Best Grants for 501(c)(3)

The Pfizer Emergent Leader Award recognizes up to eight individuals in the second year of their graduate studies or post-doctoral research in fields such as organic chemistry, medicinal chemistry, and chemical biology. This award supports female-identified individuals and provides a $1,500 stipend for travel expenses to present research at the ACS Spring Meeting. Awardees will be honored at the WCC Luncheon and the ‘Just Cocktails’ reception, promoting inclusivity in science.

The PLTW Computer Science Program Expansion grant, funded by Pentair, aims to support schools in enhancing their existing PLTW Computer Science courses for the 2026-2027 school year. Grantees can utilize the $10,000 funding for activities such as adding new courses, increasing class periods, or training additional educators. Eligible schools are primarily public and charter institutions located in specific cities, while certain expenses like salaries and infrastructure improvements are ineligible for funding.

Thrive Philanthropy's Seed Grant supports innovative, small-scale projects outside the USA that promote just, plant-based food systems and reduce animal consumption. The initiative is designed for organizations or individuals aligned with Thrive's mission to eliminate industrial animal agriculture. It encourages applicants with a positive community reputation and excludes for-profit entities. With a focus on grassroots efforts, this grant is a pivotal resource for those aiming to advance vegan advocacy and sustainable food practices.

The Kentucky Arts Partnership Grant provides vital operating support to arts organizations in Kentucky, ensuring that residents have access to year-round arts programming. This grant is aimed at independent arts groups and local arts agencies, helping to foster strong community engagement and cultural diversity. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal responsibility and maintain IRS tax-exempt status to qualify. This initiative not only enhances art participation but also strengthens the overall arts delivery system across the state.

The MSAC Creativity Grants for General Operating Support are available on a rolling basis from July 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025. These grants aim to enhance the sustainability of artists and organizations in Maryland, supporting their operational needs and arts programming for an entire fiscal year. This initiative promotes equitable access to artistic resources and fosters community engagement while transitioning to a new General Operating Support option starting FY 2027.

The Simons Foundation's Scientific Software Research Faculty Award supports faculty positions focusing on scientific software development in mathematics and physics. It aims to enhance research capabilities by providing five years of salary support and a $50,000 yearly research allowance. Awardees must have a Ph.D. and demonstrate leadership in scientific software. This initiative addresses the career limitations faced by software experts and encourages applications from underrepresented groups.

Community Foundation of the Ozarks

The Community Foundation of the Ozarks (CFO) provides philanthropic leadership to build stronger communities. Our mission is to enhance the quality of life in our region through resource development, community grantmaking, collaboration and public leadership.

We help donors achieve their philanthropic goals through professional management and investment of charitable funds. We work with nonprofit organizations to help them fulfill their missions through fund administration, grantmaking and learning opportunities. We award scholarships to deserving students to help them achieve their educational goals.

Republic Community Foundation Grantmaking Program

The Republic Community Foundation works to improve the quality of life for individuals in the Republic area through thoughtful grantmaking and community leadership.

The HortScholar Program offers students in horticulture an immersive experience at Cultivate'25, connecting them with industry leaders and trends. Participants will gain hands-on experience, network, and explore job opportunities while receiving mentorship and an all-access pass to the event. With complimentary lodging and meals, this program is designed to advance careers in horticulture and expand horizons for future professionals.

The Susan Cook House Educational Trust Grant provides funding for charitable purposes in Central Illinois, specifically supporting nonprofit organizations recognized under IRS section 501(c)(3). This grant program encourages educational initiatives that benefit the local community. Please note that individuals cannot apply for this grant; applications are limited to eligible nonprofit organizations. For more information, search for the grant program using the foundation finder link provided.

 Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator ESC Grant

The Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator (VHPA) enables school districts and open-enrollment school systems to design and launch high-quality virtual and hybrid programs or campuses, as defined under Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 30B.

The Virtual and Hybrid Program Accelerator (VHPA) enables school districts and open-enrollment school systems to design and launch high-quality virtual and hybrid programs or campuses, as defined under Texas Education Code (TEC) Chapter 30B. The goal of the program is to establish schools that are intentionally structured to achieve A or B accountability ratings and deliver rigorous, engaging instruction tailored to meet the diverse needs of students across Texas. Through VHPA, school systems will receive funding and technical assistance (TA) to develop flexible, personalized learning models that support students requiring adaptable education pathways. The program also enables school systems to implement innovative staffing strategies, expand course offerings, and increase access to high-quality instruction statewide. VHPA is a two-year program. By the end of the first year, participating school districts and open-enrollment school systems must either launch a full-time virtual or hybrid program or apply for authorization to operate a full-time virtual or hybrid campus that will operate in the 2027– 2028 school year. School systems that meet all engagement and activity requirements in Year 1, may use this participation to satisfy the planning year requirement for virtual and hybrid campuses outlined in Senate Bill 569. 

