Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in Florida

 Florida Department of Education

The Department of Education serves as the single repository of education data from school districts, state and community colleges, universities, and independent postsecondary institutions - allowing us to track student performance over time and across varying education sectors.

We administer a statewide reading initiative for Florida's public schools, and among community groups and volunteer organizations that support them, with a goal of having every child able to read at or above grade level.

Pathways to Career Opportunities – Grow Your Own Teacher Apprenticeship Program

The state funds appropriated in House Bill 5001, General Appropriations Act (GAA) (Item Number 121 – Aid to Local Governments – Grant Aids), includes a $5 million set aside for the Grow Your Own Teacher Apprenticeship Program.

The purpose of this sub-initiative is to increase the supply of qualified teachers by creating a teacher pipeline for Florida. It is designed to encourage partnerships between eligible applicants and participating employers (Florida school districts, charter schools and charter management organizations) to provide an innovative, no-cost pathway to the teaching profession for registered teacher apprentices.

The funds for this grant are appropriated in the 2026 General Appropriations Act (GAA) as a sub initiative to the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant (PCOG).

 Florida Department of Education

The Department of Education serves as the single repository of education data from school districts, state and community colleges, universities, and independent postsecondary institutions - allowing us to track student performance over time and across varying education sectors.

We administer a statewide reading initiative for Florida's public schools, and among community groups and volunteer organizations that support them, with a goal of having every child able to read at or above grade level.

Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant (PCOG) Program

Subject to legislative approval and the governor’s signature, state funds are appropriated under the 2026-2027 state of Florida General Appropriations Act (Item Number 121 – Aid to Local Governments – Grant Aids) to establish new and operate or expand existing registered apprenticeship or preapprenticeship programs. 

Florida Department of Law Enforcement

FDLE is composed of five areas: Executive Direction and Business Support, Criminal Investigations and Forensic Science, Criminal Justice Information, Criminal Justice Professionalism and Florida Capitol Police. In addition, the department formally coordinates boards, councils, and commissions. FDLE’s duties, responsibilities and procedures are mandated through Chapter 943, FS, and Chapter 11, FAC. 

Our Mission: To promote public safety and strengthen domestic security.

State Assistance for Fentanyl Eradication (S.A.F.E.)

State funding is available to conduct investigations designed to combat illegal fentanyl activity. This grant provides reimbursement for approved fentanyl-related investigative operations, which may include:

• Overtime
• Relevant Travel Costs
• Purchase of Investigative Supplies
• Equipment Purchases
• Relevant Contractual Services
• Training Costs
• Other Costs Associated with Cases Focusing on Fentanyl Eradication

Awards

Available funds will be distributed based on the operational needs of each agency’s investigations as approved by the S.A.F.E. Executive Board, not to exceed a combined total of $12,902,972.

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.

Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

The Florida Constitution authorizes the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission to enact rules and regulations regarding the state's fish and wildlife resources. To do this, the 7 FWC Commissioners meet 4 times each year to hear staff reports, consider rule proposals and conduct other Commission business.

Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIGP)

The Boating Infrastructure Grant Program (BIGP) provides funding through competitive grants for tie-up facilities for transient recreational boats 26 feet or longer (non-trailerable). This program is funded by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 

Types of Funding Available

There are two types of grants, Tier I and Tier II

Tier I Projects

In any given funding cycle, the State of Florida may receive a total of $300,000 for Tier I projects. All Tier I projects must meet the eligibility requirements of 50 CFR 86.20. Each Tier I project cannot exceed $300,000; however, the State of Florida may select one (1) or as many Tier I projects as are eligible so long as the aggregate of these projects does not total more than that year's funding cycle allotment. Tier One projects compete against other Florida projects for funding.

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.

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 Rare Pediatric Diseases Research Grant Program is a groundbreaking initiative by the Florida Department of Health aimed at fostering innovative research and treatment solutions for rare pediatric diseases. With an annual funding pool of $500,000, the program seeks to enhance research capacities, explore novel therapeutic approaches, and address the needs of underserved populations. This grant is exclusively available to Florida-based institutions, emphasizing collaborative efforts to improve children's health outcomes in the state.

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.

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 Miguel Cabrera Family Scholarship aims to support educational opportunities for high school graduates in Michigan and Florida, prioritizing those from specific counties. Each selected student receives $1,000, renewable for up to four years, contingent on maintaining good academic standing. Applicants must demonstrate financial need and be first-generation college students or from historically underrepresented groups. This initiative is backed by the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, which has a rich history of philanthropy since 1984.

The Paradise for Good Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, provides financial support ranging from $5,000 to $30,000 for initiatives that enhance the lives of local residents. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and faith-based organizations serving the Florida Keys. The foundation seeks projects aligned with its strategic vision, addressing community needs with measurable outcomes, and demonstrating sustainability beyond the grant period.

CSX Charitable Investments offers the Pride in Service Grants to support organizations that honor and assist military members and first responders. Focus areas include safety, mental health, community bridging, workforce development, and addressing food insecurity. Eligible organizations include those with 501(c)(3) status, government entities, and educational institutions. Grants aim to uplift communities and recognize the contributions of those who serve, while ensuring alignment with specific charitable criteria.

The 100 Voices of Florida Grant, initiated by passionate Floridian sisters, supports filmmakers by offering up to $5,000 to enhance their projects. This grant encourages creative expression among writers, directors, and producers from diverse backgrounds. Applicants must be 18 or older and can use the funds for production, festival fees, or other expenses. Judges will evaluate commitment to storytelling, emotional engagement, and pacing. A unique opportunity for storytellers to showcase their work and receive professional guidance.

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.

The Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

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 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 Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

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 St. Boniface Episcopal Church Grant aims to assist non-profit organizations in continuing Christ's ministry. By fostering partnerships, it provides financial aid and encourages parish involvement in projects that address hunger, homelessness, and children's education. The grant prioritizes works of mercy consistent with the Baptismal covenant and emphasizes programs that promote community support and engagement, aiming to build lasting relationships with recipients to respond effectively to local and global needs.

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 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 Wycliffe Charities Foundation, established in 1995, has invested over $3 million in local charities aiding those in need in Palm Beach County. In 2024, it provided $275,000 to organizations addressing issues such as abuse, hunger, and literacy challenges, as well as supporting individuals with autism. The foundation prioritizes a personal connection with recipient charities, ensuring funds are utilized effectively for defined projects that directly benefit the community.

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 Florida Legal Aid Disaster Relief Initiative, funded by the Florida Bar Foundation Inc, provides emergency financial support for organizations offering civil legal aid to communities impacted by disasters like hurricanes and the COVID-19 pandemic. This initiative aims to assist low-income Floridians in need of legal services during such crises. Grant amounts vary based on available funding, and applicants must be non-profit entities with specific operational requirements.

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.