Best Harrison County Grants for Nonprofits in Mississippi

The J. Larry Landers Student Research Award, offered by the Gopher Tortoise Council, provides funding for undergraduate and graduate students conducting research on gopher tortoise biology or upland habitat conservation. With an average award of $1,000, applicants must submit a four-page proposal, including project details and a budget. This grant aims to support original student-led research within the southeastern U.S., where the gopher tortoise is native, thus promoting vital ecological studies.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The Donna J. Heinrich Environmental Education Grant, established by the Gopher Tortoise Council, aims to support educators and organizations in creating projects focused on the gopher tortoise and its habitat. This grant honors Donna June Heinrich, a dedicated environmental educator committed to wildlife conservation. By fostering educational initiatives, the grant seeks to enhance public understanding and appreciation of the gopher tortoise and promote its conservation across the southeastern United States.

The Sparklight/Cable One Charitable Giving Fund supports local nonprofits and organizations focused on education, food insecurity, and community development. They prioritize impactful partnerships that strengthen communities. The fund welcomes various funding requests, including special projects and capital campaigns, while adhering to specific eligibility requirements such as tax-exempt status. However, they do not fund basic operating expenses, loans, or religious organizations for general support, ensuring that their contributions foster meaningful community growth.

The Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund provides grants to support communities in the U.S. and Canada where the company operates. Focused on affordable housing, education, environmental stewardship, and more, the fund emphasizes projects that meet local needs and demonstrate community support. Eligible organizations include nonprofits and educational institutions. Applications are accepted year-round with a deadline for 2025 on September 30. National initiatives related to working forests are funded by invitation only.

Mississippi Maternal Health Project

The Women’s Foundation of Mississippi is now accepting grant proposals for the Mississippi Maternal Health Project. We are seeking community-based, equity-centered strategies from nonprofit organizations that have a proven track record in maternal and infant health. These organizations will lead interventions in East Biloxi, Jackson, and Sunflower County, Mississippi. 

Funding Opportunity

WFM intends to award grants ranging from $75,000 to $100,000 each year for projects that will operate over three years. This request for proposals is open to nonprofit organizations located in Mississippi that provide services in East Biloxi, Jackson, and Sunflower County, Mississippi.

Submission Requirements

The Mississippi Maternal Health Project’s goal is to improve maternal and infant health by reducing maternal mortality, infant mortality, and preterm births through expanded access to comprehensive maternal health services and early interventions. 

We are prioritizing projects that clearly demonstrate measurable outcomes in maternal and infant health. These projects should be deeply rooted in the three service areas and trusted by women and families. We aim to serve populations with the greatest racial and geographic disparities. Additionally, we are committed to learning, data collection, and continuous improvement to inform statewide system changes. 

Proposals must address at least one or two of the following outcomes during the three-year grant cycle for consideration: 

• Expanded equitable access to quality care for 1,500 low-income and at-risk women, with at least 75% enrolled in health or support services during the first trimester. 
• Enhanced local capacity with 150 trained providers and sustained collaboration networks among healthcare and community partners. 
• Embed community voice and data-driven learning into statewide systems, culminating in a maternal health sustainability policy plan by 2028

The Longleaf Landscape Stewardship Fund Grant, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), provides funding for projects aimed at restoring and conserving longleaf pine and bottomland hardwood forests. With approximately $30 million available for 2024, grants range from $250,000 to $3,000,000. This initiative, supported by various federal and private entities, emphasizes the importance of ecological preservation and sustainable land management practices.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

The Pat Santucci Education Fund, managed by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, supports initiatives that enhance public education and assist educators, especially for the physically and mentally challenged, within six counties in South Mississippi. Non-profit organizations that improve the quality of life for local citizens are encouraged to apply. However, funding is not available for capital projects, operating endowments, political activities, individuals, or religious activities.

The GCCF: Anthony Dartez Endowment Fund Grant supports non-profit organizations enhancing the quality of life for South Mississippi citizens. Established in 1995 in memory of Anthony Dartez, it provides funding for training and educational services for the physically and mentally challenged. With a mission to increase philanthropy, the Gulf Coast Community Foundation has distributed over $90 million to various charitable causes since its inception in 1989, benefiting local grassroots organizations.

The Penn National Gaming Foundation Grants support various community initiatives across North America, emphasizing education, health services, and cultural affairs. Launched post-Hurricane Katrina, the foundation aids local nonprofits, enhancing community development, public safety, and veteran support. The grants cater to organizations that address the needs of children, senior citizens, and disadvantaged populations, ensuring a broad impact in areas where Penn National Gaming operates. This commitment reflects the foundation's dedication to uplifting communities and fostering resilience.

