Best Grants for Solar Panels for Nonprofits

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in West Virginia provides essential funding for rural communities to develop clean drinking water, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and stormwater systems. Eligible applicants, including state and local governments and nonprofits, can use these funds for construction, legal fees, and operational costs. This program aims to enhance public health and environmental quality in underserved areas, ensuring access to reliable water and waste services.

Singing for Change Grant Program

Singing for Change empowers people to become more self-sufficient.

Singing for Change supports nonprofit organizations that inspire, empower, and equip people to become more self-sufficient.

Our grantees encourage personal growth among people who are marginalized. They care about the community as a whole, as well as promote the belief that collectively, people can bring about positive change and sustainable self-sufficiency through connected, diverse communities.

Most likely to be considered are organizations that keep their overhead low and collaborate with other groups in their community to find innovative ways of solving a common problem.

Singing for Change (aka SFC Charitable Foundation, Inc.) was created by Jimmy Buffett in 1995, and receives one dollar from each ticket Jimmy sells at his shows. We envision a world where nonprofit organizations, large and small, provide compelling opportunities for individuals to discover their power to make a difference. The foundation promotes work on the forefront of social change - helping people and communities become smarter, safer, stronger, healthier, and whole. 

Singing for Change (SFC) partners with progressive, community-based organizations addressing the root causes of social or environmental problems. We recently narrowed our focus to projects designed to promote self-sufficiency. 

Specifically, we look for groups that are: 

• Working to engage individuals in their communities 
• Helping people realize their full potential
• Creating lasting change in the communities they serve

We will fund operating expenses for those organizations that we feel are accomplishing these goals.

Areas Of Interest:

Children and families: Grants are awarded to programs fostering self-sufficiency and stability. Individual therapy is not funded, nor are therapeutic or recreational camps or wish-fulfillment programs.

Disenfranchised groups: SFC defines these groups as people who have been marginalized in society because of their low levels of skill, education or income, people with disabilities, and people who are homeless. 

Grants range in size from $1,000.00 to $10,000.00.

The Innovative Water Infrastructure Workforce Development Grant, offered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), aims to enhance career pipelines in the water utilities sector. This funding opportunity supports institutions and organizations in expanding access to water utility jobs through apprenticeship, education, and training programs. By fostering collaborations and increasing public awareness, the initiative seeks to address the workforce needs of water systems, contributing to community health and environmental protection.

The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) aims to enhance environmental quality by providing financial and technical assistance to agricultural producers and forest landowners in North Dakota. The Migratory Bird Resurgence Initiative, part of EQIP, focuses on conserving wetlands to support migratory bird populations. This program emphasizes sustainable practices that improve soil health, water quality, and wildlife habitats, ultimately aiding farmers in their conservation efforts while promoting ecological balance in vital agricultural areas.

The CFES Mini Grants program, offered by the Community Foundation of the Eastern Shore, supports local 501c3 nonprofits and certified schools with funding under $1,000 for diverse programs. These grants address crucial community needs in areas like health, arts, and education, enhancing services for vulnerable populations. Applications are accepted monthly, but first-time applicants may require a consultation. The program emphasizes collaboration and aims to empower organizations making a positive impact in Somerset, Wicomico, and Worcester counties.

The Connecticut Sea Grant College Program (CTSG) Grant supports vital applied research, education, and outreach aimed at promoting healthy coastal and marine ecosystems in Connecticut and Long Island Sound. Projects with clear relevance to the region's marine and coastal resources are prioritized, ensuring that public benefits are maximized through sustainable practices and community engagement.

The Mayo Clinic Community Contributions Program in Florida focuses on improving access to nutritious food. This grant supports registered 501(c)(3) organizations in northeast Florida, encouraging initiatives that align with community health needs. Eligible projects include health services, education, and youth enrichment, aiming to foster vibrant and sustainable communities. Organizations can apply for funding once per calendar year, with grants designed to enhance community engagement and address food insecurity.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Alaska provides essential funding for rural areas to develop clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water management. This program supports local governments, nonprofits, and tribes lacking commercial credit options. Eligible projects include the construction and improvement of water treatment facilities, sewer systems, and solid waste management. The initiative aims to enhance public health and environmental quality while ensuring access to vital resources for communities.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Arizona provides essential funding for clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. It supports local governments, non-profits, and tribes with financing for projects that ensure reliable services. Funds can cover construction, engineering costs, and necessary equipment, promoting healthier communities and sustainable development in rural settings.

