Best Grants for International Development

The San Antonio Area Foundation's Annual Responsive Grants - Cycle 2 focuses on Livable and Resilient Communities and Successful Aging. By providing multi-year grants, the foundation aims to enhance access to affordable housing, transportation, wellness resources, and support for older adults and their caregivers in the San Antonio area. This initiative emphasizes trust-based philanthropy and community partnership, ensuring that organizations can effectively address the needs of underserved populations.

The Safe in the 305 Grant program by Miami-Dade County aims to empower community stakeholders in enhancing neighborhood safety through resident-led initiatives. This initiative supports projects focused on prevention, intervention, and reentry to combat gun violence and promote community well-being. Grants range from $500 to $1,500, targeting activities that revitalize neighborhoods and support vulnerable populations, fostering collaboration among residents, organizations, and local government for a safer community.

The Impact 100 Chicago Grant provides $100,000 annually to local nonprofits addressing critical social issues in Chicago. This initiative supports high-impact projects and programs, encouraging organizations to apply by selecting a primary focus area such as culture, education, family, health, or sustainability. The grant cycle runs from September to May, with eligibility requiring 501(c)(3) status, operational presence in Chicago, and compliance with financial reporting. Unrestricted funds can be utilized for various organizational needs.

The Ella C. Rownd Trust, managed by the Cedar Falls Community Foundation, provides funding for capital projects benefiting Cedar Falls residents. With $13,000 available this year, nonprofit organizations and schools in Cedar Falls, IA, are encouraged to apply annually for these grants. Established in 1976, the Cedar Falls Community Foundation is dedicated to enhancing community well-being through private philanthropy.

The Colorado Garden Foundation offers a Full Ride Scholarship for incoming freshmen from Colorado attending a publicly funded college or university. This four-year scholarship covers tuition, fees, room and board, and necessary books. Recipients also receive a laptop and printer. Eligible fields of study include Agriculture Business, Horticulture, and Botany, among others. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 2.50 and be Colorado residents. This program aims to support students pursuing careers in agriculture and horticulture.

The Organizational Resilience Capacity Building Grants by Act For Alexandria aim to bolster organizations that support the youth workforce in Alexandria. These grants, focused on enhancing organizational effectiveness, will fund initiatives such as leadership coaching, succession planning, and professional development. By empowering nonprofits, ACT seeks to create equitable pathways to success for young people, ensuring they have access to fulfilling careers and meaningful opportunities that contribute to their overall economic well-being.

What We Do

We believe that Central New York has the human and social capital to build a vibrant community. Generational poverty and social inequality present a significant hindrance to realizing our full potential. We know from extensive research that there are strategies and investments that can make a difference. That’s why we have a local, place based approach to addressing systemic and structural inequity. We are authentic, strategic and collaborative, and we are embracing a future of prosperity and equity in our community. That’s why we focus our energy and resources on these key areas:

• Economic Development & Opportunity
  • In Cayuga and Onondaga Counties, the Allyn Family Foundation works to create, grow, and attract businesses that are community-owned, or that create good jobs for nearby residents.
  • We support residents in accessing economic opportunities and provide tools for personal and family financial stability.
• Vibrant Neigborhoods
  • The Allyn Family Foundation is committed to empowering neighborhood residents and community partners to transform their neighborhoods into safe, healthy, and vibrant places where families thrive.
  • We engage in this work to ensure that each person has access to decent, stable and affordable housing, as well as community-based cultural experiences that build community.
• Early Childhood Development
  • In Cayuga and Onondaga Counties, the Allyn Family Foundation is providing leadership and support for diverse community coalitions who are focused on designing community-wide approaches to improving early childhood systems and supports for vulnerable families.
• Women's Health
  • Along with many community partners, the Allyn Family Foundation is building a local movement to encourage and support young women and their partners to have complete information about all contraceptives and be able to choose the method that is right for them, without any cost or access barriers.
  • We are strongly committed to reproductive justice, woman-centered care, and changing social norms to empower young women.

Opportunity Fund

Organizations in Onondaga and Cayuga Counties that meet our stated mission of building a vibrant, equitable and prosperous community may submit a brief one-to-two-page summary of a proposed project or funding request.

