Best Grants for Minorities

The Moses Kimball Fund Grant supports nonprofit organizations providing job opportunities for minorities and disadvantaged individuals in Greater Boston, or facilitating connections between educational institutions and community members in need. Applications are accepted annually from June 1st to March 1st. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. This grant aims to empower underserved populations and promote educational outreach.

Agency-specific Content for the Notice of Funding Opportunity Future Energy Jobs Act: Multi-Cultural Jobs Program

A. Program Description

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (the "Department" or "DCEO") is issuing this Notice of Funding Opportunity ("NOFO" to support the Future Energy Jobs Act Multi-Cultural Jobs Program ("Program") authorized under 220 ILCS 5/16-108.12(a)(3). Through this NOFO, DCEO is making $1.5 million available for eligible applicants to provide skill development, supportive, and training services for qualified, traditionally underserved participants seeking employment in the clean energy industry. Please note that DCEO is posting this second FEJA Multi-Cultural Jobs Program NOFO to identify grantees under Categories C, E and F of the Program as outlined on page 6 of this NOFO

Program Description

The Future Energy Jobs Act (FEJA) and Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) were created to stimulate job growth in the clean energy economy with investments in energy efficiency, renewable energy, and clean energy workforce development. The Multi-Cultural Jobs Program provides an opportunity to take action toward providing innovative, employer-driven training approaches that pair education and occupational training with work-based learning and supportive services to individuals in need of self-sustaining employment. It is the goal and objective of the Multi-Cultural Jobs Training program to implement job training programs that:

• Assist in the development of a workforce with the requisite knowledge, skills, training, experience, and competence to work in the clean energy sector.
• Ensure participation of targeted populations and communities
• Identify partnership opportunities within training programs to maximize the societal

About

Established in 1968, the VCA is the state agency dedicated to investing in the arts of Virginia. Through allocations made possible by the National Endowment for the Arts and the General Assembly, the VCA utilizes investments to empower arts leaders, arts educators, and arts practitioners. In doing so, we create a virtuous cycle of those who not just participate in and appreciate the arts, as stated in our enabling legislation, but those who serve as change agents and advance the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Lifelong Learning Grants

To facilitate and support arts learning for students, educators, youth, and adult citizens, reaching those who are underserved, under-resourced, and under-represented, by providing opportunities to work with highly qualified professional teaching artists in traditional and non-traditional learning environments.

Description

Lifelong Learning Grants fund sequential hands-on learning programs and experiences designed to encourage artistic skills, processes, and creativity. Artistic and/or cultural discipline(s) may include, but are not limited to dance, literary arts, media arts, music, theatre, traditional and folk arts, and visual arts. Arts learning programs include specific objectives, outcomes and methods of evaluation that are well defined and relevant to the learners involved.

The Judith Heavenrich Memorial Scholarship, established in memory of Judith Heavenrich, aims to support single, low-income mothers in Saginaw County as they pursue higher education or vocational training. Judith, a lifelong advocate for education and environmental issues, faced numerous challenges in her life but remained dedicated to her community. This scholarship reflects her spirit and commitment to empowering women to achieve their educational goals, with awards typically ranging from $500 to $4,000.

The O’Brien County Community Foundation Grant supports charitable purposes through grants to nonprofit organizations and local government units serving O’Brien County, Iowa. This fund aims to address community needs in areas such as arts, education, health, and human services. By fostering permanent charitable giving, the foundation enhances the quality of life for current and future generations, ensuring that diverse community programs receive necessary funding to thrive.

The Sioux County Community Foundation Grant aims to address emerging needs in Sioux County through charitable support for nonprofit organizations and local government units. Grants focus on areas such as arts, education, health, and human services, promoting community betterment and sustainability. Priority is given to projects with county-wide benefits and collaborative efforts, while generally excluding general operating expenses and multi-year grants. This initiative enhances the quality of life for Sioux County residents by connecting caring donors with impactful causes.

