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

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund aims to enhance economic development by funding public infrastructure and workforce training projects across the state. This program, overseen by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and Enterprise Florida, Inc., encourages proposals that promote economic recovery and diversification while ensuring public benefit. Eligible entities must submit proposals that serve the community's infrastructure needs, fostering growth and development in targeted industries.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

The MagMutual Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to enhancing healthcare access and diversity. It funds initiatives like pro-bono medical care for underserved populations, scholarships for minority medical students, and support for healthcare workers facing challenges. The foundation aims to maximize its positive influence in communities by advocating for policyholders and promoting meaningful changes in medical practices. Eligible applicants must have a policyholder's recommendation and be a registered non-profit.

The Small Matching Grants for Historic Preservation Projects, offered by the Florida Department of State's Division of Historical Resources, provide funding to support the preservation of significant historic and archaeological resources across Florida. Grants are available for various project types, including surveys, planning, National Register nominations, and heritage education. These funds aim to enhance public knowledge and appreciation of Florida's rich history, although operational support for organizations is not covered.

The Florida Department of State is inviting applications for the Abandoned African-American Cemeteries Grants. This program aims to provide financial support to protect and preserve abandoned African-American cemeteries in Florida. Grants are competitive, with a maximum award of $50,000 and no minimum request. Eligible projects include cemetery research and protection efforts, focusing on historical documentation and physical restoration, ensuring the preservation of these significant cultural sites.

The Parks and Open Space Florida Forever Grant Program, managed by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, aims to preserve green spaces by funding local governments and eligible nonprofits for park and open space acquisitions. This initiative not only enhances outdoor recreation but also supports conservation efforts aligned with local comprehensive plans. A minimum 25% match is required from local governments, while smaller municipalities and nonprofits may have different criteria. Applications are accepted from November 3, 2025, to January 19, 2026.

The Museum on Main Street Grant, funded by Florida Humanities, offers up to $10,000 to support public humanities programming and local exhibitions that explore Native American culture. Selected communities will host the traveling exhibition "Americans" from August 2026 to June 2027, promoting discussions on the representation of American Indians in broader culture. This initiative aims to enhance understanding of shared history, especially as the 250th anniversary of the U.S. approaches.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

Florida Kiwanis Foundation

The Florida Kiwanis Foundation was created in 1971 by Former Kiwanis Governor Robert Thal. Since 1971, Florida Kiwanis Foundation has been supporting Kiwanis Clubs, Divisions, and students make a real impact in the state of Florida.

Our Purpose: To leave a legacy for the children. We are dedicated to supporting Florida Youth to ensure a brighter future and leave a legacy for the children.

Mission: Help children in need. To enable caring individuals, clubs, and divisions to combine their resources of time, talent, and funds to create a greater impact on the needs of children and families in Florida.

Emergency Grants

The Emergency Grant program is new to the Foundation, established during the 2011-2012 administrative year but based on an older concept that was applied during the time of Hurricane Charley.

The Foundation contributes to the Emergency Fund each year and funds are also collected from private donations designated for “emergency fund” through the year.

In the case of an emergency disaster somewhere in the Florida District of Kiwanis, the Foundation President and the District Governor will meet to confirm the existence of an emergency disaster and then formally declare select areas of the District as a Disaster Area and that funds are available from the Florida Kiwanis Foundation.

Emergency Grant requests shall be sent by club letterhead to the Foundation Office. Maximum requests for funds shall be $2,000.00. Funds will be available until the existing fund is depleted.

The Emergency funds need not be matched by the club and do not need to be for capital improvements. Expenditures for food, clothing, temporary comfort, both physical and emotional are acceptable.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The FBA Community Organization Grant Program, established by the Florida Beverage Association, aims to enhance community health and sustainability. This initiative supports grants that focus on promoting nutrition, physical activity, and environmental sustainability. By fostering comprehensive programs, the FBA is dedicated to creating healthier citizens and communities, recognizing the vital connection between business success and community well-being. This is the ninth year of the program, reflecting a strong commitment to community improvement.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The ASCE Florida Section: Past President’s Undergraduate Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering at Florida universities. Established in 2016 and endowed in 2017, this scholarship, valued at $1,500, was initiated by E. Bruce Lawson to alleviate the financial burden of college fees. Eligible applicants must be active ASCE members and enrolled full-time in civil engineering programs. The scholarship is awarded annually at the ASCE Florida Section Annual Conference, promoting the growth of future civil engineers.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

Impact 100 Palm Beach County empowers women to collectively fund transformative $100,000 grants for nonprofits, enhancing community initiatives in southern Palm Beach County. The grant application process includes attending a Nonprofit Grant Workshop and submitting a Letter of Intent. Successful applicants will undergo a rigorous review, leading to a formal request for a Full Proposal. The program emphasizes high-impact projects across various focus areas, promoting sustainable change in the community.

