Best Grants for International Development

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.

The Erie County Community Foundation's Access to Recreation Fund aims to enhance recreational access for individuals of all abilities in Erie County, Ohio. This fund supports projects that promote collaboration among local organizations, build capacity, and ensure sustainability, yielding significant community benefits. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) non-profits, churches, and schools. The Foundation prioritizes projects that serve the local community and may cover operational costs, but excludes funding for advertising, political activities, or individual grants.

Kansas Department of Commerce

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses.

Kansas Arts Commision (KAC)| Arts Everywhere

Enhancing student success, the economy and Kansas communities through the arts

The Arts Everywhere grant program provides funding for cultural projects, programs, exhibitions, series, arts education projects, and other arts programming. This program provides funding for educational institutions, arts organizations, and community service non-profits to use the arts to increase student success, foster creative thinking, develop critical job skills, enhance community development, and increase participation in the arts across Kansas. Projects must relate to an arts and culture discipline (music, dance, theatre, creative writing, literature, painting, sculpture, folk arts, photography, crafts, media arts, visual arts, programs of museums, and other such allied, major art forms).

Match Requirements: KAC requires that all grants are matched at a minimum of 1:1 through a combination of cash and in-kind expenses.

Arts Everywhere grants are awarded in four categories:

• Arts in Education;
• Organizational Development: a) Capacity Building; b) Salary Assistance
• Specific Arts and Culture Projects; and
• Visiting Artists

Organizational Development

Only organizations with arts and culture missions are eligible for Organizational Development. Organizational Development Grants are for: Capacity Building and Salary Assistance.

Salary Assistance

This funding is to be used for full or partial salary support for one or more positions. The positions must be critical to the mission of the organization, and the organization’s Total Operating Income for their most recent completed fiscal year must be $150,000 or less (see Organizational Development – Salary Assistance in the Specific Eligibility Requirements section). Organizations can only receive this grant for up to 3 consecutive years.

The Five Wings Arts Council offers the Community Arts Access Project Grants to support Minnesota non-profit organizations, schools, and governmental units in enhancing arts programming. Grants can fund new cultural activities or enrich existing ones, with a maximum award of $5,000. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and projects must occur within the five counties served by the Council. This initiative aims to boost local arts and provide educational opportunities, fostering community engagement through the arts.

The South-Central Section of the Geological Society of America provides competitive research grants for undergraduate students from institutions in Arkansas, Kansas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, Texas, and parts of Mexico. Eligible students must be members of the Geological Society of America and are expected to manage funds responsibly, submitting a report after their research. This initiative supports the development of future geoscientists by fostering research opportunities in the region.

The NCAC: Statewide Service Organizations Grant Program, established by the North Carolina Arts Council, aims to enhance arts services statewide. It provides funding (ranging from $5,000 to $30,000) to eligible nonprofit organizations for programs that support the arts community through newsletters, workshops, and more. This initiative promotes transparency and accessibility, ensuring diverse artistic resources are available across all 100 counties in North Carolina. First-time applicants are encouraged to consult with staff for eligibility guidance.

The MPS Materials Research Programs, funded by the National Science Foundation, aim to enhance the understanding of materials and their diverse applications. These programs cover areas such as biomaterials, ceramics, condensed matter physics, and electronic materials. With an emphasis on transformative research, NSF MPS encourages proposals that are innovative and foundational, without the necessity for immediate commercial outcomes, fostering long-term advancements in materials science.

The California State Nonprofit Security Grant Program (CSNSGP) provides essential funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of violent attacks and hate crimes. With a maximum of $250,000 available per location, nonprofits can submit up to two proposals to enhance their physical security. This initiative, funded by the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services, aims to strengthen safety measures and support vulnerable communities across the state.

The FHCCF Hancock Education Fund Grants support innovative projects that enhance 21st Century Student Outcomes in Hancock County schools. Projects must focus on skills like critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration. To be eligible, applicants must be employed in a local school district and provide a minimum 30% funding match. Preference is given to interdisciplinary projects with potential long-term impact and strong community involvement. Contact the program director for assistance before applying.

The Lake Region Arts Council's Project Grant supports artistic initiatives in West Central Minnesota, offering up to $3,000 for projects in various disciplines such as art, dance, literature, and music. Applicants are required to match 20% of the grant amount, fostering community involvement and artistic expression. This grant aims to enhance the vibrancy of the local arts scene and encourage creativity among residents.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Bennington Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Bennington, KS community.

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The ASPCA National Shelter Grants Initiative offers up to $2.5 million in grants to support U.S. shelters and their communities. Grants ranging from $10,000 to $95,000 aim to enhance animal outcomes, psychological health, and access to veterinary care. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations or municipal agencies with facilities for adoptable animals, while foster-based rescue organizations are excluded. This initiative is crucial in assisting shelters during challenging times.

The Smoky Valley Community Enhancement Fund offers unrestricted grants aimed at addressing the needs of the Smoky Valley area, including northern McPherson County and southern Saline County. Established through community contributions, the fund supports diverse charitable projects. Eligible applicants include non-profit organizations and individuals engaged in community service. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance the quality of life in the region, ensuring that funding aligns with its mission to foster community improvement.

