Best Grants for BIPOC

The Buena Vista County Community Foundation offers large grants over $5,000 to not-for-profit organizations for capital investment projects. Applicants must provide a 50% cash match and achieve a minimum score of 75 points. Grants are awarded to verified organizations with 501.C.3 status. The Foundation encourages projects that benefit the community, focusing on areas such as youth education, arts, health services, and environmental initiatives. Follow their website for funding cycle updates.

The WKCF Urgent Needs Fund provides immediate financial support to nonprofit organizations facing urgent challenges, including lost revenue and increased programming due to crises like COVID-19. This fund operates without set application deadlines, allowing for continuous access to funding. Organizations can apply multiple times, with a maximum funding limit of $3,500 per year. The fund excludes certain requests, such as individual grants, capital campaigns, and projects that discriminate based on personal characteristics.

The Lumpkin Family Foundation

The Lumpkin Family Foundation is a private, family foundation created in 1953 from the estate of Besse A. Lumpkin of Mattoon, Illinois.

We are a multi-generational organization whose programs reflect the collective aspirations of a diverse family living in communities across the country. We make grants and conduct programs that support people working together to build healthy, sustainable communities in East Central Illinois and beyond. After 70 years, members of the Lumpkin family continue to support the Foundation’s work, serving alongside members of the larger community on committees and the Board of Trustees.

Our Geographic Focus

Our grantmaking is deeply rooted in East Central Illinois, the original service area of Illinois Consolidated Telephone (ICTC), the company founded by the Lumpkin family in 1894. We also support organizations in Chicago and national organizations whose efforts align with our core focus on promoting health and wellness through sustainable food systems, mental health initiatives, and regenerative agriculture.

Land, Health, Community - Chicago Program

Grant Overview

The Land, Health, Community-Chicago (LHC-C) program has recently expanded its focus areas to reflect our commitment, as a Foundation, to supporting holistically healthy communities in the Chicagoland area. We believe that a community’s health is rooted in its ability to access and obtain life sustaining resources for all its residents without undue burden, systemic barriers, and inequitable opportunity. The Land, Health, Community-Chicago Program has one grant cycle in the fall.

Program Focus

We look to fund projects and organizations that support the following:

• Our communities are physically active, values healthy eating, and prioritizes overall wellbeing.
• All communities can thrive. Communities that have faced and continue to face inequitable and unjust policies, laws and practices will be equipped with the resources needed to realize their full potential.

Funding Priorities

• Opportunities for children in/out of school to engage physically with and to learn about the natural world, to eat well, and to care for the planet.
•  A community and/or multigenerational approach to addressing the mental health and wellness of youth.
• Efforts to increase access to healthy and sustainably produced food.
• Grassroots and community led initiatives centered on the pursuit of food justice.

Special Funding Opportunities: Community Garden Grants

Community Gardens which are defined are small patches of land that are used to connect community members to nature. These gardens are engaged in minimal food production (as opposed to larger urban farms).

This project-based funding is for those organizations looking to establish community gardens on previously underutilized green spaces or to improve upon and/or expand existing gardens. This could be patches of land connected with schools, houses of worship, community centers, etc. Organizations can apply for up to $5,000 per garden. An organization is eligible to apply for support of multiple gardens in one application.

The Blackford County Community Foundation Grant Program offers funding to enhance community life through various projects. Areas of interest include community development, health services, education, and human services. Grants are competitive and prioritize significant projects that benefit many people. Applications are evaluated based on collaboration, financial support, and potential for future sustainability. Note that grants do not support profit-making enterprises, political activities, or sectarian purposes.

The John Lenard Civil Engineering Scholarship, established in 2008 by John Lenard, P.E., F.ASCE, supports undergraduate students pursuing civil engineering with a focus on water supply or environmental engineering. The scholarship aims to assist deserving students in covering tuition expenses. Awarded annually, it is limited to two recipients who demonstrate commitment to their field. The American Society of Civil Engineers, founded in 1852, oversees this scholarship, fostering excellence in civil engineering education.

The Mathews CF Community Impact Grants support local nonprofits to enhance cultural vibrancy, economic prosperity, educational success, and health and wellness in Mathews County. Funded by generous donors, the program focuses on impactful projects that yield positive, lasting changes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities, which may apply once a year. This initiative fosters collaboration with grantees to achieve essential community goals and adapt to evolving needs.

The Wildhorse Foundation offers grants to support the Confederated Tribes of the Umatilla Indian Reservation and surrounding areas in Oregon and Washington. With a commitment to community welfare, the foundation donates over $1 million annually to various projects, including arts, education, and environmental protection. Organizations must operate within the designated areas and adhere to specific eligibility criteria. The foundation emphasizes charitable giving and aims to enhance the quality of life for tribal members and their communities.