Otto Bremer Trust Community Responsive Fund

The Northwest Minnesota Foundation is partnering with the Otto Bremer Trust to deliver $525,000 in grant funding to organizations across Northwest Minnesota through the 2026 Community Responsive Fund.

Funding priorities and eligibility criteria for this program are established by Otto Bremer Trust and focus on supporting organizations that provide essential, direct services to meet basic needs in our communities.

Funding Priorities

Food:

• Programs that directly operate meal sites or food pantries to meet daily needs

Shelter:

• Short-term or emergency shelter for individuals experiencing housing instability or homelessness

Low-Income Healthcare Clinics:

• Affordable medical, dental, or mental health services for uninsured or underinsured individuals

Disability Services:

• Programs supporting individuals with physical and/or cognitive disabilities

School-Based Mental Health:

• Established mental health services delivered within school settings

Award period: One-year

• Maximum grant amount: $75,000
• Available funding: $525,000

The Pathway to Recovery grant, funded by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, aims to combat the opioid epidemic by providing workforce development and training services to individuals affected by opioid use. With an estimated funding of $5 million for FY25, the program seeks to enhance employability through skills training, career services, and supportive resources. This initiative is essential for fostering recovery and promoting economic stability within communities impacted by the opioid crisis.

About Texas Mutual

At Texas Mutual Insurance Company, we care for hardworking Texans. We do that every day by protecting businesses, promoting safe working environments and helping ensure Texas employees get home safely to their families. Our mission is to create a stronger, safer Texas and our community grants are a direct extension of that mission.

Over the past decade, Texas Mutual has invested more than $120 million to strengthen Texas communities, support businesses and help working families thrive.

Texas Mutual Community Grants: Working Texans Economic Opportunity Grant

Reducing barriers that limit economic opportunity for working Texans

Texas Mutual seeks to invest in initiatives that stabilize working households so Texans can obtain and sustain employment and participate in economic opportunities. We’re looking for organizations aligned with one of the following focus areas:

• Championing working parents by expanding access to quality early childhood education (ages 0-5) or out-of-school time care for children so that parents can obtain and retain stable employment.
• Prioritizing workforce wellness by ensuring working Texans are physically healthy through increased access to primary care.
• Enabling workforce advancement by facilitating access to essential basic needs so that working Texans can obtain or retain stable employment, building a foundation for long-term economic mobility.

Requests should not exceed 10% of the organization’s current operating budget. Only one Texas Mutual community grant may be awarded per organization per calendar year.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Arkansas offers essential funding for rural areas to establish and improve drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and storm water drainage. Eligible applicants, including state and local governments and nonprofits, can utilize funds for various projects including construction, legal fees, and maintenance. This initiative aims to ensure access to clean water and effective waste management in underserved communities.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Puerto Rico provides essential funding for rural communities to ensure access to clean drinking water, sanitary sewage disposal, and effective storm water drainage. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes. The funds can be utilized for construction, improvement, and financing of water systems, as well as related activities like legal fees and land acquisition, supporting sustainable community development.

The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency is offering grants under the Clean Water Act Section 319(h) to support projects that improve water quality in Ohio streams. With a total funding of $2.5 million, eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations. Projects aimed at reducing nonpoint source pollution and restoring impaired stream segments are prioritized. This initiative provides 100% funding for projects lasting up to three years, enhancing habitats and reducing pollutants.

The Dirk Nowitzki Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations dedicated to improving children's wellbeing, health, and education. Established by NBA star Dirk Nowitzki, the foundation aims to uplift children affected by illness, poverty, and neglect. Grants are awarded annually to projects that align with these goals, ensuring impactful experiences for children. Organizations are encouraged to apply, but the foundation does not fund the same organization twice in a calendar year or cover salaries, travel costs, or religious programs.

