Best Grants for Preschools in Mississippi

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The America250 Public Art Grant, offered by the Mississippi Arts Commission, invites eligible applicants to celebrate Mississippi's rich history as part of the nation's 250th anniversary. With a total funding of $100,000 available for ten grants, the program supports public art projects that reflect themes such as 'We the People' and 'The Future of Mississippi.' Each grant provides $12,000, requiring a 1:1 cash match, encouraging community engagement and artistic expression statewide.

The America250 Public Art Grant invites Mississippi artists to celebrate the nation's 250th anniversary through public art. With a total funding of $100,000, ten applicants can receive grants of up to $8,000 for projects that honor Mississippi's stories. This grant promotes themes such as the American ideal, the significance of place, and envisioning the future of Mississippi. A 1:1 match is required, with at least 10% of the match being cash.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for graduate and doctoral students pursuing degrees in nutrition and dietetics. With scholarship amounts ranging from $500 to $25,000, applicants can utilize a single application to be considered for multiple opportunities. Eligibility includes enrollment in accredited programs and other criteria such as experience in education or dietetics. Membership in the Academy is encouraged, although not required, for most scholarships.

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.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Southeastern Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes outstanding Ph.D. students in entomology, promoting interest in the field and supporting attendance at the ESA annual meeting. Awardees receive an all-expenses-paid trip, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate, with additional cash prizes presented by the Southeastern Branch. Eligibility includes being a current member and demonstrating excellence in graduate studies. This award fosters professional development and engagement within the entomology community.

The Agricultural Conservation Easement Program in Mississippi, managed by the USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, promotes environmental sustainability through Wetland Reserve Easements. This program supports migratory waterfowl and other wildlife, enhances water quality, and combats climate change. Eligible landowners can receive 100% funding for permanent easements and partial funding for restoration. These efforts not only protect biodiversity but also offer opportunities for scientific and recreational activities, ensuring the preservation of valuable wetland ecosystems.

The Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) in Mississippi, administered by the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service, offers agricultural producers the opportunity to enhance their conservation practices and earn payments based on performance. By developing tailored conservation plans, the program supports landowners in achieving sustainable management goals, improving productivity, and increasing resilience against market and environmental challenges. Participants benefit from additional payments for adopting innovative practices that contribute to healthier ecosystems and land management.

The Diminished Tree Species Grant Program focuses on restoring native tree species crucial for biodiversity and forest health. By funding scientific research, seed orchard development, and land preservation, the program aims to combat climate change through effective tree restoration projects. The Oak Hill Fund, a private entity, encourages project-specific applications, prioritizing organizations that meet eligibility criteria under Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS. This initiative is vital for sustaining healthy ecosystems and mitigating environmental impacts.

The MAC Operating Grant supports arts-focused organizations in Mississippi, enabling them to cover essential expenses like salaries, marketing, and rent. These grants are tailored for nonprofits with a primary mission in the arts, encouraging them to maintain financial stability while enhancing community access to artistic programming. Eligible organizations must have been established for at least two years and demonstrate a commitment to arts development through diverse programs. This initiative aims to foster cultural growth and strengthen community ties through the arts.

The James E. Huffer and Betty J. Huffer Foundation aims to support non-profit organizations that enhance community welfare through educational, artistic, and humanitarian initiatives. The foundation prioritizes multidisciplinary efforts that demonstrate a strong commitment to regional service and impactful contributions. Focus areas include arts, environmental stewardship, health sciences, and youth education. Organizations must confirm tax-exempt status and provide financial documentation to be considered for funding.

Coover/Rural Schools Partnership Rural Ready Grant Program

The Louis L. and Julia Dorothy Coover Foundation, a partnership between Community Foundation of the Ozarks and The Commerce Trust Company is proud to offer the Rural Ready grant program. It is designed to give rural schools the flexibility to address the needs and opportunities that matter most in their communities. Rural Ready grants will support projects that prepare students with the knowledge, skills, experiences, and relationships they need to thrive in our ever-changing world while strengthening the communities they call home. 

Funding

• Total amount to award is $185,000.00. 
• Applicants may apply for up to $7,000 in funding for this grant cycle.

The MAC Project Grants support arts initiatives across Mississippi, empowering community-based groups to enhance cultural engagement. Funding is available for four key areas: Arts Based Community Development, Arts Education, Arts Industry, and Folk & Traditional Arts. These grants aim to foster community growth, improve educational opportunities, stabilize the arts sector, and promote traditional art forms, ensuring a vibrant cultural landscape in Mississippi.

To promote its mission of protecting Mississippi’s environment, the Mississippi Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ) offers assistance grants for projects involving certain solid waste management and recycling activities and provides other assistance for abatement of certain solid waste problems. The Solid Waste Policy, Planning, & Grants Branch administers several solid waste assistance programs that provide grant funding to support a variety of solid waste management activities. These programs include the following:

• The local governments solid waste assistance grants program
• The local governments waste tire collection and clean up grants program
• The waste tire incentive recycling and research grants program
• The solid waste planning grants program

Each county in Mississippi may apply for a solid waste assistance grant amount allocated by Stateaid Road Mileage formula.

