Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

About Us

Vision & History

The Community Health Endowment invests in health-related projects and programs and convenes the community around important health issues.

What We Fund

The Community Health Endowment supports local organizations working to make Lincoln the healthiest city in the nation. Every grant is rooted in community expertise, and designed to create lasting change.

Funding

CHE values projects that demonstrate deep impact, leverage additional funds, address disparities, and build partnerships.

Community Health Endowment Funding Priorities 2026-2028:

The CHE Board of Trustees used local data (which can be found here) to determine the following set of funding priorities.

The Knight Foundation Advised Fund supports innovative projects that enhance democracy and community engagement in Columbia, SC. With grant amounts typically not exceeding $75,000, it focuses on revitalizing downtown areas and riverfront development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) charities or similar entities serving Columbia or Richland County. The foundation prioritizes civic engagement, smart design, and the arts to foster inclusive public life, while avoiding funding for debt reduction, capital campaigns, or projects with discriminatory practices.

The Inclement Weather Surge Capacity Grant is designed to support Homeless Service Providers in offering temporary emergency shelter beds during severe weather conditions. With an annual budget of $250,000, the City of Spokane seeks effective strategies to ensure safety by activating at least 10 beds in response to extreme temperatures or poor air quality. This funding aims to enhance existing programs and infrastructure rather than establish new shelters, promoting community collaboration to meet urgent sheltering needs.

Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation

Recognizing the growing importance of outdoor recreation to Utah’s economy and quality of life, the Utah State Legislature established the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation in 2022. As part of the Utah Department of Natural Resources, the division unites the nation’s first Office of Outdoor Recreation with key state programs, including Utah’s Boating Program, Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) Program, and outdoor recreation grants and planning. We also work collaboratively with DNR's Division of Law Enforcement Rangers.

Dedicated to fostering a healthy and active lifestyle for all Utahns, the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation focuses on four key areas: expanding recreational access, promoting safety and education, ensuring responsible stewardship and sustainable visitation, and driving economic growth through outdoor recreation.

Youth Engagement Grants

The Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) and Outdoor Classroom Grants provide high-quality, outdoor-focused learning experiences to youth ages 6-18 in Utah. This funding aims to teach youth the physical skills that can make outdoor recreation part of a healthy and active lifestyle. UCORE complements the state’s Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Initiative and hopes to provide more opportunities so no child is left inside.

The Youth Engagement Grants include the Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) Grants and the Outdoor Classroom Grants. These two grants provide much needed funding for schools, cities, counties, tribes and non-profits to fund programing as well as outdoor learning spaces.The goals of the grants are to:

• Empower Youth
• Connect Students with Nature
• Teach New Skills
• Foster Stewardship

Projects applying for UCORE or Outdoor Classroom funds should tie into one or more activities included in the Every Kid Outdoors (EKO) Adventure Challenge, which is a year-long effort to provide free, outdoor opportunities to families, schools and after-school programs.  

UCORE and The Outdoor Classroom grant will have two unique applications.

Utah Children’s Outdoor Recreation and Education (UCORE) Grants

Activities Eligible for UCORE

Nature Discovery; Outdoor Adventures; Trail Activities; Water Sports; Winter Sports.

Skill building for some activities is best begun in a controlled environment before youth are ready to practice their skills in a natural or outdoor environment. For example, it may be necessary to teach basic skills for horseback riding in an enclosed corral or rock climbing in a climbing gym before moving the activity into the natural environment. A program is eligible as long as skill building progresses and ends with youth in nature.

The Leola Osborn Trust Grant provides essential support for mentally disabled and underprivileged children and young adults in Tonkawa, Oklahoma. Established in 1968, the Trust offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, awarding 1-2 grants annually to charitable organizations that assist individuals under the age of 22. Eligible applicants must be located within 10 miles of Tonkawa, ensuring the local community benefits from this vital funding.

The Green Acres Nonprofit Grant in New Jersey supports tax-exempt organizations aiming to enhance public access to open space for recreation and conservation. This grant fosters the development of outdoor recreational facilities and the stewardship of natural resources. Eligible nonprofits can receive matching funds to acquire land, develop parks, or manage conservation projects, thus ensuring a lasting impact on community well-being and environmental sustainability.

The Willamette Health Council offers Community Event Sponsorships to enhance local initiatives in the Marion-Polk region. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,500. Organizations may receive one sponsorship per calendar year, provided their events align with the Council's mission to improve community health. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, with specific deadlines for review. This funding supports efforts to tackle health disparities and promote equity in healthcare access.

