Best Grants for BIPOC

The Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) provides low-cost financing for water projects that ensure compliance with drinking water standards. With year-round funding, eligible applicants such as public and nonprofit water systems can secure assistance for planning, design, and construction of water infrastructure. For FY 2024, $435 million is available, including $95 million in principal forgiveness. Applications open in December and close in March, requiring submission of a Project Information Form.

The State Water Implementation Fund for Texas (SWIFT) Program provides affordable financial assistance for projects outlined in the state water plan. Managed by the Texas Water Development Board, it offers low-interest loans and flexible repayment options to support water management strategies. Eligible projects include conservation, desalination, and infrastructure development. The program aims to optimize water supplies efficiently and effectively, particularly benefiting rural communities and agricultural water conservation efforts.

The National Child Traumatic Stress Initiative aims to enhance trauma-focused treatment and services for children and adolescents affected by traumatic events. By increasing access to these vital services, the initiative seeks to support families in overcoming the challenges posed by trauma. Eligible applicants include public and private nonprofit entities, ensuring a broad reach for effective intervention and support within communities.

Our Mission and Vision

The Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation exists to foster innovative sustainability initiatives that make a positive impact on our planet. We want to find solutions to the complex challenges facing our world today.

Our vision is to facilitate positive action toward sustainable and innovative solutions in agricultural and environmental sectors that reduce carbon footprints and minimize risk for our communities.

Grant Programs

Wright Foundation for Sustainability and Innovation administers projects directly funded by donors that help reduce carbon footprints through carbon positive practices and emission offsetting. The foundation holds open application periods for projects in the contiguous United States, Puerto Rico and Canada that focus on reducing environmental risk through regenerative agricultural practices, habitat restoration and using natural energy sources to make our communities more sustainable.

Reducing Carbon Footprints

The foundation supports projects that work to reduce carbon footprints through the following initiatives.

Habitat Reclamation

• Restoration of habitats creates spaces for native flora and fauna and microorganisms to survive. Natural landscapes are integral to functioning ecosystems and increasing biodiversity, not to mention creating habitats for pollinator species like bees and butterflies that we so desperately need for agricultural success.

Regenerative Agriculture

• Regenerative agricultural practices have a far-reaching impact on the industry and our lives. We aim to reduce carbon emissions by fostering projects that innovate row crop sustainability and dairy, beef, pork and poultry operations to create practices that are sustainable for years to come.

Renewable Energy

• We care about carbon positive practices that harness renewable resources like solar, wind and biomass for improved efficiencies and overall reduction in use. Organic matter often sourced from agricultural production, garbage and tree pruning can be converted to energy in various ways, recycling it back into the agricultural operation that created it or fueling our communities.

Soil

• Soil sequestering practices have wide-reaching benefits like restoring and building organic matter in the soil and increasing biodiversity. It boosts water infiltration and retention and reduces erosion. Through practices like no till, applying organic matter like manure and biochar, and planting cover crops, we improve soil health as well as take CO2 out of the atmosphere.

Tree Planting

• Planting trees is a simple act that makes a huge impact in our urban, suburban and rural communities. They provide shade, release oxygen and improve air quality, improve soil quality and biodiversity, all of which contributes to offsetting carbon emissions.  

• Water
• We want to find ways to protect and restore the integrity of our water resources. We aim to fund projects focused on practices that create efficiencies and reduce the agricultural production impact on water quality and benefit our communities by conserving one of our most important natural resources. 

John Harsch Regenerative Agriculture Grant

Funding for projects adopting best regenerative agricultural management practices that impact one or several of these areas:

• Improve water quality
• Reduce soil erosion
• Increase soil health index
• Reduce synthetic fertilizer use
• Increase effective manure use as a fertilizer
• Increase biodiversity
• Reduce methane and nitrous oxide emissions

The Loudoun Chamber Foundation Grant, established in 2014, supports 501(c)3 nonprofit organizations serving Loudoun County. Grants of $2,000 to $5,000 prioritize economic development, education, public safety, and community health. Organizations must demonstrate their commitment to community welfare and the Foundation's objectives. Priority is given to Chamber members. Eligible applicants must publicize the grants and are encouraged to align their missions with the Foundation's strategic goals for impactful community contributions.

The Richard King Mellon Foundation invites innovative proposals that align with their 2021-2030 Strategic Plan, aiming to invest over $1.2 billion to enhance opportunities in southwestern Pennsylvania. Their funding focuses on conservation, economic development, economic mobility, health and well-being, organizational effectiveness, and social-impact investments. The General Application offers flexibility without deadlines, allowing for a variety of support types, including project-specific and general operating funding, aimed at enriching community vitality and environmental stewardship.

The Georgia ReLeaf Grant Program, initiated by the Georgia Tree Council and Georgia Forestry Commission, aims to restore community forests affected by tornadoes in 2011. It funds tree planting and giveaway projects to enhance environmental health and promote tree equity in underserved areas. The program emphasizes canopy restoration, supports diverse community forests, and involves local governments in project planning and implementation. Funding is available for tree purchase and related costs, empowering communities to combat climate change and improve urban landscapes.

