Best Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Grants

The JTMF Foundation Grant focuses on improving the lives of individuals in need, particularly in the Pacific Northwest. By partnering with organizations addressing immediate needs and long-term challenges, the foundation supports children, older adults, veterans, and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Guided by Catholic values, JTMF aims to empower communities while seeking innovative solutions to societal issues. Organizations that align with these focus areas are encouraged to connect, fostering a collaborative effort towards meaningful impact.

The Murdoch Center Foundation Scholarship provides up to four $1,500 scholarships for the 2025-2026 academic year to students in 25 counties of Central North Carolina. This scholarship is particularly aimed at those intending to serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Applicants must be full-time students or graduates with a GPA of 2.5 or higher, have relevant volunteer experience, and submit required documentation, including acceptance letters and transcripts.

The Woodmont Christian Church Outreach Ministry Grant aims to support organizations that serve those in need within the community. With a mission to grow disciples of Christ, the church allocates over 22% of its budget to non-profits, assisting more than 50 organizations. The grant focuses on addressing various needs such as food, shelter, health, education, and support for vulnerable populations, embodying the church's commitment to service and outreach.

The David and Jacquie Clark Family Fund, established in 2017, aims to support individuals with special needs and their families through grants to nonprofits. With a focus on Ohio organizations, the fund seeks to ensure equitable opportunities for these individuals, fostering their success and well-being. Since its inception, the fund has provided assistance to over 30 nonprofits across the U.S., enhancing programs that promote learning and growth outside traditional educational settings.

The AWS Foundation Accessible Communities Fund Grant supports inclusive programs for individuals with disabilities in Noble County. Organizations can apply for grants up to $10,000 to create impactful projects that promote self-determination and integration. The Community Foundation of Noble County emphasizes collaboration and community involvement to address local needs and enhance quality of life. This initiative aligns with their mission to foster positive change and empowerment for all residents.

The Children's Guild Foundation Grant supports non-profit organizations in Western New York that cater to children with special needs. The Foundation, operational for over a century, focuses on funding impactful programs addressing developmental, medical, intellectual, behavioral, and mental health challenges. By forming partnerships and advocating for systemic change, the Foundation aims to enhance the lives of these children and their families, ensuring their needs are met effectively and efficiently.

The Lott-Conlon Foundation, established in 1991 from a merger of two charitable organizations, aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals with physical and mental disabilities in Northwest Ohio. The Foundation offers supplemental funding for projects that directly benefit the ability-challenged community, focusing on capital improvements and specific programs that align with its mission. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations serving this demographic.

The Community Fund Ohio grant program provides financial support to individuals with disabilities living in Ohio and to nonprofit organizations serving this community. Applications can be submitted anytime, with biannual reviews culminating on June 30 and December 15. Grants are designated to meet specific needs related to disabilities and enhance community access. Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply, especially during the first quarter for summer camp funding, with decisions made within 45 days after submission.

The Community Fund Ohio - Individual Grant provides financial support to Ohio residents with disabilities and nonprofits serving them. This program offers two types of grants: the Special Needs Grant with Financial Hardship, which assists those receiving SSI or Medicaid, and the Special Needs Grant for those not receiving these benefits. Applications are accepted year-round, with quarterly deadlines for review, aimed at enhancing community access and addressing specific disability-related needs.

The Training Program in Neurodevelopmental Disabilities at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Research Institute offers advanced training for individuals pursuing careers in neuroscience and neurodevelopmental research. Established in 1998, it emphasizes the understanding of disabilities linked to chromosomal defects and trauma. Trainees engage in hands-on research, develop critical skills, and collaborate with esteemed scientists, aiming to become leaders in their field. The program actively encourages applications from underrepresented minority groups to foster diversity in scientific research.

The ASF Family Fund Grant, offered by the Angelman Syndrome Foundation, provides crucial financial assistance to families of individuals with Angelman syndrome. This rare neuro-genetic disorder affects approximately 500,000 people globally. The fund aims to enhance the quality of life for affected individuals, allowing caregivers to apply for up to $5,000 to cover essential needs. Limitations include restrictions on certain expenses and prior grant awards. This initiative aims to support families through education and necessary resources.

Notice of Funds Available (RFP): Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

DSP Workforce Expansion in Excellence Grant

(F) providing training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education and rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of, an individual with developmental disabilities.

Independence: People with I/DD will have tools and skills needed to lead self-determined lives.

By expanding pipelines into the DSP field and transportation options annually, people with I/IDD will have valuable support to live the life they want.