The Empathy Building Initiative, led by Acton Family Giving, seeks to foster partnerships with organizations aligned with its mission. While currently not expanding its portfolio, it invites inquiries from potential partners. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)3 status and align with specific giving areas. The initiative focuses on a national or broad reach and evaluates grant applications based on alignment and conversation. For more details, potential partners are encouraged to review the grants list available on their website.

The PACCAR Foundation Grant supports organizations in communities with a significant PACCAR presence, such as factories and offices. Established in 1951, it primarily funds capital projects for social services, education, and cultural affairs. Recipients often include United Way and local universities. The foundation does not support fundraising events or individual scholarships, ensuring that funds are directed towards impactful community initiatives. Proposals must align with the foundation's mission to enhance community welfare.

The Hans & Cay Jacobsen Charitable Foundation is dedicated to improving the lives of children and young adults in Lake and Sumter Counties, Florida. Founded in 1990, it provides grants to nonprofit organizations that focus on health, education, culture, and recreation. The Foundation prioritizes local initiatives and supports organizations that demonstrate significant community need, while also adhering to IRS regulations for tax-exempt organizations.

The CNPS Student Research Grants Program supports research on California's native flora, aiming to protect these vital plants and their habitats. Founded in 1983, it encourages diverse applicants, including underrepresented groups in science. Grants are awarded based on alignment with CNPS's mission and the significance of the research in areas like conservation and ecology. The program honors several awards, including the Doc Burr and Hardman Native Plant Research Awards, to promote innovative botanical studies.

The Main Street Matters program offers Accessible Housing Grants to enhance living conditions for individuals with permanent physical disabilities. This initiative promotes community revitalization by funding essential renovations, ensuring individuals can remain in their homes rather than institutional care. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofits. The program emphasizes collaboration with local funding sources and prioritizes projects that address immediate community needs, helping to create inclusive and supportive environments for all residents.

The Mt. Lebanon Community Foundation offers grants through the Mt. Lebanon Community Endowment, aimed at enhancing the community's character and quality of life. Established in 2002, it supports 501(c)(3) organizations and government agencies, focusing on youth, senior citizens, and community life. Grants are available for projects that benefit residents of Mt. Lebanon, PA, with an emphasis on sustainability, collaboration, and leaving a lasting legacy in the community.

The Cultivate: Leadership Grant Program empowers women and nonbinary leaders of color in Chicago by enhancing their skills in social, economic, and racial justice. Since 2013, it has fostered collaboration among diverse leaders, promoting gender and racial equity through intentional developmental support. Participants receive mentorship and coaching to strengthen their professional capabilities while building a connected community. This initiative is a partnership among significant local foundations, focusing on sustainability and growth within organizations led by women of color.

Sunlight Giving Grants aim to foster vibrant, diverse communities by ensuring all families have access to essential resources such as stable shelter, food security, and quality healthcare. By prioritizing organizations that support BIPOC, immigrants, and those living in poverty, Sunlight Giving focuses on creating joyful and safe environments for families with children aged 0-5. Their proactive funding approach identifies impactful nonprofits within the greater Silicon Valley area, dedicated to enhancing community well-being and opportunity.

The CRP Research Grant & Mini Grant Program, managed by the Center for Rural Pennsylvania, supports research aimed at improving rural communities. Established in 1987, the program invites faculty from various universities to explore vital issues such as economic development, community services, and health concerns. By fostering partnerships and encouraging innovative projects, the Center aims to enhance the quality of life in Pennsylvania’s rural areas, making significant contributions to their sustainability and growth.

Scholarships are available to graduating high school seniors. Applications are accepted from mid-November until mid-March. Scholarship award recipients will be announced at the high school awards ceremony. 

Van Cott Family Memorial Scholarship

Established in memory of Kermit Van Cott and his son Forrest to provide tuition assistance to a graduating Senior from one of the High Schools in Susquehanna County, with priority given to Blue Ridge, who will major in Landscape Architecture, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, Horticulture, Botany, Forestry, or Agriculture and who will matriculate at college or a post-secondary degree program.

The Story County Community Foundation (SCCF) offers a Major Grant aimed at enhancing community life in Story County. This initiative seeks projects that address significant community needs, promote innovative solutions, and foster collaboration among residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations with 501(c)(3) status. Grants are intended to support diverse areas such as education, health, and cultural initiatives, ensuring sustainable impact and community involvement in planning and execution.

BlueCross Healthy Places aims to enhance community health by creating accessible spaces for physical activity. This initiative focuses on developing features like community gathering spots, fitness areas, and playgrounds tailored to local needs. The program encourages collaboration with both government and non-profit organizations to ensure projects are community-driven and inclusive. By prioritizing public access and community input, BlueCross Healthy Places seeks to foster healthier lifestyles and stronger community bonds.

The Buena Vista County Community Foundation offers small grants to not-for-profit organizations in Buena Vista County for capital investment projects. Grants of $2,000 or less are available with no required match. Eligible projects include youth education, arts, environmental initiatives, health services, and community betterment. The Foundation encourages applications during its annual funding cycles, typically held in Spring and Fall, and prioritizes projects that enhance community investment.

