Best Grants for New Nonprofits in Florida

New and established 501(c)(3) and 509(a) nonprofits in Florida working on education, human services, conservation, health, or cultural programs can apply for McGraw Foundation's grants, typically ranging from US $2,000 - US $10,000. Funding may support general operations, specific projects, or occasional capital needs, with some larger awards for especially promising efforts.

Florida farmers, ranchers, and forest landowners can receive technical and financial assistance to implement conservation practices that improve water and air quality, soil health, and wildlife habitat. USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Florida supports projects addressing water quality degradation, insufficient water, plant and animal health, and inadequate habitat on working lands, which may benefit agriculture-focused nonprofits partnering with producers.

Florida 501(c)(3) public charities serving Polk County residents can seek project funding for community needs such as education, food security, housing, quality of life, and transportation, with awards up to Up to US $20,000. Grants from GiveWell Community Foundation help Florida nonprofits, including newer organizations, launch or expand targeted programs within Polk County only.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 through the Dr. Philip C. Singer Scholarship from the American Water Works Association. Students in Florida working on timely, actionable water-industry research may be especially interested in this academic scholarship opportunity.

New and established 501(c)(3) nonprofits and schools in Florida can seek program funding for environmental initiatives such as decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient natural resource use. With a mission to help people fulfill their life’s potential, American Honda Motor provides US $25,000 - US $100,000 for programs that benefit communities where Honda associates live and work.

Florida nonprofit and community-based organizations running innovative, family-focused prevention programs can apply for the Ounce of Prevention Fund’s Innovative Initiatives Funding to support child and family development. Grants back comprehensive, culturally relevant efforts that may address reproductive health, substance abuse, parenting, bullying prevention, nutrition, physical activity, or academic and life skills improvement, with required evaluation and matching support.

Nonprofit organizations, schools, and government entities serving Weyerhaeuser communities in Florida can seek funding for community programs in areas like youth development, housing, and environmental stewardship. Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund supports these efforts in Florida and other eligible U.S. and Canadian locations with grants of more than US $1,000, emphasizing broad community impact and strong local support.

Florida agricultural producers and land stewards can receive more than US $4,000 to enhance conservation practices and maintain existing stewardship on working lands. Focused on environmental conservation and sustainable agriculture, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service of Florida offers five-year CSP contracts that support cleaner water and air, healthier soil, and improved wildlife habitat across entire operations.

New and established nonprofits in Florida working to build women’s and children’s self-sufficiency can apply for up to US $750,000 to expand or replicate effective programs. The Father's Table Foundation supports projects such as adult readiness, child welfare, humanitarian aid, health care, and disaster relief that combine immediate help with long-term sustainability.

New or established Florida coastal nonprofits, public colleges, universities, and local governments can apply for $10,000 - $30,000 to plan or implement coastal resilience, access, stewardship, or working waterfront projects. Grants from Florida Department of Environmental Protection help partners complete competitive, 1:1 match projects that protect and manage coastal resources, including restoration, planning, and small-scale public access improvements.

Florida nonprofits and educational institutions working on social equity, education, climate and food security, or mental health can access funding and in-kind support through The Caesars Foundation’s Regional & Property Giving program. New nonprofits focused on workforce development, housing, homelessness, food security, or community services near Caesars properties may be eligible if they hold qualifying IRS tax-exempt status.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations providing human services, education, legal aid, workforce development, health, environment, or arts programs in Miami-Dade County can seek approximately US $10,000 for projects or general operations. Grants from Venable Foundation help Florida nonprofits serving economically disadvantaged communities, including youth, families, and other vulnerable residents, access flexible, place-based funding.

Nonprofits, businesses, schools, and government agencies in Florida’s Tampa Bay watershed can receive up to US $10,000 for community-led environmental restoration and education projects. Tampa Bay Estuary Program Bay Mini-Grants fund work on clean waters, bay habitats, fish and wildlife, invasive species, public access, and public education, which may help newer nonprofits launch or grow local initiatives.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in Florida conducting biomedical research can apply for NIH Academic Research Enhancement Awards to support small-scale projects and student research experiences. US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health offers up to US $375,000 for colleges and universities that meet NIH funding thresholds and degree requirements; newer institutions may be eligible.

Florida 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving residents of the Town of Cutler Bay can access funding through the Town of Cutler Bay for education, beautification, environmental, cultural, social services, and other community programs, with awards up to US $2,500. New nonprofits that meet state registration and IRS requirements may be eligible for support.

Florida 501(c)(3) public charities can seek general operating or program support for arts, environmental conservation, medical research, and veterans initiatives through grants from Cornelia T Bailey Charitable Trust. New and established nonprofits serving Florida residents may be eligible if their projects align with the foundation’s mission and fit within its active geographic regions.

Early-career medical and health research faculty in low- or middle-income countries can secure multi-year support to develop independent research careers, including clinical trials. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help Florida-connected or other LMIC-based researchers advance work in areas like cancer, cardiovascular disease, mental health, environmental health, and medical education, with awards around Approximately US $140,000.

