Best Grants for Preschools in Florida

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.

Matching Grants

The Matching Grant Program requires a formal application from a Kiwanis club or a division from within the Florida District. The current maximum grant allowed is $10,000. This is to allow the greatest distribution of our limited funds. A club or division is only eligible for a grant every 5 years. The funds must be used for capital improvement. The club or division contribution to the project must equal or exceed that of the grant.

The Matching Grants applications are approved in two separate cycles. Cycle I cutoff is December 15 so that the Grant Committee has time to review the applications in time for the mid-winter board meeting (usually held in February). Cycle II cutoff date is June 15 so that the Grant Committee has time to review the applications in time for the DCON Board Meeting (usually in August).

Although it is not a requirement for a club to have contributed to the Foundation Annual Gift program, or have Foundation Sustaining Members on its roster, preference is given to those clubs and divisions that have shown a history of support for the Foundation.

Grants should be used to assist a Florida Kiwanis Club or Division with a project that contributes to the achievement of the Objects of Kiwanis International, specifically, a project that enhances the lives of young children and youth in their community, in accordance with the mission of the Florida Kiwanis Foundation.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Elizabeth Edgar Hall Founders Scholarship

The Elizabeth Edgar Hall Founders Scholarship will be awarded to one undergraduate female student who is completing/has recently completed her first year of undergraduate education and is on-track to receive her bachelor’s degree from Edward Waters University (EWU), Jacksonville University (JU), or University of North Florida (UNF). The award will provide up to $6,000 ($2,000/year for 3 years) provided the recipient continues to meet the eligibility requirements.

Community Foundation for Northeast Florida

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida connects people who care with causes that matter. Since 1964, we have served the citizens of Duval, St. Johns, Nassau, Baker, Clay, and Putnam counties through a range of charitable and civic activities, while helping individual donors achieve their philanthropic goals. We believe in Giving Back. Forever Forward.

Scholarships

Thanks to generous donors, The Community Foundation offers several scholarships each year that benefit students in Northeast Florida who are seeking post-secondary degrees.

Dr. Linda McLucas Fisher Scholarship

The Dr. Linda McLucas Fisher Scholarship will be awarded to undergraduate female students, 25 years old or older, who are pursuing an undergraduate degree at Florida State College at Jacksonville (FSCJ). The award will provide up to $500 per semester to support tuition, books, and other college-related expenses. This scholarship is available for renewal each semester until graduation, given that the student continues to maintain eligibility requirements. 

The Humana Foundation offers research grants by invitation only, focusing on health equity and barriers to healthy living. The foundation aims to support organizations that identify scalable solutions addressing emotional connections, nutrition, and chronic disease. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and accredited educational institutions. The foundation prioritizes solution-driven research that benefits communities in Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Texas, while adhering to strict anti-discrimination policies.

The Coastal Partnership Initiative Grant Program provides competitive funding from the NOAA to support Florida's coastal counties and municipalities in managing coastal resources effectively. Eligible applicants include local governments, public colleges, and nonprofits, focusing on climate resilience, resource stewardship, public access, and waterfront revitalization. The program aims to enhance community preparedness against natural hazards, promote environmental awareness, and improve coastal infrastructure, ensuring sustainable development and protection of Florida's unique coastal ecosystems.

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission provides annual funding through the Invasive Plant Management Section to support research and outreach projects aimed at managing invasive plant species. Eligible projects can include studies on herbicide efficacy, seed bank viability, and the development of biological control methods. Collaboration with other agencies is encouraged, and funding typically ranges from $20,000 to $40,000, with a maximum administrative overhead of 10%. This initiative is crucial for maintaining Florida's ecosystems.

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.

Mini Grants

The Mini Grant program is new and the concept was approved by the Foundation’s Board of Directors during the 2011-2012 administrative year.

The Mini Grant program is less formal than the Matching Grant program and is on a first come first served basis until the funds are exhausted. The Foundation President will make a determination as to the acceptability of any Mini-Grant application, and if approved, funds will be processed immediately.

There is a simple one-page application form for the Mini Grant and the maximum request is $750.00. The amount does not need to be matched by the club nor does the request need to cover capital expenses.

The program was created for assistance to small clubs with little resources. Priority for these awards is given to the smaller clubs, of 35 members or less, with limited service budgets.