Grant activities include providing technical assistance to refine high-quality virtual or hybrid learning experiences that equip students for college, career, or the military. Support includes establishing highly effective virtual and hybrid classes, aligning staffing models with professional development for virtual teaching/learning, and enabling strong decision-making on technology and operations systems (e.g., learning management system, attendance). School systems in the program will also use iterative practices to analyze data to ensure that all students can access high-quality, grade-level instruction and engage in cohort-style workshops to learn about best practices from school systems across Texas.

The Capital Improvements for District 3 Intergenerational Recreational Facilities RFP aims to fund upgrades to recreational facilities in San Francisco's District 3, serving diverse generations. With a total grant amount of up to $500,000, the Mayor’s Office of Housing and Community Development will prioritize proposals based on scoring until funds are exhausted. The funding period is set from January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027, ensuring impactful community enhancements.

The ESC Perkins Technical Assistance Grant, administered by the Texas Education Agency, supports Education Service Centers (ESC) in achieving key objectives related to federal grant compliance and technical assistance. Funding of $10,000 is available for objectives 1 and 2, while $20,000 is designated for all four objectives. This initiative aims to enhance educational outcomes by providing necessary resources and training for ESC staff, thus fostering better compliance and support for local educational agencies.

An award from the George and Viola Hoffman Fund may be made annually for student research toward a master’s thesis or doctoral dissertation on a geographical subject in Eastern Europe. Eastern Europe includes the countries of East Central and Southeast Europe from Poland south to Romania, Bulgaria, and the successor states of the former Yugoslavia. Topics may be historical or contemporary, systematic or regional, limited to a small area or comparative.

The ArtsKC Mission Support Grant is designed to support non-profit organizations whose primary focus is the arts in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Grants of $5,000 are available, with funding aimed at promoting artistic excellence, community impact, and inclusivity. The program supports various art forms and encourages diverse-led organizations to apply, fostering a thriving arts community. Last year, 18 grants were awarded, totaling $98,500, with a multi-year funding commitment for continued support.

The Thrive Grant supports initiatives aimed at establishing equitable, plant-based food systems by decreasing animal consumption and promoting vegan advocacy. Targeting mid-size to larger organizations with proven success, the grant encourages proposals that align with Thrive Philanthropy's mission. Eligible applicants should demonstrate a strong community reputation and are expected to operate outside the U.S. Notably, the grant excludes for-profit entities and projects that exploit animals.

The National Science Foundation is piloting a no-deadline submission process for the Division of Chemistry's CLP, CSDM-A, and CTMC Programs. This initiative aims to enhance flexibility for principal investigators and promote interdisciplinary research. However, it may also present challenges and unintended consequences for PIs, reviewers, and institutions. Proposals can be submitted at any time, although certain exceptions apply, including specific deadlines for CAREER proposals and RUI/ROA solicitations.

The Community Foundation of North Louisiana offers Competitive Arts & Culture Grants to organizations with a revenue of $250,000 or more. These grants aim to enhance access to the arts for underserved populations and improve community quality of life. Eligible programs can request funding for operational, programmatic, or capital expenses, with no maximum or minimum funding limits. Applications must meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status and good standing with IRS requirements.

The NHSCA ARTS Conservation License Plate Grant, offered by the New Hampshire State Council on the Arts, supports projects aimed at conserving publicly owned artworks and historic cultural facilities. This initiative ensures that significant cultural heritage is preserved for community access and enjoyment. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and state agencies. The grant encourages projects that enhance public access to the arts, while maintaining the integrity of original artworks and facilities.

Community Development Block Grant Planning 

Description/Guidelines

CDBG Planning Grants are available to eligible counties, cities and towns. Local governments may apply on behalf of special purpose districts, such as water or sewer districts; unincorporated areas; public school districts; or nonprofit or for profit organizations, such as a human resource development council, an economic development agency, an area agency on aging, a local domestic violence shelter, a Boys and Girls Club, local food bank, hospital, nursing home, etc. Counties may also apply for Planning grants on behalf of tribal utility authorities or in those cases where tribal members would be assisted like any other county residents.

Local governments may apply for one CDBG Planning Grant per funding cycle. Local governments with an open CDBG Planning Grant from a previous funding cycle are ineligible to apply for an additional Planning Grant until their current planning project is completed and closed out, except in special circumstances, with prior approval of Commerce. 

Consolidated local governments, such as Butte-Silver Bow and Anaconda-Deer Lodge, may apply for two Planning Grants per funding cycle and may have up to two Planning Grants open at any given time. 

About Us

The Hawai`i State Foundation on Culture and the Arts (SFCA) was established by the Hawai`i State Legislature in 1965 as the official state arts agency of Hawai`i. The mission of the SFCA is to promote, perpetuate, and preserve culture and the arts in Hawai'i. Since its inception, SFCA has worked to enrich the lives of Hawai‘i residents and visitors through arts and cultural programming and initiatives. 