The Community Solutions Grant Program, administered by the F. R. Bigelow Foundation, offers financial support to enhance the quality of life for East Metro residents through various initiatives in Arts & Culture, Economic Development, Health, Human Services, and Education. Grants range from $50,000 to $250,000, available for one to two years. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, enabling organizations to respond to immediate community needs.

The Park City Sunrise Rotary Grants support initiatives that align with Rotary's mission of service and community development. Grants are awarded based on need, impact, and community involvement, encouraging local organizations to address significant issues. With a commitment to sustainable projects, the club reviews applications annually to ensure effective allocation of funds, fostering partnerships that enhance community welfare and promote lasting change.

The .ORG Impact Awards, organized by the Public Interest Registry, honor individuals and organizations connected to .ORG domains for their impactful contributions in areas such as health, education, diversity, and environmental stewardship. Participants can receive up to $50,000 for their chosen non-profit and gain visibility through various promotional platforms. This initiative not only recognizes excellence but also fosters community support and encourages innovative solutions to pressing societal issues.

The Ibis Charities Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) charities in Palm Beach County. Eligible organizations must maintain good standing with the IRS and the Florida Secretary of State. The foundation funds projects in various areas including education, health and wellness, arts, and the environment, focusing on initiatives that yield measurable outcomes. General funding may be considered if it aligns with the charity's core mission. Notably, grants are not available for individual support or charities outside the designated region.

The Fred & Jean Allegretti Foundation Grant offers financial assistance to charitable organizations focused on improving the quality of life for children, adults, the elderly, and animals. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) entities that comply with reporting laws and operate in Colorado, Florida, or New Mexico. The foundation seeks proposals that reflect its humanitarian mission, prioritizing dignity and support through education, medical treatment, and the arts.

The Impact100 South Jersey Grants: Core Mission Grant empowers women to collectively fund high-impact projects in Camden, Burlington, Gloucester, and Cumberland counties. By uniting over 100 women who contribute $1,000 each, the initiative aims to grant a minimum of $100,000 annually to vetted local organizations. Focus areas include women, children, families, education, and community health, supporting transformative projects that enhance community well-being and organizational capacity.

The Fellowship in the Digital Humanities supports scholars, librarians, and data professionals whose work intersects with technology and the humanities. Focused on the Italian Renaissance, projects can utilize digital tools for research in various fields, including history and literature. This residential fellowship lasts 4-6 months, providing financial support and resources at Villa I Tatti in Florence. Applicants must meet specific academic and technical criteria, ensuring a rich scholarly experience in a collaborative environment.

The Faye L. and William L. Cowden Charitable Foundation, established in 1988, aims to support various charitable purposes, particularly for children. Following the founders' deaths, the foundation continues to provide grants to 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on health care, education, and the welfare of children and animals, as well as environmental preservation. With a commitment to impactful giving, it ensures that financial assistance is directed towards qualified organizations in Texas.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Growing Communities Priority Area

Two-Year Grants support nonprofit organizations in achieving strategic growth, program stability, and long-term planning by providing greater financial predictability and strengthening organizational capacity for deeper community impact. Funding prioritizes initiatives that promote equitable access in Lake County to affordable nutritious food, comprehensive health care including mental health services, safe and affordable housing, education and workforce opportunities, and immigration and legal support services. Preference is given to grassroots, community-based organizations that address barriers to accessing essential services and benefits, and to organizations serving unmet basic needs as the sole provider in their area.

The CANVAS Be The Good Fund Grant is an employee-driven initiative by Canvas, Inc. aimed at supporting impactful programs focused on women, children, veterans, and education. This grant reflects Canvas's commitment to enriching communities through generous contributions from team members. With biannual cycles in March and September, the fund promotes meaningful change, empowering employees to do good in various ways. It embodies the mission of creating positive impacts and fostering community engagement.

Overview

The Lake County Community Foundation asserts that the quality of life of Lake County can be improved through an earnest effort to bring organizations, government, businesses, corporations and civic leaders together to establish a common vision, adopt a shared set of measurable goals and pursue evidence-based activities that reinforce one another’s objectives as a means of addressing the most pressing needs of our community.