• Create new, and expand existing, pipelines into the field of I/DD.
• Development of methods to increase the number and training of DSPs.
• Determine methods to increase the retention of DSPs

Notice of Funds Available (RFP): Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

RightFit Resources: Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Access Initiative

(7) (4) ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SERVICE.—The term ‘‘assistive technology service’’ means any service that directly assists an individual with a developmental disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. Such term includes— (E) providing training or technical assistance for an individual with a developmental disability, or, where appropriate, a family member, guardian, advocate, or authorized representative of an individual with a developmental disability;

People with I/DD and their family members will have access to services and resources so they can participate fully in their communities

Increase the availability of and access to essential resources and services annually for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.

Notice of Funds Available (RFP): Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

Confidence in Action: Self-Defense Training for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities

individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have competencies, capabilities, and personal goals that should be recognized, supported, and encouraged, and any assistance to such individuals should be provided in an individualized manner, consistent with the unique strengths, resources, priorities, concerns, abilities, and capabilities of such

People with I/DD will have tools and skills needed to lead self-determined lives.

By 2032, increase tools and skills available to people with I/DD to lead self-determined lives.

This initiative empowers individuals with developmental disabilities by providing a customized self-defense program that prioritizes safety, independence, and self-confidence. By equipping participants with practical, real-world skills, the program not only reduces vulnerability but also enhances personal agency and resilience.

Through a focus on inclusion and empowerment, the initiative strengthens community connections, supports physical and emotional well-being, and offers families a greater sense of security. Ultimately, it aims to establish a scalable, statewide model that fosters long-term safety, personal development, and meaningful community integration for people with developmental disabilities.

Notice of Funds Available (RFP): Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council

12EC06QU26: Executive Committee Discretionary Fund

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council wishes to support one-time initiatives, not otherwise included in the state plan. These grants are intended to address the needs of people with intellectual or other developmental disabilities and their families – specifically those traditionally un/underserved and are limited to $5000 dollars or less.

Activities must include programming targeting at least one DD Council State Plan goal. These goals are:

• People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are provided services and supports by direct support professionals that are knowledgeable, trained and supported.
• All children, youth, and students with intellectual/developmental disabilities, aged birth to 21 years, will receive individualized, evidence-based supports and services in inclusive settings that will help them attain their maximum potential, including extra-curricular activities.
• Provide a broad range of leadership development opportunities for people with developmental disabilities, their family members and allies. Offer a variety of opportunities to develop the skills needed to become leaders in the disability movement.
• People with disabilities and their families will have increased access to services that promote leadership, accessibility, safety, independence, outreach, equality, inclusion, health, work opportunities, and community.

*Un/Underserved means people with developmental disabilities from:

• Racial and ethnic minority backgrounds
• Disadvantaged people (those living in poverty)
• People who use English as a second language
• Individuals in underserved geographic areas (rural areas and urban areas)
• Other groups within the population of people with DD
• People who required technology to participate in and contribute to community life

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the right to direct their lives and services. This means they are in control of their own lives and make decisions about the services and supports they get, with help if they want it.

The DDA wants everyone to be able to live, love, learn, work, play in the community, and go after their hopes, dreams and goals. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and other community members help the DDA with this work. We support people to receive services based on what they need to reach their goals. The DDA believes supports and services must be person-centered, flexible, and focused on the needs and choices of each person and family. 

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) funds employment, day, residential and support services for people with developmental disabilities. The DDA offers services to both children and adults. You can apply at any age.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration's Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program serves children living at home with their family and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities living in their own home in the community who are not receiving any support services from the DDA. The LISS program's goal is to ensure that children and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities live happy, healthy, independent lives while being integrated into their communities across their lifespan. Below are just a few highlights:

• It is flexible to meet the needs of children as they grow and adults as they mature across their lifespan. And;
• Provides up to $1000 to assist eligible children and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities with purchasing eligible services and/or items to address their needs. And;
• Enhances or improves the quality of life, for eligible children and adults with developmental and /or intellectual disabilities as well as promotes independence and community integration.

In 2020, the Department of Disability and Aging (DDA) established the Division of Program Innovation to advance forward‑thinking strategies that strengthen the Department’s mission to empower, support, and enhance the lives of people with disabilities and older Tennesseans by promoting independence, inclusion, and lifelong health. The Division operates through a people-centered, provider-driven, and program-based approach.

DDA is pleased to announce the availability of one-time grants for up to $20,000 to fund projects that develop innovative approaches aligned with the Department’s mission. Proposals should be forward‑thinking, practical, and scalable. Applicants are encouraged to incorporate new, emerging, or existing Enabling Technology (ET) solutions used in novel or expanded ways. A strong emphasis should be placed on increasing independence for individuals with disabilities and/or older adults aged 60 and over—whether at home, in the workplace, and/or within their community.

Developmental Disabilities Community Advocacy Coalition

The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) is accepting proposals for the Developmental Disabilities Community Advocacy Coalition (DD-CAC). The budget for this project is $98,000 per year for two years. It will have an opportunity to be extended on a yearly basis through September 2031.

