Best Arts Grants for Nonprofits in Colorado

The Anna Keesling Ackerman Fund Grants support nonprofit organizations in the Pikes Peak region, emphasizing arts and culture, education, health, and community initiatives. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in El Paso and Teller counties, without recent grant funding or declines. The fund, managed separately from El Pomar's competitive grants, continues the legacy of Mr. Jasper D. Ackerman, who championed various charitable causes in this area.

El Pomar Foundation offers competitive grants on a rolling basis, reviewed four to six times a year by Trustees. Funding is available for a variety of focus areas including arts, education, health, and community initiatives. Eligible organizations must be active 501(c)(3) nonprofits operating in Colorado. Applications for capital support are capped at $100,000. Note that funded applicants must wait three years to reapply, while declined applicants must wait one year.

The Vera and Joseph Dresner Foundation supports organizations in Southeast Michigan and Metropolitan Denver focused on improving lives through health, youth, and animal welfare initiatives. They offer grants for project development, capital expenses, and unique circumstances. The foundation prioritizes innovative solutions that address underserved community needs, ensuring sustainable impact and enhanced access to essential services. Applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate non-discriminatory practices in their operations.

The JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Roy and Gloria Dinsdale Foundation, established in 2022, is dedicated to enhancing lives in rural Nebraska, Wyoming, and Colorado through grants exceeding $10,000. It supports nonprofits and government entities focused on food, shelter, healthcare, education, and the arts. The foundation prioritizes local initiatives that enrich communities and improve access to essential services, while maintaining a commitment to assisting veterans, first responders, and individuals with disabilities.

The Social Impact Theatre Grant Program supports innovative theatrical productions that address pressing social issues, fostering dialogue and community engagement. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers production-specific and change capital grants to eligible nonprofit organizations in select states. Grantees are encouraged to explore new models, deepen community connections, and support emerging leaders in theatre. Applications for the next cycle will open in Spring 2025, following the completion of the current funding round.

The Eulipions Fund Grant, offered by The Denver Foundation, invites 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Colorado to apply for funding between $4,000 and $10,000. This grant supports initiatives that promote and preserve Colorado's African-American artistic expression and performing arts. Eligible organizations must demonstrate their commitment to enhancing the cultural landscape within their communities. Applications are accepted for both operational support and specific performance funding, ensuring broad access to resources for impactful projects.

The TourWest Grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, aim to support presenters and organizations in the Western region by providing flexible funding for touring artists. This competitive grant encourages community engagement and outreach, fostering collaboration between artists and local communities. It prioritizes accessibility to the performing arts, especially in underserved areas. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or local government units and demonstrate a commitment to community needs through their projects.

The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund provides grants focusing on Education, Human Services, and Healthcare initiatives. The fund prioritizes programs with measurable outcomes that aim to alleviate poverty and suffering. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and align with the fund's mission to create sustainable change. Applications are accepted by invitation only in specific regions, with a rolling deadline. The fund seeks collaborative efforts to maximize impact across its program areas.

The Kerr Foundation Inc. offers grants to 501(c)3 organizations, focusing on education, arts, health, and human services. Priority is given to Oklahoma entities, but applications from neighboring states and Washington D.C. are also accepted. The foundation supports various project types, including capital, program, and operating expenses. Note that back-to-back grants are not allowed, enforcing a three-year gap for reapplication after funding. This ensures a broad and impactful reach for community development.

The Best Life Community Awards, funded by Altra Foundation Inc, invites nominations for nonprofit organizations that have made a significant impact in their communities. Altra members can nominate eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits they support with their time, talents, or financial contributions. The selected nonprofit will receive a $10,000 grant, aimed at fostering initiatives in education, health, and community services across specific counties in the U.S. Nominate today to help recognize outstanding contributions!

The Equity-Focused Leadership Grant by the Bonfils-Stanton Foundation aims to foster diverse leadership in the nonprofit sector by providing up to $10,000 to organizations that support BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and disabled adults. This initiative addresses the racial leadership gap and promotes equitable opportunities for marginalized professionals, ensuring they can pursue executive roles. With an annual funding of over $3.5 million, the foundation reinforces its commitment to inclusive community engagement and innovative leadership development in Denver.

The CGF Major Grant Program offers annual funding of up to $75,000 to support horticulture-related projects by nonprofit and governmental agencies in Colorado. Past recipients include notable organizations like the Denver Botanic Gardens and Craig Hospital Therapy Garden. This grant focuses on capital and matching grants, while also considering other relevant programs. It aims to foster community engagement and enhance the impact of horticultural initiatives across the state.

The Joseph Henry Edmondson Foundation focuses on funding established nonprofit organizations in the Pikes Peak Region, primarily supporting youth organizations, animal welfare, arts, health services, community building, education, and environmental initiatives. Grants typically prioritize capacity building and operational support. First-time applicants are encouraged to contact the foundation beforehand, as the foundation emphasizes a history of funding relationships. Specific exclusions include individuals and organizations lacking 501(c)(3) status.

The GFF Capital Grants by the Gates Family Foundation support capital projects for nonprofit organizations in Colorado, emphasizing community needs and sustainable development. With a focus on enhancing public resources and addressing historical inequities, the foundation prioritizes projects that foster education, environmental protection, and community development. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, demonstrating strong community support and effective management. Capital grants are not given for general operating expenses, loans, or projects already completed.

