Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

About Us

advancing the science of water ®

Who We Are

The Water Research Foundation (WRF) is the leading research organization advancing the science of all water to meet the evolving needs of its subscribers and the water sector. WRF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, educational organization that funds, manages, and publishes research on the technology, operation, and management of drinking water, wastewater, reuse, and stormwater systems—all in pursuit of ensuring water quality and improving water services to the public.

5419 - Crossing the Divide – Best Practices for Addressing Local and Privately-Owned Lateral Sewer Issues

Grant Information

To provide water resource recovery facilities (WRRFs) and collection system operators with an interactive manual of practice for implementing inflow and infiltration (I&I) and obstruction management programs with a focus on municipal and privately owned lateral sewers in complex legal, regulatory, and multi-jurisdictional environments.

The Volkswagen (VW) Environmental Mitigation Trust provides approximately $423 million to California for reducing excess nitrogen oxide (NOX) emissions from VW diesel vehicles. This initiative includes funding for various projects aimed at replacing older, polluting vehicles with cleaner alternatives, particularly in low-income communities. Key categories for funding include zero-emission buses, freight trucks, and marine projects, all aimed at improving air quality and public health.

The Morris Animal Foundation is offering Pilot Study Awards focused on reptile and amphibian health and welfare, particularly for chytrid research. These awards aim to fund innovative, proof-of-concept studies that demonstrate a clear understanding of animal health issues and collaboration with stakeholders. Proposals must have a direct impact on wildlife populations and adhere to strict health study policies. The maximum funding is $20,000 for a duration of 12 months, ensuring significant contributions to wildlife health advancements.

The Morris Animal Foundation invites research pre-proposals for the Wildlife Health (Reptile and Amphibian) - First Award, aimed at enhancing the health and welfare of amphibians and reptiles. This initiative focuses on impactful research, particularly in chytrid disease. Eligible applicants include early career researchers with appropriate qualifications and a clear understanding of animal health challenges. Projects should demonstrate collaboration with relevant stakeholders and provide direct benefits to wildlife populations, emphasizing conservation through an animal health perspective.

Morris Animal Foundation invites Established Investigators to submit pre-proposals for research focused on reptile and amphibian health. This initiative emphasizes the importance of animal health and welfare while facilitating impactful conservation efforts. Proposals must demonstrate clear animal health needs, collaborative strategies, and potential benefits to wildlife populations. Funding for these projects is anticipated to average around $100,000 over a maximum duration of 36 months, fostering innovative solutions for pressing health challenges in these species.

The Tennessee Housing Trust Fund Competitive Grants support the development and preservation of rental housing for low- and very-low income households, including the elderly and special needs populations. Eligible projects can receive funding between $100,000 and $600,000, focusing on those with incomes at or below 80% of the area median income. Priority is given to projects in rural areas and those serving the most vulnerable populations, ensuring access to safe and affordable housing.

The Down Syndrome – Aim High Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, empowers students pursuing careers in special education or therapy for individuals with Down Syndrome. This scholarship supports dedicated individuals committed to improving the lives of others through education and professional development. Since 1968, the foundation has focused on enhancing community well-being, making this scholarship a vital resource for aspiring professionals in the field.

The Urban Act Grant Program in Connecticut provides financial assistance to municipalities identified as economically distressed or public investment communities. This initiative aims to enhance community conservation, urban development, and improve quality of life for residents. Local officials must submit a letter to the Office of Policy and Management to apply, as there is no formal application process. The funds can support various projects, including economic development, housing, and public safety.

The Transportation Infrastructure Investment Fund (TIIF) Grant in Delaware supports infrastructure improvements that assist new or expanding businesses. Eligible projects include site entrance work, traffic signals, and public transportation enhancements. Funding is provided as reimbursement for completed work, requiring a Reimbursement Request Form. Applicants must be licensed entities with public endorsement, creating jobs and providing public benefit. Ineligible costs include residential projects and work on private properties. This initiative fosters economic growth and infrastructure development.

The Rubberized Pavement Grant Program in California, administered by CalRecycle, aims to divert waste tires from landfills and promote recycled-content products. This initiative encourages the use of rubberized pavement through two project types: Rubberized Asphalt Concrete Hot-Mix and Rubberized Chip Seal. Grants of up to $375,000 are available for individual applicants, with a maximum of $525,000 for regional applications, and $750,000 for tribal grants, fostering sustainable practices in construction.

The 2025-2026 Perkins V grant aims to enhance career and technical education (CTE) for secondary students by developing their academic and employability skills. It focuses on integrating rigorous academic and technical instruction, increasing flexibility in service provision, and building partnerships among educational institutions and industries. Additionally, the program seeks to support underrepresented populations, ensuring they gain the necessary skills for competitive employment in high-demand fields.

The Primary Care Residency Expansion Grant Program, authorized by Minnesota Statutes Section 144.1506, aims to establish new primary care residency programs and train eligible residents in Minnesota. This initiative addresses the shortage of primary care physicians, enhancing access to healthcare in rural and underserved communities. Approximately $1.9 million will be available this grant cycle, with awards ranging from $75,000 to $400,000 to support these essential programs.

