Best Grants for Preschools in Louisiana

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is responsible for managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources.

Mission Statement: To manage, conserve, and promote wise utilization of Louisiana’s renewable fish and wildlife resources and their supporting habitats through replenishment, protection, enhancement, research, development, and education for the social and economic benefit of current and future generations; to provide opportunities for knowledge of and use and enjoyment of these resources; and to promote a safe and healthy environment for the users of the resources.

Boating and Fishing Access Program

LDWF provides funding to local governmental entities (subrecipients) for the development and construction, renovation, or improvement of boating and/or fishing access facilities. Eligible projects include:

• Acquiring new land for facilities
• Building new facilities; and
• Acquiring, renovating, or improving existing facilities. 

Facilities include auxiliary structures necessary to ensure safe use of recreational boating access facilities. A broad range of access facilities and associated amenities can qualify for funding; however, they must provide benefits to recreational boaters and/or anglers and cannot restrict access to the general public. 

Funding is provided as a cost reimbursement. The subrecipient is responsible for covering the cost of the project and requesting reimbursement of up to 75% of the total project cost. A local governmental entity can also sponsor a project developed by the private sector if it provides a public benefit to recreational boaters and/or anglers.

Project Requirements

• Projects will not be considered unless the local sponsor provides evidence of land ownership or a lease agreement for the proposed area.
• Subrecipients must adhere to federal regulations outlined in 2 CFR 200, including all procurement requirements. Projects must adhere to Buy America Build America (BABA) regulations.
• Maintenance and land control of funded projects by the subrecipient will be required for 25 years for freshwater projects and 20 years for saltwater projects.
• If a project is selected, the subrecipient is responsible for acquiring a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) 404 Permit or clearance, a Louisiana Coastal Use Permit, if applicable, and all other applicable permits.
• Facilities must comply with Barrier-Free Design Regulations as set forth in the Rehabilitation Act as amended in the Americans with Disabilities Act. Design suggestions are provided in the Design Handbook for Recreational Boating and Fishing Facilities published by the States Organization for Boating Access.
• Income generated from the project can only be used for maintenance and operation of the project. The application must address the potential for income generation.
• If land value is used as match or if federal funding will be used to purchase property, an appraisal and review appraisal will be required. The appraisal must meet Yellow Book Standards and must be conducted no more than six months prior to the grant application.

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.

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.

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities 

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities acts as a steward and supporter of Louisiana’s diverse and vibrant culture and history.

To that end, we are dedicated to ensuring access to the humanities, offering and broadening pathways for a lifetime of learning for people of every generation and from every walk of life. We champion the humanities to enrich the lives of all Louisianans in all 64 parishes. 

Our Mission: The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities’ mission is to partner with communities, institutions, and individuals to explore Louisiana’s past, reflect on our present, and imagine our future.

Constitution Day Grants

Mini grants to institutions supporting existing or developing Constitution Day programming. 

The Health Equity Innovation Fund, managed by the Humana Foundation, provides seed funding to organizations aimed at reducing health disparities. By focusing on innovative solutions, the Fund supports interventions that improve emotional health and nutrition for underserved populations. Launched in October 2022, it prioritizes high-risk, high-reward projects that can lead to sustainable improvements in health equity across diverse communities.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Louisiana provides essential funding for rural communities to develop clean drinking water systems and efficient waste management solutions. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofits unable to secure commercial credit. Funds can be utilized for various projects such as water sourcing, sewage disposal, and storm water management, ensuring reliable services for households and businesses in need.

The Artist Creative Practice Grant by South Arts supports individual artists in various disciplines by funding professional development opportunities. This grant ensures that artists can access vital experiences that enhance their careers, covering up to 2/3 of the total costs with awards ranging from $500 to $3,000. By promoting artistic growth, South Arts aims to elevate the cultural landscape of the Southern United States and foster meaningful connections within communities.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Colleen Callahan Professional Development Award

Members are invited to apply for the Professional Development Grant offered by Southeastern Region of the Costume Society of America. Awards will be made at a minimum of $250 with the total award not to exceed $1000. Your project may be on any aspect of costume, any technical skill, or any administrative expertise which will further the mission and purposes of the Costume Society of America. The grant money may be applied to research, a course, workshop fees, or travel.

About

The Costume Society of America (CSA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization founded on March 23, 1973, and incorporated in the state of New York on September 12, 1973. CSA serves it members, and promotes its goals with national symposia and publications including the journal Dress and its monthly electronic newsletter CSA e-News.

The organization began forming regional groups in 1978. There are six regional groups in the United States and Canada, and one international group. Individual regions hold annual meetings, sponsor programs and publish newsletters.

Our Mission

The Costume Society of America fosters an understanding of appearance and dress practices of people across the globe through research, education, preservation, and design. Our network of members studies the past, examines the present, and anticipates the future of clothing and fashion.

Jim Liles Student Award

 The Jim Liles Student Award is intended to assist students who want to make presentations at a CSA Southeastern Region symposium. These presentations may be on any costume-related topic. The work should be well researched and may or may not be thesis, dissertation, course research project, independent study research, or senior project related. Up to TWO students whose papers are accepted will receive up to $1,000 each to cover travel and other related expenses. The Registration fee will be waived for all student presenters, regardless of whether they receive this award.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The Growing Healthy Kids Grant, funded by The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, aims to support community-based programs that enhance children's nutrition access and health education. With grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, this initiative focuses on hands-on programs that promote healthy habits among children and their families. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates, helping to ensure that the funds directly benefit local communities.