New or established 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Florida counties served by the Richard M Schulze Family Foundation can apply for grants supporting education, human services, and health and medicine projects. Funding may cover programs like tutoring, youth development, housing and shelter, food access, domestic abuse services, patient and family support, and related community services.

Early-career health researchers in low- or middle-income countries with junior faculty posts can apply for the NIH Fogarty Emerging Global Leader Award, offering approximately US $140,000 for mentored research and career development. Florida-based nonprofits hosting eligible LMIC investigators or partnerships may benefit when supporting projects aligned with LMIC health priorities.

The John Ben Snow Memorial Trust Grant supports educational programs and initiatives that assist individuals demonstrating financial need. Founded in 1975, it prioritizes funding for organizations that enhance educational opportunities, arts, culture, and community initiatives, particularly for youth and disadvantaged populations. The Trust encourages proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations, with grants typically ranging from $10,000 to $20,000. It also considers limited proposals in disabilities, environmental protection, and historic preservation, focusing on educational impact.

The Community Foundation of Tampa Bay offers annual competitive grants aimed at fostering innovation in local nonprofits. By targeting five key areas—Economic Opportunity, Environmental Resiliency, Physical Health, Education, and Community Engagement—the foundation seeks to address pressing community needs. Eligibility requires 501(c)(3) status and service in specific Florida counties. The grant process encourages collaboration and aims to create sustainable impacts, making it a vital resource for nonprofits looking to enhance their community contributions.

Biogen Corporate Sponsorships provide funding to support congresses, events, and initiatives in exchange for tangible benefits such as marketing opportunities and recognition. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and requests must be submitted 50 days in advance. Biogen considers various disease areas for sponsorship, including Alzheimer’s and Multiple Sclerosis. Approval depends on funding availability, alignment with interests, and event details, ensuring transparency for all potential sponsors.

The CFPBMC Summer Program Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Florida aiming to enhance community impact through strategic focus areas such as capacity building, economic opportunity, education and youth, and thriving communities. Grants of up to $75,000 are available for projects that align with these areas. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. The grant process encourages innovative solutions to community challenges, fostering collaboration and sustainable development.

The CFPBMC Year-Round Grant supports nonprofit organizations in Palm Beach and Martin Counties. It encourages projects aligned with four focus areas: Capacity Building, Economic Opportunity, Education and Youth, and Thriving Communities. Grants can reach up to $75,000 and are awarded based on a competitive process. Interested organizations must submit a Letter of Inquiry and may be invited to submit a full proposal based on their alignment with the foundation's mission and strategic goals.

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Full-Time Associates

Regions supports organizations important to our associates through the Regions Matching Gifts Program. This program, which is open for use for all full-time Regions associates, affiliate associates and recent retirees, allows you to make an even greater difference to your favorite charities by doubling your tax-deductible contributions to these organizations. 

About Regions

Regions Financial Corporation is a member of the S&P 500 Index and is one of the nation's largest full-service providers of consumer and commercial banking, wealth management and mortgage products and services. Regions serves customers across the South, Midwest and Texas.

Regions Foundation

Regions Foundation supports community investments that positively impact the communities served by Regions Bank. The Foundation engages in a grantmaking program focused on priorities including economic and community development; education and workforce readiness; and financial wellness. The Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation funded primarily through contributions from Regions Bank.

Matching Gifts Program

Full-time associates and recent retirees (up to 5 years after retirement) of Regions and its affiliated companies can request a Regions Matching Gift to eligible organizations. The recipient organization must be a 501(c) or 170(c) organization located in the Regions footprint (except for accredited educational institutions, which may be located anywhere in the United States) and has a primary mission that clearly fits one of these categories:

• Economic and community development: Supporting economic prosperity through affordable housing, job creation, small-business development, homebuyer education and retention, neighborhood revitalization and stabilization, food security/hunger relief.
• Education and workforce readiness: Supporting career prosperity through student competency and skill building, college and career readiness, educational access and success, credential building and employment and educator training and resources.
• Financial wellness: Supporting financial prosperity through K-12 and college financial education, adult and workforce financial empowerment.
• Arts and culture: Organizations that promote visual or performing arts, historic or science museums, zoos, botanical gardens, libraries, parks or public radio and television.
• Service members and Veterans: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting U.S. military service members and veterans.
• Individuals with disabilities: Organizations that have a primary mission of supporting individuals with disabilities.

Regions Matching Gifts for Recent Retirees

Retirees of Regions and its affiliated companies are eligible for the Matching Gift Program for up to 5 years after retirement (the gift date must be within the first 5 years of retirement). Regions will match donations of $25 or more, up to a total of $1,000 per year per retiree.

The Regions Community Affairs team will contact the organization on your behalf to verify the gift and review eligibility.

The Indian River County United Way Grants aim to enhance community welfare through strategic funding in Education, Financial Stability, and Health. The program supports high-performing nonprofits addressing essential needs like food security, housing, and employment. With a focus on measurable outcomes, the grants operate on a two-year funding cycle, welcoming applications from both established and new programs. Although currently not accepting applications, this initiative signifies a commitment to improving local living conditions and empowering residents through effective resource allocation.