The Environmental and Water Resource Institute (EWRI) Scholarships, offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers, aim to support civil and environmental engineering students. Annually, a total of $8,000 in scholarships is awarded to four top applicants, based on academic performance and commitment to water resources. This initiative not only provides financial assistance but also encourages student involvement in ASCE activities, fostering a strong community of future engineers dedicated to public health and safety.

Baptist Community Ministries (BCM) offers Transom Grants to enhance community health, education, and public safety across the greater New Orleans region. These grants, starting at $50,000, support initiatives that promote wellness and development in local organizations. BCM seeks tax-exempt entities and governmental organizations to apply, excluding capital projects or general operating support. With a focus on improving quality of life, BCM aims to foster a healthier community through strategic partnerships and funding.

The Buena Vista County Community Foundation offers Medium Grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 to verified not-for-profit organizations and local governments. Grants are intended for capital investment projects that enhance community development rather than operational costs. The Foundation encourages sustainable projects in various categories including youth education, arts, environment, health, recreation, and community betterment, with a required 50% match for funding.

The Story County Community Foundation offers a Capacity Building Grant to enhance the capabilities of nonprofit organizations within Story County. With grants up to $2,500, the foundation aims to foster community betterment by supporting projects that strengthen governance, strategic planning, and long-term sustainability. Applications are accepted from January 1 to August 31, 2024, and must align with the foundation's mission to improve the lives of residents in Story County.

The Cullum Foundation Grant supports qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Augusta, Georgia, and Richmond County. Established in memory of Henry C. Cullum, the foundation aims to alleviate suffering, support education for youth, and maintain churches. Organizations seeking funding must submit applications online and demonstrate their alignment with the foundation's mission to improve the welfare of individuals in need, focusing on health, education, and human services.

The RAF Better Communities Grants focus on enhancing quality of life in the Rochester area through unrestricted funding for nonprofits. With a commitment to equity, these grants support historically marginalized communities and basic needs, promoting growth and resilience. Organizations can apply for funding between $10,000 and $20,000 annually, with a particular emphasis on operational support. This initiative aims to empower nonprofits and strengthen community infrastructure, ensuring sustained impact and collaboration.

Young Health Programme

The Young Health Programme (YHP) is a global disease prevention initiative, aiming to provide education for young people to feel empowered to make informed choices about their health and catalyse a global, youth-led advocacy movement.

The programme operates in over 40 countries and partners with more than 60 non-profit organisations, including UNICEF and Plan International. The YHP combines community programmes, research, advocacy, and the development of young leaders, with a focus on underserved communities.

Since its launch in 2010, the YHP has directly reached over 23 million young people, trained over 1 million, and engaged more than 23,000 AstraZeneca employees, who have volunteered their time with more than 140,000 hours.

The YHP aims to prevent the most common non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and respiratory disease, by addressing five main risk factors: tobacco use, unhealthy diet, physical inactivity, harmful use of alcohol, and air pollution. Additionally, the programme tackles climate-health impacts to build healthier communities, recognising, as projected in the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report, that children born after 2010 will be the first generation to enter adulthood in a world where the average temperature will reach 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels, and are expected to experience a +2°C rise within their lifetime.1

AstraZeneca Young Health Programme Impact Fellowship 2026

AstraZeneca is looking for passionate, driven young leaders to join their 2026 Young Health Programme (YHP) Impact Fellowship. The Fellowship supports young advocates to create actionable change to: 

• Advance health equity – with a focus on acting early to prevent non-communicable diseases among young people, or supporting young people living with rare diseases.
• Take action on climate and nature – advocating for the mitigation of the harmful effects of climate change on the health and well-being of young people.
• Build health systems resilience – contributing to stronger health systems that prioritise earlier intervention to meet today’s needs and mitigate tomorrow’s disease burden.

Benefits

The selected Fellows will gain access to networks, funding and development opportunities, enabling them to drive a global health movement led by and for young people:

A fully-funded scholarship to attend the 2026 One Young World Summit in Cape Town, South Africa (3–6 November 2026) as well as access to the One Young World Ambassador Network and the Young Health Programme (YHP) Alumni group of other young changemakers working to improve youth health.

Structured learning and development offerings to enable them to scale their impact, including both self-directed and live learning. This includes access to the One Young World Academy, an award-winning mini-MBA programme, mentorship from AstraZeneca colleagues and professional training.

Each selected Fellow will receive a grant of either USD $10,000 or USD $50,000 (if selected as the Lead2030 winner** for Sustainable Development Goal 3, for which applicants will be automatically considered) from AstraZeneca, through their non-profit organisation. Fellows are expected to use the grant to implement a project focused on either (1) advancing health equity (2) taking action on climate and nature (3) building health systems resilience.