The Water and Environment Grant Program by the American Water Charitable Foundation supports innovative community projects aimed at improving watersheds, conserving water, and enhancing access to recreation in underserved areas. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions located within American Water's service areas. Projects must be completed within 12 months, and applicants should consider budget feasibility when requesting funds. Certain organizations and projects, such as those not classified as 501(c)(3), are ineligible.

Bethany Legacy Foundation

For more than a century, the Bethany name has stood for compassion in action. Today, we carry that legacy forward by uniting the community around innovative, lasting solutions that strengthen well-being across Jefferson County, Indiana.

Bethany Legacy Foundation exists to build a healthier Jefferson County, IN. by listening first, collaborating widely, and investing wisely. Our mission is to bring people together to create sustainable change where it’s needed most.

Grants

Legacy 2030: Our Primary Focus Areas

Our six-year strategic plan aims to create a sustainable community where individuals of all ages can access the necessary resources and services to thrive. A strong workforce is the cornerstone, supported by ensuring youth, adults, and seniors have equitable access to transportation, mental health, and social services to promote well-being and independence. Our efforts and investments will focus on prevention, root causes, and initiatives that create a path to self-reliance.

The following outlines our Focus Areas, goals, and objectives for our Community and the People who live here:

Community

We aim for a Thriving Workforce that makes Jefferson County a desirable place to live and work and attracts and retains top talent.

To achieve this, we seek proposals, projects, and efforts that:

• Expand access and options for quality Childcare to improve outcomes for families and businesses
• Build stability through access to quality, safe and affordable Housing
• Expand Recreation options to promote health, connections, and a high quality of life
• Build skills and knowledge through Professional Development to enhance and advance careers

People

We aim for Strong Youth, Empowered Adults, and Stable Seniors in Jefferson County with the following outcomes if achieved:

• Kids that have a strong foundation and build resilience
• Adults that are healthy, educated, and productive citizens
• Seniors that are independent and Grow Old with Love and Dignity (GOLD)

To achieve this, we seek proposals, projects, and efforts that:

• Build Mental Health resilience and healing through holistic and preventative approaches
• Bridge distances by increasing options and access to Transportation
• Grow Social Services that strengthen and empower individuals and families

BLF uses an open application process to collect and review project ideas that align with BLF Focus Areas There are three types of applications: Long Application; Short Application; and Capacity Building Application.

BLF Grants: Short Application

• For requests of $50,000 or less in total funding, including multi-year requests
• Projects must support BLF Pillars and Focus Areas to be consider for funding
• Only one application form is submitted for review
• Approx 6-week process starting from application submission

ADECA Community Development Block Grant (CDBG)

The Community Development Block Grant program is funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the State of Alabama has administered the program since 1982.

The program is available to all non-entitlement communities (those not receiving direct funds from HUD) that meet applicable thresholds

All projects must meet one of the three national objectives:

• Benefit at least 51% low and moderate income persons
• Aid in the prevention or clearance of slum and blight
• Meet an urgent need

The State is required to write an action plan each year for approval by HUD that shows how the State intends to distribute the funds. Since the beginning, Alabama has distributed the majority of funds through competition among communities.

Competitive Fund

ADECA annually awards CDBG money for the Large City, Small City and County categories. Applicants are scored based on several competitive factors including community need, cost efficiency, appropriateness and impact. Applications deadlines are announced during the annual workshop in the first quarter of the year.

Competitive categories are:

• Small City Fund (3,000 or less population)
• Large City Fund (>3,000 population)
• County Fund

Grant Ceiling

The Small City Fund has a ceiling of $400,000. The Large City Fund and County Fund both have ceilings of $500,000.

Typical Activities

• Water and sewer extensions and rehabilitation
• Housing rehabilitation
• Neighborhood & downtown revitalization
• Street and drainage improvements

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Weed Management Area - Private Forest Grant Program (WMA-PFGP)

The WMA-PFGP assists eligible weed management groups (WMG) in addressing invasive plants, both by dealing directly with the invasives and by providing education, information and outreach to others. This is a reimbursement program that covers up to 75% of the eligible costs, 25% match is required.