New Mexico Health Care Authority

The New Mexico Health Care Authority is a new agency that launched on July 1, 2024. This groundbreaking development is the result of merging the New Mexico Human Services Department, the State Employee Benefits team from the General Services Department, and the Developmental Disabilities Supports Division and Division of Health Improvement from the New Mexico Department of Health, and the Health Care Affordability Fund from the Office of Superintendent of Insurance.

This marks a significant milestone for the people of New Mexico as this new agency will work toward our vision of providing health care and safety net services to all New Mexicans.

The New Mexico Health Care Authority will leverage purchasing power, partnerships and data analytics to create innovative policies and models of comprehensive coverage for New Mexicans.

Graduate Medical Expansion Grant

The New Mexico Health Care Authority (HCA) will award $1 million in grant funding to establish or expand residency programs and support primary care workforce beginning July 1, 2026. Award amounts will depend upon the number of applications received, overall funding, and availability of funds.

Funding will be awarded to applications that align with three key strategies:

• Establish new or expanding existing primary care GME residency programs by creating new first-year residency positions;
• Sustain existing primary care residency programs that maintain access to care in underserved areas or with underserved populations; and
• Develop new primary care workforce training pathways (nursing, physician assistant, or dental residency programs).

This funding opportunity is supported through the Primary Care Physician Training Expansion as authorized in House Bill 480.

Stormwater MS4 Municipal Assistance Grant Program

This program, introduced in 2017, enables groups of Massachusetts municipalities to expand their efforts to meet requirements for the 2016 Small Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) General Permits, and to reduce stormwater pollution through coordinated partnerships that emphasize resource sharing.

Total Funding Available:

• Up to $250,000

Estimated Grant Amounts:

• $20,000 to $75,000 per applicant

Since 2012, officials of Massachusetts cities and towns have come together and formed regional stormwater coalitions to share resources, training, and best management practices related to stormwater management. Those regional coalitions also formed a statewide coalition to meet those same goals. In April 2016, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and MassDEP issued a renewal of the Small MS4 General Permit (2016 MS4 Permit) for Massachusetts, which became effective on July 1, 2018. On November 22, 2024, the EPA prepared a renewal of the 2016 MS4 Permit for public comment which carries forward and builds upon previous MS4 Permits. The public comment period ran from November 22, 2024 through May 21, 2025. Finalization of the permit is ongoing and will not be completed prior to the issuance of this RFR. Since the 2016 MS4 Permit is administratively continued until the USEPA issues the renewal permit, projects to meet the 2016 MS4 Permit requirements will be prioritized.

MassDEP seeks to help facilitate municipal and regional collaboration on improved stormwater management and permit compliance through the MS4 Municipal Assistance Grant Program. 

The Research and Development Grant Program by the Ohio Water Development Authority (OWDA) supports innovative projects in wastewater, water management, solid waste, and energy resource development. Eligible applicants include local government agencies and higher education institutions. Priority is given to proposals that enhance water quality, technology, equity, and resilience. Grants are contingent upon available funding, and applicants are advised to review the Participation Agreement before applying.

The Craig S. Harrison Conservation Fund Grants support seabird conservation efforts in developing countries bordering the Pacific Ocean. Established by the Pacific Seabird Group, this fund addresses funding gaps for essential conservation projects. Eligible applicants include citizens from these nations, focusing on activities that enhance seabird restoration and expertise. Preference is given to local initiatives, ensuring sustainable conservation practices and community involvement. The fund aims to empower local conservationists and address critical seabird conservation needs.

The Boren Scholarship offers funding for U.S. undergraduate students to study critical languages abroad, enhancing their linguistic and cultural competencies. The program prioritizes students committed to public service in national security roles and supports immersive experiences in diverse regions, excluding Western Europe, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand. Awards vary based on the duration of study, with amounts reaching up to $25,000 for longer programs. This initiative fosters a deeper understanding of global cultures, vital for U.S. interests.

The BCFO Research Grants support ornithological research and bird surveys in British Columbia. These grants are aimed at fostering connections between researchers and the British Columbia Field Ornithologists (BCFO). Applicants must be BCFO members and request funding for planned projects that promote bird study, knowledge dissemination, and conservation efforts. Projects must be reported in BCFO publications, with funding requests up to $3000 considered, while larger requests require AGM approval.

The Kentucky Agricultural Development Fund (KADF) offers the County Agricultural Investment Program (CAIP) to support agricultural producers in enhancing their farm operations. This program provides cost-share assistance up to $5,000 for various agricultural enterprises, including livestock, horticulture, and energy efficiency initiatives. CAIP aims to improve the diversity and sustainability of farming practices across Kentucky, benefiting producers through financial support for innovative agricultural practices.

