Best Grants for BIPOC

The W. W. Smith Charitable Trust provides funding for basic medical research focusing on heart disease, cancer, and AIDS. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations located in the Greater Philadelphia area and Camden, NJ. Each grant typically ranges from $100,000 to $125,000 for a one-year term. The Trust aims to support unique and promising research projects that can lead to larger awards, ensuring a direct impact on health outcomes.

The Wish Book Grants program by the Pittsburgh Foundation supports nonprofits in specific Pennsylvania counties. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) certified, allow only one wish submission, and focus on general operating support. The grants, capped at $5,000, aim to enhance community services. In 2023, $670,000 was raised for 100 organizations. The program thrives on donor contributions and seeks to align with the Foundation's areas of interest, including arts, economic mobility, and social justice.

Improving Maternal and Infant Health by Addressing Community Barriers to Healthcare Access 

The Public Health Fund of Ohio (PHFO), in partnership with the HealthPath Foundation of Ohio (HealthPath), seeks to improve maternal and infant health by investing in sustainable approaches that strengthen access to prenatal, postpartum, and infant healthcare.

A total of up to $300,000 is available through this funding opportunity. PHFO and HealthPath anticipate awarding up to six grants of up to $50,000 each over the two-year grant period. 

The CAPTRUST National Partnership Grant aims to support local and national charities that serve children's needs. Each year, a Charity of Choice is selected, typically receiving a grant of over $100,000, while additional national grants are awarded to organizations aligned with the CCF mission. This initiative represents 40% of the CAPTRUST Community Foundation's annual giving budget, underscoring its commitment to impactful charitable partnerships.

The Prevent Cancer Foundation is dedicated to cancer prevention and early detection, funding vital research grants and fellowships across the U.S. Its mission is to empower individuals to combat cancer, aiming to reduce cancer deaths by 40% by 2035. The grants provide up to $100,000 over two years to innovative projects that enhance cancer prevention and early detection efforts, supporting a future where cancer is preventable and manageable for everyone.

Maternal Health Grant Program

Florida Blue Foundation is funding approximately $3 million for this grant program, offering four year grants. The total funding request for the grant period should fall within the range of $300,000 to $400,000, with an approximate annual allocation of $75,000 to $100,000.

Watersheds United Vermont 

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is a state-wide network of local groups dedicated to the health of their home watersheds.

WUV's mission is to empower community-based watershed groups in all parts of the state to protect and restore Vermont’s waters.

Watershed Groups are broadly defined as a community-based organization working with individuals and communities in their local watersheds to protect and improve water quality, habitat, and flood resilience and to build social and ecological connections with Vermont’s waters. Watershed organizations work with all watershed constituents and do not represent a specific constituency or interest group. 

Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG)

Overview

Watersheds United Vermont (WUV) is administering funding under the Enhancement Project Development Grant (EPDG) program, which will support the project development of priority water quality enhancement projects from July 2026 through June 2028. WUV seeks proposals for the development of new enhancement projects and for the development efforts needed between the design and implementation phases of enhancement projects.

The EPDG program is part of WUV’s larger Enhancement Development, Design and Implementation Block Grant (EDDIBG) through the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation’s (VT DEC) Clean Water Initiative Program (CWIP). WUV has separated out the Project Development portion of this grant as the work completed under project development is significantly different from the work completed under design and implementation.

No match is required under this program. Please note that this funding can be used as match/leverage for other funding sources.

The CFMC Competitive Grant Cycle invites 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for funding for the year 2026. Two application cycles are available, in Fall 2025 and Spring 2026, focusing on general operating support and impactful community programs. The foundation emphasizes grants that address community needs, enhance organizational capacity, and foster collaboration. Eligible organizations must address documented community concerns and align with the foundation's areas of need, including health, education, and social services.

Oregon Sea Grant

Established at Oregon State University in 1971 as one of the first four Sea Grant College Programs designated in the nation, Oregon Sea Grant is now one of 34 programs within the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's Sea Grant College Program. Congress established the national Sea Grant program in1966. Oregon Sea Grant is cooperative program between NOAA and Oregon State University. Our programs serve all of Oregon. Our core-funding is from NOAA Sea Grant and requires a 50% match of non-federal funding. Oregon State University is our primary non-federal fiscal partner, but we rely on many other collaborators and partners, including local governments, agencies, industry, and philanthropy to expand our capacity to address ongoing, unexpected, and emerging needs of Oregon's coastal communities and ecosystems.

We address regionally and nationally strategic issues through an integrated program of competitive, rigorously reviewed research, extension services and projects, and public education. We support dynamic, inventive, and flexible approaches to meet the needs of communities in changing natural and social environments.

Program Development Grants

Oregon Sea Grant offers modest grants for project opportunities or special circumstances when resources are available.

