Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in 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.

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 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 Ella T. Grasso Literary Scholarship, provided by the UNICO Foundation, offers two $1,000 awards to college students of Italian descent. Candidates must submit an original essay or short story celebrating their heritage while being enrolled in a full-time, accredited U.S. college for the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative highlights UNICO's commitment to supporting educational endeavors and preserving Italian culture within America.

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 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 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 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.

 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 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).

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Community Foundation of Sarasota County offers Traditional Scholarships to support students from Sarasota, Manatee, DeSoto, or Charlotte counties pursuing higher education. With approximately $2 million awarded annually, these scholarships cater to diverse academic interests. Applicants must be residents or graduates of local high schools and under 24 years old by December 31st of the application year. This initiative reflects the foundation's mission to empower individuals to achieve their educational goals and make a lasting impact in the community.

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 Santander Bank Charitable Giving Program is committed to enriching communities through $100 million in charitable giving. It focuses on community development, emphasizing affordable housing, small business support, and financial education. Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities by the IRS and demonstrate the capacity to serve community needs. The program aims to foster partnerships to uplift low- and moderate-income communities across its operational footprint, ensuring a lasting impact through philanthropic efforts.

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.

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 Charlotte Community Foundation offers unrestricted grants aimed at supporting Veterans, Seniors, and Youth in Charlotte County, FL. Established in 2024, the Mary V. Renois Family Fund provides essential operational support to nonprofit organizations meeting these populations' needs. The grants are designed to enhance the quality of life through comprehensive services, educational opportunities, and community leadership, ensuring a measurable local impact and fostering a culture of philanthropy in the region.

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.

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. 

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. 

Small County Outreach Program for Municipalities and Communities (SCOP-M)

The purpose of this program is to assist small county governments in repairing or rehabilitating county bridges, paving unpaved roads, addressing road-related drainage improvements, resurfacing or reconstructing county roads, or constructing capacity or safety improvements to county roads.

Available funds are allocated to the districts based on the number of eligible counties. For example, if a district has 12 counties eligible for SCOP/Small County Economic Development (SCED) and Small County Growth Management (GRSC), and there is a total of 38 eligible counties statewide, then the district’s allocation would be approximately 31.57% of the total available funding. The Florida Department of Transportation (department) shall fund 75% of the cost of projects on county roads funded under the program. Any initial bid costs or project overruns after the letting that exceed the department’s participation as stated, will be at the county’s expense. This will help ensure that the funds are utilized on as many projects as possible.

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.

J. Walker Field Scholarship

This is a one time $1000 scholarship given to graduating Key Club members who exemplify the spirit of Kiwanis through service. In 2012, the Florida Kiwanis Foundation Board of Trustees created the J. Walker Field Scholarship in honor of the man who was accredited with the formation of the Florida Kiwanis Foundation. The Foundation began in 1971 when, the then Florida District of Kiwanis Governor, J. Walker Field, suggested this was a necessary thing to provide backing for his beloved Key Clubs.

He insisted that Ralph Davis be the driving force behind the formation and appointed him president until the foundation was approved by Kiwanis International, inc., and bylaws were established that would provide for elected officers. Since few people knew of the existence of the Foundation, J. Walker Field let it be known that he wanted to serve as president once his year as governor was over. His wish was granted and he became the first elected president of the Foundation in September 1972.

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 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 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 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 SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.