The Wakefield Community Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life for Wakefield residents by funding charitable projects in areas such as arts, education, health, and human services. Nonprofit organizations and local governments are eligible, provided they serve Wakefield and are 501(c)(3) tax-exempt. Priority is given to initiatives with long-term impact and those addressing emerging community needs, while avoiding funding for religious, political, or individual purposes.

Cardinals Charities

Founded in 1990, Cardinals Charities supports programs designed to improve the quality of life and enhance opportunities for children, women, and minorities in the state of Arizona.

Cardinals Charities' grants are awarded on an annual basis in response to applications from various qualified non-profit organizations whose goals and programs align with the mission statement.

Since its inception, Cardinals Charities has distributed more than 9.1 million dollars to hundreds of worthy charitable organizations on behalf of the Arizona Cardinals and the National Football League.

Mission Statement​

The Arizona Cardinals Charities Fund supports programs designed to improve the quality of life and enhance opportunities for children, women, and minorities in the state of Arizona.

Grants are awarded on an annual basis in response to applications from non-profit 501(c)(3) qualified organizations whose goals and programs meet our mission statement. We make every effort to direct our contributions where they can have the greatest impact while addressing the most critical needs. Funding is limited to the success of Cardinals Charities' own fund-raising efforts during the year.

The Women and Girls of Color Fund: Rural Cycle aims to empower women and girls of color in Colorado by addressing systemic disparities they face in health, wealth, and access to resources. By focusing on organizations led by women of color, the fund prioritizes initiatives that build economic power and promote community organizing. This fund not only seeks to increase financial support but also strives to dismantle oppressive structures, ensuring that marginalized communities receive the necessary resources to thrive.

The Women & Girls of Color Fund focuses on empowering women and girls of color in Colorado through targeted investments in their leadership and economic security. With only 0.5% of foundation funding allocated to this demographic, the fund aims to dismantle systemic barriers and uplift community-led initiatives. Prioritizing organizations led by women of color, it supports diverse programs that enhance economic opportunities while addressing intersecting oppressions, thereby fostering a brighter future for all.

The Resiliency Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, honors nonprofit organizations that enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities facing challenges such as natural disasters and public health crises. This annual award, part of the 40th Piñon Awards, seeks nominations from community members and aims to recognize organizations with a strong track record in northern New Mexico. Eligible nonprofits must have operated for at least three years and align with the Foundation's funding priorities.

The Indian Housing Block Grant Competitive Program (IHBG-COMP) for FY 2026 offers competitive grants to eligible recipients under NAHASDA. This program aims to support affordable housing initiatives benefiting low-income Tribal families, enhancing their living conditions and community well-being. Funded by the US HUD's Office of Public and Indian Housing, the IHBG-COMP encourages the development of sustainable housing solutions within Native American communities.

The Hispanic Scholarship Endowment Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to empower minority students from southern New Mexico by providing scholarships for higher education. This initiative supports students attending New Mexico State University or Dona Ana Community College, promoting inclusivity across various backgrounds, including BIPOC and those with disabilities. The fund emphasizes educational access, catering to diverse paths from vocational training to advanced degrees, fostering a community equipped to thrive.

The Grant for Grassroots Exchange: U.S.-Japan Community Networking supports initiatives that foster connections between grassroots communities in the U.S. and Japan. With funding up to $10,000, projects should enhance mutual understanding through events like workshops and conferences. Eligibility is limited to U.S. organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and priority is given to collaborations with underrepresented groups. This grant aims to strengthen community ties and promote cultural exchange on a local level.

The Asian Giving Circle (AGC) Grant, established in 2002, supports Asian and Pacific Islander nonprofits in the Chicago area by pooling donor resources to advance social justice. With over $800,000 in contributions, AGC prioritizes proposals from API organizations for general operating costs, emphasizing support for underrepresented communities and innovative projects. Applications will be reviewed from mid-June to August 2025, with awards announced by September.

