Best Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits

The Southwest Badger Natural Resource Conservation Grant supports initiatives in southern Wisconsin that aim to protect and restore natural resources. Targeting counties like Crawford and Grant, this grant encourages 501(c)(3) organizations and municipalities to apply for funding up to $3,500. The grant is managed by community volunteers from The Community Foundation of Southern Wisconsin, ensuring projects align with conservation goals for future generations.

The Field-of-Interest Grant Program, established by the Community Foundation of Mendocino County, supports local nonprofits in creating healthy and inclusive communities. Grants ranging from $1,000 to $7,000 target projects that address basic needs, health navigation, and opportunities for women and girls. This initiative fosters equitable access to resources, ensuring all residents can thrive. Organizations are encouraged to apply at least five days ahead of deadlines, with specific eligibility criteria in place.

The C. Scott and Dorothy E. Watkins Charitable Foundation supports educational, research, and charitable organizations in Utah. Focused on promoting self-reliance, the foundation provides financial assistance for local programs in education, healthcare, and community support. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt and serve the Utah area. The foundation does not fund endowments, capital campaigns, or political lobbying, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful local initiatives.

The C. Scott & Dorothy E. Watkins Charitable Foundation Grant supports new organizations in Utah focusing on education, health care, and community services. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt non-profits serving local areas. The foundation prioritizes programs promoting self-reliance through scholarships and humanitarian aid. Applications are accepted annually until August 15, with notifications by November 30. Notably, it does not fund endowments or multi-year pledges, ensuring targeted support for immediate community needs.

Land and Water Conservation Fund

Project sponsors such as cities, towns, counties, school and recreation districts are eligible to apply for federally funded LWCF grants. The LWCF is a matching grant program based upon a fifty percent (50%) reimbursement of the total cost of the project. Only costs for the development and/or acquisition of public outdoor recreation lands and facilities are eligible for assistance.

A successful grant applicant must agree to dedicate the park or area where the project is located for use by the public for perpetuity. In addition, the grantee must also agree to develop, operate and maintain the development to acceptable National Park Service (NPS) standards for public outdoor recreation. 

All applications must meet a State Comprehensive Outdoor Recreation Plan (SCORP) identified need and will then be numerically ranked by the Open Project Selection Process (OPSP). Grants for matching funds are subject to approval by the NPS. All costs must be incurred after the project has received approval from the NPS.

All applications will be prioritized by the Wyoming State Parks and Cultural Resource Commissioners and then sent to the NPS for their review and approval. It is anticipated the NPS will provide final approval by October 1st of each year. More information is contained in the Wyoming LWCF Handbook.

The Community Livability Grant (CLG) Program, funded by Prosper Portland, supports community-based organizations in creating healthy and resilient neighborhoods. Grants, ranging from $10,000 to $300,000, aim to benefit historically underserved communities. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and neighborhood associations in specified districts. Projects should improve access to jobs, support small businesses, and enhance cultural diversity. Applications require a concept plan and must adhere to strict timelines for project initiation and completion.

The purpose of the Program is to increase access to affordable and reliable electric vehicle (EV) charging networks and reduce transportation greenhouse gas emissions throughout Maryland, and especially in overburdened communities.

The Oklahoma Arts and the Military Grants aim to empower organizations to serve military-connected individuals through arts programs. Grants of up to $5,000 support learning-based and audience-based initiatives that engage active-duty service members, veterans, and their families. This initiative, part of the Oklahoma Arts and the Military Initiative, fosters greater accessibility to the arts for the military community, enhancing their well-being and connection through creative expression.

The Lasher-Bottorff Award, established by the American Association of Avian Pathologists, recognizes outstanding contributions to poultry health. It honors Dr. Hiram N. Lasher and Dr. C. A. Bottorff, pivotal figures in avian medicine. The award, valued at $1,000, is presented annually to a veterinarian who has made significant advancements in avian diagnostics or technical services over the past decade, promoting the health and productivity of poultry in North America.

The CDBG: Water/Wastewater Grant provides essential funding for communities to enhance their drinking water and wastewater systems. This grant, in collaboration with the Missouri Department of Natural Resources and USDA-Rural Development, invites applications year-round following a preliminary proposal review. The maximum funding available is $750,000, or $5,000 per household, targeting construction projects related to public water treatment and sewer systems, while excluding maintenance activities.

The Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants (FL) program offers essential financial and technical support to rural fire departments serving communities with populations of 10,000 or less. This initiative aims to enhance firefighting capabilities and safety through funding that must be matched by non-federal dollars. Eligible departments can use the funds for training and necessary equipment, with a focus on benefiting the rural population. Grants are available for one year following approval, facilitating ongoing support for rural fire protection.

The Farrell Family Foundation (FFF) aims to enhance society by supporting education, health, human welfare, and the arts. Their approach emphasizes responsible giving, preferring matching funds to promote donor engagement and measurable outcomes. FFF focuses on underprivileged children in education, improving self-sufficiency in health, and fostering community access to the arts. Grants are awarded to tax-exempt organizations that demonstrate effective management and accountability, primarily in San Diego County.

 The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (the Department or TDHCA) announces an annual Notice of Funding Availability for Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) funds for street outreach, emergency shelter, homeless prevention, rapid re-housing, Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), and Administration.

The Water Recycling Funding Program (WRFP) by the California State Water Board supports projects that enhance water supply through the recycling of treated municipal wastewater. The program emphasizes the construction of facilities for treatment, storage, and distribution, with grants covering up to 35% of estimated construction costs. A local cost share of at least 50% is required, which may be reduced for disadvantaged communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with priority scores determined annually.

The Andrew Jergens Foundation Grant, administered by the Greater Cincinnati Foundation, focuses on enhancing the health, education, cultural experiences, and social welfare of children in the Greater Cincinnati area. With a commitment to supporting programs for children through high school, the foundation seeks to foster vibrant communities by connecting with nonprofits dedicated to improving quality of life. The foundation emphasizes the importance of generous contributions to create lasting change in the region.

The Drinking Water Infrastructure Grants program in Nevada aims to support small communities in financing essential drinking water projects. Established to bridge the financial gap, it encourages local efforts before seeking state assistance. Eligible projects include water treatment facilities, pipeline replacements, and water conservation improvements. Preference is given to systems serving under 6,000 people and projects addressing compliance issues to ensure safe drinking water standards are met.

NC DEQ 319 Grant Program

Through Section 319(h) of the Clean Water Act, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides states with funding to reduce nonpoint source pollution. North Carolina typically receives around $1 million for competitive funding of watershed restoration projects. Funds may be used to conduct watershed restoration projects such as stormwater and agricultural best management practices and restoration of impaired streams. Section 319 grant projects must be used to help restore waterbodies currently impaired by nonpoint source pollution in areas with approved watershed restoration plans. (map) (list)

State and local governments, interstate and intrastate agencies, public and private nonprofit organizations, and educational institutions are all eligible to apply for 319 funding. An interagency workgroup reviews the proposals and selects those of merit to be funded. 

The Michigan Rural Development Fund Grants, offered by the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, aim to enhance the sustainability of land-based industries and improve infrastructure in rural communities. Eligible projects include those in food, agriculture, forestry, mining, oil, gas production, and tourism. These grants support the expansion of industries, worker training, and essential services such as energy and water infrastructure, ultimately benefiting rural areas and Micropolitan statistical regions.

The Ohio Forest Legacy Program aims to protect vital forests from conversion to non-forest uses through conservation easements. This partnership between the State and USDA Forest Service encourages landowners to participate voluntarily in preserving working forests, which are essential for biodiversity, water quality, and economic productivity. The program also promotes the management of forests for timber harvesting while maintaining ecological benefits, ensuring sustainable land use practices for future generations.

The Tulpehocken and Quittapahilla Creek Watershed Grant Program, supported by the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission, aims to enhance fisheries and aquatic habitats in these watersheds. Funding is available for projects that improve water quality, aquatic habitats, and recreational opportunities. Conservation partners are encouraged to apply for grants to support studies and initiatives that address these critical environmental concerns, promoting sustainable management of aquatic resources.

The Jed Burtt Undergraduate Mentoring Grants, offered by the Wilson Ornithological Society, support mentors of undergraduate students engaged in ornithological research. Grants of $1,000 are awarded annually to two projects demonstrating exceptional mentoring and collaboration. Each mentor-student team can receive an additional $2,000 to attend a WOS annual meeting, where students present their findings. This initiative honors Edward H. Burtt, Jr., a notable mentor and past president of WOS.