The ASCE Florida Section: E. Bruce Lawson Leadership Scholarships provide $1,500 to undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering at Florida universities. Established in 2021, this scholarship honors Bruce Lawson, a past ASCE Florida Section President. Eligible applicants include LGBQT students and those focusing on utilities within civil engineering. Recipients are selected by the current ASCE Florida Section President and must be active ASCE members, fostering leadership and community engagement among future civil engineers.

The ASCE Florida Section: Kathy J. Caldwell Women in Engineering Scholarship provides a $1,500 annual scholarship to a female undergraduate studying civil engineering in Florida. This scholarship honors Kathy Caldwell, a former ASCE national president and a dedicated engineer. Applicants must be ASCE members and enrolled in a Florida university. The scholarship aims to support and encourage women in engineering, contributing to diversity in the civil engineering field.

The ASCE Florida Section: EPIC/Chittaluru Family Scholarship, established in 2017 by Prasad Chittaluru, supports undergraduate and graduate ASCE members pursuing civil engineering degrees in Florida. With a scholarship award of $500, it encourages students to innovate within the civil engineering field. This competitive scholarship is part of a partnership between the ASCE Florida Section and the Florida Engineering Foundation, promoting academic excellence and professional growth in civil engineering.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The ASCE Florida Section: Hayden Family Scholarship, established in 2017 by the Hayden family, offers $1,000 to first-generation undergraduate ASCE student members pursuing civil engineering at Florida universities. The scholarship promotes educational opportunities for students facing financial challenges. Applicants must be active members of their local ASCE chapter and cannot have previously won undergraduate scholarships. This initiative demonstrates a commitment to supporting the next generation of civil engineers and enhancing the profession's future.

The ASCE Florida Section: Universal Engineering Sciences Scholarship, established in 2017, supports graduate students pursuing a master's degree in geotechnical engineering. With a $1,000 award, this scholarship aims to foster talent in civil engineering amidst increasing demand for infrastructure improvements. Applicants must be active ASCE members and enrolled in Florida universities, enhancing the community's engineering expertise. This initiative underscores ASCE's commitment to education and professional development in the civil engineering field.

The Wawa Foundation offers in-kind support to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations within its six-state area, focusing on health, hunger, and everyday heroes. Organizations can request product donations, such as Wawa brand beverages, or gift baskets for fundraising events. Requests must be made at least four weeks in advance, and support is subject to availability. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and enhance local philanthropy through meaningful contributions.

The ASCE Florida Section: Past President’s Graduate Scholarship is aimed at graduate students pursuing civil engineering degrees in Florida. With a scholarship award of $1,500, this initiative, supported by the American Society of Civil Engineers, encourages ASCE members to further their education. Applicants must be full-time graduate students enrolled in a Florida university and actively involved in their local ASCE student chapter. This scholarship honors the legacy of past leaders in civil engineering.

The Brown-Forman Grants aim to enhance community vitality through strategic funding focused on arts, essential living standards, and responsible living. Emphasizing support for nonprofit organizations, the Foundation prioritizes initiatives that improve well-being, education, and environmental sustainability, particularly in Louisville, Kentucky. Organizations seeking funding must align with these goals and demonstrate measurable project outcomes. The Foundation does not accept unsolicited requests or applications from ineligible entities, ensuring that resources are directed towards fostering impactful community engagement.

Foothills Community Foundation

In 1999, the founding members of Foothills Community Foundation shared a vision for our community. They focused their time, resources, and mission to promote philanthropy and provide a catalyst for giving in Anderson, Oconee, and Pickens Counties.

Today, our leaders share the same vision. We work to inspire participation in philanthropy and retain the charitable wealth in our community to positively impact lives now and for future generations.

Scholarships

Several different scholarship funds have been established by individuals, companies, and organizations wanting to assist individuals with furthering their education. All qualified applicants will be graduating high school seniors except for renewal options specifically noted.

Irvin Cauthen Scholarship

Seniors from Anderson, Oconee, or Pickens County who plan to major in business or engineering at Anderson University, Florida State University, Clemson University or Georgia Tech are qualified. This scholarship is renewable.

Scholarship funds are awarded for one academic year. A renewal application is required for each academic year with demonstration of being in good standing at their school of choice.