Farmers Drought Relief Fund

The Department is making grants available to farmers to address the need for agricultural water management plans and the installation of agricultural water sources, including:

• Dug wells
• Drilled wells
• Gravel-packed wells
• Water storage ponds

Overview

Background and Purpose

The Maine Farmer Drought Relief Fund (FDRF) was created by the Maine Legislature (7 M.R.S.A., Chapter 8-A, subchapter 4 § 220-A(3)) to assist farmers in the State to overcome the adverse effects of drought conditions by providing grants.

The Department will make up to $ 930,000 available for installation of agricultural water sources from nonlapsing funding. An additional $ 300,000 may be available from FY 27 funding after July 1, 2026 and may be used to fund additional projects at the discretion of the Department.

The Department reserves the right to determine the number of awards and modify, partially fund, or increase awards at the Department’s discretion.

About Us

Our Mission

We promote and inspire community generosity and giving by bringing together passionate people and resources in our collective efforts to make an enduring difference in the community we love.

Funding Opportunities

We fund projects benefiting Branch County or Colon, Michigan. In making grants, the Community Foundation attempts to understand the specific objectives of each grant request and the long-term benefits the community will receive from the initiative. 

Community Good Grants

These grants support projects and programs that benefit Branch County and Colon.

Currently, BCCF has the following priorities for funding identified:

• Enhancing Youth Mental Health Supports
• Accelerating Workforce Development
• Offering English Language Learning Supports
• Improving Childcare Access

One competitive grant cycle per year by application only.

The Drinking Water Infrastructure Grants program in Nevada aims to support small communities in financing essential drinking water projects. Established to bridge the financial gap, it encourages local efforts before seeking state assistance. Eligible projects include water treatment facilities, pipeline replacements, and water conservation improvements. Preference is given to systems serving under 6,000 people and projects addressing compliance issues to ensure safe drinking water standards are met.

The Kadel & Gerhardt Internships, funded by the Point Foundation, aim to enhance the representation of LGBTQ+ individuals in HIV/AIDS research and advocacy. These internships support academically talented students pursuing unpaid opportunities in the summer of 2025, addressing the critical need for culturally competent care within the community. By investing in future leaders, the program seeks to combat the stigma surrounding HIV and increase access to essential services for those affected.

The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation offers Healthy Habits for Life Grants to support schools in promoting healthy lifestyle choices for K-12 students. With a maximum grant of $2,000 per school, programs may include initiatives that reduce cardiovascular risk, increase physical activity, and reinforce positive mental health. Schools are encouraged to collaborate on unique projects, such as gardens, health fairs, and fitness activities, aiming to instill lifelong healthy habits in students.

The John Muir Community Health Fund (CHF) Grant focuses on enhancing health care access for underserved populations in Central and East Contra Costa County. As part of John Muir Health's commitment to improving community well-being, the CHF provides financial support to nonprofit organizations addressing critical health needs. By fostering innovative health initiatives and filling service gaps, the grant aims to create lasting health improvements and ensure equitable care for vulnerable groups.

The purpose of the Program is to increase access to affordable and reliable electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and reduce transportation greenhouse gas emissions throughout Maryland, and especially in overburdened communities.

The Cletus Vetter Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Cletus Vetter, a dedicated farmer and conservationist. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a resident of Defiance County pursuing education in conservation, natural resources, or agriculture. It aims to inspire the next generation to appreciate and engage in vital resource conservation efforts, ensuring that Cletus's passion for nurturing the land continues through future advocates of sustainability.

Thomas R. Nickoloff Family Foundation 

Promoting Excellence in Educational Outcomes

The Nickoloff Family Foundation was founded in 2017 with the singular mission of “Promoting Excellence in Educational Outcomes,” primarily focused on New Mexico.

It is our core belief that a quality education provides a gateway to personal fulfillment, achievement, self-respect and rewarding work, for the betterment of the individual, families and society as a whole. Building stronger individuals, families and community is central to our mission of funding and “Promoting Excellence in Educational Outcomes.”

Grants

Grant support is provided by the Thomas R. Nickoloff Family Foundation (the “Foundation”) at the sole discretion and determination of the Foundation Trustee to non-profit, tax-exempt organizations as defined under section 501(c)(3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code. 

Categories of Support

The following categories may serve as a guideline to applicants in determining whether their programs are consistent with the Foundation’s core mission of “Promoting Excellence in Educational Outcomes”.

1) Proven and Effective Educational Programming/Initiatives

• School Based Programs
• After School Programs

2) Academic and Foundation Research Focused on:

• Policy, Programming and Initiatives to Improve Educational Outcomes
• School Safety Initiatives

3) Arts Education Outreach Programs

Organizations may apply once yearly for grant support. Multi-year grants may also be considered but would be structured as one-year grants renewable annually at the sole discretion of the Foundation. Any and all grant funds, if any, awarded by the Foundation to an Organization shall be used solely for the explicit purposes noted in a grant application as use of funds.

