Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Florida

Florida Department of Transportation

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is an executive agency and directly reports to Governor Ron DeSantis. FDOT’s continuing mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities. This mission is accomplished through a primary purpose to plan and develop (either directly or indirectly) Florida’s robust transportation system. 

Highway Safety Grant Programs

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) State Safety Office awards subgrants to traffic safety partners that undertake priority area programs and activities to improve traffic safety and eliminate crashes, serious injuries, and fatalities. Subgrants may be awarded for assisting in addressing traffic safety deficiencies, expansion of an ongoing activity, or development of a new program.

Subgrants are awarded as "seed" money to assist in the development and implementation of programs in traffic safety priority areas. Many types of organizations are eligible to receive traffic safety subgrant funding including government agencies, political subdivisions of state, local, city and county government agencies, law enforcement agencies, state colleges and state universities, school districts, fire departments, public emergency service providers, and certain qualified non-profit organizations (e.g., MADD, SADD, etc.).

Each applicant must develop a concept paper that identifies a traffic safety problem in the applicant’s jurisdiction. Applicants should provide documentation in the form of crash data of the traffic safety problem targeted by the subgrant. Concept papers must detail the activities of how the traffic safety problem will be addressed using subgrant funds.

Traffic Safety Priority Areas

The following are the priority areas that are available for subgrant funding: 1) Aging Road Users; 2) Community Traffic Safety Outreach; 3) Distracted Driving; 4) Drowsy Driving; 5) Impaired Driving; 6) Interstate Speeding Enforcement; 7) Motorcycle Safety; 8) Occupant Protection and Child Passenger Safety; 9) Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety; 10) Law Enforcement Liaison Program; 11) Public Traffic Safety Professionals Training; 12) Speed/Aggressive Driving; 13) Teen Driver Safety; 14) Traffic Records; 15) Traffic Records Coordinating Committee (TRCC); 16) Work Zone Safety.

Interstate Speeding Enforcement

Includes speeding on interstate roads and concept papers can address specialized enforcement efforts. Items eligible for funding under this category may include, but are not limited to, overtime for enforcement, overtime for dispatchers (as needed for larger agencies), overtime for subgrant reimbursement and reporting, speed measurement devices (radars, lidars), and ticket writers. Funding for equipment is contingent upon evidence of need clearly defined within the problem statement and a comprehensive plan that requires the use of the requested equipment. Enforcement subgrants should focus on enforcement efforts and concepts requesting a majority of funding for equipment are discouraged. Subgrants for equipment only are not allowable.

The Santander Charitable Sponsorship Program focuses on supporting low- to moderate-income communities primarily in the Northeast and Florida. With a commitment of $100 million in charitable giving, the program addresses key community development needs, including affordable housing, job creation, financial education, and disaster relief. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or be public agencies, demonstrating capacity to meet community needs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.

About Community Foundation of South Alabama

Since its inception, the Community Foundation has grown to over 500 funds and awarded over $98 million in grants and scholarships throughout the eight counties of southwest Alabama, improving the lives of many residents in our corner of the world.

We amplify the gifts from generous donors through wise investment, support others in efforts to enhance our community, and lead and collaborate on initiatives which have a broad impact.

Scholarships

The more than 40 scholarship funds at the Foundation were created by generous donors who wanted to help the students in our community achieve a brighter future. We are committed to assisting the most promising students with scholarships for professional certificate programs, two and four-year undergraduate degrees and graduate school. The scholarship funds at the Foundation award grants to high school, community college and university students to be used for tuition, books, and fees.

Hooper W. Matthews Jr. ScholarshipFund

The scholarship provides tuition assistance to juniors or seniors at the University of FL School of Forestry/Natural Resource Conservation, Milton Branch. Students must be from Escambia, Conecuh, Monroe, or North Baldwin. Scholarships are based on merit and financial need. Students must major in natural resource conservation, have a minimum 3.0 GPA, and can be either full-time or part-time. Community or volunteer service is preferred. Recipients are eligible to reapply. 

Florida Department of Transportation

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is an executive agency and directly reports to Governor Ron DeSantis. FDOT’s continuing mission is to provide a safe statewide transportation system that promotes the efficient movement of people and goods, supports the state’s economic competitiveness, prioritizes Florida’s environment and natural resources, and preserves the quality of life and connectedness of the state’s communities. This mission is accomplished through a primary purpose to plan and develop (either directly or indirectly) Florida’s robust transportation system. 

