Best Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits

South Carolina Department of Commerce

From site selection to infrastructure improvement, we are here to help grow new and existing businesses.

SC Commerce promotes economic opportunity for individuals and businesses through initiatives like workforce training. As a national leader in foreign direct investment, the state extends its global reach with offices in Europe and Asia that help existing companies in developing export markets.

South Carolina Community Development Block Grant

The South Carolina Community Development Block Grant (“State CDBG Program”) is designed to aid units of general local government in improving economic opportunities and meeting community revitalization needs, particularly for persons of low- and moderate-income. The State CDBG Program has been funded through the State since 1982 by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended (Title I). 

CDBG Program Goals and Outcomes

The SC Department of Commerce seeks to improve the well-being of all South Carolinians in a manner that supports and enhances a high quality of life. The State CDBG Program supports the agency’s efforts to strengthen communities through revitalization and improvement of neighborhoods, public infrastructure, and the local economy. 

The three overarching goals of the HUD CDBG program are to provide decent housing, economic opportunities and a suitable living environment. Within the context of these goals, each project funded by the State must also meet one of three outcomes identified by HUD: affordability, accessibility, or sustainability. 

Local Match/Leveraging

CDBG projects are expected to leverage other public and private investments and serve as a catalyst for future development.

There must be a 10% match of the total CDBG request, unless otherwise approved, which can come from a variety of committed sources including other grants, loans, waiver of fees, public or private investments, and documented volunteer or in-kind contributions. Matching funds must be immediately available for the project at the time of application. 

Community Development Block Grant Categories

There are three broad grant program categories: Community Development, Business Development, and Regional Planning. The Community Development Program is further broken down into several subcategories to address infrastructure, community facilities, and local priorities.

Community Development Programs

Description

This program is designed to produce outcomes that improve citizens’ quality of life and create a competitive environment for jobs and investment by addressing priority community development needs. Activities should contribute to healthy, safe and sustainable neighborhoods and communities. These grants are designed to improve the quality of life for distressed and LMI communities. Community Development projects will compete within the following subcategories that have the same general submission requirements, except that the Ready to Go Program will not be funded in a competitive funding round.

Community Development Program Categories: Community Infrastructure; Community Enrichment; Local Priorities Program; and Ready to Go Program

Local Priorities Program

Outcome and Priorities

This program is designed to address unique local and regional needs and priorities for addressing those needs through community development, including projects that reflect priorities established in conjunction with the S.C. Department of Commerce Business Incentives & Community Development Division. Projects may reflect community development needs that are not typically funded through the other State CDBG programs and generally should not be funded by other HUD partner programs, such as HOME and NHTF (affordable housing), ESG (homelessness) or HOPWA (special needs). These funds will be used for alternative grant activities and partnerships that meet the community development needs of eligible municipalities. Local Priority projects could include historic preservation, innovation, energy conservation, parks, and trails/greenways. New or expanded public service activities are also eligible. Projects should leverage other funding or include local funding; impact identified needs and demonstrate strong community support while meeting a National Objective and all other requirements. 

The Whittenberger Foundation supports innovative projects in Southwest Idaho that enhance the lives of children and young people. Focused on areas such as education, health, and arts, the Foundation aims to create measurable impacts through its funding. It prioritizes organizations that demonstrate potential for long-term sustainability and effective use of resources. Grants are typically awarded to nonprofits that align with these values, ensuring a legacy of community support and development.

The Harry Chapin Foundation grants support 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. focused on self-sufficiency. They prioritize grassroots programs in the arts, community education, and environmental sectors, with a budget cap of $750,000. Grants are typically awarded for one year, with renewals requiring a new proposal each year. Organizations using fiscal agents or applying for individuals are not eligible. The foundation is dedicated to improving lives through sustainable initiatives.

The Anne Brossman Sweigart Charitable Foundation Grant focuses on supporting local nonprofits in the Greater Denver and Ephrata areas. With a commitment to empowering the community, this foundation honors a legacy of over 90 years by providing financial assistance to various sectors including food banks, education, arts, and historical preservation. By uplifting these organizations, the foundation aims to create a lasting positive impact for future generations.

