Best Youth Sports Grants in New Jersey

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Lydia Collins deForest Charitable Trust, established in 2002, focuses on supporting organizations that aid the visually impaired, religious institutions aligned with the Episcopal Church, and services for the homeless or substance-dependent. Grants ranging from $25,000 to $50,000 are offered for impactful projects. Priority is given to organizations in New Jersey, particularly those enhancing capacity or making capital improvements. Applications must include a detailed budget and project outline.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Stone Foundation Grants in New Jersey focus on providing flexible and trust-based philanthropic support to 501c3 nonprofit organizations and community groups. Grant sizes range from $5,000 to $25,000, with first-time applicants typically receiving between $5,000 and $10,000. The foundation prioritizes projects addressing social and economic inequities, primarily serving Monmouth County and Wabanakiq, Maine. Organizations are encouraged to apply through an open application process, fostering community engagement and innovative solutions.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools across the US to implement the PLTW Gateway program for the first time. With total funding of $9,100, the grant covers participation fees and training registration costs. Schools, including public, private, and charter, are encouraged to apply, particularly those serving low-income and minority majority populations. This initiative aims to enhance educational pathways in STEM for diverse student groups.

The NJ Commission on Brain Injury Research Pilot Project Research Grant aims to accelerate research for effective interventions addressing traumatic brain injury disabilities. The New Jersey Department of Health's Community Health and Wellness Unit focuses on preventing chronic disease-related disabilities and enhancing community health. This grant invites principal investigators from New Jersey academic and research institutions to apply, fostering collaboration to improve health outcomes for high-burden populations across the state.

Unless noted otherwise in the scholarship description and criteria statement, applicants can attend accredited schools of their choice within the United States.

CFNJ scholarships awards vary. On average, awards range from $500 to $2,500. However, the award could be larger based on the number of qualified applicants and the parameters set by donors who have established the funds. 

Morristown Neighborhood House Scholarship

This scholarship is awarded to a graduating high school senior from Morristown or Morris Township who has an affiliation with Morristown Neighborhood House. Applicants must be be pursuing a postsecondary education at an accredited four-year, two-year, or nonprofit technical school (certificate program).

Columbia Bank Foundation

Since 1927, Columbia Bank has evolved alongside the communities and businesses we serve. What began as a single branch in Fair Lawn has grown into a regional bank serving New Jersey, Staten Island and Brooklyn. Throughout that growth, we have remained focused on providing the stability, convenience and service customers expect from a trusted financial partner. Today, we offer the strength and capabilities of a larger financial institution while continuing to provide the personal service and practical financial guidance that have long defined Columbia Bank.

Alongside Columbia Bank’s mission to serve the community, the Columbia Bank Foundation helps support local charitable causes and communities with grants on a sustained basis. Our goal is to make a difference in as many people’s lives as we can and to do our part to help make our communities better, stronger and safer.

Columbia Bank Foundation Micro Grants

The Columbia Bank Foundation is committed to serving the needs of its local communities. The Foundation actively seeks and focuses on innovative programs that provide a measurable impact in the communities that it serves.

Our Micro Grant Program allows organizations that meet one of our focus areas to apply for smaller grants under a streamlined application process. Applications under the Micro Grant Program will be accepted anytime throughout the year for $1,000 to $4,999. These are reviewed internally each month. Our Focus Areas:

• Housing Programs
• Community Investment and Economic Development Programs 
• Financial Literacy and Education 
• Health & Human Services
• Food Insecurity 
• Environmental Sustainability 
• The Arts

The NJ Commission on Brain Injury Research Fellowship Grant, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance research for interventions and cures related to traumatic brain injuries. This initiative focuses on improving the quality of life for affected individuals by addressing the leading causes of disabilities through community engagement and evidence-based strategies. The NJDOH's commitment to health promotion is essential in fostering healthier living across New Jersey.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

The Sustainable Jersey-PSE&G Partnership Program aims to enhance energy efficiency across New Jersey by providing support to municipalities, schools, and small businesses. This initiative, backed by the New Jersey Clean Energy Act, offers valuable resources and funding options to help eligible entities implement cost-effective energy solutions. By focusing on local needs, the program seeks to maximize both economic and environmental benefits, making energy efficiency accessible to all communities.

The NJCCR: Pilot Program Research Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to tackle priority areas related to the causes of cancer. This two-year grant focuses on research into genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors, as well as behavioral and socioeconomic aspects. It encourages innovative approaches to pain management and cancer health disparities, fostering collaboration among stakeholders to improve outcomes for high-burden communities in New Jersey.