The T32 Postdoctoral Fellowship in Mental Health Services Research is a two-year program supported by the National Institute of Mental Health. It trains emerging researchers in health systems research focusing on mental health and suicide prevention. The fellowship emphasizes mentorship, research methods, and professional development, preparing fellows to secure independent funding. Candidates with PhDs, MDs, or equivalent degrees, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds, are encouraged to apply. More information is available through the program's website.

The Harris and Eliza Kempner Fund's Core Grants Program focuses on Empowered Youth, aiming to address significant challenges faced by Galveston's youth. With a commitment to enhancing mental health support, promoting civic engagement, and ensuring equitable access to resources, the fund seeks to empower young individuals, particularly those from marginalized backgrounds. Through targeted funding, the Kempner Fund strives to create a thriving community where every young person can reach their full potential.

The Substance Abuse Recovery Grant aims to combat substance abuse in collaboration with local entities like the City of Huntington and County Health Department. It supports prevention, education, intervention, and recovery initiatives, including Moral Reconation Therapy and transportation for recovery homes. This grant is available to non-profits and government organizations focused on helping individuals affected by substance abuse. By fostering a supportive environment, the grant seeks to improve community health and reduce substance-related issues.

The Earth Rising Foundation Grants provide financial support ranging from $200 to $20,000 for grassroots climate initiatives. The foundation emphasizes empowering Indigenous communities, advocating for sustainable agricultural practices, and addressing social justice issues linked to climate change. By fostering youth involvement and supporting innovative projects, the foundation aims to create a vision for a sustainable future that respects both people and the planet. Applications must be submitted through a US-based nonprofit organization.

Washington State Department of Agriculture

WSDA has been serving agriculture and the public for more than 100 years. Through service, regulation, and advocacy, we support keeping agriculture viable and vital in Washington State, while protecting consumers, public health, and the environment.

Farm to School Purchasing Grants

Washington State Department of Agriculture’s (WSDA) Farm to School Program exists to facilitate increased use of Washington grown food by schools.

The purpose of the Farm to School Purchasing grants is to increase the purchase, use, and promotion of foods that are grown, raised, caught, or foraged in Washington by child nutrition programs with an emphasis on procurement from small and direct marketing farms and food businesses, including but not limited to, socially disadvantaged, beginning, limited resource, women and veteran farmers and ranchers.

Grant funds are intended to support schools and early learning services in sourcing and preparing high quality, nutritious, culturally relevant foods for their meal programs.WSDA Farm to School Purchasing Grants are reimbursement grants. Grants are awarded based on a competitive application and review process.

There are two application types: School Meals and Childcare Meals

Eligible applicants may apply for one or more application type.

*New for the 2025-2027 Biennium*

There is no option to apply for a purchasing grant solely for Summer Meal programs. School Meals applicants who operate SFSP or SSO may include summer meals as part of their School Meals application. Award amounts are detailed in the Maximum Eligible Awards section of the grant guidelines.

Eligible Expenses

Farm to School Purchasing Grant funds must be used to support the grant purpose of increasing use of Washington grown, raised, caught, or foraged foods. 

Farm to school purchasing may:

• Increase scratch cooking practices with the use of more ingredients in fresh and raw forms.
• Create opportunities for meal programs to develop culturally relevant meals for students.
• Introduce students and staff to new and unfamiliar foods with supportive training, education, and taste-testing.
• Expand opportunities for Washington’s small farm and food producers to access new markets.

The Farm to School Purchasing Grant may be used to cover non-food costs in addition to direct food purchases. Non-food costs must directly support the project plan’s efforts to purchase and promote foods grown, raised, or caught in Washington State.

Awardees may use up to 25% of their total awarded grant funds on eligible non-food costs. Awardees must spend at least 75% of the awarded grant funds on food purchases.

See the list below for examples of eligible expenses. These lists are not exhaustive, there may be eligible expenses not included in the list of examples.

Indirect costs are not permitted as part of the project budget for this program. Administrative costs, such as fiscal office staff time, are permitted as a non-food cost in lieu of indirect costs.

Examples of Eligible Food Costs

Grantees may purchase foods grown, raised, harvested, and packaged or processed in Washington from various sources including, but not limited to:

• School & Childcare gardens
• Washington farms
• Food hubs or farmer cooperatives
• Food Processors
• Regional produce or broadline distributors

The following products are examples of foods that are eligible for reimbursement with the Farm to School Purchasing Grant:

• Processed or packaged foods** with a primary ingredient that is 100% grown, raised, caught, or foraged in Washington State- where the primary ingredient is the largest ingredient by weight or volume.
  • For example, yogurt containing 100% milk from cows raised in Washington or pizza dough containing 100% flour from wheat grown in Washington. 

