Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

The Catalyze Challenge Grant, managed by Catalyze, is an opportunity for organizations to receive funding for innovative solutions that enhance career-connected learning for youth aged 11-22. With over $4 million available in Round 5, finalists can secure up to $300,000 to implement their ideas. The grant seeks proposals that empower underserved learners through hands-on experiences and meaningful employer partnerships, ultimately impacting over 65,000 young people across the U.S.

Winning Home Grants are offered by Winning Home, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to supporting disadvantaged children and their families. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations aligned with this mission. Grants prioritize specific projects and require efficient use of funds. Capital projects, endowments, and routine social services are typically ineligible. Winning Home encourages applications that benefit children in Middlesex County, Massachusetts, providing essential services and support to those in need.

The Aquatic Weed Control Program in North Carolina aims to assist local governments and residents in managing noxious aquatic weed infestations. By promoting education and partnerships, the program seeks to mitigate economic and environmental impacts from these invasive species. It offers resources for both public and private lands, including technical assistance and financial support for effective management strategies. Through these efforts, the program strives to enhance the health of North Carolina's waterways.

The Alternative Water Supply Grant, supported by Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, allocates $230 million since Fiscal Year 2019-20 to enhance Florida's water systems. This funding emphasizes regional projects addressing critical needs and maximizing benefits, such as reclaimed water, aquifer recharge, and water conservation. Local cooperators must collaborate with their Water Management District to propose projects, which, upon approval, will be submitted to the DEP for funding consideration.

The Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program, administered by the Delaware State Housing Authority, supports crucial street outreach activities aimed at assisting the homeless. This funding enables organizations to provide essential services such as case management, emergency health care, and transportation. The program also helps improve emergency shelters and funds homelessness prevention initiatives. By prioritizing effective outreach, ESG aims to reduce homelessness and enhance the quality of services available to vulnerable populations in Delaware.

The Clean Water Workforce Capacity Development (CWWCD) Block Grant, administered by Watersheds United Vermont, aims to enhance the capabilities of clean water organizations in Vermont. This funding promotes equitable access for under-resourced entities to engage in essential clean water projects. The grant supports activities that foster community engagement, streamline administrative processes, and cultivate a diverse workforce in clean water project management, ultimately leading to increased effectiveness and impact in local clean water initiatives.

The BIE Internship Funding for STEM Students, offered by the Native Forward Scholars Fund, provides financial assistance to Native students for approved internships related to STEM. This initiative helps cover costs such as travel, living expenses, and daily commuting, facilitating valuable professional experiences. By supporting these students, the program aims to enhance Native representation in STEM fields and empower future leaders within their communities, contributing positively to society's growth and diversity.

The Myron Stratton Home Grant aims to honor Winfield Scott Stratton's legacy by supporting organizations that assist underserved populations, including the elderly, children, and those unable to work due to illness. The grant prioritizes innovative projects that enhance existing services or create new programs to meet community needs in El Paso and Teller counties. Collaborative efforts that prevent service duplication are especially encouraged, ensuring that resources effectively reach those in need.

Department for Local Government

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The Department for Local Government (DLG), under the Office of the Governor, provides financial help in the way of grant and loan assistance, as well as advising local governments in matters of budget, personnel and other issues relevant to those entities.​

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program

The Department for Local Government (DLG) administers approximately $26 million annually from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program.

The CDBG program provides assistance to communities for use in revitalizing neighborhoods, expanding affordable housing and economic opportunities, providing infrastructure and/or improving community facilities and services. With the participation of their citizens, communities can devote these funds to a wide range of activities that best serve their own particular development priorities.

All project activities must meet at least one of three national objectives:

• Benefit to low and moderate income persons
• Prevention or elimination of slums or blight
• Meeting particularly urgent community development needs​

Funds are designated for various program areas including Community Projects, Community Emergency Relief Fund, Economic Development, Housing, Public Facilities, and Public Services (Recovery Kentucky).​

Public Facilities

​​​​​The Public Facilities Branch provides funding to primarily develop Kentucky's water and wastewater systems. As part of the Commonwealth's allocations from the CDBG program, these projects have been allocated an estimate of $8,834,662 with designated maximum amounts for treatment plants and lines/pumps and tanks of CDBG funding per community. Self-help grants (maximum amount of $300,000 per project) are funded under this branch.

The Northern Arizona Community Health Grant aims to enhance the health and well-being of adolescents in northern Arizona. By focusing on health access, behavioral health, and chronic conditions, the grant supports initiatives for youth aged 0-19. With a funding preference of $50,000 or more, projects promoting equitable healthcare access and healthy behaviors are encouraged. The Health First Foundation seeks innovative collaborations that address community health needs, fostering a comprehensive approach to improve outcomes for young people.

The Desert Tortoise Council invites proposals for conservation projects aimed at enhancing desert tortoise populations and habitats. With a funding opportunity of $9,000, the RFP emphasizes the importance of in situ conservation efforts such as habitat restoration and predator control. Projects must be completed within the current year in the Mojave Desert region. Applicants are required to submit detailed proposals, including budgets and project descriptions, and must report outcomes post-completion.

The Pittsburgh Foundation's Economic Mobility Grants: Entrepreneurship aim to support low-income families and communities by enhancing access to entrepreneurship opportunities. Established in 1945, the foundation prioritizes funding for organizations that serve communities disproportionately affected by poverty. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $150,000, with a focus on interventions that promote financial security and economic growth through business ownership and career advancement.

The Norm Winn Memorial Conservation Grant, managed by the Keta Legacy Foundation, supports conservation, preservation, and restoration projects in Alaska, Montana, Oregon, Idaho, and Eastern Washington. This competitive grant encourages non-profit organizations to apply for up to $25,000 to implement innovative environmental initiatives. Applicants must demonstrate project feasibility and significant community impact, while ensuring their proposals align with the Foundation's commitment to supporting diverse conservation efforts.

