Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

Texas Commission on Environmental Quality

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality is the environmental agency for the state. We have approximately 2,800 employees, located in our central office in Austin and 16 regional offices around Texas. The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality strives to protect our state's public health and natural resources consistent with sustainable economic development. Our goal is clean air, clean water, and the safe management of waste.

All-Electric Program

Grants for repowering or replacing eligible vehicles and equipment with all-electric models, along with supporting infrastructure. A program of the Texas Volkswagen Environmental Mitigation Program (TxVEMP).

Priority Areas: Dallas-Fort Worth Area; Houston-Galveston-Brazoria Area; San Antonio Area; Austin Area; El Paso County; Bell County; Beaumont-Port Arthur Area

Eligible Project Categories

To be eligible for a grant, an applicant must be replacing or repowering a vehicle or a piece of equipment from one of the categories listed below, and may request additional funding for refueling infrastructure.

• Class 8 Local Freight and Port Drayage Trucks
• Class 4-8 School Bus, Shuttle Bus, & Transit Buses
• Class 4-7 Local Freight Trucks
• Airport Ground Support Equipment
• Forklift and Port Cargo Handling Equipment
• Refueling Infrastructure
• Freight Switchers

The Michael Foundation Grant supports Waldorf Education in North America, focusing on training centers and individuals. Grants typically range from $2,000 to $6,000, with occasional larger amounts. Eligibility includes AWSNA/WECAN membership and a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion practices. The foundation prioritizes teacher training programs and requests from individuals who have completed their initial training year, aiming to assist those most in need.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Green Jobs - Green New York Energy Studies

Through Green Jobs - Green New York (GJGNY), energy studies are available for small commercial and not-for-profits to identify and analyze opportunities to make buildings more efficient, which lowers associated energy costs. Small commercial with 100 or fewer full-time equivalent employees or not-for-profit organizations of any size are eligible for this offering, in facilities 50,000 sq ft or less.

Studies include:

• A comprehensive walk through of the facility
• Site staff interviews
• Utility bill analysis
• Fuel-neutral, unbiased evaluation of potential low-cost/no-cost and capital improvement energy efficiency upgrades
• Energy study report that outlines potential energy and cost savings opportunities for your facility.

The State Energy Program Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency and conservation initiatives through funding and technical assistance from the U.S. Department of Energy. Applications are accepted year-round, with a priority for schools and non-profits. Grants range from $5,000 to $50,000, aimed at projects with a payback period of 10 years or less. Eligible applicants must be registered at SAM.gov and submit detailed proposals, including energy savings analyses for specific installations.

The Energy Conservation Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency improvements in public buildings owned by political subdivisions. Eligible projects include insulation installation, efficient lighting, HVAC upgrades, and weather sealing, with awards up to $100,000 requiring a 50% cash match. Projects must achieve a payback period of 10 years or less, and all energy savings calculations will be reviewed by Community Services. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis.

The Community Improvement Grant by the City of Santa Rosa supports innovative projects aimed at enhancing local neighborhoods and fostering community connections. With grants up to $2,500, this program encourages inclusive, accessible initiatives that are free for participants. Open to nonprofits, community groups, and even informal neighborhood associations, it aims to empower residents to improve their living environment. Applications are reviewed by the Community Advisory Board, which makes the final funding decisions.

L3Harris Technologies is expanding its partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) to enhance STEM education for PreK-12 students. This initiative aims to support schools in launching or expanding PLTW Computer Science programs for the 2026-2027 academic year, focusing on diverse and economically challenged communities across multiple states. Eligible schools can receive grants to implement new courses, additional class periods, or teacher training, fostering a strong foundation in technology and engineering.

The Cloyce and Barbara Johnson Education Grant, offered by the Southeastern Illinois Community Foundation, supports educators in Jasper County Community Unit 1. With two grants of $500 each available, this initiative honors Cloyce and Barbara's commitment to education. The couple's legacy continues to inspire local teachers, fostering an environment where students can thrive academically. This funding opportunity reflects the foundation's mission to enhance community welfare and promote philanthropic efforts in southeastern Illinois.

The Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) in Pennsylvania enhances home energy efficiency, reducing costs and increasing comfort while prioritizing health and safety. This program offers on-site energy audits to identify cost-effective measures, including air sealing, insulation installation, and heating system modifications. Clients receive education on maintaining these improvements and reducing energy waste. Managed by the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic Development, WAP aims to foster a resilient economy and community.

The Community Foundation for Northeast Florida offers Small Organization Grants to nonprofits with budgets of $150,000 or less. These one-time grants support projects that meet community needs and strengthen small organizations, particularly in areas such as community building, basic needs support, and youth enrichment. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and operate within specific counties. For more information, visit their FAQs.

