Best Grants for Preschools in Maryland

The Lacrosse Opportunities Grant by the Maryland State Department of Education aims to enhance participation in lacrosse among minority students under 18. It supports Local Education Agencies and recognized nonprofits in providing comprehensive training and resources. The program prioritizes jurisdictions where over 80% of students are minorities, funding salaries, equipment, and clinics. This initiative reflects Maryland's commitment to equitable education and development opportunities in sports for underserved communities.

Judy Center Early Learning Hub Expansion Grant 

The Judy Center Early Learning Hub Expansion Grant is a competitive program administered by the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) to support Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in establishing new Judy Center Early Learning Hubs.

The program provides funding to support children from birth through age five and their families by offering comprehensive early care and education services. These services focus on improving school readiness, strengthening families, and enhancing child development outcomes through a multigenerational, community-based approach.

Funding Amount Available

• $330,000 per site per year (up to $990,000 total over three years).

Estimated Number of Grants

• Approximately eighteen (18) awards are anticipated.

The MSAC Arts in Education Grant, offered by the Maryland State Arts Council, supports Maryland-based non-profit organizations and government entities through matching funds for educational programs led by Teaching Artists. This initiative aims to enhance arts education in schools and communities, ensuring financial support is available for engaging artistic experiences. By acting as a financial intermediary, MSAC streamlines payments to Teaching Artists, ensuring they receive the full budgeted amount while fostering a vibrant arts education ecosystem across Maryland.

The Meyer Foundation provides Rapid Response Grants to support nonprofit organizations addressing urgent challenges related to racial and economic justice in the Greater Washington, D.C. area. These grants are available to core grantee partners and focus on community organizing, advocacy, and direct actions. Eligible organizations must have received funding from the foundation since January 2024. Applications are open from February to November 2026, allowing partners to apply for up to two grants within the year.

The MSAC Folklife Network Grant, administered by the Maryland State Arts Council, supports organizations that function as regional folklife centers throughout Maryland. This funding aims to identify, document, and present the living cultural traditions of the state’s diverse communities, fostering collaboration and cultural engagement. Established following recommendations from folklife experts, this program highlights the importance of preserving Maryland's rich cultural heritage through various artistic initiatives.

The MSAC Heritage Awards, presented by the Maryland State Arts Council, honor excellence in traditional arts, recognizing individuals, places, and practices that embody cultural heritage. These awards target long-term achievements in community leadership, artistry, and the preservation of folklife. By celebrating diverse contributions, the program aims to strengthen community ties and promote the arts as vital components of Maryland's cultural landscape.

The MSAC Maryland Touring Grant, administered by the Maryland State Arts Council, provides essential funding to Maryland-based nonprofit organizations for the presentation of artists from the Maryland Performing Artists Touring Roster. This initiative promotes collaboration between local artists and presenters, enhancing opportunities for professional touring engagements. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis from July 2024 through April 30, 2025, ensuring ongoing support for the arts community in Maryland.

The Meyer Foundation provides Organizational Development Grants to strengthen nonprofit organizations in the Greater Washington, D.C. region. Focusing on systemic racial and economic inequities, these grants support capacity-building activities such as strategic planning, fundraising, and leadership development. Eligible organizations must have received a Meyer grant since January 1, 2022. Applications are continuously accepted, and prospective applicants are encouraged to consult with Meyer staff prior to submission, fostering a collaborative approach to addressing community needs.

The Qlarant Foundation Grant supports grassroots organizations aiming to enhance healthcare access and improve health outcomes for under-served populations. With funding of up to $50,000, the foundation prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable impacts in areas such as patient safety and health education. Established in 2003, the grant is available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations in select states, fostering initiatives that address health equity and improve quality of life for individuals and communities.

State capital funding for the creation and enhancement of accessible arts facilities.

This grant can support capital projects that include the expansion of, production of, renovation of, or major repairs to a facility operated by an eligible organization. 

Projects that prioritize energy-efficient building methods and technologies, increase facility accessibility for people with disabilities, or expand an organization’s programming and ability to serve a broader audience are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

The MSAC Grants for Artists program supports the sustainability of artists' livelihoods in Maryland by providing funds for various living and working expenses. This program emphasizes holistic support, aiming to strengthen the creative workforce that is essential to Maryland's culture and economy. Eligible artists can apply annually, with funding disbursed in one payment within 6-8 weeks of agreement execution. The grant can be used for costs such as administrative fees, materials, and studio expenses.

The Employees Community Fund (ECF) of The Boeing Company empowers employees to make a significant impact through pooled donations. Established over 60 years ago, this employee-managed fund supports charitable organizations in communities where Boeing operates. The Potomac Region Chapter, formed in 2000, focuses on education, veterans, and low-income communities, with over 130 members contributing to the cause. Grants are available to nonprofits that align with these focus areas, fostering community engagement and support.

The Community Engagement and Restoration Mini Grant Program, managed by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports activities that enhance communities and improve natural resources. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and community associations. This program accepts applications annually from June to June, promoting projects like tree plantings and stream cleanups. While matching funds are encouraged, they are not mandatory. Applicants must have received three or fewer grants from the Trust in the past.

The County Arts Development Grant supports Maryland's county arts agencies through a structured funding formula, ensuring equitable distribution of resources to foster local arts activities. With two application cycles, agencies can apply for funding every three years, promoting community engagement and support for diverse artistic initiatives. The program emphasizes transparency and accessibility, allowing funds to be used for re-granting, programming, and administrative costs, ultimately benefiting county residents and artists alike.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship, established in 1989, offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in horticulture across 16 southeastern states. Administered by the Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund, this scholarship honors the legacy of Sidney B. Meadows, a dedicated advocate for education in the horticultural industry. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria related to academic standing and residency, with preference given to those intending to work in the field after graduation.