These funds generally are not intended to supplement an existing project, but to provide seed money for exploratory or high-risk efforts, or to respond to urgent needs or unforeseen opportunities that require a timely effort.

Purpose

In addition to competitive grants awarded on a two-year cycle, Oregon Sea Grant offers modest grants for project opportunities or special circumstances, when resources are available. These projects typically arise between the regular application periods and must align with the Oregon Sea Grant strategic plan. These funds generally are not intended to supplement an existingproject, but to provide seed money for exploratory or high-risk/impact efforts, or to respond to urgent needs or unforeseen opportunities that require a timely effort. Oregon Sea Grant also considers requests for event support (or total requests less than $2,500) through our Conference and Activity Support program (see the Oregon Sea Grant “Conference and Activity Support Policy” for details).

Funding

Development grants are modest in size (total awards typically do not exceed $10,000) and should be one year or less in duration. Larger requests are occasionally considered, and are subject to peer review and approval by the National Sea Grant Office. Given our limited funding, success of requests in excess of $10,000 (total award) will be lower. While cost share is not required for program development proposals, opportunities for leveraged funds are welcome. Please contact us to discuss possible cost share for your project.

Program Development Submission Eligibility for April – December 2026 ONLY: Anyone residing in Oregon who can receive a personal services contract from OSU and is / can be set up in the Federal SAM system is eligible to apply for Oregon Sea Grant (ORSG) Program Development funds up to $6,700 (direct costs) during the period April – December 2026, funds permitting. Awards over $6,700 (direct costs) will be made only through colleges and universities.

The Save the Redwoods League Research Grant supports innovative research aimed at protecting redwood forests amidst environmental changes. Proposals that contribute to conservation or restoration science for coast redwood and giant sequoia forests are encouraged, particularly those led by Indigenous communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and public agencies. The League prioritizes projects that demonstrate matching funds and has a strict policy against funding indirect costs.

The AllOne Charities Grant aims to enhance healthcare delivery in Northeastern and North Central Pennsylvania by funding innovative and collaborative projects. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000 and prioritize programs that address pressing health challenges, improve access to care, and support vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the under-insured. Organizations must demonstrate tax-exempt status and employ at least one staff member to be eligible for funding.

Nevada Department of Wildlife

The Nevada Department of Wildlife (NDOW) is the state agency responsible for the restoration and management of fish and wildlife resources, and the promotion of boating safety on Nevada’s waters. NDOW is organized into seven divisions (Conservation Education, Habitat, Game, Data and Technology Services, Law Enforcement, Biodiversity and Fisheries) that develop programs and projects, and three regions (eastern, southern and western) that implement these programs.

Habitat, Research & Management (HRM) Funding

As of the June 28, 2024 Board of Wildlife Commissioners meeting, pursuant to changes made to NRS 502.253(1)(b) during the 82nd session of the Nevada State Legislature, NDOW is authorized to expend funds from the $3 fee charged for processing game tag applications directed for the use of “improvement of wildlife habitat and research or management activities beneficial to nonpredatory game species”. Changes to this statute also included the removal of the 80% minimum spending requirement for the management and control of predatory wildlife (lethal removal). All awards shall be made in the form of grant awards through the Wildlife Heritage Committee following the same process as prescribed by NDOW’s Heritage Program Grant Manual.

Rules and regulations governing the Wildlife Heritage Account have evolved since its establishment; however, the original concept remains the same: to award grant money to projects “for the protection, propagation, restoration, transplantation, introduction, and management of any game fish, game mammal, game bird or fur-bearing mammal and the management and control of predatory wildlife in this state.” (NRS 501.3575)

Funding priority will be given to applicants who have obtained outside funding sources as partial support for the project. Additional priority will be given for projects of habitat restoration and improvement of a long term or permanent nature and projects that demonstrate in writing a need for money to fund the project. 

The Greenville Youth Advisory Council (GYAC) Grant Cycle, supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, empowers local youth through philanthropy, having established an endowment exceeding $1 million. This initiative encourages community engagement by funding projects addressing critical youth issues such as mental health, racism, and bullying. Nonprofits, schools, and municipalities in the greater Greenville area are invited to apply, fostering collaboration and addressing the community's pressing needs based on regular student surveys.

The CAL FIRE Forest Health Program aims to enhance the resilience of California's forests against wildfires, drought, and pests caused by climate change and land management practices. Funding supports large-scale projects focused on restoring forest health, protecting watersheds, and promoting carbon storage through reforestation. Grants range from $750,000 to $7 million, targeting projects that yield climate benefits and further state forest management goals.

The Advanced Industries Collaborative Infrastructure Grant, offered by the Colorado Office of Economic Development & International Trade, aims to bolster collaborative projects across key advanced industries in Colorado. With funding up to $500,000, the grant seeks to enhance industry infrastructure, promote partnerships, and support innovation. Eligible applicants must engage multiple partners, provide matching funds, and demonstrate sustainability beyond the grant, ensuring impactful contributions to the state's economic landscape.