The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation offers the Competitive Donor-Advised Funds - Diamond V Grant to enhance the quality of life in Linn County, Iowa. This grant supports nonprofit organizations and governmental entities focusing on health-related programs and capital needs. With an average award of $7,500 over a 12-month duration, eligible applicants must have 501(c)(3) status or secure a fiscal sponsor. Funding priorities vary based on donor advisors.

The Grotto Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing the well-being of individuals and families through community-led initiatives in Minnesota. Organizations can apply if they address at least three of four key areas: Youth Development, Postsecondary Success, Community Safety & Neighborhood Development, and Mentoring. The Foundation invites selected organizations to apply, with grant decisions made three times a year, fostering sustainable solutions for local challenges.

The Monterey Peninsula Foundation K-12 Grant supports local nonprofits and schools in Monterey, Santa Cruz, and San Benito Counties, focusing on arts, education, health, and community services. With a responsive grantmaking strategy, the foundation aims to address unmet community needs and foster resilience through various types of support, including operating, program, and capital funding. Organizations must demonstrate management capacity and a clear evaluation plan, ensuring long-term impact and community collaboration.

About

The New Mexico Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department was created in 1987 through a merger between the Natural Resources Department and the Energy and Minerals Department. The individual administrative pieces of the department have been around much longer than that, though.

The State Parks Commission was established in 1933, followed by the Oil Conservation Commission in 1935, and the Soil and Water Conservation Commission in 1937. The latter group was transferred in 1997 to the Department of Agriculture.

The Department of State Forestry was created in 1957. The Coal Surface Commission was formed in 1972.

Both the original Energy and Minerals Department and the Natural Resources Department came into being in 1977 and existed as separate agencies until the 1987 merger.

The New Mexico Youth Conservation Corps was established and administratively attached to EMNRD in 1992. The following year marked the creation of the Mining Commission.

The present-day Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department consists of seven divisions and employs approximately 415 people at 48 different work sites around the state.

Natural Heritage Conservation Act (NHCA) Program Grant

The State of New Mexico, Energy, Minerals and Natural Resources Department (EMNRD), Forestry Division (Forestry Division) is seeking applications from state agencies, public educational institutions, political subdivisions of the state, or, nation, tribe, or pueblo for conservation projects under the Natural Heritage Conservation Act (NHCA) Program. Applicants may partner with conservation entities that are a private nonprofit charitable corporation or trust.

The purpose of the Natural Heritage Conservation Act is to protect the state’s natural heritage, customs, and culture by funding conservation and agricultural easements and by funding land restoration to protect the land and water available for forests and watersheds, natural areas, wildlife and wildlife habitat, agricultural production on working farms and ranches, outdoor recreation and trails and land and habitat restoration and management.

The Fremont Area Community Foundation offers Education Grants aimed at enhancing educational opportunities for all learners in Newaygo County. These grants focus on addressing learning loss, supporting Pre-K through 12 projects, expanding college and career training, and providing STEAM and literacy programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, government units, and educational institutions that serve the community. Grants will not fund individual projects or religious programming.

Georgia Department of Community Health

The Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH) is one of Georgia’s four health agencies serving the state’s growing population of over 10 million people.

DCH serves as the lead agency for Medicaid and PeachCare for Kids®, and also oversees the State Health Benefit Plan, Healthcare Facility Regulation Division and State Office of Rural Health, impacting one in four Georgians.

Through effective planning, purchasing and oversight, DCH provides access to affordable, quality health care to millions of Georgians, including some of the state’s most vulnerable and underserved populations.

Initiative 3: Connecting to Care to Improve Healthcare Access Strategy: Point-of-Care Telepods 

Description and Purpose of Funding

A Care to Consumer Point-of-Care Telepod (POC Telepod) is a self-contained, soundproof healthcare station with live audio, video and technology to assess vital signs, health history and current health issues and evaluate physical and mental conditions.

Through real-time connectivity, licensed clinicians will provide non-emergent telehealth services for the purpose of prescribing medication or instructing other appropriate medical care.