The Brinker International Charitable Giving Program focuses on giving back to communities through support for kids, hunger, and education. Organizations eligible for funding must be 501c(3) non-profits and submit requests at least six weeks prior to events. The program does not support individuals, political or religious organizations, or explicit discrimination policies. Funding is provided through monetary donations or in-kind contributions like dining certificates.

Harold and Mary W. Perlman Scholarship Fund

The Harold and Mary Perlman Scholarship Fund was established in November 2006 in memory of Harold and Mary Perlman. Mr. and Mrs. Perlman were both educators along the Mississippi Gulf Coast. The scholarship will provide assistance for college, junior college, or graduate school students who plan to attend or are currently attending William Carey College, The University of Southern Mississippi, or any campus of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College. The applicant should have an overall grade point average of at least 3.0 (based on a 4.0 scale). The individual must have family residency in Harrison, Hancock, Jackson or Stone County and provide evidence of financial need. The applicant must participate in extracurricular and/or community activities. Three references are required.

Career Women’s Club Scholarship Fund

The Career Women’s Club Scholarship Fund was established in January 1996 to provide scholarship assistance to a post-traditional student anticipating a career track curriculum. Post-traditional students are typically aged 25 and older and have taken time off from pursuing higher education due to other commitments, such as caring for family and/or holding full-time jobs. The applicant must have been a resident of Harrison, Hancock, Jackson, Stone or George County for at least three years, and must provide evidence of financial need. Applicant must attend any campus of Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and may be a current student at MGCCC in good standing.

Tides Foundation

Tides is a partner for justice in the social sector, working closely with doers and donors to build the power of historically excluded groups who face systemic barriers. We provide fiscal sponsorship, donor advised funds, impact investing, and a variety of grantmaking solutions to advance social justice and equity. 

Through Tides Foundation, we partner with individuals and families, foundations, corporations, and social change leaders to design and deliver social impact initiatives that shift decision-making power back to the communities we serve. Our mission is our North Star — and a beacon for those who share our commitment to social justice. Together, we work to shift resources and power to communities historically denied both, so they can create a just and equitable future.

Voter Mobilization & Civic Innovation Fund

This fund is designed for organizations that are deeply rooted in community, testing bold or emerging strategies, and able to adapt quickly to changing on-the-ground conditions. The Southern Voter Mobilization & Innovation Fund is a 12-36 month, election-cycle investment designed to support organizations that are: 

• Closest to communities facing the most barriers to political participation
• Testing bold, creative, or unproven civic engagement strategies
• Shifting power to local groups participating in civic engagement
• Responding rapidly to on-the-ground conditions during the 2026 midterms 

Tier 1: SPLC Priority Counties  

Vote Your Voice is most interested in boosting turnout amongst communities historically denied voting access. It has identified the following counties as priorities where turnout among sub-demographic groups is below the state-wide average (especially Black men). We intentionally did not include some counties in major metros areas because of our desire to increase voter engagement activity in other parts of the states.  

The Caesars Foundation supports community-focused organizations through monetary and in-kind donations, prioritizing strategic areas like social equity, climate action, and mental health. Eligible applicants include IRS-recognized nonprofits and educational institutions operating within the U.S. Requests must align with these focus areas to enhance community impact. Organizations that discriminate or operate outside the U.S. are ineligible. By fostering collaboration, the foundation aims to uplift vulnerable populations and promote sustainable practices.

The CenterPoint Energy Foundation aims to enhance community vitality through grants supporting affordable housing, environmental education, and workforce development. Focusing on low- to moderate-income populations, the Foundation prioritizes innovative programs that foster community connections and educational opportunities. By investing in both community vitality and education, they strive to create vibrant neighborhoods and empower individuals with the skills needed for success in today's workforce. Their commitment extends across Indiana, Minnesota, Ohio, and Texas.

The Emeril Lagasse Foundation offers Community Grants aimed at supporting 501c3 non-profit organizations that focus on culinary, nutrition, and arts education, with an emphasis on life skills development. Grants are available to organizations in communities where the foundation operates, including Greater New Orleans, Austin, and Southern California. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity and align with the foundation's vision of empowering youth to reach their full potential.

The John T. & Lois "Sonny" Velkas Child Welfare Fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance the welfare of children in Hancock and Harrison counties. It supports community service, child welfare, education and youth programs, and health and wellness initiatives, aiming for impactful partnerships. Organizations are encouraged to align their proposals with the fund's goals, while noting that lobbying, fundraising events, and administrative costs are ineligible for funding. The fund seeks to foster meaningful community impacts.

The Jack A. & Gertrude W. Wilson Animal Welfare Fund, established by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, supports local animal welfare programs in Mississippi. It provides grants to public charities that focus on the welfare of companion animals. Eligible organizations must be located in specific counties and can apply for funding for various programs, including spay and neuter initiatives and community education efforts. Grants are limited to 8% for administrative costs.