The Bothin Foundation Grant supports nonprofits with capital investments in social services, youth development, arts, and environmental programs, focusing on those serving disadvantaged children, low-income families, and individuals with disabilities in specific California counties. Eligible projects include building renovations, equipment purchases, and vehicle requests, with a preference for immediate, impactful needs. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) compliant and have a direct service focus, ensuring community benefit and sustainability.

Small Harbor Improvement Program

The Small Harbor Improvement Program (SHIP) promotes economic development, public access, improved commercial fishing opportunities and works to preserve, and create, infrastructure at facilities in tidewater and coastal municipalities. The SHIP program assists municipalities in improving or creating facilities, such as public wharves, piers, landings and boat ramps. There is a required 50% local share under this program. The SHIP program can provide up to $250,000 in assistance towards eligible projects.

Ongoing Program for Future Funding Assistance

This grant application is open to tidewater communities that can demonstrate a need to improve economic activity and access to a tidewater river or the ocean on publicly-accessible property. Typical types of projects funded under this program include commercial and municipal wharf improvements, hoist systems, boat ramps, gangways, stairwells to clam flats, piling replacements, etc.

The goal of this program is to promote economic development, and improve public marine infrastructure and public access. MaineDOT urges each community to contact us as soon possible with your project ideas/needs to begin the process for potential inclusion in upcoming budgets. MaineDOT will schedule site visits as needed once a letter of intent has been filed. Once a letter of intent project has been deemed eligible, the community will be able to submit an application.

The Cloudsplitter Foundation offers Unrestricted Support Grants, aimed at covering the operating costs of not-for-profits rather than specific projects. Eligible organizations must align with the Foundation's strategic objectives and maintain an established relationship, with grants capped at $5,000 per year. The Foundation, active in the Adirondack region since 1986, prioritizes community building, environmental stewardship, and economic stability, providing vital support to enhance local initiatives and ensure long-term impact.

The NH Volunteer Engagement Program offers mini-grants to eligible organizations aimed at enhancing volunteer capacity through training, technology, and program development. Funded by the American Rescue Plan, these grants support projects focused on affordable housing, mental health, and food security in New Hampshire. Organizations can apply for specific needs, with awards ranging from $1,000 to $4,000. Priority will be given to those serving underserved communities and demonstrating a clear need for capacity building.

About VHCB

Our Mission

VHCB invests in the construction of affordable housing and conservation strategies that work together to ensure equity, resilience, and vitality for Vermont communities in perpetuity.

Water Quality Grants

The Farm & Forest Viability Program provides competitive, reimbursement-based grants of up to $50,000 to help Vermont farm businesses in water quality capital improvements. This program is funded by the State of Vermont Clean Water Budget, and there is approximately $750,000 in available funds in FY26.

Overview & Eligibility

Any Vermont farm with a gross farm income of $15,000 or more that is required to comply with Vermont’s Required Agricultural Practices (RAPs) is eligible for this award. We will consider applications from non-farm entities playing an integral role in water quality management on farms, such as custom operators or non-profits. Please contact staff to ensure your entity is eligible prior to applying.

The F25AS00332 Highlands Conservation Act provides competitive funding for land conservation projects in the Highlands Region, which includes Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this program allows eligible state, county, or municipal entities to request grants covering up to 50% of project costs. The program aims to protect vital natural resources and is divided into Base and Competitive funding categories, with specific proposals invited for the Competitive Funding Round.

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection offers Resilient Florida Implementation Grants to support local governments and special districts in infrastructure projects addressing risks from vulnerability assessments. This funding aims to enhance the protection and restoration of Florida's water resources, especially against flooding and storm surge. Eligible entities include counties, municipalities, and water management authorities. Proposals submitted will be public records, with no guarantee of funding upon submission.

The Asset Inventory and Assessment Grants, established by Session Law 2015-241, aim to enhance the viability and proactive management of water and wastewater utilities. Grants can reach up to $150,000 over three years, available to local government units and nonprofit water corporations for projects such as asset inventory and critical asset condition assessments. Eligible applicants are encouraged to participate in training sessions, which are free of charge, to better navigate the grant application process.

The Merger/Regionalization Feasibility Grants, established by Session Law 2015-241, aim to support local government units and nonprofit water corporations in evaluating the consolidation of water and wastewater systems. Grants, capped at $50,000 over three years, encourage proactive management and financing of utilities. Eligible projects include studies on potential system interconnections for regional water supply and wastewater treatment. Training is recommended for applicants to maximize grant benefits.

The CHPAS Conservation & Education Grants aim to support the conservation and restoration of natural ecosystems, focusing on wildlife and their habitats. Grants are available for conservation projects, scholarships for educational events, and outreach initiatives to enhance community awareness of wildlife. Funding requests can be made for amounts up to $500, targeting applicants in specific Wyoming counties. This program emphasizes the importance of biodiversity and community involvement in conservation efforts.

New York Department of State

The New York Department of State’s core mission is to provide a better quality of life and expand opportunities for all New Yorkers by fostering community revitalization, catalyzing economic growth through business formation, protecting consumers, helping new Americans, supporting local governments, assisting individuals and families to achieve upward economic mobility, and ensuring safety and integrity through the regulation of licensed occupations and the development of building standards and codes.

Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants

The NYS Department of State (Department or DOS), through the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act), is soliciting applications from eligible applicants through the New York State Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) for Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grants. These grants will enhance community resilience and reduce flood risk through the implementation of the following project types:

• Coastal Rehabilitation and Resilience Projects
• Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects 

State assistance awarded and paid shall not exceed 90% of the total eligible project costs set forth in the application and as approved by the Department.

Community Resilience and Flood Risk Reduction Grant implementation projects may include completion of final design and construction, or construction-only for eligible projects. Projects should prioritize nature-based and natural solutions where feasible and provision of co-benefits. 

Inland Flooding and Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) Implementation Projects 

Inland Flooding and LWRP Implementation Projects address restoration and flood risk reduction through implementation of a complete or substantially complete LWRP or LWRP Component, including a watershed management plan funded by DOS. New York State’s approach to managing waterfront areas recognizes that municipalities are in the best position to determine their own waterfront objectives and needs in a manner consistent with the goals and requirements of the Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas and Inland Waterways Act.4 Accordingly, the Department encourages waterfront communities to prepare and implement LWRPs. An LWRP is a comprehensive land and water use plan that expresses a vision for a community’s waterfront area, proactively plans for current and future climate hazards, addresses State Coastal Policies to reflect local or regional needs, and outlines the organizational structure, local laws, and waterfront revitalization projects necessary to implement the program.

Office of Innovative Mobility (OIM) Grants

About the Program

Thank you for your interest in the OIM Grant Program. We are proud to have been able to offer four rounds of grants for the TDM portfolio and two rounds of grants from the Electrification and Connected Vehicle portfolios since 2021. These grants have resulted in many successful projects. In recent months, OIM staff have been working to further quantify benefits from these initial efforts and continue to analyze and refine our offerings so that the OIM grants can contribute to our mission of reducing emissions and congestion through traditional and emerging technologies.

Mobility Services offers the Transportation Management Organization Seed Funding Grant:

Providing resources for new TMOs programs to form in currently underrepresented areas of the state.

Transportation Management Organization Seed Funding Grant Rolling Applications 

Background

Transportation Demand Management (TDM) - defined broadly as strategies that maximize travelers’ choices and, in doing so, allow them to make more efficient use of existing transportation infrastructure - is an increasingly crucial tool in meeting CDOT’s commitment to provide the best multi-modal transportation system for Colorado that most effectively and safely moves people, goods, and information and the ambitious goals for tackling climate change outlined in House Bill 19-1261 Climate Action Plan to Reduce Pollution.

However, while there are strong, existing examples of successful TDM programming in Colorado, many areas and groups across the state have not been well-served by traditional TDM efforts.

The Transportation Management Organization (TMO) Seed Funding Grant was developed by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) to establish new transportation management organizations (TMOs) in currently un-represented areas of the state, and to add new perspectives to the TDM conversation that have the potential to increase TDM success in non-urban areas.

Program Goals

• Foster the creation of innovative solutions and technologies that reduce single occupancy vehicle trips and encourage the use of alternative modes of transportation.
• Support the creation of financially sustainable TMOs that enhance the capacities and efficiencies of their local and regional transportation networks and support stakeholders in voluntary efforts to reduce trips, emissions, and travel impacts.
• Support economic development by normalizing and encouraging telecommuting as a best work practice for employers.
• Provide safe access to economic opportunities and mobility for people of all ages, incomes, and abilities, including vulnerable users.
• Reduce greenhouse gas and criteria pollutant emissions by reducing vehicle miles traveled by personal vehicles.

The Paul L. Busch Award, provided by the Water Research Foundation, honors individuals for innovative research in water quality. This prestigious award supports promising researchers with a $100,000 grant to advance their work. The selection process is inclusive, with no restrictions based on race, gender, or nationality, and encourages applications from diverse candidates. Recipients are expected to collaborate with U.S.-based organizations, fostering practical applications of their research in the water environment.

Over our more than 100-year history, we've been fighting heart disease and stroke, striving to save and improve lives.

Our Mission

To be a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives.

Rapid Impact Research Award

Purpose

The American Heart Association continuously seeks innovative ideas to address the most pressing issues impacting cardiovascular and brain health. To that end, the Association is pleased to announce the Rapid Impact Research Award program, which will support early and mid-career investigators proposing innovative research that aligns with the Association’s mission. Novel basic, clinical and/or population health proposals are invited in the following three priority areas of research.

• Sudden cardiac arrest/resuscitation science
• Cardiovascular Kidney Metabolic Syndrome
• Stroke and/or vascular dementia

Applicants will be asked to indicate alignment of their proposal with one or more of the topic areas listed above. 

The A Fund for Women Grant, offered by the Madison Community Foundation, aims to empower women and girls in Dane County by supporting projects focused on economic empowerment and education. Eligible 501(c)3 organizations can apply for funding to enhance accessibility to education, promote financial literacy, and advocate for policy changes that support women's rights. The deadline for full applications is June 25, 2025, and multi-year grants may be considered.