These stations will serve as a new service line allowing patients to connect with licensed clinicians for primary care services without needing an appointment.

Funding is approved to support the acquisition and placement of POC Telepods in rural communities intended to provide increased access to primary healthcare services.

Specifically, the placement of POC Telepods should increase access to care in areas of the community with limited accessibility and reduce inappropriate utilization of emergency departments for non-urgent, non-emergent patients.

This funding opportunity is available to rural hospitals in Georgia serving the 126 rural/partial rural counties defined as the eligible rural area under the GREAT Health Program. Hospitals previously submitting a signed Letter of Intent for Achieving Healthcare Efficiency through Accountable Design (AHEAD) model pre-implementation to the Georgia Department of Community Health will receive priority in the application process.

The Environmental/Animal Welfare Grants support initiatives that enhance environmental education and animal welfare in New London County. With grants ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, the program prioritizes projects that promote environmental justice, engage youth, and protect significant habitats. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and governmental agencies serving local communities. The foundation encourages collaborative, evidence-based approaches that address systemic inequities and foster positive, long-term change.

The Bath Community Fund Grant, established in 2014, aims to enhance the beauty and legacy of Bath Township. This permanent endowment focuses on preserving the township’s historical and environmental heritage, enriching local arts and culture, supporting youth through education and recreation, and addressing social service needs for residents. By fostering collaboration and charitable giving, the grant strengthens the community for future generations.

The Johnson County Community Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance community welfare in Johnson County. It funds projects that address local challenges and promote health, education, and cultural opportunities. Eligible organizations must have a local presence and a commitment to inclusivity. Grants require a 20% matching contribution and can support various projects, excluding individual grants and religious activities. This funding aims to empower local organizations and improve the quality of life for all residents.

The California Active Transportation Program (ATP) supports projects enhancing biking and walking across the state, with $6,137,000 available in the latest call for projects. Initiated by Senate Bill 99 and 101, ATP aims to boost non-motorized transit, improve safety, and reduce greenhouse gases. The funding is administered by the California Transportation Commission and SANDAG, with minimum grants set at $250,000 for infrastructure projects. Notably, no matching funds are required, though points are awarded for evidence of them.

Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs

The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with Indiana communities to build relevant and economically thriving places where people want to live, work and grow.

Mission: The Indiana Office of Community and Rural Affairs works with local, state and national partners to provide resources and technical assistance to aid communities in shaping and achieving their vision for community and economic development.

CDBG Planning Grant - Utility Studies

The Planning Grant Program leverages Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to encourage communities to plan for long-term, holistic improvement. The Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) seeks applications from local units of government for programs funded through the State CDBG program. Eligible local units of government are counties, cities, or incorporated towns not located within an entitlement community. Unincorporated areas must apply through the county in which they are located. Eligible planning activities consist of all costs associated with data gathering, study, analysis, and preparation of plans and the identification of actions to implement such plans.

• Single Utility Study ($30,000)
  • A single utility study evaluates the condition, needs, alternatives, costs, and implementation steps for one utility system to determine the most viable, fundable solutions and guide immediate planning and investment decisions.
• Two Utility Study ($60,000) 
  • A Two Utility Study examines two water systems (typically drinking water plus wastewater or stormwater) together to identify conditions, needs, and service gaps and sustainability measures; and deliver prioritized, fundable action steps to operationalize and finance the recommended improvements.
• Master or Three Utility Study ($90,000)
  • A Master Utility Study provides an integrated assessment of all community-controlled water systems (drinking water, wastewater, stormwater), identifies needs and service gaps, evaluates coordinated alternatives with lifecycle and environmental analyses, and delivers prioritized designs, cost estimates, operating budgets, permitting and financing options, and a implementation plan.

The Prince George’s County Community Gardens Mini Grant, offered by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, aims to foster the establishment of community gardens that serve the local population. These gardens not only enhance community resources but also contribute to the Prince George’s County Climate Action Plan. By supporting sustainable practices, this initiative promotes environmental stewardship and community engagement, creating green spaces that benefit residents and the ecosystem alike.