The SEH Grants in Herpetology will be available in 2025, offering two grants of up to EUR 5,000 each. These grants aim to support conservation projects for amphibians and reptiles in Europe and the Mediterranean. The SEH Conservation Committee evaluates applications based on conservation value, project feasibility, budget, and scientific justification. Young researchers are particularly encouraged to apply, enhancing the future of herpetological conservation efforts.

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

Community Infrastructure Grants

Outcome and Priorities

A Community Infrastructure application must contribute to creation of healthy and sustainable residential communities through water, sewer, roads, drainage or other activities that address one or more of the priorities listed in order of importance:

Significant improvements to existing infrastructure to address health concerns, meet required quality standards, ensure community sustainability or improve resiliency.

Projects that result in a more viable regional infrastructure solution or that provide new access to services near business centers where it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

Upgrades to infrastructure to address quality standards where there are only general health concerns or provide new services that are not near business centers when it is cost effective to address a documented health threat

Missouri Department of Natural Resources

Missouri’s air, land and water resources play an important role in our health and are essential to the environmental and economic vitality of our state. The department aspires to help Missouri citizens thrive by advancing environmental and economic sustainability. The department provides a range of services to help Missouri citizens, communities and businesses in these efforts. The department also provides opportunities to learn more about Missouri’s natural and cultural history at our state parks and historic sites.

Our Mission: We serve as stewards of our natural resources to benefit Missourians.

Water Safety and Security Act Project Grant

The Missouri Water Safety and Security Act, found in Missouri Revised Statutes section 640.144, RSMo, requires certain community public water systems to develop valve and fire hydrant inspection programs. The Act also requires systems to develop an accurate map identifying shut-off valve and hydrant locations using a geographic information system (GIS) or an alternative physical mapping system and create a hydrant inspection program.

Section 1452(g) and (k) of the federal Safe Drinking Water Act authorizes the Missouri Department of Natural Resources to distribute part of the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund (DWSRF) to public water systems to improve system capacity, promote asset management and maintain compliance with federal and state drinking water laws. Through this grant program, the department provides financial assistance to eligible community public water systems to develop accurate maps that satisfy the requirements of the Missouri Water Safety and Security Act.

Eligible Projects and Costs

Eligible projects are limited to contractual agreements to develop valve and hydrant inspection programs and accurate valve and hydrant maps that include all shut-off valve and hydrant locations throughout the applying water system’s distribution system and to satisfy the requirements of Section 640.144, RSMo.

A finalized valve and hydrant inspection program plan and/ or a map accurately depicting the locations of all system shut-off valves and hydrants must be provided to the department for a project to be considered complete. Reimbursement for pre-approved project-related costs is only issued following completion of awarded projects and submission of a finalized map to the department.

Award Amounts and Match

Funding is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis after the priority application period. Matching funds are not required, but may contribute to project selection and ranking according to the priority point criteria described in section 4 of the grant application form.

The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is inviting proposals for its Wildlife Research Grant program, offering over $1,000,000 to support critical wildlife conservation research. Eligible applicants include universities and non-profit organizations, with a required 25% matching funds. Proposals must address specific research priorities, including Javelina Ecology and Wild Turkey Recruitment. Projects should align with federal aid guidelines, focusing on restoring and managing native wildlife and habitats. Unsolicited proposals outside the specified topics will not be considered.

The Outreach and Restoration Grant Program, a collaboration of Chesapeake Bay Trust and various Maryland counties and cities, aims to fund projects that enhance community engagement and environmental stewardship. With funding tracks ranging from $50,000 to $125,000, it supports outreach, behavior change, and restoration initiatives to improve local green spaces and waterways. This program encourages residents to participate actively in restoring their natural resources, fostering a sense of community and responsibility.

The Arthritis National Research Foundation supports early career researchers in their quest to advance understanding and treatment of arthritis and related autoimmune diseases. Annually, the foundation grants 10 to 20 awards of $125,000 each for two years. Focus areas include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and more. Eligible investigators must hold an M.D. or Ph.D., be affiliated with a U.S. nonprofit research institution, and commit significant research time. Applications from prior grant recipients or those with certain NIH grants are ineligible.