Best Public Policy Grants in Guam

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Guam working on children’s programs, education, or health and human services can apply for monetary support from the Costco Foundation. Eligible public policy initiatives may be considered if they clearly serve these priority areas and demonstrate measurable community outcomes and strong collaborative, diversified funding.

Guam nonprofits with 501(c)(3) status and innovative approaches to social problems can access funding through Creag Foundation to advance new human services solutions. Organizations working in areas like community development, health, safety, or related public policy impacts may be eligible to submit a letter of inquiry for invitation-only support.

Early-stage, impact-first nonprofits and mission-driven for-profits in Guam tackling major social or environmental challenges can apply for Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation’s support, with awards up to US $300,000 over three years. Organizations using scalable, systems-based models that benefit underserved communities, including those influencing public policy, may be competitive.

Nonprofit and NGO programs using technology for crisis response, education access, or economic empowerment, including in Guam, can apply for Global Impact Cash Grants, with awards up to US $100,000. Cisco Systems Foundation supports innovative, early-stage, tech-enabled solutions serving predominantly economically underserved communities, with applications accepted year-round via an initial letter of inquiry.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. providing direct social services that address chronic poverty and promote economic independence may be eligible for this Hearst Foundation grant of more than US $100,000. Grants from William Randolph Hearst Foundation help Guam public policy and social service organizations expand proven programs, capital projects, or general operations that serve large populations and demonstrate sustainability.

Nonprofit organizations working in health, education, or community services in Guam can apply for Labcorp Charitable Foundation grants to support food pantries, healthcare access for underserved populations, STEM programming, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations, or those with equivalent charitable status, may be eligible for these opportunities reviewed in March and September.

Organizations working on education, children’s health, or family economic stability for urban low-income youth can seek project or scaling support of more than US $50,000 from the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation. Focused on measurable impact, it funds eligible entities in the U.S., India, and South Africa, which may include Guam-serving public policy initiatives.

Nonprofit organizations providing health, education, or humanitarian services can apply for Semnani Family Foundation support for programs serving marginalized communities worldwide. While not limited to any single region, Guam public policy or social service initiatives that advance health care access, disaster relief, or vulnerable populations’ welfare in eligible countries may be competitive.

Focused on charitable, scientific, medical, and educational work, Sidney Stern Memorial Trust invites Guam public policy and related 501(c)(3) organizations to apply for project support. Eligible nonprofits must use awarded funds within the U.S. and demonstrate strong management, broad service reach, and meaningful impact on their target populations and general welfare.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community services, environmental conservation, or peacebuilding in Guam can seek support for their charitable programs. Focused on broad social and environmental impact, the Dudley T Dougherty Foundation invites applicants whose work may intersect with public policy or community-level change efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations within 15 miles of a TJX location can apply for The Tjx Foundation’s grants to support basic needs, youth enrichment, workforce readiness, and domestic violence safety. Guam organizations working on public policy that also deliver these community services may be eligible after completing an eligibility questionnaire and letter of inquiry.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, public schools, and libraries working on environmental or human services programs, including those serving Guam, can seek general operating or project support through this opportunity. Focused on broad community and environmental needs, the Lawrence Foundation offers unrestricted grants typically ranging from US $5,000 - US $10,000 worldwide.

Nonprofit organizations in Guam seeking support for community-based programs can apply for grants of US $1,000 - US $20,000 to fund culture, education, health, environmental, and social services projects. Grants from Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation help U.S.-based nonprofits, including those with public policy-related initiatives, strengthen local communities.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Colleges and universities in Guam seeking to adopt or strengthen 100% tobacco/vape-free campus policies can receive up to US $20,000 for policy development and implementation activities. Truth Initiative Foundation supports taskforce creation, campus assessments, student engagement, tobacco treatment planning, and policy recommendations that mobilize students, faculty, staff, and administrators toward comprehensive smoke- and vape-free environments.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits working on basic needs, community vitality, or volunteer-driven programs can apply for Ameriprise Community Grants, with priority to communities such as Boston, Charlotte, Las Vegas, Minneapolis, and New York. Organizations in Guam focused on community development, economic stability, or related services may be eligible if they meet these criteria.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on education, social services, health care, civic and cultural, environmental, or related initiatives in the U.S., including Guam, can seek project funding from the Dr Scholl Foundation. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 support one-year efforts, and groups engaged in public policy-related civic work may be eligible.