The Arts in Society Grant, administered by RedLine Contemporary Art Center, is a unique funding opportunity aimed at integrating arts and culture into various disciplines that promote social justice and community well-being in Colorado. This program supports projects that foster collaboration between artists and organizations to address civic challenges. Grants also provide access to learning communities and resources, including evaluation tools and marketing support. Note that the grant is currently closed and will reopen in July 2025.

The Latinos Impacting our Future Together (L.I.F.T.) Fund, managed by The Denver Foundation, aims to empower Latino communities through various initiatives, including health, education, and advocacy. This fund invites 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations based in Colorado to apply for funding. A focus on reducing racial disparities and promoting equity is central to its mission. The foundation does not support religious activities but encourages projects that align with its vision for a more equitable Metro Denver.

The Rural Initiative Grant Program by the Laura Jane Musser Fund aims to foster collaboration among rural communities in areas like economic development and education. Emphasizing community involvement, it encourages diverse participation and measurable outcomes within 18 months. Grants of up to $25,000 for implementation or $5,000 for planning are available, targeting nonprofit organizations and local governments in select states. This initiative seeks to empower communities to achieve positive change through active engagement and support.

The Melvin & Elaine Wolf Foundation Grant supports Colorado-based nonprofits focused on children's health and education, as well as programs that enhance adult well-being. The foundation, established in 1979, emphasizes community responsibility and aims to foster opportunities through funding commitments. First-time applicants should note the current three-year wait list, while previous applicants can submit their Letters of Intent by October 31st, 2025, for the upcoming funding cycle.

The Carl W. & Carrie Mae Joslyn Trust Grant supports charitable organizations that benefit youth, elderly, and handicapped individuals in El Paso County, Colorado. This private foundation, administered by JPMorgan, focuses on various program areas including animal welfare, arts and culture, education, and health services. Only 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations are eligible to apply, while individuals are not permitted to submit applications. For more details, visit the foundation's official site.

The Nellie Rust Trust Grant supports youth development and health services in Boulder, Colorado. This private foundation funds only nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Eligible applicants include organizations in areas such as education, community development, and social services. Individuals are not permitted to apply. For further details, visit the foundation finder on JPMorgan's website.

The Shoup Foundation Grant supports Protestant churches and organizations aiding needy individuals or disaster relief in Northern Colorado. This foundation funds charitable, nonprofit organizations as defined by IRS section 501(c)(3). Key program areas include animal welfare, arts, civic activities, community development, education, environment, health research, and social services. Interested applicants must comply with eligibility requirements, as individuals cannot submit grant applications directly.

Gary Community Ventures is an impermanent philanthropic organization committed to using all of its resources by 2035 to transform systems and build wealth for Colorado kids and families.

Using a powerful mix of catalytic grantmaking, impact investments, policy and advocacy and the development of new ventures, we create opportunities for Coloradans to thrive now and for generations to come.

Our mission is to partner with our community to leverage business, policy and philanthropy to reshape the arc of opportunity for Colorado kids and families.

Afterschool & Summer Enrichment for All

This RFP seeks to identify local systems ready to replicate My Spark-like programming (see program case study) in other locations throughout Colorado and to model the future of out-of-school learning — one where access is universal, funding is sustainable, and all kidshave opportunities to find their spark.

Description

Gary is seeking to identify a cohort of approximately 3-5 public systems (counties, cities and school districts) and/or the intermediary partners that seek to dramatically scale their out of school enrichment and learning opportunities, particularly for lower-income kids, through My Spark-like programming. The key components of My-Spark like programming are:

• Resourcing kids and families directly with funds to spend on afterschool and summer enrichment opportunities
• Supporting a wide variety of afterschool and summer providers - from arts to sports to tutoring and more - and including nonprofit, business and government providers
• Prioritizing student choice and interest

Priority will be given to proposals that:

• Serve Metro Denver (Adams, Arapahoe, Denver and Jefferson counties), though Colorado locations outside of Metro Denver will also be considered.
• Represent public/private partnerships - we believe that ultimately both public and private stakeholders need to be at the table to make this successful.

The Rural Arts Initiative Grant Program, established by the Laura Jane Musser Fund, aims to support nonprofit arts organizations in rural communities. The program encourages access to the arts through scholarships, community engagement, and innovative activities. Priority is given to organizations located in areas with populations under 20,000, ensuring that artistic opportunities are available to both adults and children. Applications are accepted for one year of funding, with potential for up to three consecutive years.

The Colorado Creates Grant, offered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development and International Trade, supports nonprofit arts organizations in Colorado. This competitive grant program provides general operating support based on the applicant's cash operating revenue. Eligible organizations must have been active for at least three years, hold a cash operating budget of at least $25,000, and focus on arts activities. The grant fosters collaboration and community engagement, aiming to enhance economic growth through the creative sector.

The Gorham/McGee Early Learning Fund Grant, managed by The Denver Foundation, aims to support nonprofits focused on enhancing education for children aged 0-12 in areas like literacy, nature, and the arts. With a commitment to reducing racial disparities, the fund awards grants of $5,000, encouraging organizations in Colorado to apply and contribute to a more equitable future for the community.

The Arts Alive! Organizational Grants, funded by the Weld Community Foundation, support innovative projects that enhance the arts in Weld County. These grants aim to expand artistic access, promote cultural diversity, and foster community engagement through the visual, performing, and literary arts. Ideal proposals should serve underserved populations, offer measurable outcomes, and have a positive impact on local artistic endeavors, ensuring a vibrant cultural landscape in the community.