Best Grants for Environmental Projects in Maryland

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on environmental, educational, youth, human services, arts, economic, or other community programs can apply for Peoples Bank Foundation grants. Eligible organizations must be within the bank’s service footprint and submit only one application annually; requests cannot cover payroll, salaries, or stipends.

501(c)(3) organizations running environmental stewardship or children’s programs in Maryland can apply for Sprague’s charitable contribution program; awards US $250 - US $10,000 for impactful community projects. Eligible nonprofits across Sprague’s operating areas may benefit, with priority to initiatives where modest funding creates significant results.

Nonprofits, charities, associations, municipalities, Indigenous groups, and foundations near TC Energy operations in Maryland can seek funding for safety, education, environment, or resilient communities projects. Focused on community impact, TC Energy Foundation invites environmental and related organizations to propose initiatives that address local needs, promote equity, and demonstrate measurable benefits; typical awards range from US $2,500 - US $25,000.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, and Tribes in Maryland can receive financial and technical assistance to implement on-the-ground conservation practices that improve environmental quality and agricultural operations. Focused on environmental conservation, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service invites Maryland land stewards to address soil, water, air, habitat, energy, and climate-related natural resource concerns through the Environmental Quality Incentives Program.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on environmental protection, agriculture, food access, health, or community safety can apply for the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation’s Corporate Giving Program for requests up to US $1,000. Eligible projects must benefit the broader community and include an endorsement letter from a Perdue associate.

Maryland 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on environmental, agricultural, or community programs can seek more than US $1,000 for projects such as conservation, education, hunger relief, health, or public safety. Focused on community betterment, the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation favors initiatives near its facilities and those endorsed by a Perdue associate.

Doctoral candidates at Big Ten Academic Alliance universities conducting Smithsonian-based research in fields like ecology, environmental science, and animal behavior can receive up to US $50,000, including a research allowance. Smithsonian Institution fellowships support 3–12 month projects, and Maryland-based students at eligible universities may benefit.

Nonprofit organizations running STEM education or healthy food access programs in the U.S., including Maryland, may be eligible for funding that advances K-8 math, high school STEM enrichment, college success, or nutrition initiatives. Focused on reducing social disparities, Takeda supports efforts like urban farming, medically tailored meals, and eliminating food deserts and swamps.

Nonprofits, schools, government units, and religious organizations with non-sectarian programs serving Wicomico, Worcester, or Somerset County residents can seek funding for community, environmental, or related projects in Maryland. Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore uses a letter of inquiry process, with requests submitted by the 15th receiving a decision the following month.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Maryland seeking support for community development, basic needs, workforce training, or environmental initiatives can apply for sponsorship funding from Bank of America Foundation. With a mission to advance economic mobility and social progress, the foundation provides regional U.S. sponsorships that may support environmental projects as part of broader community-focused programming.

Municipal, religious, charitable, benevolent, and educational organizations in Maryland can apply for the Elizabeth Raymond Ambler Trust’s project-based community grants to support work in areas like environmental programs, education, health, and human services. Eligible Maryland environmental projects may be competitive if they fit within the Trust’s broad community-focused priorities.

Maryland environmental nonprofits and other tax-exempt organizations working on environmental improvement may be eligible for support for general operations or special projects. Maryland environmental groups can access funding through Goodnow Fund, which also backs vulnerable children, Alzheimer’s research, and educational equity, with a particular focus on Fairfield County, Connecticut and other U.S. communities.

Environmental and conservation-focused charitable organizations, especially those in Michigan, can seek project or capital support for initiatives improving communities and natural resources. Focused on education, health, civic, and environmental work, the Harry A. & Margaret D. Towsley Foundation invites sustainable, strategically planned proposals; Maryland-based groups with relevant programs may also be eligible within its broader U.S. funding.

With a mission to strengthen local communities, Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore provides Maryland environmental and other 501(c)(3) organizations with mini-grants up to US $2,500. Eligible nonprofits, schools, faith-based programs, and government agencies in Somerset, Wicomico, or Worcester counties can fund program needs, capacity building, emergency assistance, or youth initiatives, including environmental projects.

