Best Small Grants for Nonprofits in Louisiana

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) and 509(a)(1)/(2) organizations working in education, human services, conservation, health, or cultural programs can receive US $2,000 - US $10,000 for general operating support, projects, or occasional capital needs. McGraw Foundation provides Louisiana nonprofits with small grants that may fit a wide range of community-focused initiatives.

Graduate students conducting research in drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance actionable solutions for current water industry challenges. Focused on water-related research, American Water Works Association invites applicants whose work may ultimately benefit communities and nonprofit initiatives in Louisiana and beyond.

Agricultural producers, non-industrial private forest owners, Tribes, and other land stewards in Louisiana can receive technical and financial help to address conservation needs on working lands. With a mission to improve natural resources, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides assistance for soil health, water and air quality, wildlife habitat, energy efficiency, and climate-smart agricultural practices.

Louisiana 501(c)(3) nonprofits and independent emergency response organizations can access funding through Union Pacific Foundation for safety, workforce development, community vitality, and environmental sustainability projects. Grants of US $5,000 - US $30,000 support direct services and capacity-building efforts in communities served by Union Pacific, with emphasis on diverse and underrepresented populations.

Nonprofit public charities, public education institutions, government entities, and qualified Canadian municipalities serving Weyerhaeuser communities in Louisiana can seek funding for community programs. Weyerhaeuser Giving Fund supports initiatives in areas like affordable housing, education and youth development, environmental stewardship, human services, civic and cultural growth, workforce development, and diversity, equity and inclusion, with grants of more than US $1,000.

Nonprofit organizations supporting women, children, and families with humanitarian aid, education, health care, or self-sufficiency programs in Louisiana can apply for funding up to US $750,000. The Father's Table Foundation prioritizes partners with a proven record who build resilience through employment assistance, homelessness services, child welfare, microfinance, and related community-strengthening initiatives.

Louisiana nonprofits and eligible educational or religious organizations providing community services can access funding and in-kind support through Caesars Foundation’s regional and property giving program. Louisiana organizations working on social equity, education, food security, climate action, housing, homelessness, workforce development, or mental health in eligible parishes may be considered for support benefiting local communities.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions conducting biomedical and health-related research, including those in Louisiana, can apply for NIH Academic Research Enhancement Awards supporting small-scale research projects and student research experiences. US Dept. of Health & Human Services: National Institutes of Health offers up to US $375,000 to institutions with limited prior NIH funding that award baccalaureate science degrees.

Early-career medical and health researchers at academic or research institutions in eligible low- and middle-income countries, including those with Louisiana affiliations, can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to support mentored clinical research careers. Grants from the National Institutes of Health provide approximately US $140,000 for three to five years of protected research time and career development.

Early-career research scientists in health-related fields at academic or research institutions in eligible low- or middle-income countries can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award from the National Institutes of Health; awards approximately US $140,000 for mentored career development and research. Louisiana-based nonprofits hosting or employing such investigators may be able to participate as U.S. mentors or partners.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations can seek funding for education-focused programs, youth initiatives, arts and culture, or community services in Louisiana and other U.S. regions. Focused on education and related enrichment, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust offers US $5,000 - US $20,000 grants, with a required letter of inquiry submitted online before full application.

Louisiana nonprofits and institutions hosting medical congresses, educational events, or similar initiatives can seek corporate sponsorship that provides Biogen Foundation with exhibit space, recognition, or marketing benefits. Funding may support programs focused on neurology and related areas such as Alzheimer’s, ALS, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and other neurological or immune system disorders.

Nonprofit 501(c) or 170(c) organizations in Louisiana working in economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services can receive matched donations through this program. Regions Bank provides small matching gifts up to Up to US $1,000 for contributions made by its recent retirees within five years of retirement.