About the FoundationThe Council of Michigan Foundations leads, strengthens and supports Michigan's community of philanthropy by emboldening and equipping CMF members in the relentless pursuit of equitable systems and inclusive diversity, fortifying the field through public policy action, fostering the growth of current and future philanthropy leaders and advancing exemplary philanthropic practices and field expertise. VisionA thriving philanthropic sector leading in the relentless pursuit of equitable systems and inclusive diversity. MissionWe lead, strengthen and support Michigan’s community of philanthropy. 

The GrantAs community foundations leverage new and innovative partnerships and approaches to build more equitable communities for all, CMF’s Community Foundation Committee has revised the endowment funding model to ensure we are effectively supporting community foundations in growing their capacity and leadership. The committee has reserved a pool of funding within the Community Foundation Endowment Fund to inspire and support new ideas and innovative practices in community philanthropy. 

In addition to the existing support offered to CMF community foundation members, funding is available on a first-come, first-serve basis for the following priority areas: 

• Advancing Racial Equity: Community foundations may apply for funding to support their needs in addressing racial equity issues. 
• Capacity Building: Community foundations may apply for funding for training or education to increase their capacity. 
• Technical Assistance: Beyond the support already provided for software transitions, training and team-up grants, community foundations can apply for support or other assistance needed to work remotely and adapt amid COVID-19. 

The Many Voices Fellowship supports early career Black and Indigenous playwrights in Minnesota, offering a $25,000 salary and $3,000 for play development. This two-year program focuses on enhancing artistic vision through collaboration with experienced theater professionals. Since its inception in 1994, it has awarded over 140 fellowships to diverse voices in theater, providing crucial financial support and mentorship to cultivate new works and enrich the American theater landscape.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

About Us

Utah became the first state in the nation to consolidate employment and public assistance programs by creating Utah Department of Workforce Services in 1997. Today, more than 2,200 Workforce Services employees assist individuals in preparing for and finding jobs, meeting workforce needs of Utah businesses, administering temporary assistance, and providing economic data and analysis.

Through a collaborative approach, the department has served millions of Utahns and has become a leader on several statewide initiatives. These include intergenerational poverty, homelessness, affordable housing, supporting refugees, helping rural communities, serving veterans and individuals with disabilities, and getting Utahns trained and back to work.

Emergency Food (EFN/QEFAF) Grants

The Emergency Food Network (EFN) is a grant program for non-profit 501(c)(3) agencies and local government programs including emergency food pantries, food banks, prepared meal sites, and others whose primary mission is to meet the emergency food needs of low-income Utahns. EFN funds are distributed statewide through the State of Utah, Department of Workforce Services, Housing and Community Development Division, State Community Services Office (SCSO) to eligible entities. EFN funds may be used by eligible entities for costs of providing emergency food services including operations, transportation, supplies (excluding food or other commodities directly distributed to clients), equipment capacity building, technical assistance and staffing.

The Qualified Emergency Food Agency Fund (QEFAF) is also a state-funded competitive grant available to qualified emergency food agencies in Utah. The application to be a qualified emergency food agency is included within the grant application.

Eligible activities under the QEFAF grant include activities related to:

• Warehousing food and food ingredients.
• Distributing food and food ingredients to other agencies and organizations providing food and food ingredients to low-income persons.
• Providing food and food ingredients directly to low-income persons.

Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program

The Clarinet Scholarship & Education Program seeks to honor Renna Clarinet Thornton’s philosophy and enthusiasm for education.

After graduating from Coppin State College with her degree in special education in 1972, Renna started her 40-year teaching journey with Baltimore City Public Schools as a science teacher and special educator.

Through the Clarinet Program, the Claude C. Thornton Foundation offers workforce development training, a $1,000 scholarship to collegiate students, as well as parent coaching 1:1s and workshops.