Early-career professionals with recent bachelor’s degrees in marine or coastal-related fields can gain full-time fellowship placements with government or community organizations in Guam and other Pacific Islands, working on fisheries and coastal health projects. Hawai‘i Sea Grant provides training and support, which may benefit those interested in public policy dimensions of coastal management and community health.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations addressing children, education, humanitarian needs, animals, environment, or arts and culture in Guam can apply for Hansen Family Foundation grants of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Grants from Hansen Family Foundation help Guam organizations with modest budgets advance programs that support life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness, which may include public policy-related work.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits and aligned for-profit organizations seeking support for storytelling around wildlife conservation, preservation, education, or wellness work may be eligible for more than US $50,000. Grants from Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation can help Guam organizations share the impact of their conservation or community-focused programs with broader audiences.

Guam public policy and community nonprofits can access funding through Chick Fil A Foundation to support youth development, food security, housing, and environmental stewardship programs. 501(c)(3) organizations and equivalent charities in eligible regions may apply for US $30,000 - US $350,000 to expand initiatives that serve children, families, and local communities.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit organizations working to help disadvantaged people become self-reliant can seek US $5,000 - US $250,000 for social services, poverty alleviation, disability support, or humanitarian relief, including work impacting Guam. Gupta Family Foundation currently funds smaller 501(c)(3)s and similar organizations operating in select countries, with at least 90% of grant funds reaching beneficiaries.

Creative West

Established in 1974 as a nonprofit U.S. Regional Arts Organization (USRAO), Creative West was founded on the belief that place matters to the creative process. Fifty years later, communities of place, practice, experience, and identity remain fundamental to our work, framing our understanding of how culture is creatively produced and collectively experienced.

Creative West empowers artists and culture-makers with direct, practical resources, delivered regionally.

We offer practical, equity-centered learning experiences and funding opportunities that connect and inspire artists, culture-bearers and communities to build a more inclusive sector, strengthen the arts field, and catalyze change.

National Arts Futures Fellowship

The National Arts Futures Fellowship (NAFF) is a six-month virtual leadership development program rooted in democracy, wellness, and belonging. It calls on early and mid-career arts and culture professionals from all backgrounds to step into their power as civic leaders and cultural innovators—building the skills, networks, and vision needed to shape a future where creativity drives justice, care, and connection.

Fellows join a national network committed to strengthening public life, nurturing collective wellness, and fostering deep belonging across communities. Together, they learn, experiment, and act—advancing a shared vision of leadership that is sustainable, community-rooted, and future-focused.

Each fellow enters NAFF with a Personal Action Project (PAP)—a concrete idea they will develop and implement with support from peers, coaches, guest experts, and flexible seed funding of $250–$1,000. Projects may include launching a cultural initiative, organizing a community campaign, supporting artist-led advocacy, seeking a public leadership role, or piloting another form of civic or community action. Throughout the fellowship, each project evolves through coaching, peer feedback, strategy sessions, and real-world experimentation. Fellows conclude the program by sharing their project, leadership growth, and next steps at the National Fellows Summit.

What’s New in Cohort Two?

• Cohort Two expands NAFF from six to seven monthly sessions and adds two new elements that support fellows in moving their Personal Action Projects from development into implementation:
• Seed Funding: Fellows may request $250–$1,000 in flexible funding to test, pilot, or implement their projects during the fellowship.
• Artists Thrive Framework: Fellows will use the framework to assess their work, identify opportunities for growth, and strengthen artist-led advocacy, collaboration, and community impact.

Guiding Principles

• Democracy — Use the arts to strengthen civic participation, expand public trust, and make decision-making more accessible and inclusive.
• Wellness — Treat care, rest, and healing as strategic leadership tools for sustaining movements and communities.
• Belonging — Create spaces where leaders can thrive together across differences, build trust, and celebrate shared humanity.

What kinds of projects are supported?

Examples: Running for office, launching cultural programs, organizing campaigns, supporting policies. Projects can be local, regional, or national in scope.