The JRCT: Peace and Security Grant Programme, from the Joseph Rowntree Charitable Trust, focuses on funding initiatives that address the root causes of conflict and injustice. The Trust emphasizes values of equality, human rights, and environmental sustainability, advocating for non-violent approaches and participatory governance. Its funding priorities include challenging militarism, promoting transparency in counter-terrorism, and supporting innovative solutions to the dual impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic and systemic racism, primarily aimed at creating lasting societal change.

The AWWA Jacobs Holly A. Cornell Scholarship, established in 1990, supports graduate students pursuing water supply and treatment studies. Sponsored by Jacobs/CH2M, this $10,000 scholarship is aimed at first-generation college graduates or those who have faced economic disadvantages and significant educational barriers. AWWA, the largest organization of water supply professionals, emphasizes the importance of investing in the future of the water industry through such scholarships.

The AWWA Scholarship Program, specifically the Woodard & Curran Scholarship, offers a $5,000 merit-based award annually to undergraduate or graduate students focused on water-related fields. This initiative aims to support historically marginalized communities, including women and BIPOC students, promoting equity in the water industry. With clean water being essential for community health, this scholarship reflects AWWA's commitment to nurturing the next generation of water professionals.

Agricultural Enterprise Fund

The Agricultural Enterprise Fund (AEF) is an incentive program that supports Governor Lee’s priority of job creation and economic development by facilitating agricultural development in Tennessee. It is administered by the Department of Agriculture in conjunction with the Department of Economic and Community Development.

The AEF awards grants to starting or expanding agricultural, food, and forestry businesses; nonprofits, local governments, and other entities in Tennessee, or those whose project will be located in Tennessee. The program focuses on value-added and processing projects that benefit other producers or forest landowners.

Successful grant recipients must demonstrate a strong potential for impact on local farm income, access to markets, increased capacity or agricultural innovation.

Project Categories

Projects funded by the Agricultural Enterprise Fund must match the description of at least one of the following four categories. Many projects will potentially match the description of more than one category and applicants should indicate so on their application.

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Economic Mobility Grants: Entrepreneurship aim to support low-income families and communities by enhancing access to entrepreneurship opportunities. Established in 1945, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations that serve communities disproportionately affected by poverty. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $150,000, with a focus on interventions that promote financial security and economic growth through business ownership and career advancement.

The Science Policy Fellowship, offered by the American Chemical Society, provides a unique opportunity for trained scientists to engage in public policy. This program enhances understanding of the policy-making process, allowing Fellows to work alongside experienced Government Affairs staff. The Fellowship focuses on key areas such as federal research funding, education in STEM, and environmental policies. Candidates with a strong background in chemical sciences or engineering are encouraged to apply, regardless of holding a doctorate.

The AdvoCare Foundation, established in 1993, aims to promote health and wellness for children through its grant program. Focused on year-round initiatives, the foundation supports local communities where AdvoCare distributors operate. Grants typically last one year with an average funding of $25,000, although multi-year support may be available. The foundation prioritizes programs that foster positive health changes and encourages collaborative efforts with previous grantees.

The A.C. Ratshesky Foundation Grant for Workforce Development aims to empower economically disadvantaged individuals and families by providing essential educational and vocational services. Prioritizing programs that enhance skills and foster self-sufficiency, the foundation supports initiatives like job placement, training, and employer partnerships. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, focusing on organizations that can effectively utilize these funds to promote long-term employment and economic security in Metro Boston communities.

The Soil & Water Conservation Program by the Lower Platte North NRD offers significant cost-share assistance to landowners for implementing conservation practices. Eligible activities include establishing grasslands, constructing terrace systems, and managing irrigation. Funding can cover up to 90% of costs in priority watersheds, ensuring support for sustainable farming and environmental stewardship. This initiative is open to all landowners within the district, promoting eco-friendly practices across various agricultural landscapes.

Common Waters: Strengthening Community-based Coastal and Riverine Stewardship

Opportunity Overview

Projects supported by this RFP must be community-based stewardship initiatives (including but not limited to stewardship driven by Indigenous and descendant communities); they should be led by an individual with a strong connection to and/or an existing track record of work in the community(ies) where the project will take place, or by a member of the community themselves, and be designed in response to community needs. Projects can focus on a wide range of specific issues, including (but not limited to) local conservation and ecosystem restoration, climate change adaptation and resilience, or sustainable fishing/agriculture. The RFP will prioritize projects in National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions destinations, including the Arctic, Asia, Baja California, Costa Rica and Panama, Europe and the Mediterranean, Patagonia, the Peruvian Amazon, the Pacific Northwest, Southeast Alaska and British Columbia, the South Pacific, and the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more detailed information on targeted areas within these regions, please refer to the targeted areas document.