The Leo W. Seal Innovative Teacher Award, administered by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, recognizes educators in select Mississippi counties for their innovative teaching projects. Grants of up to $2,000 are awarded to teachers who demonstrate creativity and leadership in enhancing student learning. Eligible applicants are public or private school educators in areas including Forrest, Hancock, and Harrison counties. This initiative aims to support impactful classroom projects that benefit students and improve teaching effectiveness.

The Coast Electric Community Trust Operation Round Up Grant, managed by the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, provides funding for charitable and educational purposes in Hancock, Harrison, and Pearl River counties. Grants of up to $10,000 are available to organizations that align with the Cooperative’s mission. This initiative supports community service, economic development, education, and environmental efforts, enhancing the quality of life for residents in South Mississippi.

Academy Sports + Outdoors, a leading sporting goods retailer, supports community initiatives by providing donations to registered 501(c)(3) organizations. Their focus is on promoting safety and responsibility in sports and outdoor activities. Proposals must foster community engagement and must not be affiliated with religious or political groups. Events should take place in areas with Academy stores, ensuring a positive local impact while encouraging active lifestyles and connection among community members.

Volunteer Challenge Grants

Each year, CVS Health colleagues volunteer thousands of hours at nonprofit organizations in their communities. To help our colleagues lend even more support to the causes they care about, the CVS Health Foundation offers grants for volunteer service. Funded through the Foundation, our Volunteer Challenge Grant program supports nonprofit organizations where our colleagues donate their time, with grants ranging from $150 to $3,000. The more hours our colleagues give — starting with just 10 logged hours — the more support the nonprofit of their choice can receive from the Foundation.

Volunteer Challenge Grants are awarded on behalf of individuals who volunteer 10, 25 or 100 or more hours of service, to teams that volunteer more than 50 hours of service, and to both individuals and teams who fundraise for a charitable run, walk or ride event.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

Food as Medicine Initiative

The Food as Medicine Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to address food insecurity as a critical driver of health outcomes for uninsured and medically underserved patients. Research continues to demonstrate the strong connection between food insecurity and poor health, including increased risk of chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and certain cancers. Through this initiative, NAFC will provide $20,000 grants to member free and charitable clinics to implement or expand food insecurity screening and patient-centered interventions that improve access to healthy food and nutrition education as measured by the US Household Food Security Module or Hunger Vital Signs and patient education focused on food as medicine for eligible patients in order to increase the percentage of patients with improved food security scores within one year of project implementation.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Initiative

The Medication Therapy Management (MTM) Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to improve medication access, adherence, and patient understanding among uninsured and medically underserved populations. Individuals without health insurance often face significant barriers to obtaining prescription medications and receiving the counseling necessary to manage chronic conditions effectively. Through this initiative, NAFC will provide $30,000 grants to member free and charitable clinics and pharmacies to establish or expand Medication Therapy Management programs aligned with recommendations from the American Pharmacists Association. Funding will support activities such as staff certification in MTM, development of standardized protocols, and patient education to help individuals better understand their medications, manage side effects, and support overall treatment plans. By strengthening pharmacist-led care and improving communication between providers and patients, this initiative seeks to enhance medication adherence, improve chronic disease management, and advance better health outcomes for vulnerable patient populations.

NAFC Open Grant/Product Donation Applications

The National Association of Free and Charitable Clinics (NAFC) is the only nonprofit 501c(3) organization whose mission is solely focused on the issues and needs of the medically underserved throughout the nation and the more than 1,400 Free and Charitable Clinics that serve them. The NAFC has earned the Platinum Seal of Transparency from GuideStar and a 4-Star rating from Charity Navigator. Founded in 2001 and headquartered near Washington, D.C., the NAFC is working to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality healthcare and strives to be a national voice promoting quality healthcare for all. For more information about the NAFC, including how to become a member, please visit https://www.nafcclinics.org.

Healthcare Access Initiative

The Healthcare Access Initiative, supported by the McKesson Foundation and administered by the NAFC, aims to expand access to essential healthcare services for uninsured and medically underserved individuals. Free and charitable clinics and pharmacies play a critical role in ensuring that patients who fall outside traditional healthcare systems can receive timely, high-quality care. However, many clinics face barriers related to staffing, care coordination, technology, and patient outreach that limit their ability to meet growing community needs. Through this initiative, NAFC will provide $20,000 grants to member clinics and pharmacies to strengthen programs that increase access to primary care, specialty services, and preventive care. Funding will support innovative and practical approaches that reduce barriers to care, improve patient engagement, and expand the capacity of clinics to serve vulnerable populations.