• Mini Grants should be used to assist a Kiwanis club within the Florida District of Kiwanis with a project that contributes to the achievement of the Objects of Kiwanis International, specifically, a project that enhances the lives of young children and youth in their community, in accordance with the mission of the Florida Kiwanis Foundation. 
• Mini Grants can be used to assist a Kiwanis club within the Florida District of Kiwanis with a project that supports Aktion Clubs, CKI Clubs, Key Clubs, K-Kids, and Builders (Service Leadership Programs). 

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 Longboat Key Garden Club offers scholarships to support eligible college students in Florida pursuing degrees in natural or marine sciences. Awards range from $5,000 to $10,000, aimed at enhancing educational experiences for dedicated students. This initiative encourages studies in diverse fields such as Botany, Marine Biology, and Ecology. By investing in future leaders, the Garden Club fosters academic achievement and inspires students to pursue their professional dreams in environmental stewardship.

Florida preschools and other eligible 501(c)(3) organizations can seek seed funding to test innovative approaches that remove barriers to health and health care for populations facing inequity. Grants from Humana Foundation help early childhood and school-based programs pilot high-risk, high-reward interventions around emotional connection, nutrition, preventative healthcare, and chronic disease management.

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.

SLP Mini-Grants

The purposes of a Service Leadership Programs Mini Grant is to award grants to support Aktion Clubs, Builders Club, Key Clubs, K-Kids Club, and Circle K Clubs or division service projects.

Grants are awarded to a Florida Aktion Club, Builders Club, Key Club, K-Kids Club, and Circle K Club or division by use of the official application form that is provided by division trustees or available on the Foundation website.

The SLP Mini Grant program is less formal than the Matching Grant program and is on a first come first served basis until the funds are exhausted.

There is a simple one-page application form for the SLP Mini Grant and the maximum request is $500.00. The amount does not need to be matched by the club nor does the request need to cover capital expenses.

Grants must be used to assist a Florida Service Leadership Program Club or Division projects. 

The Gulf Research Program's Science Policy Fellowship offers an opportunity for scientists to bridge the gap between science and policy, enhancing their skills while benefiting Gulf Coast communities. Over a year, fellows work with various agencies, gaining practical experience at the science-policy interface. This program provides a stipend, health allowance, and professional development support, fostering leadership and capacity building in environmental protection and public health. Eligible candidates include those with advanced degrees in relevant fields, ensuring a diverse, skilled cohort dedicated to impactful research.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Lake Sumter Lions Club Scholarship supports students from Leesburg High School, Wildwood Middle High School, and The Villages Charter High School, encouraging academic success and community involvement. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.5 or higher and provide documentation of their community service. This scholarship is part of a broader mission by the Educational Foundation of Lake County to enhance public education and empower students to pursue post-secondary opportunities.

The NRA Foundation supports the future of shooting sports through grants that fund educational and public service programs. Eligible organizations include IRS-recognized entities and government agencies, while applicants must not discriminate based on protected classes. Grants cannot be used for administrative costs or projects requiring NRA membership. The Foundation emphasizes public benefit in funded projects, fostering community engagement and safety in shooting sports.

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.

Save A Club Grant

The “Save A Club” Grant, established through a generous legacy gift from Florida Kiwanis Foundation Board Member Steve Arrington, is designed to help strengthen and revitalize existing Kiwanis clubs throughout the Florida District.

This special grant program supports new service projects that engage the community, attract potential members, and renew enthusiasm within existing clubs. The goal is to help clubs reimagine their impact, build meaningful partnerships, and inspire long-term growth through service.

Save A Club Grants should be used to assist a Kiwanis club within the Florida District with a service project that contributes to the achievement of the Objects of Kiwanis International, specifically, a project that enhances the lives of young children and youth in their community, in accordance with the mission of the Florida Kiwanis Foundation. 

The Wil and Rachel Blechman Grant, established by the Florida Kiwanis Foundation, focuses on enhancing the development of children aged 0-5 years in Florida. Grants support various initiatives, including scholarships for educators, educational seminars, reading programs, and resources for families in low-income areas. By fostering early childhood development and community engagement, the foundation aims to create a lasting impact on the lives of young children and their families.

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.

David and Donna Batelaan Fund

There are three opportunities for this grant: Kiwanis Clubs/Divisions; Service Leadership Programs: Builders Club, Key Clubs and Circle K Clubs; and Service Leadership Programs of Aktion Club.

Kiwanis

The David and Donna Batelaan Fund will be utilized for grants or special programs to support leadership development for young people with physical disabilities; and to encourage participation and inclusion for young people with physical disabilities in current KIWANIS programs, activities or service to others.

Grants may be made to initiate a project, including a major change, addition, or renovation to a project for young people with physical disabilities. Funds to sustain the functioning of a project on an on-going basis must be provided by a club or division. 

