Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in Mississippi

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program aims to enhance community well-being through funding initiatives in arts, education, social services, and community improvement. The program prioritizes support for organizations that serve diverse populations, including children and low-income communities. Eligible entities must have 501(c)(3) status or equivalent nonprofit recognition. Applications should be submitted three months in advance, allowing ample time for review. Entergy focuses on projects that foster self-sufficiency and enrich local neighborhoods.

The MAC Underserved Initiative Grant Program aims to enhance access to quality arts programming across all 82 counties in Mississippi. By identifying underserved areas that lack recent grants or services, the Mississippi Arts Commission facilitates outreach and support for local arts initiatives. This program not only promotes cultural engagement but also fosters community development and collaboration among various organizations, ensuring that all citizens can participate in diverse artistic experiences.

The Mississippi Humanities Minigrants program, offered by the Mississippi Humanities Council, supports nonprofit organizations with grants of up to $2,500. Established to enhance public understanding of the humanities, the Council emphasizes accessibility for all Mississippians. Applications are accepted year-round, requiring submission at least four weeks before the proposed project begins. Eligible applicants include various nonprofit entities, educational institutions, and community organizations, while grants cannot be used for individual or for-profit projects.

The Phil Hardin Foundation Grant aims to enhance educational and life outcomes for children and youth in Mississippi, particularly in Meridian and Lauderdale County. The foundation prioritizes proposals that demonstrate a regional or statewide impact, focusing on areas like early childhood development, literacy, and equitable access to educational resources. It encourages collaboration among educational institutions and community organizations, fostering partnerships to improve educational quality and cultural enrichment across Mississippi.

South Arts, Inc. offers Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations to enhance the skills and knowledge of Southern arts entities. These grants aim to support operational stability and growth, focusing on organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less. Eligible applicants include a range of arts organizations within South Arts' nine-state service area. The program emphasizes first-time opportunities and requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match, ensuring a commitment to professional development in the arts.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Mississippi aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. This program prioritizes smaller funding requests, with no maximum limit on grant amounts. Funds can be used for various purposes including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development. Eligible applicants include rural public entities and nonprofit corporations, ensuring that the grants effectively enhance economic opportunities in rural areas.

The Volunteer and Civic Engagement Mini-Grants program, managed by Volunteer Mississippi, aims to support diverse projects promoting community service. Eligible organizations, including nonprofits and public entities, can apply for funding between $1,500 and $10,000. Projects may involve mentoring, social justice advocacy, environmental restoration, and literacy initiatives. Applications are accepted until August 7, 2025, or until funds are depleted, making it crucial for interested parties to act promptly.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

South Arts, Inc. is offering Accessibility Grants of up to $2,500 to nonprofit organizations in the Southeast to enhance accessibility in arts programs for individuals with disabilities. The grants aim to foster inclusivity by supporting projects that engage disabled artists and audiences. Organizations must be located within the South Arts Service region and focus on the arts. Priority will be given to new applicants and those serving BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, with a commitment to rural areas.

The Mississippi Humanities Council offers grants aimed at enhancing public engagement with the humanities. These grants support projects that foster community dialogue and participation, making humanities accessible to all Mississippians. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and educational institutions, while projects must be free and open to the public. Ineligible activities include those that involve for-profit entities or promote specific political views. This initiative emphasizes collaboration between humanities scholars and communities.

The Mississippi Humanities Oral History Grants support projects that document the experiences of Mississippians through oral history. Grants of $2,500 or less can be submitted anytime, while larger grants have deadlines in May and September. The Mississippi Humanities Council, a nonprofit organization, emphasizes accessibility and encourages grant recipients to collaborate with public archives for preservation. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and community groups, but individual and for-profit entities are excluded.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Mississippi support eligible communities in preparing for or recovering from emergencies that threaten safe drinking water. These grants can be used for water transmission lines, construction of new water sources, and other related needs. Open to state and local governments, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes, this program aims to ensure reliable access to clean water in rural areas, particularly after natural disasters.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Mississippi offers vital funding to enhance drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage for rural households and businesses. Eligible applicants include local governments, private nonprofits, and tribes facing challenges in securing commercial credit. Funds can be used for construction, legal fees, land acquisition, and other essential project costs. This program aims to ensure access to clean water and sanitation in underserved areas.

The Hancock Whitney Opportunity Grant, in collaboration with the Greater New Orleans Foundation, invites applications from eligible nonprofits starting October 7, 2025. This grant aims to enhance capacity building and sustainability for organizations focused on food insecurity, workforce development, and youth programs. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations serving low to moderate-income communities within Hancock Whitney's service areas, fostering impactful changes with AmeriCorps support.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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 Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

South Arts, Inc. offers Literary Arts Grants to support Southern independent publishers and small presses with funding up to $5,000. These grants aim to amplify contemporary literary arts and foster community engagement through projects like reading series and festivals. Eligible applicants must be based in the South Arts Region and demonstrate a commitment to advancing literary traditions. This initiative enhances access to the arts and promotes cultural vitality across the Southern states.

South Arts Inc. is offering Literary Arts Grants to support writers, independent publishers, and literary organizations focusing on contemporary literature in the Southern U.S. Grants of up to $5,000 will fund projects in poetry, fiction, and other genres. Eligible applicants must be full-time residents of the South Arts region. The initiative aims to amplify the literary traditions of the American South, fostering creativity and community engagement through diverse literary projects.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

Entergy’s Open Grants Program in Mississippi aims to enhance community well-being through support for arts, education, poverty solutions, and health initiatives. The program prioritizes requests from organizations with 501(c)(3) status and local projects that improve public access to the arts and promote self-sufficiency. Funding is not available for utility payments, political activities, or religious organizations. Preference is given to projects serving Entergy's customer areas, ensuring community-focused impact.