About the DNR

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

Targeted Runoff Management Grant Program

The Targeted Runoff Management (TRM) Grant Program offers competitive grants for local governments for the control of pollution that comes from diffuse sources, also called “nonpoint source (NPS)” pollution. Grants from the TRM Program reimburse costs for agricultural or urban runoff management practices in targeted, critical geographic areas with surface water or groundwater quality concerns.

The Community Grants Program by the Butler Family Foundation supports organizations focused on environmental stewardship in Minnesota. Grants of $30,000 annually for general support or $20,000 for specific projects are available for 501(c)(3) organizations with budgets over $300,000. The program emphasizes land and water protection, aiming to educate youth on sustainable practices. This initiative seeks to foster community involvement in preserving Minnesota's natural resources.

The LASC Foundation provides international grants aimed at alleviating poverty through initiatives focused on food security, microbusiness development, and community self-determination. Open to unsolicited proposals year-round, the foundation invites registered non-profit organizations to apply, particularly those operating in select Central American countries. Emphasizing faith-based partnerships, the foundation supports projects that enhance food sustainability and economic opportunities for underprivileged communities.

The WSRCO Community Forests Grant Program empowers Washington communities to safeguard their working forest heritage. It balances ecological preservation with recreational opportunities, ensuring that forestlands remain resilient against development pressures. Eligible applicants include cities, tribes, and nonprofit organizations, enabling diverse groups to engage in vital conservation projects. Typical initiatives include purchasing land for forest conservation and enhancing habitat health. This program plays a crucial role in maintaining the environmental and cultural integrity of Washington's forests for future generations.

About the DNR

Preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin

In keeping with our mission, the DNR is dedicated to working with Wisconsinites while preserving and enhancing the natural resources of Wisconsin. In partnership with individuals and organizations, DNR staff manage fish, wildlife, forests, parks, air and water resources while promoting a healthy, sustainable environment and a full range of outdoor opportunities.

County Forest Land Acquisition Grants

Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Program

In 2007, the Wisconsin Legislature made changes to the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship program (s. 23.0953, Wis. Stats.) allowing counties with lands entered under the County Forest Program (s. 28.11, Wis. Stats. [exit DNR]) to compete for land acquisition funding under Stewardship.

Grant applications are evaluated jointly by a ranking panel consisting of staff from DNR Forestry and the Wisconsin County Forests Association (WCFA) and selected for funding based on ranking criteria and priorities set forth in s. NR 51.960, Wis. Adm. Code [exit DNR].

CAREs Flexible Funding

Healthcare Foundation of Wilson (HFW) CAREs about our nonprofit partners that provide CARE (Compassion, Assistance, Responsiveness, and Engagement) for our community. As a response to support the work done by these organizations, the HFW seeks proposals from nonprofit organizations located in Wilson, NC, for an unrestricted funds grant. Funds may be used for general operating support.

Request Range:

• Up to $15,000

As a partner organization, it is essential to note that maintaining compliance with the public support test is the nonprofit’s own responsibility. Please review the information provided on the IRS website. If you are unsure of your public support status, please contact an accounting professional. 

Purpose:

Nonprofits can utilize these funds to support any operating needs within the organization. These funds are not intended for past, present, or future programming needs.

Award Distribution:

Awards will be issued quarterly through a competitive grant process. Up to $50,000 will be issued each quarter.

The nonprofit’s mission and/or vision must align with at least one of our four focus areas.

• Access to Healthcare
• Active Living / Healthy Eating
• Alcohol / Substance Misuse
• Behavioral / Mental Health

The Wish Book Grants program by the Pittsburgh Foundation supports nonprofits in specific Pennsylvania counties. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501(c)(3) certified, allow only one wish submission, and focus on general operating support. The grants, capped at $5,000, aim to enhance community services. In 2023, $670,000 was raised for 100 organizations. The program thrives on donor contributions and seeks to align with the Foundation's areas of interest, including arts, economic mobility, and social justice.