Mississippi Arts Commission

The Mississippi Arts Commission was established in 1968 by the Mississippi Legislature as the official grants-making and service agency for the arts in the state. MAC provides financial and technical assistance for arts programming to arts organizations and educational institutions throughout Mississippi. Funded annually by the Mississippi Legislature, the National Endowment for the Arts and private funds, MAC uses this support to carry forth its mission and continues to act as a core and essential function of government.

Folk Arts Apprenticeship

The Folk Arts Apprenticeship program helps to ensure the survival, development and continued evolution of community-based traditional art forms found throughout Mississippi. The program allows master traditional artists to pass along their unique skills to promising novice artists that work in their art form. The master artist works with the apprentice on a one-on-one basis over an agreed upon period of time to teach specific aspects of the tradition.

Who is a master artist?

A master artist is a skilled and experienced practitioner of a traditional art form. The master artist acts as a mentor and teacher to the apprentice.

Who is an apprentice?

An apprentice is an emerging traditional artist who has an established skill set and seeks to enhance their knowledge and understanding of their art form through one-on-one instruction.

Many types of traditional artists can benefit from this program. Some examples of artists who have received Apprenticeship grants in the past include boat builders, quilters, old-time fiddlers, traditional potters, basket makers, and blues guitarists. The program is focused on supporting forms of creative expression that have been an important part of community life for many years and that are passed on informally rather than taught through formal classes. Please consult with the Folk and Traditional Arts Program Director to see if your art form qualifies for this program.

MAC also accepts Apprenticeship applications from foodways practitioners. MAC recognizes the creativity and cultural significance of foodways to the history and identity of Mississippians. The program honors foodways artists who make dishes that are directly related to the soil and climate of the state, or to the ethnic and regional heritage of their families or communities. Whether you are frying fish, rolling dough, stuffing tamales or canning figs (or something in between), MAC encourages you to share your expertise by participating in the Apprenticeship program. Before applying, please consult with the Folk and Traditional Arts Program Director to see if your foodways tradition qualifies for this program.

The master artist and apprentice work together to determine the budget for their project. The majority of the grant funds (80 percent or more – $2,400) should be set aside for the master artist’s teaching fee. The remaining amount can be used to purchase supplies (only expendable items, not permanent equipment) and for mileage incurred by the apprentice (this should be estimated using the State of Mississippi’s current mileage reimbursement rate.

Please note: MAC will provide reasonable accommodations for those individuals who are unable to access the online grant system. Paper applications are available upon request at least two weeks ahead of the application deadline.

Folk Arts Apprenticeship Showcase Requirement

Each apprenticeship team that is awarded a grant will be required to participate in MAC’s annual Folk Arts Apprenticeship Showcase near the end of the grant period. This showcase is a public program that highlights the work of the apprenticeship teams. The program has both online and in-person components and is developed in consultation with MAC staff and the participating artists.

National Geographic Society: Request for Proposals

Award Overview

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is pleased to announce a Request for Proposals (RFP) for academic researchers and graduate students investigating topics related to geography education in select states and locations. Awards of up to $10,000 (for researchers) and $5,000 (for graduate students) are available to support research projects.

At NGS we spark curiosity, empower exploration, and inspire change. We fund inspiring changemakers around the world who use the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world. 

We welcome submissions from researchers across disciplines but successful proposals must include research related to educational approaches or processes including but not limited to specific learning activities, learning outcomes, or educational tools that advance knowledge. Research that illuminates barriers and/or advances access for those farthest from opportunity is encouraged. 

Research proposals should generate new knowledge, and can either be new or scaled up versions of existing successful projects (e.g. evaluating a different group of learners or geographic area). 

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, empowers colleges to cultivate green spaces and enhance campus life. By fostering a commitment to tree planting, this initiative supports environmental health, energy conservation, and mental well-being for students and staff alike. Participating schools can achieve national recognition through their dedication to sustainable practices and community service projects, creating pride and a beautiful, livable campus.

Investing in Our Communities

Regions Bank and Regions Foundation are committed to helping individuals, families, and businesses achieve financial success.

We work alongside nonprofit organizations, local businesses, government and service agencies to address social and economic issues, assist in building inclusive economic prosperity and help more members of our communities benefit from the rewards of a growing economy.

We make strategic and disciplined community investments in programs that seek to achieve three target outcomes:

Economic and Community Development

• Affordable housing
• Job creation
• Small business development
• Homebuyer education and retention
• Neighborhood revitalization and stabilization

Education and Workforce Readiness

• Student competency and skill building
• College and career readiness
• Educational access and success
• Credential building and employment
• Educator training and resources

Financial Wellness

• Financial education to youth, adults, and vulnerable populations
• Financial planning tools and resources, including Regions Next Step®
• Integrated asset-building

With support from Toyota Motor North America, the National Environmental Education Foundation (NEEF) is pleased to announce $250,000 in grant funding to make public lands more accessible and enjoyable for people of all abilities. The 2026 grant program will focus on communities near Toyota Motor North America facilities and is restricted to 16 communities, as detailed below. 