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.

David and Donna Batelaan Fund

There are three opportunities for this grant: Kiwanis Clubs/Divisions; Service Leadership Programs: Builders Club, Key Clubs and Circle K Clubs; and Service Leadership Programs of Aktion Club.

Service Leadership Programs: Builders Club, Key Clubs and Circle K Clubs

The purpose of this portion of the fund is to award grants to support Builders Club, Key Clubs and Circle K Clubs or division projects. Grants are awarded to a Florida Builders Club, Key Club and Circle K Kiwanis Club or division by use of the official application form that is provided by division trustees. 

Grants may be made to initiate a project, including a major change, addition, or renovation to a project. Funds to sustain the functioning of a project on an on-going basis must be provided by a club or division.

Grants must be used to assist a Florida Service Leadership Program Club or Division projects.

The David and Donna Batelaan Fund provides three grant opportunities aimed at supporting Service Leadership Programs, including Aktion Club, Builders Club, and Key Clubs. Grants typically cover project costs up to $2,000 and are awarded in two cycles: October to March and April to September. The Florida Kiwanis Foundation, established in 1971, administers these grants to foster leadership and community service among youth in Florida, ensuring impactful support for children and families.

In 2013, the Florida Legislature amended Chapter 388.261, Florida Statutes, thereby providing the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) authority to distribute mosquito control funding provided through legislative appropriations from the state’s Solid Waste Trust Fund. It was further amended to include a provision that provides a portion of the allocated funds to specifically support research into practical methods of mosquito control for the benefit of all Florida mosquito control programs. In doing so, the legislature also opened the door to all Florida public colleges and universities to compete for funding that would benefit public health mosquito control operations statewide.

Veterans’ wellness and recovery programs serving Florida military and veteran communities, including mental health and healthy living initiatives, may be eligible for support from the Bob Woodruff Foundation’s Gridiron Veterans Scholarship. This national fund backs organizations that provide evidence-based rehabilitation, adaptive training, and holistic wellness services for veterans and first responders facing physical, emotional, or transitional challenges.

About FDOT

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. The unique nature of the Sunshine State and its year-round warm climate provides numerous opportunities to move people and goods through multiple modes including highways/streets, air, rail, sea, spaceports, transit, and ever-expanding deployment of bicycle & pedestrian facilities.

The department is committed to building a transportation system that not only fits the current needs of Florida’s residents and visitors but also enhances mobility throughout the state to accommodate its consistent and rapid growth. FDOT is proud to recruit and retain some of the best and brightest professionals in the transportation industry who consistently help the department inspire innovation and improve safety for all of our transportation modes.

Florida Highway Beautification Grant Program

Thank you for your interest in the FDOT Beautification Grants. Grant funds are allocated by the legislature and budgets are approved by July 1 of each year.

It is available to State of Florida local governmental entities interested in providing landscaping and irrigation along State transportation facilities.

All completed applications received by Thursday, October 1, 2026 will be checked for completeness, assembled, and distributed to a panel selected by the Grant Coordinators. A virtual public meeting to discuss all received applications will be scheduled once applications are received.

Each panelist will independently rank each applicant prior to being combined into an overall ranked list of potential awards. Grants will be awarded in the order they appear on the ranked list and in accordance with available funding. Official notice of each grant award will be made by the Department by email to the Applicant named in the grant application.

To accept a grant, an Applicant must send a letter of acceptance by email to the Grant Coordinator within 15 days from the date of receipt of the offer of the award. Funds will be released by the Department when agreements are executed, the project is constructed as per plans approved by the Department, there is written final acceptance by the Department and receipts for grant expenses are reviewed and approved by the Department.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The Arthur F. and Alice E. Adams Charitable Foundation, established in 1985, supports various charitable initiatives focusing on arts, culture, humanities, and education. It primarily benefits organizations in Memphis, Miami, and New York City. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) exempt organizations and seek project sponsorships. The foundation does not fund general operating costs or capital campaigns, and requests over $50,000 are generally discouraged. Proposals must be for projects commencing at least a year after submission.

The Margaret McCartney & R. Parks Williams Foundation, founded in 2001, focuses on supporting organizations for charitable, educational, and religious purposes, particularly in Florida. Funding priorities include vocational rehabilitation for individuals with disabilities, educational scholarships, health and comfort for the elderly, and prevention of cruelty to children. The Foundation does not fund capital improvements but emphasizes project support and general operating costs for eligible organizations.