Best Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits

About

The McLean Foundation is led by the passion and commitment of its volunteer directors, officers and a small staff team.

The McLean Foundation supports charitable organizations in Canada that help make life more fulfilling, communities more vibrant and our environment more durable.

Impact Areas

People: enhancing social and economic wellbeing

Places: building vibrant and creative local communites

Planet: contributing to more durable and resilient environments

We are committed to supporting work that is not as easily funded by others, but that can make a positive difference. We look for projects that show promise of increasing the wellbeing of people, communities, and our environment but may initially lack broad public appeal.

What We Fund

How We Work

We look for projects and partners who understand challenges and opportunities facing their communities, sectors and/or fields and are known for promising approaches to making life more fulfilling, communities more vibrant and/or our environment more durable. We are flexible and responsive to our partners' priorities, and we defer to each organization to share where funding can make the biggest difference in their work.  

We look for charitable organizations that address needs and gaps in the communities they work in, demonstrate strong community buy-in, and centre the experiences and priorities of communities most impacted by injustice in their work. These are generally smaller, local organizations. 

Funding Streams

Partnership Grants support organizations with a strong track record of taking risks, meeting needs and implementing promising approaches in their communities, fields and/or sectors through multi-year operating grants. These grants provide core funding to an organization so they can be adaptable and stable as they continue to innovate and do critical work in their communities.  

We anticipate making 6-8 Partnership Grants a year.

This is a two-step process, starting with an Expression of Interest(EOI).  

Organizations that submit an EOI before March 30th, 2026, may be invited to submit full proposals for consideration at the Foundation’s spring board meeting.  

EOIs received between April- July 31st, 2026 may be invited to submit full proposals for consideration at the Foundation’s fall board meeting.  

The Partnership Grant Stream will close for 2026 on July 31st.

About

Founded in 1971, the Mensa Foundation was established by members of American Mensa to extend the organization’s impact. While connected by a shared purpose, the Foundation operates independently, guided by its own Board of Trustees, strategic plan, and initiatives.

Grants & Fellowships

Dissertation Mini-Grant

The Mensa Foundation empowers the next generation of researchers through its Dissertation Mini-Grant program.

Designed to support advanced doctoral students, this grant funds innovative studies that broaden our understanding of intelligence, creativity, gifted education, and related fields.

Details

The Mensa Foundation Dissertation Mini-Grant provides $2,500 to advanced doctoral students conducting research on intelligence and gifted education. By funding innovative studies, the grant promotes research that addresses the complexities of intelligence, creativity, and related fields.

Grant Components

The Heistand Family Foundation Grant aims to empower children in poverty through impactful programs and partnerships. The foundation prioritizes projects that enhance human health, community well-being, and education, focusing on practical applications. Nonprofit organizations and governmental entities are encouraged to apply, particularly those located in the Omaha/Council Bluffs area or western Iowa. This grant supports initiatives that foster job skills and improve the quality of life for disadvantaged children.

Competitive AmeriCorps Grants

Summary Statement

This is a funding opportunity for Institutions of higher education; local governments, school districts; nonprofit organizations; State Service Commissions; States and US Territories; Indian Tribes; and public health departments to apply for AmeriCorps members to strengthen communities through service.

Purpose of AmeriCorps State and National Funding

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps brings people together to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges through national service and volunteerism. AmeriCorps members serve with organizations dedicated to the improvement of communities and those serving.

AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to strengthen communities. An AmeriCorps member is a person who does community service through AmeriCorps.

Members may receive a living allowance and other benefits. After successful completion of their service, members earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award they can use to pay for higher education expenses or apply to qualified student loans.

The West Central Initiative Grant supports sustainability, equity, and civic engagement projects in a resilient region. Grants range from $3,000 to $25,000, with most awards between $3,000 and $10,000. The funding prioritizes community-led initiatives focusing on sustainable development, support for historically marginalized populations, and nonpartisan civic engagement efforts. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and units of government serving West Central Initiative's nine-county geography.

The Rosenstiel Scholarship, part of the New Mexico Press Women Scholarship Fund, aims to support graduate students in journalism, communications, or law. Established in 2023, it encourages recipients to engage in investigative journalism and uphold First Amendment rights. Eligible candidates must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit relevant publications, letters of recommendation, and transcripts. This scholarship not only fosters academic excellence but also promotes ethical standards among future media professionals.