Nonprofit 501(c) and 170(c) organizations in Louisiana working in economic and community development, education and workforce readiness, financial wellness, arts and culture, veterans, or disability services may be eligible for Regions Bank’s employee Matching Gifts Program. Gifts from full-time associates or recent retirees can be doubled when organizations fall within Regions’ footprint and mission priorities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental conservation, sustainable agriculture, healthy food access, or climate justice can seek general operating support through the Clif Family Foundation Open Call. Focused on grassroots, community-based efforts in the U.S., this program may benefit Louisiana nonprofits with small budgets advancing regenerative farming, food access, or pollution-free environments.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with $300,000–$10 million in revenue can seek project-specific funding to address adverse childhood experiences and promote protective experiences in Louisiana and other eligible states. Grants from AmeriHealth Caritas Foundation support community-led programs focused on children’s mental health, healing behaviors, health care access, family empowerment, and high-Medicaid communities, with awards of US $100,000 - US $150,000.

Private landowners and tribes in Louisiana restoring or enhancing forestland for endangered species habitat, biodiversity, or carbon storage can apply for the Healthy Forests Reserve Program from USDA’s Natural Resource Conservation Service. Support comes through easements, 30-year contracts, and 10-year cost-share agreements for approved conservation actions.

Free and charitable clinics in Louisiana that are NAFC members can apply for the NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund; awards US $30,000 - US $50,000 for launching or expanding clinical services. Funding can support programs like behavioral health, women’s health, telehealth, chronic disease management, mobile clinics, and other patient-centered care for underserved communities.

The Community Partners Grant Program, led by the Humana Foundation, aims to enhance community health by addressing social barriers and promoting equitable health outcomes. With a focus on Kentucky, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas, the program fosters connections through emotional support and nutritional education. It also provides disaster relief funding to ensure long-term recovery and preparedness. By collaborating with local organizations, this initiative helps individuals access essential services and resources, thereby improving their overall well-being.

Students pursuing natural resource–related degrees in Louisiana and other eligible areas can receive scholarship support for full-time study in fields like ecology, forestry, hydrology, and environmental education. With a mission to support higher education in environmental fields, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois funds the Soil and Water Stewardship Scholarship for future conservation professionals.

The OECD Conference Sponsorship aims to enhance scientific knowledge and provide essential information to influence policy decisions on sustainable resource use in food, agriculture, forestry, and fisheries. It supports international events that showcase innovative research and developments, inviting applications from scientists in these fields. The event sponsorship encourages collaboration among policymakers, industry, and academia, ensuring that research insights are effectively communicated and utilized in decision-making processes.

The RNRF Implementation/Collaboration Grants support innovative projects that enhance collaboration among stakeholders to address critical challenges in environmental, social, and economic systems. Offering up to $200,000 for initiatives lasting 12 months or more, these grants aim to implement evidence-based practices and facilitate multidisciplinary teamwork. Eligible applicants must be from 501c3 organizations in the U.S., ensuring alignment with RNRF's mission and focus areas, fostering sustainable and impactful outcomes.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

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.

The RESTORE Act Direct Component offers funding for construction and real property acquisition activities aimed at environmental restoration in the Gulf Coast region. Eligible projects include natural resources protection, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis as long as funds are available. This program seeks to mitigate damage from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill and enhance the ecological and economic resilience of affected areas.

The Wilson Foundation's Engage Grant aims to foster collaboration within the community, addressing critical needs through cooperative approaches. By enhancing financial stability, healthcare utilization, and successful reintegration for those returning from incarceration, the Foundation emphasizes long-term outcomes over short-term fixes. This shift in grant processes prioritizes collective efforts and seeks to build human capital, ensuring that support is directed towards sustainable solutions to systemic issues faced by vulnerable populations.

The RESTORE Act Direct Component provides funding for non-construction activities aimed at restoring and protecting the Gulf Coast's natural resources. Eligible projects include ecosystem restoration, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring timely support for initiatives that enhance local economies and ecological health. This grant is managed by the U.S. Department of the Treasury, emphasizing sustainable practices and community engagement.