The Southern Equality Research Grant, offered by the Campaign for Southern Equality, aims to empower students and early career researchers to conduct crucial studies on LGBTQ+ issues in the South. With over a third of LGBTQ+ Americans residing in this region, there is a significant need for research to address legal protections and social inequities. This initiative seeks to elevate the voices and experiences of LGBTQ+ Southerners, fostering a deeper understanding of the policies affecting their lives.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

About Us

At Maryland Humanities, we’re passionate about making the humanities part of our daily lives.

Our Mission

Maryland Humanities creates and supports bold experiences that explore and elevate our shared stories to connect people, enhance lives, and enrich communities.

Our Vision

We envision a Maryland where the humanities are understood as central to everyday life because they help us reflect on the past, understand the present, and shape the future. The result will be a state where thoughtful and informed Marylanders are committed to a lifetime of learning that invigorates and strengthens our democracy through an open-minded exchange of ideas.

Strengthening the Humanities Investment in Nonprofits for Equity Grant

Championing the humanities across a state as diverse as Maryland requires many contributors and much collaboration. That’s where our Marilyn Hatza Memorial SHINE Grant Program comes in: Strengthening the Humanities Investment in Nonprofits for Equity.

We have been actively adjusting our grant practices over the past few years with a focus on equity and accessibility.

With the Marilyn Hatza Memorial SHINE Grant Program, Maryland Humanities takes the next step in our grantmaking evolution and aims to lower barriers and provide funding in a more equitable way to organizations statewide. Thank you to the State of Maryland via the Maryland Historical Trust for providing the Hatza SHINE seed money and helping to invest in a healthier humanities landscape statewide.

80 general operating support grants of $5,000 each to Maryland nonprofits conducting work in the humanities will be awarded.

Program Goals

• Continue and expand general operating support funding, awarding $900,000 in grants.
• Focus on small and mid‐size humanities, cultural, and educational nonprofits that may not have staff capacity or resources to be competitive in fundraising.
• Ensure a broad geographic reach, similar to what we were able to realize from our COVID‐relief grants, which funded organizations in all 23 of Maryland’s counties, plus Baltimore City.
• Continue to refine lessons learned on how to evaluate applicants and distribute funds equitably, while ensuring accountability and responsible fiscal stewardship.
• Convene annual cohorts of grantees in new networks of engagement and common purpose to amplify the state’s investment, strengthening both the organizations and communities.

The France-Merrick Foundation Grant, focusing on Maryland's Greater Baltimore area, supports one-time, project-oriented requests exceeding $50,000. Prioritizing financial sustainability, the Foundation funds projects across civic, cultural, community, economic development, education, health, and environmental sectors. It emphasizes innovative collaborations to enhance community vitality and resilience while ensuring adherence to sustainable practices. Organizations must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and financial stability, with a commitment to improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods through targeted initiatives.

The UMD Dean's Scholarship is a competitive undergraduate award for selected students, covering up to four consecutive semesters. To maintain eligibility, recipients must enroll in at least 12 credits per semester and achieve a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.20, completing 30 credits each academic year. The scholarship funds are restricted to specific semesters and cannot be applied toward graduate studies. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA for additional financial aid opportunities.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The CBT Environmental Education Grant Program, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, offers $290,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 to support environmental literacy initiatives in Maryland. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, and public agencies. The program aims to enhance students' knowledge and motivation to engage in responsible environmental stewardship through projects like Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) and capacity-building efforts. Grants of up to $40,000 are available for projects lasting up to three years.

The Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed and Climate Services Grants Gateway

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Watershed & Climate Services (WCS) is committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Maryland’s communities that are challenged by intense storms, changing sea levels and increasing flooding, while balancing growing populations, economic growth, and increased tourism and recreation. These trends make the already challenging task of restoring the Chesapeake Bay, safeguarding people and infrastructure and managing natural resources even more complex.

Grants Gateway provides a resource for partners seeking technical and financial support for projects that foster healthy and resilient ecosystems, communities, and economies. Grants Gateway provides a centralized hub to streamline the grant application process for governments, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

Eligible projects across six programs (as above) will improve water quality, restore local waterways, increase community flood planning, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, improve shorelines, and plan for beneficial reuse.

Beneficial Use (Outcome 5)

Assessment, planning, design, and permitting for projects that treat dredged sediment as a resource 

What kinds of projects are supported by this funding?

Assessment, planning, design, and permitting for projects using dredged material (e.g., thin-layer placement) to restore wetlands.

• Feasibility studies for stabilizing eroding shorelines or islands using local sediment.
• Restoration of underwater grasses or enhancement of fish/shellfish habitats.
• Development of local sediment management plans to match community dredging needs with restoration sites.

Projects can be located throughout Maryland. Public and private lands are eligible, but projects on private lands must demonstrate a community-wide benefit. Projects must be located within Maryland’s Coastal Zone.

The Les Mehrhoff Botanical Research Award, established by the New England Botanical Society, supports innovative botanical research that enhances our understanding of New England's flora. Open to applicants without membership, it prioritizes projects lacking traditional funding sources. Eligible expenses include fieldwork, lab supplies, and moderate stipends. This award encourages researchers to explore unconventional inquiries and fosters a deeper appreciation for the diverse plant life in northeastern North America.

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program

The Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), provides $1 million in funding for the preservation of Maryland’s historic properties and sites. This grant program offers money for important and urgently needed preservation projects that benefit the public.