The NAU Astronomy REU Program offers undergraduate students a paid opportunity to engage in research at Northern Arizona University during the summer months. Participants receive a $7000 stipend, potential travel reimbursement, and housing accommodations. The program includes seminars and hands-on experience with local telescopes, fostering skills in astronomy and planetary science. Applications are competitive and targeted at students who are U.S. citizens or permanent residents and currently enrolled in a degree program.

The Jack A. & Gertrude W. Wilson Animal Welfare Fund, established by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, supports local animal welfare programs in Mississippi. It provides grants to public charities that focus on the welfare of companion animals. Eligible organizations must be located in specific counties and can apply for funding for various programs, including spay and neuter initiatives and community education efforts. Grants are limited to 8% for administrative costs.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Delphos Community Fund

This is an unrestricted community grant fund that supports the Delphos, KS community..

What type of support is funded?

• Projects or programs that serve the community and/or advance the mission of the organization
• Seed money to establish or initiate a new project, program, or organization, including operating expenses
• Capacity building or activities that strengthen an organization to increase its ability to fulfill its mission, including technology & equipment, professional development & training, additional staff to implement a new program, etc.
• Capital improvements including new construction or renovation of a facility
• Endowment funds to provide permanent and long-term support for an organization or program

The GA Research Awards, established by the Geologists' Association since 1858, aim to promote geological study among all members with at least one year's standing, supporting research in earth sciences. Grants, typically up to £600, can fund fieldwork, museum visits, and laboratory consumables. Non-members may also apply for limited funding for fieldwork. The initiative fosters inclusivity and awareness of geological heritage, encouraging both seasoned researchers and newcomers to explore the natural world.

The Pilot Collaborative Support grant facilitates partnerships between two organizations, promoting collaboration in the arts across a 9-county region. Each organization can apply for up to $12,500, with a total funding of $25,000 available. This initiative aims to enhance cultural engagement and access to the arts, ensuring that projects benefit diverse communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 nonprofits and government entities, fostering innovative projects that enrich the regional arts landscape.

The Maine Education Association's Partnership for Caring program provides crucial support for local affiliates facing unexpected expenses. By matching contributions dollar-for-dollar, up to $1,500, MEA empowers educators and their families during challenging times. This initiative underscores MEA's commitment to enhancing the welfare of its members and ensuring equitable education for all students in Maine. The program aims to alleviate financial burdens, promoting a supportive environment for educators and their communities.

The WMU Department of Chemistry offers the Dr. Don Berndt Endowment for Chemistry, established in 2013 to support outstanding graduate students. This scholarship is awarded to full-time students serving as effective teaching assistants in general or organic chemistry courses, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. The endowment honors Professor Emeritus Don Berndt and aims to enhance the educational experience of students within the chemistry program.

The Akron Community Foundation offers Community Fund Grants focused on Arts & Culture, aimed at enriching the community's quality of life. These grants support diverse artistic and cultural initiatives that foster inclusiveness and systemic change in Summit County. Eligible applicants include approved 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to addressing community needs through effective and sustainable programs. However, grants do not cover endowments, scholarships, or direct financial support to individuals.

The TAC Major Cultural Institutions Grant provides crucial operational support to established arts organizations in Tennessee. Eligible organizations must demonstrate a strong history of programming, with at least three consecutive years of annual revenue exceeding $1 million. This competitive grant allows for funding requests up to $200,000, based on documented operating expenses. The grant aims to enhance the cultural landscape of Tennessee by supporting organizations that make a significant impact on their communities.

The TAC Partnership Support Grant provides crucial operating support for arts organizations chartered in Tennessee. Eligible applicants include independent arts groups and local arts agencies with a minimum budget of $75,000. Organizations can request up to $100,000, representing 20% of their total cash operating expenses. Applicants must adhere to specific eligibility criteria, including prior funding history and having a full-time administrator. This competitive grant fosters community engagement and promotes the arts across Tennessee.

The TAC Small Urban Partnership Support Grant provides competitive operating support to arts organizations in Tennessee's urban counties. Eligible organizations must have a minimum budget of $30,000 and can request up to 20% of their cash operating expenses. A one-to-one dollar match is required. Applicants must demonstrate a history of funding from the Tennessee Arts Commission and meet specific eligibility criteria related to IRS status and recognized art forms.

The NSF National Innovation Corps (I-Corps) Teams program aims to bridge the gap between scientific research and marketable technologies. By providing NSF-funded researchers with entrepreneurial education, mentoring, and funding, it accelerates the transformation of foundational discoveries into viable products and services. Participants engage in hands-on customer discovery and business model assessments, leading to improved product-market fit and strategic partnerships. This initiative fosters collaboration between academia and industry, enhancing the commercialization of deep technologies.

The Rowland Fellowship Program at Harvard University invites outstanding early-career experimentalists in all scientific and engineering fields to establish an independent research program in Cambridge. With a focus on high-risk, innovative research, the fellowship offers substantial start-up funding, dedicated lab space, and mentoring. It lasts up to five years, allowing flexibility in start dates. Ideal candidates will bridge traditional disciplines and contribute to a vibrant intellectual community.

The CFMT Animal Welfare Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, aims to enhance animal welfare across the region. With a focus on spay/neuter services, retention programs for low-income pet owners, and educational initiatives on humane treatment, the program supports 501(c)(3) organizations dedicated to animal care. Grants up to $15,000 are available to foster community efforts that ensure the safety and health of animals, making a lasting impact on the lives of pets and their owners.