The Frost Foundation, established in 1959, aims to support educational, charitable, and religious initiatives. It prioritizes grant-making for organizations that foster creativity and self-reliance, particularly in New Mexico and Louisiana. The Foundation encourages innovative programs and collaborations that address urgent community needs. Eligible applicants must possess a 501(c)(3) status, ensuring they can effectively utilize funds to create positive change beyond traditional boundaries, while promoting alliances to maximize impact.

The Sprouting School Gardens Grant, provided by the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, supports school-based gardening and cooking programs to foster healthy eating habits in children. Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 help cover program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Eligible applicants include schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas served by Sprouts Farmers Market, promoting meaningful connections between local teams and school gardening initiatives.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Louisiana Agricultural Workforce Development Program supports businesses in establishing internship programs, fostering the next generation of agriculture professionals. This initiative provides financial assistance, reimbursing up to 50% of intern hiring costs, with a maximum award of $5,000. Eligible businesses include agricultural producers and related entities, while interns must be Louisiana students or beginning farmers. The program operates annually from July 1st to August 31st, promoting hands-on experience in the agriculture sector.

The Louisiana Forest Legacy Program aims to protect privately-owned forestlands through land acquisition and conservation easements, ensuring the sustainability of vital natural resources. This voluntary initiative, supported by the USDA Forest Service and the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry, helps maintain timber production, wildlife habitats, and community benefits while preventing forest fragmentation due to development. By engaging willing landowners, the program promotes responsible forestry practices and safeguards the ecological integrity of Louisiana's forests.

The Louisiana Forest Productivity Program offers financial assistance to landowners in Louisiana to establish and enhance timber crops. By supporting forestry practices, this program aims to improve productivity and offset costs associated with tree planting and management. Eligible participants must own at least 10 contiguous acres of suitable land and commit to maintaining the forestry usage for ten years. This initiative plays a vital role in promoting sustainable forestry and enhancing the state's agricultural landscape.

The Louisiana Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) Grants provide essential funding to rural fire departments, enhancing their capacity to combat wildfires. This 50/50 matching fund program aims to support departments recognized by local governing bodies, ensuring they have the necessary resources for firefighter safety and training. Eligible departments must meet specific criteria, including a minimum of 80% volunteer personnel and compliance with state regulations. The grants focus solely on wildland firefighting needs, excluding structural fire items.

The Wilson Foundation's Equip Grant, in collaboration with the Louisiana Alliance for Nonprofits, offers a comprehensive 12-month program aimed at enhancing nonprofit organizational capacity. This initiative includes weekly sessions focusing on key topics such as financial management, strategic partnerships, and effective communication. Participants will benefit from expert guidance and access to resources through Resilia, ensuring a deep and impactful learning experience designed to foster community impact and operational effectiveness.

About Us

Administering programs and enforcing regulations supporting agriculture and forestry

Volunteer Fire Assistance Grants

Get funding in rural areas to build firefighting capacity

Volunteer Fire Assistance (VFA) grants are available to assist rural fire departments in Louisiana. These grants:

• Address critical preparedness needs for firefighter safety
• Increase initial attack capability suppression efforts and training
• Protect state and private lands threatened by wildfire.

Definition: A rural volunteer fire department is defined as “an organized, not for profit, fire protection organization that provides service primarily to a community or city with a population of 10,000 or less or to a rural area, as defined by the Secretary of Agriculture, whose firefighting personnel is 80 percent or more volunteer, and that is recognized as a fire department by the laws of the State.” 16 U.S.C. 2106.

Louisiana Volunteer Fire Assistance - Wildland Fire Grant

This is a 50/50 matching fund program meant to assist rural fire departments in building firefighting capacity. Federal funds will pay up to 50% of approved program expenditures, with the local fire department paying at least 50% or more. Cost-share assistance WILL NOT exceed the awarded funds obligated for a qualified department.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Emerging Philanthropists of New Orleans (EPNO) program, under the Greater New Orleans Foundation, empowers community members to drive change through collaborative grantmaking. This six-month initiative connects emerging leaders with local nonprofits, fostering skills in grant review and decision-making. With a focus on Arts & Culture, Health, and Human Rights & Justice, EPNO supports organizations that uplift underrepresented communities while promoting civic engagement and philanthropy in the Greater New Orleans region.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Safety First Grant Program aims to enhance community safety across its 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $15,000, it supports organizations that provide safety services or promote safe behavior. This program reflects Norfolk Southern's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, empowering employees to engage locally. By investing in safety and workforce development, Norfolk Southern fosters thriving communities, demonstrating its dedication to social responsibility and community well-being.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The project titled 'Aquatic Fauna Response to Ecosystem Restoration in Southwest Florida' aims to assess the effects of the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP) on aquatic fauna. It will utilize a Monitoring and Assessment Plan (MAP) to evaluate responses of aquatic communities and inform future restoration efforts. This initiative is crucial for documenting CERP benefits and guiding further ecosystem restoration, ultimately benefiting the public by tracking progress in ecological recovery.

The Mary Reynolds Babcock Foundation supports nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty and promoting social justice in the South. It seeks organizations with strong ties to low-wealth communities, clear strategies for addressing systemic issues, and a long-term vision for change. Eligible applicants should demonstrate accountability, strategic networking, and a commitment to racial equity. The Foundation is open to innovative approaches and encourages submissions from groups aligned with its mission, fostering impactful community partnerships.

The Humana Foundation offers research grants by invitation only, focusing on health equity and barriers to healthy living. The foundation aims to support organizations that identify scalable solutions addressing emotional connections, nutrition, and chronic disease. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) charities and accredited educational institutions. The foundation prioritizes solution-driven research that benefits communities in Florida, Kentucky, Louisiana, and Texas, while adhering to strict anti-discrimination policies.