The LCCF Mini Grants program, offered by the La Crosse Community Foundation, provides funding between $1,000 and $15,000 to nonprofit organizations in La Crosse County. With a total allocation of $100,000 for the year, the program seeks to support result-oriented projects that address community needs. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities or have a fiscal sponsor and serve the local community, promoting engagement and social capital.

The AmeriCorps Mississippi - FY2025 Formula AmeriCorps Grants provide funding opportunities aimed at various entities including educational institutions, local governments, and non-profit organizations. These grants enable applicants to engage AmeriCorps members to enhance community service efforts. New applicants who do not currently manage AmeriCorps State & National Funding may qualify for a Planning Grant, with exceptions requiring a formal request. This initiative supports community strengthening through dedicated service.

The Allegany County Area Foundation (ACAF) Dollars for Scholars® Scholarship supports local students in achieving academic success through scholarships. Established in 2004, this program has awarded over $4 million to more than 1,000 students since its inception. It offers a single application for multiple scholarships, ensuring financial aid is not diminished by other funding sources. ACAF aims to provide educational opportunities for all students in Allegany County, including those pursuing various degrees and vocational programs.

The Adelaide Breed Bayrd Foundation provides grants primarily to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that serve Malden and surrounding communities. Established in 1927, the foundation focuses on areas such as culture, education, healthcare, and poverty relief. Grant applications are accepted annually, with a deadline on the second Tuesday in February. The foundation emphasizes support for local initiatives that enhance community welfare and development, excluding certain categories like endowment funds and research grants.

The Stark County Dairy Promoters Scholarship Fund, established by the Stark Community Foundation, provides financial assistance to students from Stark County, Ohio. Eligible applicants must be pursuing college-level studies in dairy science, large animal veterinary medicine, human nutrition, or food science, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.5. This scholarship aims to support the next generation of leaders in these essential fields, fostering educational growth and community development.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Engineer Research and Development Center (ERDC) is issuing this announcement for various research and development topic areas. The ERDC consists of the Coastal and Hydraulics Laboratory (CHL), the Geotechnical and Structures Laboratory (GSL), the Environmental Laboratory (EL) and the Information Technology Laboratory (ITL) in Vicksburg, Mississippi, the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory (CRREL) in Hanover, New Hampshire, the Construction Engineering Research Laboratory (CERL) in Champaign, Illinois, and the Geospatial Research Laboratory (GRL) in Alexandria, Virginia.

The ERDC is responsible for conducting research in the broad fields of hydraulics, dredging, coastal engineering, instrumentation, oceanography, remote sensing, geotechnical engineering, earthquake engineering, soil effects, vehicle mobility, self-contained munitions, military engineering, geophysics, pavements, protective structures, aquatic plants, water quality, dredged material, treatment of hazardous waste, wetlands, physical/mechanical/ chemical properties of snow and other frozen precipitation, infrastructure and environmental issues for installations, computer science, telecommunications management, energy, facilities maintenance, materials and structures, engineering processes, environmental processes, land and heritage conservation, and ecological processes.

The Marion Maccarrell Scott Scholarship, established by Gertrude F. Straub in memory of her father, supports students from Hawai'i public high schools planning to attend college on the mainland. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need, possess good character, and maintain a minimum GPA of 2.8. This scholarship encourages studies in fields related to history, government, and international relations, promoting an understanding of world cooperation and peace.

The Walter H. Hightower Fund, established by the El Paso Community Foundation, supports medical care for children with disabilities in West Texas and Southern New Mexico. Since 1977, the Foundation has distributed over $249 million in grants to address community needs. The Fund prioritizes innovative projects that demonstrate collaboration and effective use of resources, focusing on areas such as health, education, and human services to create a positive impact in the region.

The Goodyear Community Support Grant aims to empower nonprofit organizations that align with Goodyear's community engagement focus areas. With a strong commitment to safe, smart, and sustainable initiatives, Goodyear supports programs fostering safe mobility, inspiring students through education, and addressing environmental and societal needs. This grant serves as a catalyst for positive change, helping communities thrive by focusing on volunteerism and impactful partnerships.

