Best Hillsborough County Grants for Nonprofits in Florida

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.

Nonprofit owners of designated local landmarks in Hillsborough County, Florida can receive US $1,050 - US $17,500 to support exterior historic preservation and restoration projects. Hillsborough County Florida supports work such as foundation repairs, roofing, structural stabilization, and related architectural or engineering services through this matching grant, which requires a 100% cash or in-kind match.

Nonprofit organizations and private entities in Hillsborough County, Florida can receive reimbursement funding for historic preservation, rehabilitation, and heritage tourism projects, with awards up to US $250,000 on a 1:1 match basis. Hillsborough County Florida provides this reimbursement grant for work on historic structures, compatible additions, site improvements, and architectural heritage tourism initiatives.

The DeBartolo Family Foundation is dedicated to uplifting underserved communities in the Tampa Bay area through educational scholarships, grassroots support, and financial assistance programs. Over the past two decades, they have made significant contributions to local youth, veterans, and organizations, exemplifying their commitment to community enrichment. Their initiatives, such as the Spirit of Humanity Award, recognize and honor those making a difference. This foundation invites organizations aligned with their mission to apply for Community Grants.

The Mabel and Ellsworth Simmons Charitable Foundation, established in 1998, focuses on enhancing the welfare of youth, families, and seniors in Hillsborough County, Florida, particularly in the South Shore community. They support charitable and educational organizations that align with their mission. The Foundation operates with a Board of Directors made up of the Simmons family and accepts applications year-round, meeting quarterly to review requests. This commitment fosters community development and support.

The CNL Charitable Foundation Grants, initiated by CNL Financial Group founder Jim Seneff, aim to enhance community well-being in Central Florida. These grants support 501(c)(3) charities and government institutions, focusing on education, leadership and entrepreneurship, arts and culture, and homelessness and poverty. With a commitment to community transformation, CNL prioritizes organizations that foster broad funding and engage CNL associates, reflecting a dedication to sustainable and impactful philanthropic efforts.

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.

Small 501(c)(3) nonprofits expanding access to healthcare or promoting economic mobility in Hillsborough County, Florida can receive up to US $20,000 in flexible operating support over two years. Grants from Allegany Franciscan Ministries prioritize organizations serving and led by BIPOC, LGBTQ+, disabled, or immigrant communities and aligned with Catholic Social Teaching.

Tampa Bay Rays In-Kind Donation Requests

The purpose of our donation program is to assist organizations in raising necessary funds for their respective causes. Should your request be approved, you will receive all donation items within two weeks of your event date.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations improving health, wellness, and basic needs in marginalized communities in Hillsborough County, Florida can access funding through Allegany Franciscan Ministries. Grants up to US $10,000 support short-term program or general operating needs for organizations directly affiliated with the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany, Allegany Franciscan Associates, or Trinity Health.

The Thakkar Family Foundation, a private organization, is committed to supporting individuals and organizations in academics, medical, athletics, and the arts within Highlands County, Florida, Tampa Bay, and Charlotte, North Carolina. Founded by the Thakkar family, the foundation emphasizes approachability, inspiration, and investment in community-driven initiatives. Through their grants, they aim to foster a sense of family among recipients, encouraging collaboration and support in various community endeavors.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

The Lightning Community Hero program honors grassroots heroes making a positive impact in the Tampa Bay community. Established in 2011, it has awarded $50,000 grants to selected heroes, benefiting various charities. With 634 heroes celebrated and over $34M distributed, the program inspires community involvement and showcases the diverse contributions of individuals. Nominations are open to those aged 13 and older, encouraging participation in making a difference through volunteerism and philanthropy.

Nonprofit and for-profit organizations hosting community-focused events in Hillsborough County, Florida can seek sponsorship support to positively engage local residents. Grants from TD Charitable Foundation help Hillsborough County, Florida community services and environmental organizations build awareness of TD Bank while offering public events that support the community and provide participation opportunities for bank colleagues.

The PRO 2026-06 Mental Health Wellness Uniting Grant aims to promote mental health wellness for families and youth in Hillsborough County. Approved by the Children's Board of Hillsborough County, this grant focuses on funding services that enhance behavioral support, resource navigation, and social connections. It targets parents of children aged 0-18 and youth aged 11-18, emphasizing collaboration and measurable outcomes. Organizations with expertise in mental health are encouraged to apply.

Nonprofit organizations in Hillsborough County, Florida can apply for Children’s Board Foundation’s PRO 2026-07 Water Safety Leading Grant to deliver direct water safety services for children and families. Funding supports swimming lessons, caregiver education, lifeguard training, safety equipment, and public water safety campaigns that advance child health, safety, and family support outcomes.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in Hillsborough County, Florida and eight neighboring counties can apply for Rays Baseball Foundation’s Community Fund Grant, awarding US $5,000 to enhance existing community-based programs. Funding supports youth empowerment, education, and critical community needs, including children’s health, mental health, disabilities, and child welfare services.

Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation Grant

The Crown Automotive Charities/Hawkins Family Foundation supports a wide range of non-profit initiatives, including healthcare, animal welfare, education, veterans' services, the arts, community and economic development, housing, and special needs. The Foundation primarily funds organizations in the communities where they operate: Chattanooga, Tennessee, Dublin/Columbus, Ohio, and the Tampa Bay area in Florida.

