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

The Clancy & Theys 1949 Fund, managed by the Triangle Community Foundation, supports nonprofits in Central Florida, North Carolina, Upstate South Carolina, and Virginia. This donor-advised fund prioritizes initiatives in education, workforce development, youth programming, and community well-being, focusing on measurable impacts. The Foundation seeks to strengthen community ties and enhance quality of life by connecting donors with local organizations that address pressing needs. Both established partners and new applicants are encouraged to apply.

The Ocean Reef Community Foundation's Community Grants Program supports local charities addressing community issues and fostering self-sufficiency. Grants focus on innovative projects that improve community welfare, with preference given to those involving partnerships and additional funding sources. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities and demonstrate a clear impact on the defined areas. The program prioritizes initiatives that enhance services, empower individuals, and address root causes of challenges faced by the community.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

The Public Humanities Program Grants, previously known as Community Project Grants, support initiatives that preserve and share Florida's rich history and culture. They encourage projects that bring communities together to explore their heritage and current civic life. Eligible applicants include Florida-based nonprofits and governments, and projects must involve humanities scholarship. In 2025, proposals marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence will be prioritized, fostering collaboration among diverse community partners.

The Florida Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIGP) Tier II offers competitive funding for transient recreational boat tie-up facilities. With an annual budget between $9 million and $14 million, it supports projects exceeding 26 feet in length. While there is no maximum project cost, federal funding is capped at $1.5 million. This program, overseen by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, encourages innovative proposals that meet stringent eligibility criteria.

The Standard's Corporate Giving Program emphasizes community support and employee engagement, reflecting its foundational mission to enhance financial well-being. Established in 1906, the program focuses on Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education. With a funding range of $500 to $25,000, it aims to make a substantial impact in the lives of individuals and families facing challenges. The Standard Charitable Foundation, launched in 2006, further extends this commitment by supporting organizations that align with its philanthropic goals.

The SRTG Research/Study Grant, supported by the New College of Florida Foundation, offers up to $2,000 to students for research and travel related to thesis work, independent studies, and tutorials. Applications are due by October 20 for students and October 22 for faculty recommendations. Priority funding areas include thesis-related research, professional conference presentations, and study abroad experiences. This program has a long history of supporting student academic endeavors at New College.

The CTBF: Eager to Learn Grant Program provides essential support for college test preparation and promotes access to trade schools. Aimed at empowering students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, the program funds organizations that enhance SAT and ACT scores and offer mentorship. Grants, capped at $25,000, focus on equitable opportunities in education, ensuring all students can pursue their optimal paths, whether through college or vocational training.

The NIDCD is offering funding to advance HIV/AIDS research, particularly focusing on areas related to communication disorders. This initiative supports low-risk clinical trials and encourages researchers to align their proposals with high priority topics identified by the NIH Office of AIDS Research. Applications must be submitted by the local deadline, with optional Letters of Intent due 30 days prior to the proposal deadline. This opportunity aims to enhance understanding and treatment in this crucial health area.

The Gary S. Morgan Student Research Award, provided by the Florida Paleontological Society, aims to enhance understanding of Florida's paleontology through innovative research. Open to both undergraduate and graduate students in good standing at Florida universities, this award supports various research expenditures, excluding travel to meetings and salaries. Eligible research fields include invertebrates, vertebrates, microfossils, and plants, encouraging a diverse range of projects to foster new discoveries.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Florida Boating Improvement Program offers competitive grants to enhance boating access projects for motorized vessels in Florida. Funded by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, eligible applicants include county governments and municipalities. The program supports various initiatives such as constructing boat ramps, piers, and educational projects that promote boating. This funding aims to improve recreational boating opportunities and stimulate local economic development related to water activities.

Scholarships support aspiring college students who hold the promise of tomorrow’s progress.

Together, our competitive grants and scholarships help our region rise thanks to the vision and generosity of our donors.

J. Peter Hoffman Memorial Scholarship Fund

Must attend a university/college in the State of Florida.

The SRTG Conference Presentation Grants support New College of Florida students with funding up to $2,000 for research, travel, and professional presentations related to their thesis and independent study projects. This program, backed by the New College Alumni Association and the Foundation, prioritizes projects with clear plans that enhance academic growth, including conference attendance and study abroad opportunities, fostering student engagement and professional development.

Southern SARE offers Graduate Student Grants to support Master’s and PhD students engaged in sustainable agriculture research. This initiative encourages impactful research across various topics, including production, marketing, and social sciences. By providing funding opportunities, Southern SARE aims to foster the next generation of researchers committed to advancing sustainable agricultural practices throughout the Southern region.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Florida aim to support small rural businesses with training and technical assistance. These grants are available for projects benefiting areas with populations under 50,000, focusing on enterprise and opportunity grants. Funds can be used for various purposes, including business planning, infrastructure development, and community economic growth. Prioritization is given to smaller funding requests, enhancing the potential for impactful local development.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 2) aims to support small businesses in securing DOT-funded transportation contracts. Through cooperative agreements, the program offers outreach, financial and technical assistance, and various training programs. This initiative helps small businesses enhance their capabilities to compete effectively for contracts at federal, state, and local levels, thereby promoting growth and sustainability in the transportation sector.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Florida provides essential funding for the development of community facilities in rural areas. This program is aimed at public bodies, non-profits, and federally recognized tribes, ensuring access to affordable services. Projects can receive funding based on population size and median income, with grants covering up to 75% of costs for eligible areas. This initiative supports infrastructure like healthcare, education, and public safety facilities, enhancing the quality of life in rural communities.

The Walter F. Goodnough Trust Grant aims to support the rehabilitation of underprivileged disabled children in Florida through hospitalization services. Established by Walter F. Goodnough's will, this private trust provides an average grant size of $2,500 to $5,000, with a total annual giving of approximately $15,000. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant and focus on the rehabilitation of these children, ensuring vital support for their healthcare needs.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The Andrews Family Foundation offers Board Grants to public, non-profit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Focused on enhancing communities through education, humanitarian work, and the arts, the foundation aims to foster individual growth. Established in 1993 in Chicago, it continues a legacy of community commitment. Grant proposals are reviewed quarterly, with final awards decided by the Board. Eligible organizations must have a budget between $1M and $4M and provide opportunities for board member involvement.

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Fish & Wildlife Foundation of Florida supports conservation and sustainable enjoyment of Florida's lands and wildlife. With over $66 million awarded since 1994, the Foundation focuses on public hunting, safety programs, and shooting sports. Grants range from $1,000 to $75,000, with a preference for matching funds. Eligible applicants include government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. The Foundation may also consider for-profit proposals at its discretion.