Best Grants for BIPOC

The Avina Stiftung Grant supports sustainable change in the food system by focusing on healthy nutrition through research, public knowledge transfer, and innovative products. The foundation prioritizes initiatives in Switzerland and cross-border projects, while also considering Swiss initiatives in Latin America. However, it does not fund art, social projects, or development aid, and re-submissions are not accepted. This grant aims to foster sustainability and integrity in various nutrition-related endeavors.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain CTE Instructors - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

High Growth and Emerging Technologies

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education supports the development and implementation of innovative high-tech, high-wage CareerTech Academies, State Programs and sequence of courses that align with local, state, and global industry and emerging workforce needs. The grant proposal should embrace rigorous academic and technical learning activities.

The Kossuth County Community Foundation (KCCF) supports initiatives that enhance life in Kossuth County, Iowa. By providing grants, KCCF aims to foster community development and improve rural living conditions. Eligible organizations, including 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, can apply for funding that prioritizes community needs and sustainability. The foundation emphasizes multi-generational projects and collaboration, ensuring that resources are maximized for the benefit of all residents in the area.

The Avila Beach Community Foundation is offering a $8,500 Community Impact Grant to foster innovative projects that benefit the Avila Beach community. Applications are accepted annually from July to early September, with a focus on initiatives that enhance social, cultural, and physical well-being. Special consideration will be given to proposals utilizing the grant as seed money or matching funds. This grant aims to unite community members in achieving shared goals and improving local quality of life.

The Sylvania Franciscan Foundation Fund offers grants to support initiatives aimed at combating human trafficking, assisting immigrants and refugees, and promoting social justice. The fund also aligns with Pope Francis’ Laudato Si’ call for environmental stewardship. Eligible projects may include survivor support services, community engagement, and ecological education. Notably, faith-based organizations that limit service to their members or engage in lobbying are ineligible for funding. This foundation prioritizes systemic solutions that foster dignity and opportunity for underserved communities.

The Black Hills Charitable Giving Program supports community growth by providing sponsorships and donations to eligible organizations. Focused on thriving communities, conservation, and nurturing future leaders, it invites applications from 501(c)(3) organizations and schools. Funding priorities include critical needs like food security and education, while requests benefiting individuals or political causes are generally not funded. Applications are accepted year-round, with decisions made within 120 days.

The Lake Mills Area Community Foundation provides grants aimed at enhancing community life through charitable, educational, and cultural projects. Established in 1996, it supports innovative initiatives that address local needs. Applicants must be not-for-profit organizations that serve a public purpose. The Foundation prioritizes projects that can be completed within a year and typically does not fund ongoing operational expenses, salaries, or endowments. Grants can be requested at any time, with specific deadlines before board meetings.

Kansas Health Foundation We are an organization full of dedicated individuals who work every day to improve health in the state of Kansas. We dream big, promote bold visions and truly believe that it’s possible for Kansas to someday lead the nation in health.We operate with a three-part purpose statement that explains our overall goals and highest aspirations: 1) To empower Kansas to lead the nation in health; 2) To eliminate the inequities that lead to the greatest health disparities; and, 3) To be THE model of philanthropic impact.Upward Mobility Transformation FundUpward Mobility is the opportunity to stabilize, thrive and build a better future over time. It means that hard work leads to real opportunity, and people have the freedom to make choices about their lives without constantly falling behind.  Kansans have shaped a shared understanding of Upward Mobility through a year-long process of statewide listening, crowdsourcing, data analysis and cross-sector collaboration. Approximately 1,000 Kansans contributed ideas, insights and feedback. This process resulted in the creation of a Blueprint for Upward Mobility—a focused set of strategies to address the key barriers preventing Kansans from getting ahead.KHF is seeking bold, scalable ideas to accelerate the Blueprint. Funded projects will: 

• Advance one of the eleven Blueprint strategies 
• Operate at a regional or statewide level, or clearly serve communities experiencing concentrated economic hardship (*)   
• Launch within one year of receiving funding 
• Catalyze new approaches, strengthen cross-sector collaboration, and unlock additional resources. Rather than funding disconnected projects, KHF intends for these grants to contribute to a broader, coordinated movement advancing Upward Mobility across Kansas. 

The Mimi Washington Starrett Foundation, inspired by its namesake's legacy of generosity, focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations in Morris County, NJ. With a commitment to community well-being, the Foundation offers grants that address critical issues such as health, education, and environmental preservation. It operates through distinct grant cycles, allowing organizations to apply annually while fostering meaningful relationships. By prioritizing 501(c)(3) organizations, the Foundation ensures that its funding aligns with its mission of impactful community service.