After an application is submitted, the review process usually takes four to six weeks. However, depending on the specifics of the request or if additional information is needed, the process may take longer.

There are two types of Applications: Grants; and Sponsorships.

Sponsorship Application

This is for requesting support for fundraising events or initiatives that include public visibility, recognition, or promotional opportunities (e.g., galas, golf tournaments, charity walks, benefit dinners). Sponsorships are typically event-based and may include logo placement or other marketing benefits.

Franklin's Friends offers Animal Welfare Grants to support local nonprofits and government agencies in Central Florida. Our mission emphasizes shelter and rescue, spay and neuter, and community education. We aim to assist organizations that can demonstrate financial responsibility and align with our mission. Eligible applicants must be local 501(c)(3) entities or government agencies, ensuring funds are used for the intended purposes to continue vital animal welfare efforts.

Hillsborough County, Florida nonprofits serving children, youth, families in poverty, or the elderly can access funding through the Broadrick Family Foundation for local, grassroots, fiscally responsible programs. Grants may support mentoring, children’s health, pediatric cancer research, scholarships, arts education, mental health, disability services, and other efforts that make a lasting difference for at-risk children and those in need.

International Paper Grants focus on community engagement, emphasizing education, hunger relief, health & wellness, and disaster relief. They support nonprofit organizations that demonstrate good financial standing and effective management. Eligible organizations must operate in areas where International Paper has facilities. The foundation prioritizes local needs, particularly critical and environmental issues, while encouraging employee involvement. Ineligible entities include private foundations and those without a local presence. Applications are accepted through mid-September in the U.S. and Canada.

The Jean Griswold Foundation

The Jean Griswold Foundation (JGF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Caregivers through educational opportunities and scholarships. 

Our Mission

The mission of the Jean Griswold Foundation is to support Caregivers by providing educational scholarships* to enable them to further their training, enhance their careers, and better assist the clients they serve.

By offering educational scholarships*, our Foundation will not only make a positive impact on the Caregivers themselves, but also the clients they assist and the home healthcare agencies where they are employed, as well as help advance the overarching home-care industry.

Scholarships will be paid directly to the federally accredited educational institutions of the winning Scholars’ choosing.

Empowering Caregivers Through Education

The Jean Griswold Foundation Scholarship Program awards scholarships to deserving Caregivers who wish to further their education in a care-related field. Applicants do not have to be associated with Griswold in any way, and the funds will be paid directly to the institution where the caregiver will be receiving education.  

Our Winter 2026 Scholarship Application period is now open! Applications will be accepted until 11:59pm ET August 31, 2026. Join our email list to get the first notice of all Scholarship happenings.  

Where would we be without Caregivers? 

Their selflessness is astounding, yet they are often overlooked and underappreciated. 

The Jean Griswold Foundation is dedicated to supporting Caregivers, the backbone of the care industry. We provide educational scholarships so Care Professionals can further their training, enhance their skills, elevate their careers, and better assist the people they serve.

Debartolo Family Foundation

The Debartolo Family Foundation was founded in 2001 with one goal in mind: To channel the same level of care, compassion and dedication that has allowed the DeBartolo family to find success in real estate, sports, and other ventures, into efforts that help serve the underserved communities of Tampa Bay.

For nearly two decades, we have strengthened the community by helping youth, veterans, animals, and local grassroots organizations that share our mission and values. The Foundation annually awards scholarships to students, provides back to school grants to local teachers, adopts Bay Area families during the holidays, and three times each year presents the Spirit of Humanity Award – a $25,000 donation that honors the most outstanding local philanthropic outreach programs. Since 2002, the DeBartolo Family Foundation has given nearly $17 million to strengthen Tampa Bay by bringing people together through its passion for giving back.

Spirit of Humanity Award

The DeBartolo Family Foundation’s Spirit of Humanity Award honors local nonprofit organizations that impact the Tampa Bay community in a meaningful way. Recipients of this award create unity, demonstrate hard work, and extend their outreach by helping people in need to overcome obstacles that are beyond their control. Since 2002, 60+ recipients have been recognized with the $25,000 Spirit of Humanity Award, awarded three times annually.

If you believe your organization, or an organization that you support, would be a candidate for this award, please submit the nomination form. 

Hillsborough County, Florida 501(c)(3) nonprofits advancing economic opportunity or affordable housing can access funding through Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Neighborhood Builders Program. Grants support income creation, workforce readiness, small business resiliency, and stable housing, paired with a two-year leadership development program for the organization’s CEO and an emerging leader.

The Community Foundation Tampa Bay offers a Common Scholarship application allowing students to apply for over 30 scholarship awards through a single submission. This opportunity is available for those pursuing post-secondary education, including degrees and certifications at accredited institutions. Scholarships can be applied to the Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027 academic terms, ensuring broad support for various educational paths.

2025 Urban & Community Forestry Natural Disaster and Recovery Supplement

The scope of this program is designed to improve and reestablish urban forests in 56 peninsular Florida counties that were negatively impacted by Hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton. These efforts will emphasize not just tree planting but also pruning and efforts to enhance urban forest resiliency through strong planning methods. The primary purpose is to not just replace lost canopy, but to ensure that the urban forest is more resilient to future storms, enhancing the likelihood of long-term recovery. The State of Florida anticipates an allocation of $1,500,000 to applicants through this funding opportunity.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.