California Natural Resources Agency

The California Natural Resources Agency oversees and supports more than 26 distinct departments, conservancies, and commissions. Our Agency Executive Team leads efforts to steward California’s natural environment and to advance Governor Newsom’s key priorities.

Over 25,000 Californians work within our Agency all across the state to meet our mission to protect, manage, and restore the state’s environment and its vast natural, cultural, and historical resources. We advance this work with science as our foundation and inclusion and collaboration as our guiding principles.

Urban Greening Grant Program

Funding Purpose

The Urban Greening Grant Program will fund projects that use nature-based solutions to mitigate the urban heat island effect, rising temperatures, and extreme heat impacts in urban areas.

Nature-based solutions include all the ways land can be managed to boost the health and resilience of natural systems, helping them store carbon and protect against climate change impacts, including extreme heat. Nature-based solutions that address extreme heat impacts use natural cooling strategies to limit temperature increase and urban heat islands. Examples include planting trees that provide strategic shade, expanding green spaces that serve as places of refuge during heat waves, and increasing tree canopy cover in cities, communities, and schoolyards.

Successful projects will green and cool communities and offer multiple benefits including sequestering carbon, limiting stormwater runoff, providing habitat and preserving biodiversity, protecting public health during extreme heat, increasing equity, and expanding economic and workforce opportunities. Funded projects are expected to advance the goals of the State’s Extreme Heat Action Plan and Nature-Based Solutions Climate Targets. 

About the Reparations Action Fund For Tomorrow

The Reparations Action Fund For Tomorrow’s (RAFFT) mission is to drive transformative restorative justice initiatives in Lancaster that address historical inequities in the African American/Black community. Through targeted financial investments, community education, and collaborative partnerships, RAFFT aims to uplift voices, restore dignity, and create pathways to economic and social well-being. 

Decisions regarding RAFFT funds are made by a disbursement team of African American/Black community members with lived experience. 

Grants of $500 – $10,000, totaling up to $50,000

Reparations Action Fund For Tomorrow (RAFFT)

Fund Establishment

In 2023, Community Mennonite Church of Lancaster (CMCL) established this fund to address inequities experienced by descendants of enslaved Africans. Understanding generations of racial injustice have resulted from (chattel slavery and Jim Crow segregation), other congregations of all faith traditions along with individuals are invited to contribute to the Reparations Action Fund for Tomorrow (RAFFT). Decisions regarding RAFFT funds are made by a disbursement team of African American/Black community members in Lancaster with lived experience.  

Mission Statement

Our mission is to drive transformational restorative justice initiatives in Lancaster, PA that address historical inequities and support the empowerment of African American/Black communities. Through targeted financial investments, community education, and collaborative partnerships, we aim to uplift voices, restore dignity, and create pathways to economic and social well-being. We are dedicated to fostering a community where the legacy of our ancestors inspires action, accountability, and lasting change.

Below are the 5 funding areas with examples of potential grant projects. 

• BUSINESS AND ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT: Small business startup or expansion, equipment, marketing, training. Personal credit recovery assessments. 
• CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY PRESERVATION: Projects that preserve Black history, culture, and language.
• EDUCATION: Tuition assistance (college/university, certification programs, vocational training), school supplies (technology, books). Must bring an acceptance letter and/or book requirement list for courses. School supplies estimate of funds as well a receipt after purchase.
• HEALTH AND WELLNESS: For services not covered by insurance such as – Physical Fitness/Nutritionist (up to one year membership fees), mental health services/therapy.
• HOUSING: Home ownership assistance (closing or inspection costs), property repair.

Our Review Process

All applications will be reviewed by the RAFFT Disbursement Team, which may include representatives from impacted communities, policy experts. Decisions will be based on:

• Alignment with reparations goals and categories
• Demonstrated need
• Completeness and clarity of application

Timeline for Review: Applicants will receive notification of funding decisions by September 28, 2026. Additional documentation or interviews may be requested as needed.