The Water Quality Combined Funding Program in Washington aims to enhance and safeguard water quality through a competitive funding process. It supports various projects, including wastewater management and stormwater control, while offering technical assistance to applicants. The program combines multiple funding sources, ensuring comprehensive financial support tailored to project needs. Eligible entities include counties, cities, tribal governments, and nonprofit organizations. The initiative reflects a commitment to improving environmental sustainability across the state.

The Oregon Sea Grant Activity and Conference Support Grant offers funding opportunities to university-based researchers focused on ocean and coastal issues. This grant promotes collaboration among scientists and stakeholders, enhancing understanding and resilience within Oregon's coastal communities. Resources are available for conferences and activities that align with the strategic goals of Oregon Sea Grant. Applications can be submitted as needed, with a review period of 60 days for funding decisions.

The Producer-Led Watershed Protection Grants, provided by the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection, aim to enhance soil and water quality in Wisconsin. By funding innovative, producer-led conservation practices, the program encourages farmer participation and has significantly increased funding and project numbers since its inception. With 41 projects funded, this initiative represents a commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and effective nonpoint source pollution management.

The Cultural Facilities Grant supports organizations focused on cultural programming through funding for renovation, construction, or acquisition of cultural facilities. Eligible applicants must conduct arts and cultural programming at least 85% of the time, meet legal status requirements, and have matching funds documented. The program excludes funding for projects such as parking facilities and commercial endeavors. This grant aims to enhance the cultural landscape in Florida by ensuring facilities are accessible and adequately funded for community engagement.

The General Program Support Grant, offered by the Florida Department of State: Arts and Culture, aims to bolster arts and cultural organizations across Florida. This funding supports a variety of general program activities, including performances, educational programs, and cultural exhibits. With four distinct types of support available, this grant encourages excellence in arts education and facilitates collaboration among local arts agencies, ensuring that cultural initiatives thrive throughout the state.

The Specific Cultural Projects (SCP) Grant, funded by the Florida Department of State: Arts and Culture, aims to support cultural projects, programs, and exhibitions that align with the state's cultural objectives. This grant is available to both organizations and individual Florida artists to promote arts education, community development, and enhance cultural partnerships. Eligible entities include public entities and non-profit corporations. The application period runs from July 1 to June 30.

The Cinnabar Foundation provides Program/Project Grants aimed at enhancing conservation efforts in Montana and the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. These grants, ranging from $2,500 to $15,000, support organizations that engage in impactful, grassroots conservation work. Priority is given to projects that align with the Foundation's strategic vision, including climate adaptation, wildlife habitat conservation, public land preservation, and improving air and water quality. Successful applicants will demonstrate measurable outcomes and community engagement.

The Utah 21st Century Community Learning Center (CCLC) Grants provide essential support to Local Education Agencies and Community-Based Organizations, focusing on students in high-poverty schools. These grants aim to enhance academic enrichment and offer a variety of services, including tutoring, youth development activities, and family literacy programs. With over 30 grants serving more than 6,000 students, this initiative plays a crucial role in improving educational outcomes in Utah.

The Cigarette Litter Prevention Program (CLPP) Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to significantly reduce cigarette waste in public spaces across the U.S. since 2003. The program has successfully implemented strategies in over 1,800 communities, achieving an average 50% reduction in litter. Eligible applicants include KAB affiliates and local organizations focused on recycling and public education. Priority is given to partnerships and projects that expand the program's reach, especially those targeting clean water initiatives.

The Intermountain Community Care Foundation aims to enhance healthcare access and promote healthy behaviors among low-income and underrepresented populations in Utah and Southeast Idaho. It funds innovative projects that yield measurable results, focusing on significant and lasting changes in community health. Successful applicants must demonstrate a clear need, include a financial audit, and adhere to specific eligibility criteria. The foundation specifically excludes funding for political campaigns, operational deficits, and large equipment purchases.

The Kern Community Foundation Farmworkers Grant provides essential support to unemployed and employed farmworkers in Kern County. This grant aims to enhance their quality of life through various forms of assistance, including family support, education, healthcare, housing, food assistance, childcare, legal aid, emergency relief, job support, and transportation. By connecting generous donors with community needs, KCF fosters a healthier and more vibrant Kern County for all residents.

The TruStage Foundation focuses on fostering economic mobility through education and housing initiatives. By supporting K-12 literacy, mentoring, and affordable housing projects, the foundation aims to uplift marginalized communities. With a commitment to addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, TruStage seeks to empower individuals and families to build a brighter future. Their funding is directed towards impactful programs that align with their mission, while avoiding causes that do not meet their criteria for economic mobility.