Maryland environmental and community-focused nonprofits and public entities can apply for Community Foundation of Frederick County Maryland funding to support projects in Frederick County; awards range from US $2,000 - US $10,000. Eligible projects must serve local communities and may include environment, disease prevention, education, literacy, veterans’ services, and related community initiatives.

Wabtec Foundation provides Maryland environmental nonprofits with US $1,000 - US $10,000 for community-focused programs near Wabtec operations. Eligible 501(c)(3) organizations should emphasize environmental stewardship, such as natural resource management, pollution reduction, or environmental advocacy, and can strengthen applications by engaging local Wabtec employees as volunteers.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and qualified government entities supporting environmental initiatives and other community programs in Maryland communities near Georgia-Pacific facilities can apply for this funding. Georgia-Pacific Foundation backs projects in education, environment, entrepreneurship, and community enrichment that enhance long-term well-being within its manufacturing communities.

Environmental 501(c)(3) nonprofits in Maryland, especially those near Canon’s headquarters, can seek support for conservation and related community projects. Canon U.S.A supports environmental, youth, and local community initiatives and requires applicants to be in good standing with public charity watchdog sites, making this a fit for credible, impact-focused organizations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) public charities, government entities, and IRS-recognized tribes working on environmental science, STEM education, or human services can seek project funding, including work impacting Maryland. Grants from Change Happens Foundation help U.S.-based organizations with national or global reach, with occasional community grants in select regions, advance innovative, equitable, and sustainable solutions.

Maryland environmental organizations and other 501(c)(3) nonprofits can access funding through the James C Stewart Charitable Foundation for projects in areas like environment, animals, health, education, and human services. Grants of approximately US $10,000 primarily support groups in Tucson, Arizona and Southern California, but organizations nationwide may be considered.

The J.M.K. Innovation Prize, awarded by The J.M. Kaplan Fund, supports early-stage social innovators tackling critical issues in environment, heritage conservation, and social justice. With up to $175,000 in funding and tailored support over three years, it empowers organizations to pilot transformative solutions. The Prize fosters collaboration among awardees, providing resources and mentorship to enhance their impact. Open to both non-profit and mission-driven for-profit entities, it addresses the funding gap for innovative, high-potential projects.

The RTK Scholars Program, funded by RTK Environmental Group, provides a $1,500 scholarship to support students pursuing careers in science, particularly in environmental studies, biology, and engineering. This initiative aims to cultivate the next generation of experts in environmental testing and technology. Eligible applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be enrolled in an accredited institution. The application deadline is May 31 each year, promoting academic excellence and dedication to environmental sciences.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) invites U.S. researchers to apply for Doctoral Dissertation Research Improvement Grants (DDRIGs) in Arctic Sciences. This initiative aims to support innovative research that enhances understanding of the Arctic's changing environment and cultural systems. The program seeks to foster early career scientists and strengthen STEM workforce development, while also promoting collaboration across federal and international partners to advance Arctic research and logistical capabilities.

The Bernie Bahr Forestry and Natural Resources Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of the Ozarks, awards a $1,000 grant to undergraduate students pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Forestry or related fields. Eligible applicants must have completed at least two years of college and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. Preference is given to graduates from specific high schools in Missouri. This scholarship aims to support students dedicated to environmental and natural resource management.

The FY 2026 Continuation of Solicitation for the Office of Science Financial Assistance Program invites applications for research in various domains, including Advanced Scientific Computing and Biological Research. This ongoing opportunity from the Department of Energy will remain available until September 30, 2026. Eligible projects must align with SC's mission, supporting innovative research that advances scientific knowledge and energy solutions.

The Sensata Foundation, established in 2017, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting community development and STEM education across the U.S. With a focus on improving access to STEM resources and empowering youth, the Foundation partners with nonprofits to address food insecurity, homelessness, and environmental sustainability. By fostering community partnerships and providing financial support, Sensata Foundation aims to inspire future leaders and enhance the quality of life for all, particularly in underserved areas.

The Andrew Burgin Charitable Trust Grant supports organizations that are exempt under Section 501(c)(3) and focuses on charitable, educational, religious, and scientific purposes. With grant sizes ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 and an annual budget of approximately $55,000, the trust primarily serves Alabama organizations. Applications are accepted year-round, but must meet specific deadlines for review. This grant offers opportunities across diverse areas such as arts, education, health, and human services.