Highway Safety Grant Programs

The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) State Safety Office awards subgrants to traffic safety partners that undertake priority area programs and activities to improve traffic safety and eliminate crashes, serious injuries, and fatalities. Subgrants may be awarded for assisting in addressing traffic safety deficiencies, expansion of an ongoing activity, or development of a new program.

Subgrants are awarded as "seed" money to assist in the development and implementation of programs in traffic safety priority areas. Many types of organizations are eligible to receive traffic safety subgrant funding including government agencies, political subdivisions of state, local, city and county government agencies, law enforcement agencies, state colleges and state universities, school districts, fire departments, public emergency service providers, and certain qualified non-profit organizations (e.g., MADD, SADD, etc.).

Each applicant must develop a concept paper that identifies a traffic safety problem in the applicant’s jurisdiction. Applicants should provide documentation in the form of crash data of the traffic safety problem targeted by the subgrant. Concept papers must detail the activities of how the traffic safety problem will be addressed using subgrant funds.

Traffic Safety Priority Areas

The following are the priority areas that are available for subgrant funding: 1) Aging Road Users; 2) Community Traffic Safety Outreach; 3) Distracted Driving; 4) Drowsy Driving; 5) Impaired Driving; 6) Interstate Speeding Enforcement; 7) Motorcycle Safety; 8) Occupant Protection and Child Passenger Safety; 9) Pedestrian and Bicycle Safety; 10) Law Enforcement Liaison Program; 11) Public Traffic Safety Professionals Training; 12) Speed/Aggressive Driving; 13) Teen Driver Safety; 14) Traffic Records; 15) Traffic Records Coordinating Committee (TRCC); 16) Work Zone Safety.

Drowsy Driving: Includes information regarding the risk of drowsy-driving crashes.

The National Forest Foundation's Matching Awards Program connects communities to forests by funding stewardship activities that promote engagement with National Forests and nearby public lands. This program aims to create lasting impacts, ensuring that all communities can benefit from the rich resources of these natural areas. By supporting various projects, the program fosters a deeper relationship between people and the environment, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts and community well-being.

The Community Impact Grants by the United Way of Martin County support local programs focusing on health, education, and financial stability. These grants aim to enhance community well-being by funding organizations that demonstrate measurable outcomes and align with the United Way's mission. Eligible programs must be 501(c)(3) entities, serve Martin County residents, and have a track record of at least two years. A review panel of community leaders evaluates applications to ensure impactful funding.

The Watson-Brown Foundation Grant supports organizations dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the South. It offers various types of grants, including for educational programming and historic preservation, with a focus on southern studies. Eligible recipients include public charities in the southeastern United States. The Foundation's Junior Board of Trustees also awards grants to preservation projects in east central Georgia, emphasizing youth engagement in cultural heritage.

Florida Department of Health

Led by the State Surgeon General, the mission of the Florida Department of Health is to protect, promote, and improve the health of all people in Florida through integrated state, county, and community efforts.

The Live Like Bella Pediatric Cancer Research Initiative

The Florida Department of Health’s Live Like Bella Pediatric Cancer Research Initiative supports the pursuit of identifying cures for pediatric cancer.

The Live Like Bella Pediatric Cancer Research Initiative is established in section 381.922, Florida Statutes, works to advance progress toward curing pediatric cancer through grants awarded through a peer-reviewed, competitive process, to:

• Significantly expand pediatric cancer research capacity in Florida
• Improve both research and treatment through greater pediatric enrollment in clinical trials networks
• Reduce the impact of pediatric cancer on disproportionately impacted individuals

Research Focus

Applications submitted in response to this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) must be responsive to one of the following areas of focus. 

• Prevention and Treatment
• Screening
• Obesity
• Treatment-Related Morbidities
• Technology Transfer Feasibility (TTF)
• Investigational New Drug or Investigational Device Exemption

Efforts to foster collaborations among institutions, researchers, and community practitioners should be included, when possible. Preference will be given to applications that address at least one of the cancers listed in the Research Priorities section of this FOA.