Department of Law & Public Safety

Under the direction of the Attorney General, the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Law & Public Safety are dedicated to making New Jersey safe for all its residents and visitors. Its diverse and complex responsibilities focus on protecting the lives and property of New Jersey citizens. In addition to providing statewide law enforcement and emergency response services, this Department and its approximately 7,700 employees are responsible for protecting citizens’ civil and consumer rights, promoting highway traffic safety, maintaining public confidence in the alcoholic beverage, gaming and racing industries and providing legal services and counsel to other state agencies.

Cops in Shops Summer Shore Initiative

PurposeFounded in 1991, and originally known as The Century Council, the Foundation for Advancing Alcohol Responsibility (Responsibility.org), is a national non-profit organization dedicated to combating underage drinking, the Cops in Shops program offers a unique approach to preventing the illegal purchase of alcohol by underage persons through a "partnership" of retail licensed establishments and the law enforcement community. The program also targets adults who purchase alcoholic beverages for underage individuals.

Specifically, undercover police officers work cooperatively with retail licensed establishments by posing as employees or patrons in the licensed premises to stop anyone under the age of 21 who attempts to purchase alcohol or use fictitious identification. The Cops in Shops program advertises and educates youth, adults and parents about the legal repercussions of underage drinking through the use of posters (advertised at point of sale). 

The Natural History Research Experiences (NHRE) is a prestigious 10-week summer internship program at the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. It offers undergraduates the chance to engage in independent research across various disciplines including Earth Science and Anthropology. Participants receive a stipend of $8250, travel support, and free housing, while benefiting from mentorship by leading scientists. This program aims to cultivate future leaders in natural history research.

The Augusta Bar Foundation Grant Program, managed by the Community Foundation for the Central Savannah River Area, aims to enhance the lives of at-risk youth through funding and support for creative community initiatives. With over 25 years of community engagement, the foundation prioritizes proposals that address pressing needs, demonstrate measurable results, and align with funding areas such as education, mentoring, health, self-sufficiency, and family issues, fostering a sustainable impact beyond the grant period.

The Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation aims to foster human development in West Virginia and Southwestern Pennsylvania by strategically distributing charitable resources. Guided by principles of collaboration and innovation, the Foundation supports community development and health initiatives. Their focus includes enhancing health care accessibility, promoting leadership, and addressing social determinants of health. They prioritize projects that engage diverse community members and encourage cross-sector collaboration to maximize impact and sustainability in these regions.

The HFBC Community Fund Grant supports local organizations in Bartholomew County, distributing over $700,000 annually to promote positive change and development. By focusing on strategic areas such as Youth Development, Downtown Vitality, and Arts & Culture, the Heritage Fund aims to address community needs effectively. Applicants are encouraged to demonstrate how their proposals align with these priorities. A letter of intent is required one week before the application deadline to express interest.

The B.A. & Esther Greenheck Foundation provides grants over $5,000 for meaningful projects in North Central Wisconsin that enhance arts, education, health, economic, and social development. Applications are accepted six times a year, with deadlines on the last Wednesday of January, March, May, July, September, and November. The foundation encourages innovative initiatives that engage diverse communities, improve well-being, and support productive citizenship, while promoting appreciation for the area’s natural resources.

The Equity Fund Grant, initiated by the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, aims to empower BIPOC-led organizations and individuals through financial support. This initiative focuses on racial and social justice, economic empowerment, educational equity, health equity, and leadership development. It prioritizes applications from Black, Indigenous, and communities of color, ensuring that underserved voices are included in decision-making processes. With an average grant amount of $10K, the fund endeavors to foster impactful community engagement and support.

The Amcor Community Support Grants Program, administered by the Amcor Cares Foundation, provides funding for projects that benefit local communities. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations and accredited educational institutions that serve Amcor Flexibles North America facility communities. Focus areas include fighting hunger, supporting disaster relief, expanding STEM education, and enhancing health and wellness. Applications are reviewed quarterly, and grant amounts typically exceed $1,000.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Host Partnerships

Fellowship host partners must be NCRC members. If your organization would like to participate in the Fellowship but is not a member, you can join here and then apply.

Host Requirements

• A compelling project to provide a challenging assignment for fellows with real world application.
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in office for both fellow and host supervisor.