The Reinberger Foundation offers education grants to support underserved individuals in Northeast and Central Ohio. Priority is given to organizations with recent funding history. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits serving low-income populations, including schools, adult education, and workforce development programs. The foundation focuses on Cuyahoga and Franklin Counties, with specific considerations for grant requests. Organizations should discuss their proposals with the foundation before submitting applications.

The Habitat Protection and Restoration grant by the Great Lakes Fisheries Trust aims to fund projects that protect and restore vital fish habitats in the Great Lakes region. Priorities include enhancing fish passage, supporting sustainable reproduction, and utilizing decision-support tools for project identification. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental organizations, focusing on projects within the Lake Michigan basin. This grant emphasizes community support and long-term management, ensuring impactful conservation efforts.

The NIDA Mentored Clinical Scientist Development Program Award aims to foster research independence in clinician scientists by providing intensive supervised research training and career development in the field of substance use and substance use disorder. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization, ensuring timely submission for this essential funding opportunity.

The Richard and Mary Myerly Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Washington County, MD, supports low-income students pursuing careers in photography or fine arts at accredited institutions. Established in memory of Richard and Mary Myerly, this scholarship invites applications from students in Washington County and surrounding areas, promoting educational opportunities and honoring community values. With over 100 scholarships available, this initiative aims to empower the next generation of artists and photographers.

The GSF Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations that enhance the lives of children and families in need. Applications must be submitted by a current GSF Associate who nominates the organization and its project. Since 2002, the foundation has funded over 600 organizations nationwide. It emphasizes personal involvement and contributions from associates, focusing on essential needs such as education tools, food, and shoes for children. Grants are reviewed at local and national meetings.

The MMUF Dissertation Grant, funded by the Mellon Foundation, supports doctoral candidates who are alumni of the Mellon Mays Undergraduate Fellowship. This grant aids scholars in completing their dissertations, ensuring diverse perspectives are represented in academia. With up to $30,000 for a 12-month period, the program encourages candidates to secure additional funding from their institutions. The initiative aims to bolster access to education and foster understanding among varied backgrounds, ultimately enhancing the academic landscape.

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

New Jersey Heart and Stroke Grant

The New Jersey Heart and Stroke Grant works with partners to implement activities aimed at improving the prevention and management of cardiovascular disease in New Jersey. 

Award amounts will be based on the availability of federal funds and may be subject to change.

The Wetlands and Mountain Meadows Restoration program, funded by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, aims to restore wetlands and watershed ecosystems with a budget of up to $54 million. This initiative supports biodiversity, climate resilience, and public access while enhancing habitats as per the Natural and Working Lands Climate Smart Strategy. Projects are accepted on a rolling basis, emphasizing sustainable practices and cohabitation with wildlife, particularly beavers.

The Watershed Council Grant Program, managed by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE), invites proposals from watershed-based organizations to enhance organizational administration, conservation, and educational initiatives. With a total funding of $600,000 available, individual grants are capped at $40,000 for a 12-month period. Projects should focus on capacity building, water quality improvement, and community engagement to foster sustainable water resource management.

The Private Forest Accord Grant aims to fund projects that benefit various species covered under the anticipated Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP). This program prioritizes initiatives that restore habitats, eliminate threats, and enhance overall ecosystem health. Eligible projects can span multiple types, including implementation and stakeholder engagement, with funding requests typically starting at $50,000. The program emphasizes collaboration and effective strategies for the recovery of native salmon and trout species and other targeted wildlife.

The CDBGPF Design, Engineering, and Environmental Clearance (DEEC) Grant, administered by the Colorado Department of Local Affairs, supports local governments in enhancing community infrastructure. This grant assists eligible applicants with vital design, engineering, and environmental clearance activities for projects that benefit low to moderate income communities. Projects can include water systems, community centers, and more, aimed at fostering development and addressing urgent community needs.

The Cletus Vetter Memorial Scholarship Fund honors the legacy of Cletus Vetter, a dedicated farmer and conservationist. This $1,000 scholarship is awarded to a resident of Defiance County pursuing education in conservation, natural resources, or agriculture. It aims to inspire the next generation to appreciate and engage in vital resource conservation efforts, ensuring that Cletus's passion for nurturing the land continues through future advocates of sustainability.

Fatherhood Request for Proposal (RFP)

This application packet contains guidelines for submitting an application to ADCANP for a performance-based contract to provide opportunities to families with custodial fathers and mothers. Activities (training, workshops, conferences, counseling, etc.) should encourage and facilitate active parenting by non-custodial fathers/mothers. The goals are to increase the parents’ involvement in their children’s lives, provide employment training and skills, and increase child support payments/collection. Federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) funds for this competitive selection process are provided to ADCANP through a partnership with the Alabama Department of Human Resources (DHR).

The target population for Fatherhood Programs should include (but are not limited to) non-custodial and custodial mothers and fathers who:

• Are unemployed or underemployed (income less than 200% of the federal poverty level)
• Lack a high school diploma or GED
• Lack the skills to obtain gainful employment
• Males or females over the age of 18 with children
• Reside in the state of Alabama

The TANF funds available for these initiatives will address the following goals:

• To gain employment skills and certifications that will allow participants to secure employment
• that can provide for the family and promote self-sufficiency
• To find and retain suitable employment
• To improve awareness of participants’ roles in the lives of their child(ren)
• To establish high-quality, emotionally supportive relationships with their children
• To pay child support and provide other financial support for their child(ren)
• To support Re-Entry services for formerly incarcerated parents