The contractor will provide coordination, facilitation and capacity building support for the DD-CAC so members can work together to develop a community driven policy agenda, strengthen leadership pathways, expand participation and engage in effective advocacy. The contractor will support coalition operations, member engagement, communication tools, leadership development, policy agenda creation and year-round community action activities. This work will emphasize accessibility, equity and meaningful participation of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

Accepting applications for affordable multifamily rental projects — IDD funding available

What funding is available?

The Washington State Department of Commerce (Commerce) is soliciting applications for new multifamily rental affordable housing projects seeking capital funding from Washington State’s Housing Trust Fund (HTF), administered by the Multifamily Housing Unit (MHU).

This Notice of Funding Availability and Solicitation (NOFA) is intended for applicants seeking to undertake activities resulting in an increase of affordable housing stock in Washington State, or to preserve existing affordable housing stock through rehabilitation.

MHU intends to award $$21,892,625 made available by the Washington State Legislature.

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Best Buddies Grant Program

Program Description

The purpose of the Best Buddies grant program is to provide support in creating opportunities for one-to-one friendships, integrated employment, and leadership development for Texas middle school and high school students with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).

Texas Education Agency

The Texas Education Agency is the state agency that oversees primary and secondary public education. It is headed by the commissioner of education. The Texas Education Agency improves outcomes for all public school students in the state by providing leadership, guidance, and support to school systems.

The Division of Governance Interventions supports TEA’s mission and vision by providing exceptional leadership, guidance, and support to school system leadership teams and governing boards. The division collaborates with external field support agents appointed by the TEA Commissioner of Education to build sustainable systems aligned to core TEA initiatives, so that the school system thrives after the release of agency intervention. 

Unified Champion Schools Grant

Program Description

The Unified Champion Schools grant provides funding to support statewide Unified Sports, comprehensive early child development to adult transition programs with data-based health, social, leadership, transition, and athletic programs for students with intellectual disabilities.

The intent of the grant program is to expand the reach of the Special Olympics Unified Champions project. This project uses sports as a catalyst for social inclusion that extends beyond the playing field and into classrooms and communities to promote long-term success of students with intellectual disabilities.

The Texas Unified Champion Schools (UCS) program emphasizes three core components: Inclusive Youth Leadership, Unified Sports & Activities, and Whole School Engagement. Authentic social inclusion is the overall project goal. With awarded funds, the grantee will expand the number of campuses that are able to participate in the program.

Community Foundation of Wabash County

Since its creation in 1954, the Community Foundation has grown and continually adapted its priorities to meet the ever-changing needs of the community. Through these changes, challenges, and opportunities to grow as both a leader and provider, the Community Foundation has remained true to its mission and commitment to Wabash County citizens.

Our Scholarships

The Community Foundation of Wabash County offers a wide variety of post-secondary education scholarships to traditional, non-traditional, and graduate students. With nearly 70 different scholarship endowments created through the generosity of our donors, many students are eligible to apply.  

Wabash County Society for Crippled Children & Adults Scholarship Endowment

Though the organization no longer exists, the Wabash County Society for Crippled Children and Adults lives on in this scholarship endowment. Scholarships are awarded to students in the county who have a passion for working with intellectually and/or physically disabled children and adults and who plan to obtain a college degree that supports a career in this field.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Clark Family Mental Health and Disability Scholarship

Barbara and Tom Clark have been blessed with good health, four children, grandchildren, and a comfortable lifestyle. They come from modest backgrounds with parents who provided them with educational opportunities and strong work ethics, which has enabled them to be in a position to share their good fortune with others. Their youngest child, born with Down Syndrome, has been the beneficiary of many services provided by agencies and health systems serving the developmentally disabled. With their help, she has grown into a fine young woman.

Both Barbara and Tom have been closely involved with agencies serving the disadvantaged and have personally witnessed the skills and dedication of those who have chosen this career. This scholarship was established to assist individuals dedicated to serving in the field of developmental disabilities or mental health with their advanced educational pursuits. Through this scholarship, the Clarks desire to help these individuals with the educational requirements to improve their skills in serving those in need.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide financial support for individuals working in or planning to work in the fields of developmental disabilities or behavioral health within the eight-county area surrounding Rochester (Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties) who wish to pursue a master’s degree in their field. The intent of this scholarship is to elevate the state of practice and increase the number of individuals serving in the fields of developmental disabilities and behavioral health.

Award Details

• Number of recipients and award amounts vary. The amount awarded will be based on the student’s actual cost of attendance, financial need, and receipt of other available grants and financial resources. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Awards may be used for tuition, books, fees, and other graduate level educational expenses.
• The scholarship is a one-time award; however, students may reapply in future years and receive a maximum of four awards during a consecutive six-year period.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.