The Glenn Foundation Grants support federally tax-exempt institutions and nonprofits serving Gaston County in areas such as health, education, and the arts. Emphasizing integrity and community impact, the Foundation awards grants for up to five years, focusing on projects that promote self-reliance and equity. They do not fund planning grants, scholarships, or private schools, ensuring that contributions directly benefit the community. This commitment helps preserve the legacy of the Glenn sisters while addressing vital local needs.

The Western Lane Community Foundation Grant supports local non-profit organizations in western Lane County, Oregon, focusing on education, medicine, the arts, and civic services. Grants typically range from $100 to $5,000, depending on project needs and available funds. Preference is given to projects that provide essential services not funded by public means, aiming to address major community issues. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that significantly impact community well-being and betterment.

About Us

The American College of Obstetricians & Gynecologists (ACOG) is the leading professional membership organization for ob-gyns. ACOG champions ob-gyns in providing equitable, evidence-based care for patients today and into the future.

ACOG comprises more than 62,000 members across 12 Districts, representing regions in the United States, Canada, and Central and South America. These members maintain the highest professional standards and are united in their delivery of exceptional, respectful, science-backed care for patients. ACOG members include medical students, residents, practicing and retired physicians, and health professionals in related fields.

For nearly 75 years, ACOG has strengthened members with comprehensive, expert-reviewed practice guidelines; management tools; career development resources; and lifelong learning opportunities.

Pete and Weesie Hollis Community Service Award

The Pete and Weesie Hollis Community Service Award (formerly the President’s Community Service Award) was established by then President Richard “Pete” Hollis. The award was an outgrowth of Dr. Hollis’ presidential theme of caring for patients. Dr. Hollis felt strongly that many of the Fellows of ACOG gave hours of care and support within their community to underserved or poorly served patient populations, often with little or no remuneration or recognition.

The award is not to be given as a recognition of activities related to service to ACOG or activities that are based on support of the specialty in legislative or regulatory decisions. Recipients of the award will receive a $1,000 honorarium plus complimentary registration to the Annual Clinical and Scientific Meeting where the award is presented.

The North Carolina Forest Service Urban and Community Forestry Financial Assistance Program aims to empower municipalities in achieving sustainable urban and community forestry management. By providing financial support and expertise, the program enhances community living quality through effective forestry practices. It uses specific standards to classify community management levels, fostering progress and celebrating achievements. This initiative encourages collaboration among stakeholders to further urban forestry goals and improve local environments, ultimately contributing to healthier, greener communities.

The Richard Beatty Mellon Environmental Stewardship Award, established in 1954, honors individuals or organizations for significant contributions to pollution abatement. Eligible candidates demonstrate dedicated efforts in promoting air pollution control and waste management. This prestigious award reflects the legacy of Richard Beatty Mellon, who pioneered research in air quality and environmental protection. The award is open to both members and nonmembers of the Air & Waste Management Association.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

What is an eligible area?

• Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents. Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more may not be eligible.
• The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city so long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area.
• The lender may be located anywhere.

Check eligible addresses for Business Programs here.

 What kind of funding is available? 

Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $100,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization. Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Milton & Phyllis Berg Family Respite Care Grants, offered by the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America, support member organizations in providing respite care scholarships to families affected by Alzheimer's. This initiative enhances the quality of life for both individuals and caregivers by promoting social engagement and offering essential breaks for caregivers. Grants are awarded biannually in memory of Barry E. Berg's parents, who faced Alzheimer's and caregiving challenges.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.

• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Bozeman Film Society Jack Stonnell Memorial Scholarship, offered by Montana State University, supports students pursuing degrees in Film and Photography. This scholarship is awarded to the top rising junior based on academic performance in key film courses. The award amount varies, encouraging excellence in arts and architecture, especially in film and photography disciplines. This initiative aims to foster creativity and innovation among aspiring filmmakers.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will announce the Phased Large Awards for Comparative Effectiveness Research on December 2, 2025. This funding aims to support high-quality, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research projects. The initiative encourages applicants to engage with patients and stakeholders to address critical healthcare dilemmas and improve decision-making. Projects should compare established clinical alternatives with evidence of efficacy, targeting vital health issues across diverse populations.