The New Jersey Summer Expansion Project aims to enhance positive youth development for at-risk youth during summer months. This initiative provides funding up to $270,000 to community-based programs, allowing them to expand their services or add new components. With a focus on youth engaged with the justice system, the program seeks to create enriching opportunities when schools are closed, ensuring that young people have access to growth and learning experiences.

The Jewish Women’s Foundation of New Jersey (JWF) aims to uplift women and girls through collective grantmaking, enhancing community quality of life. The Spring Grant Cycle invites 501(c)3 organizations to submit Letters of Intent for funding programs aligned with JWF's mission. Focused on New Jersey counties, JWF prioritizes initiatives that address women's challenges and promote social change, rejecting grants for individuals or political purposes.

The HOME ARP Rental Production RFP aims to support the development of affordable housing for low-income households, including those experiencing homelessness. It encourages collaboration with local housing authorities for project-based rental assistance and offers operating cost support for HOME-ARP units. A maximum of 30% of the funded units may be reserved for low-income occupants, thereby promoting mixed-income housing solutions and fostering community stability.

The New Jersey Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. With $1,260,000 in funding, the program prioritizes support for underserved communities, including the economically disadvantaged and racial minorities. Grants of up to $45,000 will be awarded for projects focusing on essential services like crisis response, advocacy, and outreach, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable populations across New Jersey.

The NE-AIPG Angelo Tagliacozzo Memorial Geological Scholarship (ATMGS) supports junior and senior undergraduate geology students in the NE Section, honoring Angelo Tagliacozzo's legacy. Established in 1986, the scholarship aims to encourage young geologists to pursue careers in geological sciences. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in accredited programs, on track for required credit hours, and can only receive the scholarship once. This initiative fosters early engagement with AIPG, emphasizing professional affiliation and support for the next generation of geologists.

The NJCCR Predoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to attract and retain promising scientists focused on cancer research in New Jersey. Offering up to $100,000 for two years, these grants support innovative projects in cancer causes, prevention, and treatment. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legal residents, and enrolled in a relevant graduate program. This initiative promotes significant research contributions while addressing health disparities and enhancing community health outcomes in New Jersey.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant for schools to implement the PLTW Biomedical Science program for the 2026-2029 academic years. Eligible schools can receive up to $14,000 to cover participation fees and training costs. This grant encourages public, private, and charter schools across the U.S. to enhance their science curriculum, supporting students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Schools must commit to offering specific courses during the grant period to qualify for funding.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program in New Jersey, managed by the Arbor Day Foundation, encourages colleges and universities to enhance their green spaces. This initiative helps campuses achieve national recognition for their commitment to environmental stewardship by meeting specific standards, such as establishing a Campus Tree Advisory Committee and a Tree Care Plan. Participating institutions benefit from improved campus aesthetics, mental health support for students, and a greater understanding of environmental responsibility.

The NJCCR Postdoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to retain talented scientists dedicated to cancer research in New Jersey. These grants support innovative research projects with funding up to $200,000 for a maximum of two years. Applicants must be accepted for postdoctoral training under a qualified sponsor at a New Jersey research institution. This initiative is part of NJCCR's commitment to advancing cancer research and improving health outcomes in the state.

The Essential Foundation Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in communities served by Aqua and Peoples, supporting nonprofit organizations dedicated to environmental initiatives, education, and emergency services. With a strong commitment to corporate philanthropy and employee volunteerism, the foundation focuses on funding projects that promote community growth while ensuring compliance with nondiscrimination laws. This initiative reflects Essential Utilities' dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of over 5 million people across nine states.

The NJCCR Bridge Cancer Research Grants aim to support innovative cancer research projects in New Jersey with funding up to $200,000 for two years. Targeted at dedicated researchers facing temporary funding gaps, these grants promote advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Eligible applicants must hold full-time faculty positions. The NJCCR plays a crucial role in enhancing cancer research and addressing health disparities within the state.

The NJCBIR: Pilot Research Grant aims to foster innovative research to treat and cure traumatic brain injuries in New Jersey. It encourages experienced and new investigators to explore groundbreaking approaches in brain cell regeneration. Through funding, the program supports feasibility studies and other research methodologies, ultimately aiming to improve treatment outcomes for individuals affected by traumatic brain injuries. The initiative also includes establishing a central registry for tracking brain injury cases to enhance research and prevention strategies.

The NJCBIR Individual Research Grant aims to promote transformative research for treating traumatic brain injuries in New Jersey. With funding up to $150,000 annually, the grant encourages innovative projects focused on neural protection, repair, and regeneration. It invites interdisciplinary collaboration and aims to enhance clinical interventions, improve patient outcomes, and advance scientific knowledge in the field. This initiative is backed by the New Jersey Department of Health, ensuring impactful research to benefit the community.

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.