The Byrne Family Foundation Trust (BFFT) launched the Fast Track Grants Program to address urgent community needs in Dallas, Texas, and Park City, Utah. Initiated in 2022, this program enables organizations to apply for quick funding without reporting requirements, ensuring funds are distributed within the same month. BFFT focuses on educational and animal welfare projects, prioritizing initiatives that enhance educational opportunities and support domestic animals, thereby promoting equity and community wellbeing.

The Avila Beach Community Foundation Grants support projects that enhance the Avila Beach community, funded by an endowment from the UNOCAL beach clean-up settlement. Annual funding applications are accepted from July to early September, with a focus on minor and major projects. The Foundation aims to improve the physical, cultural, and social well-being of residents and visitors by financing enhancements that reflect the community's history and culture.

The Joseph J. Miller Foundation Grant supports diverse charitable initiatives for both Jewish and non-Jewish organizations in South Carolina. Established in 1973, this grant prioritizes local groups, especially those in Elloree, and focuses on areas including arts, education, health, and human services. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt, with equal funding allocated to Jewish and non-Jewish entities. This commitment reflects a strong dedication to community development and support.

The HPM Foundation offers substantial financial support, granting $100,000 annually to local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. This initiative aims to empower and uplift communities by funding various projects and services. Recent beneficiaries include organizations such as the American Heart Association, Habitat for Humanity, and the Hawaii Island Food Basket. Through these contributions, the foundation fosters collaboration and strengthens the local nonprofit sector, ensuring vital resources are available to those in need.

The New England Regional Consortium Fellowships, supported by Harvard University, offer approximately 24 research grants annually across diverse fields such as history, literature, and sociology. These fellowships encourage collaborative projects utilizing resources from multiple cultural agencies. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or foreign nationals with the proper documentation, and itineraries require a minimum of eight weeks, involving at least three member institutions with two weeks spent at each.

Brooks Brothers, founded in 1818, is committed to social responsibility through its donation program. The company partners with local and national non-profits focused on health issues and education. They seek to enhance community well-being while maintaining a commitment to inclusivity. Notably, they do not support organizations that discriminate based on protected categories. Their donations are aimed at fostering positive change in society, reflecting their belief in the importance of community engagement.

The BEAM Circular Accelerator Grant supports innovative startups in biomanufacturing and circular bioeconomy solutions in California's North San Joaquin Valley. With a focus on sustainability, the program offers capital, coaching, and connections to help entrepreneurs scale their businesses and create jobs. It aims to enhance the region's economy by investing in companies that develop valuable products from renewable organic materials, contributing to a thriving bioeconomy ecosystem.

Georgia Department of Community Health

The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is one of Georgia’s four health agencies serving the state’s growing population of over 10 million people.

DCH serves as the lead agency for Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids®, and also oversees the State Health Benefit Plan, Healthcare Facility Regulation Division and State Office of Rural Health, impacting one in four Georgians.

Through effective planning, purchasing and oversight, DCH provides access to affordable, quality health care to millions of Georgians, including some of the state’s most vulnerable and underserved populations.

Initiative 3: Connecting to Care to Improve Healthcare Access Strategy: Point-of-Care Telepods 

Description and Purpose of Funding

A Care to Consumer Point-of-Care Telepod (POC Telepod) is a self-contained, soundproof healthcare station with live audio, video and technology to assess vital signs, health history and current health issues and evaluate physical and mental conditions.

Through real-time connectivity, licensed clinicians will provide non-emergent telehealth services for the purpose of prescribing medication or instructing other appropriate medical care.

These stations will serve as a new service line allowing patients to connect with licensed clinicians for primary care services without needing an appointment.

Funding is approved to support the acquisition and placement of POC Telepods in rural communities intended to provide increased access to primary healthcare services.

Specifically, the placement of POC Telepods should increase access to care in areas of the community with limited accessibility and reduce inappropriate utilization of emergency departments for non-urgent, non-emergent patients.

This funding opportunity is available to rural hospitals in Georgia serving the 126 rural/partial rural counties defined as the eligible rural area under the GREAT Health Program. Hospitals previously submitting a signed Letter of Intent for Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design (AHEAD) model pre-implementation to the Georgia Department of Community Health will receive priority in the application process.

The T.J. and LaVerne Plunkett Foundation Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations that embody conservative Christian values and serve communities in East Texas, particularly Rusk County. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in arts, education, health, and more, ensuring services are accessible to all community members without discrimination. Applicants must have 501(c)(3) status and provide a detailed budget for their proposed projects.

