Best Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Grants in Arkansas

Arkansas 501(c)(3) organizations serving children, families, veterans, people facing poverty, or related human services needs can seek program support, not capital projects, from the Robinson Foundation. Focused on relief of hardship across the Southern region, it invites established nonprofits active for 3+ years and offering single-year projects that show tangible, meaningful impact.

First- to third-year U.S. or Canadian medical students interested in neurodevelopmental disabilities or child neurology can apply for the Child Neurology Foundation’s summer research scholarship, awarding US $3,500 for clinical NDD research. Projects on intellectual and developmental disabilities in children or young adults in Arkansas may be eligible if supervised by a child neurology/NDD subspecialist.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will announce funding for patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) studies focusing on rare diseases. This initiative encourages collaboration and aims to fill critical research gaps affecting approximately 30 million Americans with rare diseases. Applications can request up to $12 million over five years, including coverage for patient care costs. This funding opportunity is set to open on August 12, 2025, with a focus on addressing pressing patient-centered CER questions.

Nonprofit organizations in Arkansas providing services for people in need, especially children and individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities, can seek program funding through the Nailba Charitable Foundation. Eligible U.S. charities must be nonsectarian, have NAILBA member or corporate partner support, and use funds for direct services such as youth, disability, mental health, or emergency assistance programs.

Nonprofit organizations supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Arkansas may be eligible for flexible program funding that improves lives and inclusion. Focused on children, older adults, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and veterans, the Jtmf Foundation prioritizes work in the Pacific NW but also considers impactful efforts elsewhere in the U.S.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving intellectually or developmentally disabled children or adults in Arkansas can receive project grants supporting disadvantaged individuals. Robert & Joan Dircks Foundation provides U.S. disability care and services programs with one-year awards of US $1,000 - US $15,000 for innovative, problem-solving initiatives rather than general operating support.

Nonprofit organizations providing programs for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities can apply for the David and Jacquie Clark Family Fund’s national grants, including those based in Arkansas. Funding supports efforts that promote success, well-being, and access to opportunities for people with special needs, with a stated preference for Ohio nonprofits but openness to applicants across the U.S.

Grants from Angelman Syndrome Foundation help Arkansas caregivers of individuals with Angelman syndrome cover costs that improve their loved one’s quality of life, with awards up to US $5,000. Funding can support prosthetic devices, wheelchairs, beds, educational assistance, clinic travel, or similar needs when no other public or private funds are available.

Arkansas research institutions and healthcare organizations focused on intellectual and developmental disabilities can access funding through Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute for patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research projects. This national opportunity supports high-quality studies comparing health or healthcare approaches for people with IDD, engaging patients and decision makers throughout the research process.

U.S. 501(c)(3) nonprofits improving healthcare delivery for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities can apply for With Foundation’s RFP cycle, with awards from US $150,000 - US $250,000. Arkansas organizations working on practitioner training, care coordination, policy, research, or digital health for adults with I/DD may be especially competitive.

Individuals ages 18–25 with intellectual disabilities pursuing post-secondary education or life-skills programs can apply for the Ann W. Dooley Advancement Scholarship, supporting employment and independent living goals. Applicants must currently live in Boone, Ogle, Stephenson, or Winnebago County; Arkansas programs serving similar populations may look to this opportunity as a model.

Students or recent graduates of Rockford Public Schools ages 18–25 with an intellectual disability who plan to enter a post-secondary program can seek scholarship support for education and independent living goals. Grants from Community Foundation of Northern Illinois help Arkansas intellectual and developmental disabilities advocates see an example of inclusive higher-education funding opportunities nationwide.

Students with intellectual, developmental, emotional, or physical disabilities, or those who have volunteered with such students, can receive $1,000 - $1,400 scholarships through the Community Foundation for Southwest Washington. Focused on higher education, this award supports graduates of specific Washington and Texas school districts who may be pursuing studies related to intellectual and developmental disabilities.

The Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs Research Network aims to enhance the lives of children and youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) and their families. By establishing a robust research infrastructure, the program will generate evidence-based solutions to foster well-being and community engagement. It focuses on identifying effective interventions and measures that can be integrated into essential services and supports, ultimately helping CYSHCN thrive throughout their lives.

Eligible 501(c)(3) and public charity organizations in Arkansas, especially those serving Clark County, can apply for Ross Foundation’s grants supporting intellectual and developmental disabilities, mental health, education, arts, and community improvement projects. Funding may benefit Arkansas programs that advance services or quality of life for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Clark County area.

About Colin Farrell FoundationThe Colin Farrell Foundation is committed to transforming the lives of individuals and families living with intellectual disability through education, awareness, advocacy, and innovative programs. Inspired by his two sons, he is excited and deeply humbled by the hope that the Colin Farrell Foundation can help those who the larger systems of governance have neglected.

CFF Innovation GrantsWe’re looking for bold, scalable solutions focused on one or more of these priority areas:

• Affordable co-housing models for individuals and families
• Employer-partnered day programs and inclusive job opportunities
• Tools and technologies that enhance accessibility at home and in community spaces
• Cross-sector collaborations between public, private, and nonprofit organizations

Arkansas 501(c)(3) and similar nonprofits supporting people with intellectual or developmental disabilities can apply for McGraw Foundation grants of US $2,000 - US $10,000 for programs or general operations. Based in Illinois but open to U.S. organizations, the foundation also considers related human services, health, education, and enrichment initiatives benefiting this population.

Burger Family Foundatio

Our Mission

Inspired by our daughter Penelope and the powerful symbolism of the extra 21st chromosome, our foundation is dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals with Down syndrome and their families. Through direct financial assistance, therapy, community, and the healing power of ranch life, we’re building spaces that foster hope, purpose, and belonging.

Pens Pearls

Named after Penelope, Pens Pearls is the financial support arm of our foundation, providing direct assistance to families navigating the unique joys and challenges of raising a child with a disability. From therapy grants to life-changing opportunities, we’re here to lighten the load and ensure every child has the resources they need to thrive.

Through Pens Pearls, eligible families can apply for funding to help cover essential needs, services, or opportunities that make a meaningful impact in their lives. The Burger Family Foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization, and this program is one of the ways we work to create lasting change—one story at a time.

Qualifications for Pens Pearls Grant Program, are deemed by the strict bylaws of the Burger Family Foundation. Funds are paid directly to provider. 

Arkansas organizations conducting retrospective comparative clinical effectiveness research can access funding through the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute for projects using existing data sources. Eligible private or public U.S. and foreign organizations may request up to US $2,000,000 for studies that improve outcomes for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities or related priority health conditions.

The PCORI Engagement Award: Capacity Building aims to enhance the capacity of patients and stakeholders in patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER). Projects can last up to two years with funding up to $300,000. Successful proposals will demonstrate understanding of CER, community engagement, and commitment from stakeholders. The initiative encourages the use of existing tools and resources to foster patient involvement in research processes, aligning with national health priorities and addressing pressing healthcare issues.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Engagement Award: Dissemination Initiative by the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) aims to enhance patient engagement in healthcare decisions through comparative clinical effectiveness research. Since 2010, PCORI has funded over $3 billion for nearly 2,000 projects, focusing on improving health outcomes by providing actionable information. The initiative emphasizes transparency and stakeholder involvement, ensuring that results are accessible to both patients and clinicians, ultimately fostering informed healthcare choices.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.