The Foundation envisions a county-wide health and human services delivery system that is robust and thriving with a network of providers capable of achieving the greatest impact on the urgent needs of the most vulnerable residents of the county.

The Foundation’s approach combines strategic community leadership with intentional organizational investment—ultimately leading to a more streamlined coordination of countywide efforts.

Early Childhood Education Priority Area Grants

The Lake County Early Childhood Education Fund provides grant support to organizations serving children from prenatal through age five in Lake County. Established in 2010, this restricted fund is dedicated to strengthening and expanding early childhood education opportunities across the county. There is no letter of inquiry requirement; eligible organizations are invited to apply directly. Funding priority is given to projects that introduce new and innovative approaches to early childhood education, reduce barriers to access for Lake County residents, and address otherwise unmet needs, particularly in areas where the applicant is the sole service provider.

The Gratis Foundation Grant supports organizations focused on education, health care, humanitarian services, and at-risk youth. Applications are accepted in specific periods: October 1 to January 31 for health and medical research; February 1 to May 31 for education; and June 1 to September 30 for military and animal welfare. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) exempt and located in designated areas. The foundation emphasizes achievement and leadership in its funding decisions.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting children in need across the nation. With over $61 million granted since 1982, SCC is refocusing its efforts to address the urgent challenges of homelessness and human trafficking in the Charlotte area. This shift aims to prioritize funding for organizations that assist orphaned and foster children, ensuring that critical needs such as food, shelter, and education are met for vulnerable populations.

Speedway Children's Charities (SCC) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the needs of children in New England. In 2024, SCC NH distributed $120,000 to various local non-profits focused on critical issues such as homelessness, medical care, and education. The organization prioritizes funding for initiatives supporting victims of sex trafficking and children in foster care, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive regardless of their circumstances.

The James E. Dutton Foundation provides financial support to organizations dedicated to wildlife, environmental preservation, and outdoor education. With a focus on positively impacting animal life and enhancing human experiences in nature, the foundation honors Jim Dutton's legacy by funding diverse projects. This includes aiding distressed animals, promoting conservation education, and encouraging stewardship of natural resources. The foundation primarily supports initiatives in Wisconsin and the Midwest, aiming for lasting benefits to both wildlife and communities.

Rockland Trust is committed to strengthening local communities through charitable donations to 501(c)(3) organizations and community groups. Their mission focuses on providing essential services, enhancing quality of life, and fostering relationships with customers. They prioritize funding programs that align with their philanthropic goals, specifically in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Rhode Island. Capital projects are not eligible for support, ensuring funds are directed towards impactful community services.

The BMS Community Giving program supports IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations addressing unmet medical needs, promoting STEM education, and providing essential services. Eligible organizations must serve communities in the U.S. where BMS employees reside. Applications are accepted year-round, with a recommendation to submit at least eight weeks in advance. The program prioritizes health-related public missions and requests that fit within BMS's therapeutic interests, while excluding political, discriminatory, and sectarian organizations.

The South Berkshire County Fund's Better Together Grants focus on enhancing mental health and wellness by funding community projects that foster resilience and well-being. Open to nonprofits and community organizations, these grants emphasize impactful initiatives for underserved populations. Examples include counseling, educational programs, and arts activities, all aimed at creating positive social interactions. The program seeks to empower individuals through collaborative efforts while ensuring inclusivity for all community members.

The Perry & Ruby Stevens Charitable Foundation Grant supports qualified non-profit organizations focusing on various charitable purposes, including assistance to disabled persons, treatment for abused women, and support for volunteer firefighting programs. To apply, organizations must submit a Letter of Inquiry and have a minimum of three years of operating history. The Foundation prioritizes grant requests from the Texas Hill Country and aims to address the needs of financially disadvantaged children and young adults.

The Ross Foundation Philanthropic Grant Program invites proposals from organizations that demonstrate tax-exempt status and focus on projects within Clark County, Arkansas. This program supports initiatives in education, arts, community beautification, historical preservation, mental health, and forestry conservation. Applicants must prepare a pre-proposal form year-round, leading to a full proposal if aligned with the Foundation's interests. Note that funding excludes political activities and grants to individuals.