The Augusta Bar Foundation Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area, aims to enhance the lives of at-risk youth through funding and support for creative community initiatives. With over 25 years of community engagement, the foundation prioritizes proposals that address pressing needs, demonstrate measurable results, and align with funding areas such as education, mentoring, health, self-sufficiency, and family issues, fostering a sustainable impact beyond the grant period.

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation aims to foster human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by strategically distributing charitable resources. Guided by principles of collaboration and innovation, the Foundation supports community development and health initiatives. Their focus includes enhancing health care accessibility, promoting leadership, and addressing social determinants of health. They prioritize projects that engage diverse community members and encourage cross-sector collaboration to maximize impact and sustainability in these regions.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation's Economic Mobility program is currently accepting grant applications through its General Application. While specific RFPs are no longer available, proposals that align with the Foundation's strategic goals for 2021-2030 are encouraged. The Foundation, established by visionary Richard King Mellon, has a history of supporting initiatives that enhance economic development and environmental stewardship in Southwestern Pennsylvania, with a commitment to awarding over $1.2 billion in the coming years.

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund is a Princeton, New Jersey-based endowment fund providing grants to individuals, young adults who volunteer or intern for progressive social action projects or programs in an area of their interest and commitment. The Amy Adina Fund also sponsors a lecture each year on a relevant and timely topic related to its educational mission.

The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund was started in 1987 one year after Amy Adina, 20, died suddenly while a student and activist at Rutgers University. It is a realization of her family and her communities’ desire to celebrate her life, to fulfill her dreams and her potential. Since its inception, almost 1,500 grants have been awarded for work in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East, and the United States—nearly $1,000,000 in total. The Amy Adina Schulman Memorial Fund is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization.

About Our Grants

Small grants (depending on length of service), are awarded to as many applicants as possible rather than giving larger amounts to fewer individuals. The number of awards has grown each year thanks to annual contributions as well as to gifts sent to the Fund to honor special occasions and life cycle events.

The Sincere Foundation Grant offers up to $25,000 to 501(c)(3) organizations in the USA that provide essential services in Massachusetts, focusing on food security, housing stability, and safe spaces. The Foundation prioritizes programs that address the basic needs of vulnerable populations, supporting initiatives that foster community well-being and resilience. Eligible organizations must have an operating budget of $25 million or less and align with the Foundation's mission to create thriving communities.

The Nevada State Bank Grant supports community development initiatives aimed at benefiting low and moderate-income individuals and areas. With over a million dollars donated annually, the Bank encourages financial literacy, economic development, and various community services. It invites applications from non-profit organizations recognized under section 501(c)3 of the IRS tax code, focusing on projects that enhance education, health, and overall community livability.

Hispanic Heritage Foundation

Established by the White House in 1988, the Hispanic Heritage Foundation—a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization—continues to advance its mission through award winning programs that adapt to the needs, aspirations, and vision of our community while delivering a strong value proposition for the country.

HHF’s mission and programs have been recognized by The White House, US Congress, Fortune 500 Companies, US Army, other nonprofits, and even the Government of Mexico, in five areas of focus: education, workforce development, societal impact, and leadership, with culture serving as the cornerstone of its mission.

Youth Awards

The 28-year-old Youth Awards have recognized thousands of high school students from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Washington, D.C., for their achievements in the classroom, community, and focus on career paths in STEM fields, entrepreneurship, media, public service, and other categories.

Gold, Silver, and Bronze recipients are selected in each category and receive a one-time innovation grant to fund their college education or support a community service effort addressing a social issue. Additionally, one national awardee is selected in each category.

Once selected, recipients are celebrated in virtual ceremonies and become part of the LOFT (Leaders On Fast Track) Network, a collective of 300,000+ students and young professionals with access to mentors, resources, networking opportunities, workshops, symposia, summits, internships, and full-time positions with Fortune 500 companies.

The Westland Insurance Corporate Giving Program supports local communities across Canada through its Amplifying Communities initiative, which dedicates $1 million to projects focused on environmentalism, mental health, diversity, and food insecurity. Since 1980, Westland has been committed to community impact, welcoming submissions from registered charities that address community needs and demonstrate planned outcomes. To learn more about their funding opportunities, visit their website.

The Michael Madeline Island Fund Grant aims to enhance the quality of life on Madeline Island by supporting nonprofit organizations that focus on educational opportunities, environmental preservation, human services, and cultural heritage. It encourages collaborative funding efforts and prioritizes projects benefiting children and youth. Eligible organizations include those classified as charitable under IRS guidelines and those serving Madeline Island residents. Key examples of funded projects include educational programs and health access initiatives.