Funding Information

Applicants must request funding in the preceding grant categories to pursue research in the areas of focus outlined in the Research Focus section of this FOA. Preference will be given to applications that address the priorities listed in the Research Priorities section of this FOA. Specific grant funding amounts are available for each grant category.

Grant Categories

Applications in response to this FOA must align to a grant category (depending on the grant program) to pursue an area of focus from the Research Focus section of this FOA. Applications for research infrastructure grants that are reviewed and assigned exceptional scientific merit will be considered for preferential funding. 

The grant categories are: 1) Bridge; 2) Discovery Science; 3) Emerging Therapeutics and Technologies; 4) Equipment; 5) Multicenter Clinical Trials; 6) New Investigator Research (NIR); 7) High-Risk, High-Reward Clinical Research; 8) High-Risk, High-Reward Discovery Science; 9) Non-Typical Clinical Trials/Socio-Behavioral Research; 10) Research Infrastructure

Bella Initiative Grant Categories: Emerging Therapeutics and Technologies

This grant category supports research on emerging therapeutics and technologies used in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and tobacco-related diseases. Examples include but are not limited to personalized/precision medicine therapies, immunotherapy, gene therapy, repurposing of previously used medications, use of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosis and treatment, and comparative effectiveness trials of emerging treatments.

Maximum Duration: 36 months

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Southern Partners Fund's Discretionary Fund Grant aims to support grassroots community organizing for social, economic, and environmental justice in the Southeastern United States. It provides financial resources and technical assistance to rural organizations and leaders focused on transformative change. Eligible applicants include self-governed rural groups engaging in advocacy and community development. The fund prioritizes education reform, immigration rights, and voter engagement, allowing up to two requests per year, with a maximum award of $3,500.

The FirstBank Charitable Foundation (FBCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2008, focused on supporting charitable organizations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. With over a million dollars awarded, FBCF aims to enhance community well-being through partnerships in health, housing, and education. Nonprofits aligning with FBCF's mission and demonstrating significant service impact are encouraged to apply for grants, fostering a stronger fabric within their neighborhoods.

The Environmental Humanities Program Grants by Florida Humanities Council aim to fund projects that explore the interplay between humans and the environment. These grants support innovative, collaborative initiatives that celebrate Florida's diverse landscapes and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants can request up to $10,000 for programs that demonstrate public impact and address local environmental issues. Priority is given to projects serving underserved communities and those located in economically distressed areas.

The Florida Specialty Crop Block Grant Program aims to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops, including fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, and horticulture products. This program encourages innovative projects that promote marketing, research, and accessibility of specialty crops while addressing industry challenges. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and government agencies. The program prioritizes economic benefits, feasibility, and alignment with budgetary constraints, ensuring a positive impact on Florida's agricultural landscape.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Lloyd L. and Helen R. Dilworth Foundation Grant supports charitable causes primarily in Florida. Established in 1987, the foundation offers funding for various program areas, including arts, education, health, and human services. Organizations eligible for funding must be exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Applications are accepted year-round, with a deadline for annual review on September 30. This foundation continues the philanthropic legacy of its founders, Lloyd and Helen Dilworth.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The Florida Breast Cancer Foundation (FBCF) offers the Scientific Research Grant - Pilot Program, providing up to $100,000 for innovative breast cancer research. This initiative emphasizes collaborative projects that address critical areas such as environmental links to breast cancer, translational research, and psycho-immunological studies. FBCF aims to support new investigators and multidisciplinary teams to transform breast cancer treatment and understanding, ultimately striving for a significant impact on outcomes for patients in Florida.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an initiative aimed at enhancing economic development through workforce training and public infrastructure improvements. It offers grants to support programs at state colleges and technical centers, ensuring that participants gain transferable skills applicable across multiple employers. The program emphasizes inclusivity, allowing all applicants, including those unemployed or underemployed, to participate. By addressing local workforce needs, the fund plays a crucial role in strengthening Florida's economy.

Minto Group Inc. is dedicated to making a positive impact through its philanthropic efforts. Their donations focus on five key pillars that enhance local communities, including education, healthcare, environmental initiatives, arts, and sports. By empowering organizations that align with these values, Minto aims to foster growth and ensure a better future for all. Their commitment to integrity, innovation, and collaboration reflects their mission to create lasting change and improve lives across various regions.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.