Performing Arts Grant

The Performing Arts Grant Program, established through Act 131, SLH2025, allocates state general funds in fiscal year 2027 to support the coordination, planning, promotion, marketing, and execution of performing arts events. The legal provisions of the Performing Arts Grant are in Section §9-XX, through § 9-XX of the Hawai`i Revised Statutes. The grant budget is contingent on the Hawai`i State Legislature appropriation.  

Hawaii Revised Statutes (HRS) 9-1 defines “performing arts” as arts or skills that are intended to be performed before an audience, including but not limited to dance, singing, musical, and theater performances. 

The State Foundation on Culture and the Arts is awaiting designation and approval of the Hawaii Revised Statutes that govern facilitating the Performing Arts Grant Program. . 

The Digital Inclusion Fund, launched by the Community Foundation of Greater Huntsville in partnership with Google Fiber, aims to enhance digital access and skills among vulnerable populations in Huntsville. With priorities including education, job training, and social connection, the fund supports organizations that help low-income individuals, seniors, and others gain essential digital literacy. By addressing these needs, the fund fosters economic development and equitable access to technology, ultimately contributing to a more connected community.

Route 66 Grant Program

Since 1926, Route 66 defined a remarkable era in our nation's history and it lives on today in Illinois' many Route 66 roadside attractions, museums, and restaurants. Route 66 is one of the most famous roads in America. Generations of travelers have romanticized this highway as a symbol of unlimited mobility and freedom of the road. Its iconic status is enhanced by the unprecedented volume of music, books, films, and other art forms that depict it as the essence of America's highway culture.

It was born in 1926 as part of the new numbered highway network and quickly grew to be the preferred road west for a nation on the move. US Highway 66 was not as old or as long as some other transcontinental routes like the Yellowstone or the Lincoln Highway, but it quickly gained fame as the shortest, year-round route between the Midwest and the coast as it passed through the fabled landscape of the American Southwest. The construction of this thin, ribbon of the road helped to transform the American West from an isolated frontier to an economically vital region of the country and made it accessible to anyone with a car.

Part of the charm of Route 66 is its idiosyncratic personality. Like a giant carnival Midway, this corridor of neon signs and gaudy roadside attractions was embraced by the traveling public as an exciting diversion from ordinary life. A trip on Route 66 promised an exhilarating pilgrimage where one might discover the unknown and experience the unusual. Route 66 is synonymous with fun and adventure.

Route 66 is also synonymous with endless opportunity. As our transportation sector evolves and electrifies, more drivers will be choosing electric vehicles (EVs) to traverse our state’s roads and highways. Embracing future tourism trends like electrified transportation and promoting the state’s tourism areas as EV destinations will unlock all Route 66 has to offer for EV drivers who want to shop, dine, and explore Route 66’s local attractions.

In Illinois, we have over 300 miles of Route 66 to travel from its starting point in Chicago to the Chain of Rocks Bridge. This funding opportunity provides the certified convention and visitors bureaus along the route to partner and develop projects that will enhance the Route 66 experience in Illinois. 

The Pennsylvania Council on the Arts offers the Creative Catalyst Grants to support innovative arts projects that can have a significant impact across the state. These grants aim to enhance the cultural, educational, and economic vitality of Pennsylvania's communities through special initiatives. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and local government units, with a focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The grant cycle is quarterly, ensuring timely support for unique arts opportunities.

The Land & Building Acquisition Program, administered by the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, aims to enhance the quality of life for Illinois residents through funding for land acquisition and capital improvements. With a total grant amount of $1,000,000, applicants are required to submit detailed project narratives and budgets, demonstrating the scope of their projects and the anticipated impact on the community. This initiative supports the goals outlined in Public Act 103-0589.

The Arts Grant Program, funded by the Mary Duke Biddle Foundation, aims to support arts nonprofits and educational organizations in North Carolina's Triangle region. This program offers one-year grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 to eligible organizations that have not received funding in the past five years. The initiative emphasizes the importance of arts in community building, cultural preservation, and personal enrichment, fostering a vibrant and inclusive cultural landscape.

The Pilcrow Foundation offers the Disaster Relief Grant to support libraries in rural areas of the United States affected by natural disasters. This grant provides $800 worth of quality, hardcover children's books to aid in rebuilding children's departments. Libraries must demonstrate a commitment to serving their communities and possess a limited operating budget. This initiative ensures that children in disaster-stricken regions have access to new books, enhancing literacy and fostering a love for reading.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education invites public school districts to apply for Special Support Earmarks, providing approximately $1.384 million in funding as outlined in the FY26 state budget. This initiative aims to enhance educational resources and support for nearly 1 million students across the Commonwealth. Eligible districts can leverage this funding for various earmarked projects, ensuring accountability and effective use of state resources.