See more about eligible expenses from the grant guidelines.

The Dr. John M. Anderson Excellence in Mental Health Award recognizes outstanding mental health professionals in the St. Louis area who significantly contribute to reducing stigma and promoting mental health in the African American community. This award, presented by the St. Louis County Children’s Service Fund, honors individuals who demonstrate a commitment to improving access to mental health services and advocate for the well-being of children and families. Nominations are evaluated through a rigorous scoring process.

About Us

DCYF is a cabinet-level agency that works to support children, youth, and families. It oversees the state’s child welfare, juvenile rehabilitation, and early care and education programs.

What We Do

Our work is focused on prevention and better outcomes for children, youth, and families.

DCYF manages state-funded programs that focus on early learning, prevention, and early intervention. Our goal is to support the social, emotional, and physical well-being of children and youth. We also work with state and local partners, Tribes, and community groups across Washington state. Together, we focus on child safety, supporting families during difficult times, and helping them build skills to succeed.

DCYF oversees the state’s juvenile rehabilitation facilities and delivers treatment, provides resources, and develops skills through juvenile rehabilitation so young people can plan for their future and reenter their communities.

The agency provides oversight for licensed child care providers, group care, and licensed caregivers. 

Perinatal Mental Health Programs

The purpose of this funding opportunity is to support communities interested in collaborative efforts meant to increase community-wide awareness and develop resources to support the mental health of families in the perinatal period, which may include the period immediately prior to pregnancy through 1-2 years postpartum.

Funding Focus

We invite proposals from organizations interested in increasing community awareness of perinatal mental health and creating resources for parents within their community. Community may be defined by the applicant. It can be based on a geographic area (e.g., city or county) or a shared experience relevant to perinatal mental health (e.g., families transitioning out of NICU).

The ultimate goals of this work are to reduce or eliminate negative impacts of Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs); support all caregivers, families, and children in their optimal development; prevent child abuse and neglect; and promote healthy family development.

The Perinatal Mental Health work is a unique program that aims to influence change on a community level as well as provide support directly to parents experiencing perinatal mental health complications.

Successful applicants will demonstrate their ability to bring together a group of diverse stakeholders to form a local Perinatal Mental Health Task Force to address perinatal mental health in their community. Stakeholders invited to join the Task Force must include representatives from outside the funded organization and may include, but are not limited to: public health providers, medical providers, mental health providers, childcare providers, community health organizations, parent educators, home visitors, early learning organizations, other social services providers, or parents. The Task Forces that communities convene should not have a clinical focus; rather, they should be aimed at community representatives and parents. Task Force members are expected to support community organizations.

The Massachusetts Food Ventures Program (MFVP) aims to enhance access to healthy, affordable food and bolster economic opportunities for low to moderate income communities. By providing grants for food ventures in areas like Gateway Cities and rural regions, MFVP supports local agricultural enterprises and aligns with the Massachusetts Local Food Action Plan. Key investment areas include food processing infrastructure and improved distribution systems, ensuring equitable access to fresh local food and promoting healthy eating.

The Friends of the Island Fox Research Grant offers $7,000 to support research aimed at enhancing scientific understanding of island fox biology, health, behavior, and ecology. This funding is part of the Friends of the Island Fox's mission to ensure the long-term survival of this unique species. Applications are welcomed from researchers dedicated to advancing knowledge in these critical areas.

The SEH Grants in Herpetology will be available in 2025, offering two grants of up to EUR 5,000 each. These grants aim to support conservation projects for amphibians and reptiles in Europe and the Mediterranean. The SEH Conservation Committee evaluates applications based on conservation value, project feasibility, budget, and scientific justification. Young researchers are particularly encouraged to apply, enhancing the future of herpetological conservation efforts.

The Senior Citizen Services Grants, established by Senior Citizens Services, Inc. at the Pinellas Community Foundation, aim to support wellness programs for residents aged 55 and older in Pinellas County. Eligible organizations can request funding for services such as mental health counseling, adult day care, and caregiver support. Emphasizing competitive funding, these grants prioritize projects that directly benefit the senior population, enhancing their quality of life through various wellness initiatives.

ADECA Healthy Food Financing Program

The Healthy Food Financing Program was approved in 2015 by the Alabama Legislature with the intent of ensuring that healthy foods at affordable prices are available to Alabamians. The grants are designed to help businesses and non-profit organizations with projects that can supply fresh fruits, vegetables and other grocery items to neighborhoods and communities with limited access to grocery stores.

ADECA awards projects annually based on competition to food banks, food pantries, farmers markets, schools, and grocery stores.