About Us

Alpha Omega Alpha, founded in 1902, is the national medical honor society. Its mission is: dedicated to the belief that in the profession of medicine we will improve care for all by:

• recognizing high educational achievement;
• honoring gifted teaching;
• encouraging the development of leaders in academia and the community;
• supporting the ideals of humanism; and
• promoting service to others.

Medical Student Service Leadership Project Grant

AΩA is committed to preparing future leaders in medicine and health care. Leadership is about making a positive difference and can be developed through education, observation, experience, and by working with leader mentors. Service learning provides excellent opportunities for students to develop as servant leaders. Only one team from each school may be nominated.The Grant

The grant is a $9,000, two-year grant – $5,000 the first year, and $4,000 the second year. The grant will be paid to the sponsoring institution. 

The Team 1 Plastics Corporate Donor Advised Fund, managed by the Albion Community Foundation, offers grants up to $1,000 to support educational initiatives benefiting the greater Albion area. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and faith institutions serving the community. The foundation emphasizes community improvement, cultural heritage, and youth development, having awarded over $3.7 million in grants since its inception. This funding aims to enhance the quality of life for local residents.

Central Indiana Community Foundation

Powered by generosity, passion, and innovative collaboration, Hamilton County Community Foundation brings together the strengths of our community to solve our most pressing challenges.

Hamilton County Community Foundation Strategic Grants

The Funding Opportunity

Strategic Grants provide larger, targeted investments in initiatives designed to create meaningful, long-term impact in Hamilton County. This funding pathway supports organizations pursuing significant opportunities—such as scaling proven programs, strengthening organizational capacity, or advancing transformational projects—in alignment with HCCF’s priority areas.

Strategic Grants may also support organizations navigating significant funding disruptions, where a targeted investment can help stabilize operations, preserve critical services, or position the organization for long-term sustainability.

What is Funded

Strategic Grants support high-impact opportunities that are significant in scope and positioned for long-term community benefit. Funding may include:

• Organizational capacity-building and expansion
• Transformational or large-scale community initiatives
• Capital campaigns (matching funds required)
• Time-sensitive opportunities to stabilize operations following the loss of significant funding

The Process

Strategic Grants are offered through an invitation-only process. HCCF proactively engages organizations whose work aligns with this funding pathway and demonstrates strong potential to create lasting community impact.

In prioritizing invitations, HCCF often considers organizations with a history of partnership or prior funding, while also remaining responsive to emerging opportunities and community needs.

Organizations that have not received an invitation but believe their work aligns with the goals of Strategic Grants may submit a brief request for special consideration. Due to the limited and highly targeted nature of this funding opportunity, submission of this form does not guarantee an invitation to apply.

The CCWH/Berks Graduate Student Fellowship, offered by the Coordinating Council for Women in History, provides a $1000 award to graduate students in U.S. history departments who are completing a dissertation. This fellowship aims to support crucial research stages or the final year of writing. Applicants must be graduate students who have achieved A.B.D. status and may specialize in any history field, ensuring diverse representation in women's history.

The Kessler Emergency Assistance Fund, established by the Nebraska Presbyterian Foundation in 2018, honors Dr. Silas G. Kessler's legacy of ministry. This fund provides financial support to PCUSA pastors serving or retired from Nebraska congregations within specified presbyteries. Grants aim to assist those in need, reinforcing the commitment to pastoral care and community service in Central Nebraska, Homestead, and Missouri River Valley areas.

The Bread & Roses Opportunity Fund Grant supports grassroots initiatives aimed at advancing social, racial, and economic justice in the Philadelphia area. Since its inception in 1977, the fund has provided over $17 million to local organizations committed to collective action and systemic change. Grants are available for special projects or urgent needs, focusing on community organizing rather than social services, and prioritize leadership from within affected communities.

The Smithsonian Institution is offering the Margaret S. Vining and Barton C. Hacker Fellowship in Women's Military History for the 2025-26 term. This fellowship invites research on women’s roles in national defense up to 1945, utilizing the museum's extensive collections. Stipends of up to $30,000 are available, depending on the candidate's status. Applicants must reside in Washington, DC and commit to a minimum of three days per week at the museum. Non-US candidates should inquire about visa and tax implications.

Lotus Fund

The Lotus Fund, a fund of the Perry County Community Foundation, a regional foundation of The Foundation for Enhancing Communities (TFEC), is pleased to announce that Letters of Application are now being accepted from nonprofit organizations for arts projects serving residents of Perry County. Within this opportunity, up to $2,100 will be available for the support of arts programs or projects. All presented activities may take place at any time between April 2026 – March 2027. 