Mission

The Clarinet Scholarship provides awardees with unrestricted monetary and mentorship support to empower minority students through their academic journey, ultimately promoting exceptional achievement. The Clarinet Scholarship also serves to encourage awardees to continue utilizing inquiry-based strategies to gain the academics and skills needed to be victorious and productive within the community.

About DHR

What is DHR?

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is the State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) in Virginia. As the SHPO, DHR administers a number of federal programs. DHR is also a state agency in the Natural and Historic Resources Secretariat. DHR fosters, encourages, and supports the stewardship and use of Virginia’s significant architectural, archaeological, and historic resources as valuable assets for the economic, educational, social, and cultural benefit of citizens and communities. Our programs include both the Virginia Landmarks Register and the National Register of Historic Places, Survey, Grants, Archaeology, Cemetery Preservation, African American and Tribal Outreach, the Historical Highway Marker program, 106 Review and Compliance, Conservation, Collections, Easements, and the Historic Rehabilitation Tax Credit Program.

Virginia’s Black, Indigenous, And People of Color Historic Preservation Grant Program

Chapters 185 and 186 of the Acts of Assembly of the 2022 Session of the Virginia General Assembly established in Code the Virginia Black, Indigenous, and People of Color Historic Preservation Fund (BIPOC). The purpose of the legislation is to create a grant program to protect and support Virginia’s historically underserved and underrepresented communities and the cultural and historical sites associated with them. This fund will provide grants for the acquisition, protection, and rehabilitation of historic and archaeological sites of significance associated with Virginia’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color.

The Virginia Department of Historic Resources is implementing a new online grant management system called WebGrants for all its grant programs. WebGrants will enable DHR to more efficiently publish grant opportunities, administer projects, and process claims. You will need to register in WebGrants to apply for this grant opportunity. To do so, click this link.

The AFM: Tau Grants provide unrestricted operating support to nonprofits serving marginalized groups, including BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and individuals with disabilities. These grants aim to strengthen organizations by funding strategic planning, technology upgrades, and essential infrastructure costs. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, such as not having received funding in previous cycles and ensuring diverse leadership. This initiative reflects Allegany Franciscan Ministries' commitment to fostering equitable and caring communities.

The Environmental Humanities Program Grants by Florida Humanities Council aim to fund projects that explore the interplay between humans and the environment. These grants support innovative, collaborative initiatives that celebrate Florida's diverse landscapes and foster community engagement. Eligible applicants can request up to $10,000 for programs that demonstrate public impact and address local environmental issues. Priority is given to projects serving underserved communities and those located in economically distressed areas.

The PCCF: Youth United Grant aims to enhance equitable access to sports and recreational activities for youth, particularly focusing on increasing Latinx and BIPOC participation. This initiative, organized by the Park City Community Foundation, addresses systemic barriers such as financial constraints and cultural inclusion. Grants range from $1,000 to $25,000 to support various projects that foster community engagement and belonging among children in Summit County.

LSC’s Basic Field Grants aim to enhance access to civil legal services for low-income individuals across the U.S. and territories. These grants support eligible organizations for up to three years through a competitive application process. The funding is allocated to specific service areas, which change annually, and focuses on providing comprehensive legal assistance. The program includes three types of service areas, ensuring diverse populations, including agricultural and Native American communities, receive necessary legal support.

The Chicago Foundation for Women's Rapid Response Fund is dedicated to supporting grassroots organizations that advocate for women, girls, and gender-expansive individuals, particularly in light of increasing societal challenges. With a focus on economic security, freedom from violence, access to healthcare, and reproductive justice, this fund aims to provide essential resources during times of crisis. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 will assist community-led initiatives, ensuring that voices of marginalized groups are prioritized and their needs addressed.

The North Sound Health Equity Scholarship, funded by the Chuckanut Health Foundation, aims to enhance diverse representation in healthcare by supporting students from Whatcom, Skagit, Island, and San Juan Counties. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also empowers those who have faced systemic barriers, fostering a community committed to health equity. Join us in investing in the future of healthcare and ensuring that everyone has access to excellent care.