500,000 - US $1,000,000 from the Blackrock Foundation. Funding supports worker training, apprenticeships, wraparound supports, and systems‑level efforts that strengthen the skilled trades workforce ecosystem.

Arizona nonprofit organizations planning solar energy projects can access funding through Hammond Climate Solutions Foundation to help afford the switch to clean energy. Grants up to Up to US $25,000 are available nationwide, with priority for projects in Communities of Concern, serving youth or schools, and with near-term installation and additional funding sources.

Organizations and stakeholders involved in energy efficiency, conservation, and grid planning in Arizona can use this federal Request for Information to provide input on gigawatt-scale generation and transmission investments. Grants from National Energy Technology Laboratory help shape U.S. strategies for expanding electric grid capacity to meet growing demand from data centers and other large energy users.

Nonprofits, companies, and other teams developing industrial energy storage solutions for efficiency can access funding through the U.S. Department of Energy in Arizona and nationwide. The Industrial Energy Storage Systems Prize offers up to US $700,000 per team across three phases to design, prototype, and validate cost-effective thermal and electric storage technologies for industrial facilities.

Low-income households in Arizona and nationwide can receive weatherization services to improve home energy efficiency through the Weatherization Assistance Program, administered locally. Grants from the U.S. Department of Energy help cover energy-saving upgrades for eligible homeowners and renters, which may benefit nonprofits that assist clients with housing and energy efficiency needs.

U.S. organizations scaling ARPA-E–funded energy technologies, including those advancing energy efficiency and conservation, can apply for United States Department of Energy grants ranging from US $5,000,000 - US $20,000,000. This national opportunity supports high-risk, early-stage innovations moving from discovery toward deployment, and Arizona nonprofits involved in eligible ARPA-E subject inventions may benefit.

Nonprofit visual arts institutions in Arizona and across the U.S. can receive up to US $20,000 for clean energy, energy efficiency, and sustainability projects through the Frankenthaler Climate Initiative’s Catalyst Grants. Helen Frankenthaler Foundation supports first-step or small-scale efforts like LED upgrades, building envelope improvements, solar installations, and energy audits that reduce environmental impact and operating costs.

Arizona community groups, nonprofits, schools, and locally owned businesses can access funding for sustainability projects in areas like building energy efficiency, climate action, transportation, food, and public health. Flagstaff City Hall’s Neighborhood Sustainability Grants offer up to US $7,500 for projects within Flagstaff city limits that engage volunteers, build partnerships, and involve underserved or vulnerable residents.

Visual arts museums and cultural institutions in Arizona can seek funding to implement energy efficiency and clean energy projects that reduce building emissions. Focused on energy efficiency and conservation, the Helen Frankenthaler Foundation’s Frankenthaler Climate Initiative offers implementation grants up to US $100,000 for holistic, transformative capital projects at U.S.-based visual arts organizations, including museums and visual arts schools.

Visual arts museums and cultural institutions in Arizona and across the U.S. can apply for Helen Frankenthaler Foundation’s Frankenthaler Climate Initiative Scoping Grants, awarding up to US $25,000 for energy assessments and planning. Funding supports audits and consultant-led studies to identify energy efficiency, clean energy, and emissions-reduction opportunities in their facilities.

Arizona nonprofits working on energy efficiency and conservation can access funding through the Laird Norton Family Foundation, which supports U.S. organizations in areas like carbon reduction and sustainable energy. Programs that also address climate change, watershed stewardship, arts in education, or youth homelessness services in eligible regions may be considered.

Nonprofits, public education institutions, government entities, and Canadian charities working on energy efficiency and conservation in Arizona communities where Weyerhaeuser operates can seek project support. Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund supports local initiatives within its seven focus areas, offering more than US $1,000 for programs that measurably improve community quality of life.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited schools in Arizona working on energy efficiency and conservation, STEM education, sustainability, or affordable housing may be eligible for this support. With a mission to strengthen communities through sustainable construction and workforce development, Saint-Gobain Corporation Foundation provides direct grants in select counties where its employees live and work.

Nonprofit organizations working on community safety, STEM education, sustainability, or energy efficiency and conservation, including those in Arizona, may be eligible for grant support. Grants from Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company help fund programs that promote safe mobility, inspire student success, and address environmental and societal needs such as hunger relief and improving public spaces.

Arizona nonprofits and public entities working on energy efficiency, conservation, and related environmental programs can seek support for projects such as energy management, renewable energy, and environmental education. Entergy Charitable Foundation prioritizes communities in its U.S. service areas, funding efforts that also address poverty solutions, housing stability, and education/workforce development.

Arizona schools, colleges, and universities running student-led projects in energy efficiency, clean energy, or related STEM topics can apply for Constellation Energy Resources’ E2 Energy to Educate grants. Awards up to US $50,000 support hands-on initiatives that deepen understanding of energy, sustainability, and nuclear and emissions-free technologies among grades 6–12 and college students.

Nonprofit and community organizations in Arizona working on arts, education, environment, or health and wellness projects or events can apply for Stantec’s Community Engagement Grant to support their initiatives. Programs promoting energy efficiency and conservation may be eligible if they operate near a Stantec office or service area listed among its priority locations.

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.

Educational institutions, government programs, 501(c)(3) nonprofits, and 501(c)(4) volunteer fire companies in Arizona can apply for State Farm Companies Foundation’s Good Neighbor Citizenship grants to support safety, education, and community development initiatives. Projects like disaster preparedness, home and auto safety, neighborhood revitalization, and job training may benefit organizations also advancing energy efficiency and conservation goals.

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.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.