About the Lotus Fund 

The Lotus Fund was established in memory of Christine (Chris) Mathna to honor Chris’ love for the arts and all manner of creative expression. Chris celebrated and supported the arts throughout her life. She promoted and encouraged local artists through her support of the Perry County Council of the Arts and through her personal encouragement of many artists she knew and loved. The Lotus Fund is currently accepting donations in honor of Christine. For those who may wish to contribute to the fund, TFEC accepts donations from individuals, families, organizations, institutions, and through bequests and planned gifts. 

The Malmsten Fund, established by Lincoln residents Carl and Salina Malmsten, provides annual gifts to retired Presbyterian pastors and their spouses in Nebraska. This fund honors the Malmsten's legacy of supporting those who served in the church, continuing their commitment even after the trust ended in 1980. Income from investments and proceeds from the sale of Clark Jeary Retirement Community further bolster this initiative, ensuring financial assistance for those in need.

The Samull Classroom Herb Garden Grant, established through a generous donation from Donald Samull, supports elementary classrooms (grades K-6) with at least ten students to create herb gardens. Grants of $500 are awarded annually to enhance curricula with hands-on learning experiences about herbs. Eligible classrooms may use funds for plants and necessary supplies like soil and tools. Applications are reviewed by a committee, ensuring equitable access to these educational resources.

The Community Health Matching Grant Program, led by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations in Michigan. This initiative encourages the development of community-inspired and evidence-based programs to address local health needs, ultimately enhancing health outcomes for the community. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria regarding their budget and patient demographics to qualify for matching funds, ensuring that resources are allocated effectively to underserved populations.

The Robert D. Hevey, Jr. and Constance M. Filling Fellowship in Anthropology supports graduate students engaged in research on indigenous communities, linguistics, and cultural diversity at the National Museum of Natural History. This ten-week fellowship offers a stipend of $8,000 and additional allowances for research and relocation. Applicants must be enrolled graduate students fluent in English, eligible for both U.S. and non-U.S. citizens, while previous Smithsonian employees are ineligible.

The Lowcountry Artistic Vitality Grant, offered by the Gaylord & Dorothy Donnelley Foundation, aims to support a diverse range of arts organizations within the Lowcountry. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities that demonstrate artistic vitality and have completed at least one full fiscal year of operations. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, emphasizing unrestricted general operations funding that allows organizations to address their most pressing needs.

The Chicago Artistic Vitality Grant supports over 175 small, professional arts organizations across various disciplines. It provides essential unrestricted operational funding that allows these organizations to thrive while encouraging artistic innovation. Grantees must be 501(c)(3) public charities or have fiscal sponsors, with expenses under $1 million per year. The grant aims to foster a vibrant arts ecosystem in Chicago, ensuring diverse artistic expressions in every neighborhood, and promotes the sustainability of emerging talent.

Dearborn Community Foundation

The Dearborn Community Foundation, Inc., (DCF) is a community foundation, tax-exempt public charity that enables individuals, families, businesses and organizations to fulfill their charitable wishes. DCF builds and safeguards endowments for the community through contributions large and small. The endowment contributions are permanently invested to produce earnings so that these charitable funds make a difference in our community now and forever.

DCF Grants 

The Dearborn Community Foundation, Inc., (DCF) has awarded more than $33 million in grants since 1997. The grants support the needs/interests of the community in the fields of Art, Culture and Humanities, Community and Public Benefit, Education, Public Safety, Environment and Animal Protection, Human Services, and Youth Programs.

City of Lawrenceburg Community Grant Program (LCGP) - Phase I

The City of Lawrenceburg has generously provided funds for the Lawrenceburg Community Grant Program. The program is specifically for non-profit, IRS tax exempt organizations that provide a benefit, direct or indirect, to the Lawrenceburg community and Dearborn County.

Grant applications requesting $5,000 or less will be accepted pursuant to the grant application deadlines. Applications will be considered as long as funds are available.

LCGP Specific Guidelines

• grant funds are not granted to sustain ongoing projects/programs;
• grant applications will be considered as long as funds are available;
• organizations may not apply for any property improvements (buildings, fencing etc. …) to land not owned by the organization seeking the grant funds

The Local Accountability Systems is a district-wide initiative through which districts and open-enrollment charter schools develop a plan to evaluate the performance of their campuses locally. Local Accountability Systems seek to engage the community and district in establishing locally relevant accountability measures, provide parents, families, and communities with detail information about local school performance and progress over time, and continuously improve student performance and preparedness for post-secondary success. 

Dwight Nicholson Medal for Outreach

This award recognizes the humanitarian aspect of physics and physicists created through public lectures and public media, teaching, research, or science related activities. Recognition consists of a stipend of $3,000, Nicholson medal, and a certificate which includes the citation for which the recipient has been recognized. Up to $1,500 will be available for the recipient's travel expenses to the meeting at which the Medal is presented. It will be presented annually.