Overview

Through the 2026 Driving Mobility and Accessibility on Public Lands grant, NEEF aims to:

• Increase the capacity of local organizations and government agencies to address mobility and accessibility considerations on public lands; and
• Improve the level of access, comfort, and enjoyment experienced by public lands visitors of all abilities, together with their families and friends.

The grant will provide up to $20,000 per grantee to increase physical or digital access, provide adaptive recreation equipment or programming, or perform accessibility assessments on public lands in communities near 16 Toyota Motor North America facilities.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship, established in 1989, offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in horticulture across 16 southeastern states. Administered by the Sidney B. Meadows Scholarship Endowment Fund, this scholarship honors the legacy of Sidney B. Meadows, a dedicated advocate for education in the horticultural industry. Applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria related to academic standing and residency, with preference given to those intending to work in the field after graduation.

The Vulcan Materials Company Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community quality of life through education, environmental stewardship, and employee involvement. Established in 1988, the Foundation supports public charities and government units, prioritizing proposals that improve public education and promote sustainable practices. Special consideration is given to initiatives that engage Vulcan employees and integrate multiple focus areas, ensuring a positive impact in the local communities where Vulcan operates.

Bureau of Behavioral Health FY27 Notice of Funding Opportunities

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health is now accepting applications for a series of competitive grants made available through funding appropriated to the agency.

Pregnant and Parenting Women and Men with Dependent Children Childcare Specialist Program

Cost Reimbursement

The Department of Mental Health, Bureau of Behavioral Health/ Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Services is now accepting funding proposals for the state fiscal year 2027. This proposal application is eligible to all Mississippi Department of Mental Health (DMH) certified PPWDC providers who are in good standing. However, DMH certification is not a guarantee of funding. All submitted proposals will be evaluated by a panel of reviewers using the posted competitive grant scoring rubric. Not all submitted proposals may be funded, but comprehensive feedback will be provided to all providers, particularly if their application was not funded for the current fiscal year.

The funding associated with this grant opportunity is meant to defray a proportion of operational costs for the service.

Grant Description

The Mississippi Department of Mental Health (MSDMH), Division of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Treatment Services (DADATS) is continuing a temporary pilot program to address the childcare needs of the Pregnant and Parenting Women and Men with Dependent Children (PPWMDC) Program.

One specific need is the educational and developmental needs of children of the clients who are in treatment. This grant continuation is designed to enhance the PPWMDC programs that may need assistance in this area. Each PPWMDC program will need to hire an Early Childhood Development childcare specialist for children (ages 2-5 years) of the mothers and or fathers who are in treatment. The temporary program is designed to allow the child to receive structured instruction, learning, and nurturing, while housed in a controlled and inviting setting. Being in this type of setting will enhance the child’s development and/or growth, which will alleviate idle time and the notion of baby-sitting the child or children.

The hired childcare specialist should have a minimum of 4 years of experience in the field of Early Childhood Development. The annual salary for the childcare specialist is $50,000 per year. FY26 marks the fourth year of this extraordinary pilot program.

Purpose of SUPTRS Funding

The Substance Use Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery Services Block Grant (formerly Substance Abuse Block Grant) exists to assist Mississippians in accessing services which would otherwise be unavailable due to an inability to pay. According to the DMH Operational Standards Rule 10.7.B.1, the agency cannot turn away individuals based on inability to pay. Since SUD has historically been a non-reimbursable service for third party billing, these funds are to be used as a source of compensation to the agency who serves these individuals.

About Us

The governing board of the Mississippi Department of Mental Health is composed of nine members appointed by the Governor of Mississippi and confirmed by the State Senate. Members’ terms are staggered to ensure continuity of quality care and professional oversight of services. By statute, the nine-member board is composed of a physician, a psychiatrist, a clinical psychologist, a social worker with experience in the field of mental health, and one citizen representative from each of Mississippi’s five congressional districts (as existed in 1974).

Behavioral Health FY27 - Level 3 Low Intensity Residential Services Program (PPWMDC)

Residential Services is the highest community-based level of care for the treatment of substance use/addictive disorders. These levels of care provide a safe and stable group living environment where the individual can develop, practice, and demonstrate necessary recovery skills.

Collectively, all level 3 (3.1, 3.3, 3.5, and 3.7) program services provide residential care and comprehensive treatment services for adults and adolescents whose problems are so severe or are such that they cannot be cared for at home or in foster care and need the exclusive services provided by specialized facilities. Comprehensive services and activities may include diagnosis and psychological evaluation; alcohol and drug withdrawal management (detoxification) services; individual, family, and group therapy/ counseling; remedial education and GED preparation, vocational or pre-vocational training; training in activities of daily living; supervised recreational and social activities; case management; transportation; and referral to utilization of other services. 

• Level 3.1 Clinically Managed Low-Intensity Residential Services
• Level 3.3 Clinically Managed Population-Specific High-Intensity Residential Services
• Level 3.5 Clinically Managed High-Intensity Residential Services
• Level 3.7 Medically Monitored Intensive Inpatient Services