Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

The Governor's Workforce Board

The Governor's Workforce Board (GWB) is the primary policy-making body on workforce development matters for the State of Rhode Island and has statutory responsibility and authority to plan, coordinate, fund, and evaluate education, employment, and training programs that increase the skills of the RI workers and address the workforce needs of RI businesses. The Board is housed at the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training.

Real Skills for Youth

The goal of Real Skills for Youth is to prepare youth for success in college and/or career through meaningful career exposure and exploration of potential career paths and their on-ramps, skill-building with an emphasis on essential and professional skills and supported work-based learning experiences that allow participants to apply learning in a real-world setting. 

Real Skills for Youth programs often provide youth with initial exposure to the world of work, whether through a paid work experience, hands-on exposure to new careers, and practicing essential skills.

In FY26, the GWB allocated $2.8 million to the program to support partnerships consisting of schools, youth-serving organizations, employers, and others to develop and implement high-quality work-based learning and career exploration activities. This program is part of Rhode Island’s larger effort called Prepare RI.

Real Skills for Youth Partners and Programs: Tri County Community Action Agency

What To Expect

• Paid Internship: Get help choosing a paid work experience with a real employer
• Choose Your Placement: Explore your skills and interests and then get matched them with a work-based learning site that fits with your goals.
• Skill Building: Work on workplace skills like building a resume, interviewing, learning about managing money and more.
• Mentorship: Work alongside experienced staff and learn what a real workday looks like. 

Career Pathways to Choose From

• Health Care 
• Business & Finance 
• Computer Science 
• Sustainable Energy 
• Education 
• Hospitality

Communities Served: Northern / Providence County and Southern / Washington County

The Active Allegheny Grant Program (AAGP) offers financial assistance to communities in Allegheny County to enhance bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure, promoting physical activity and connectivity to local destinations. With a maximum grant request of $50,000, the program supports projects aligned with the County’s transportation plans and the Live Well Allegheny campaign. Eligible applicants include municipalities and non-profits, with a required local match ranging from 0% to 20%. The program excludes funding for amenities in parks.

The Rhode Island Foundation's Specialized Health Funds program, starting in 2025, will consolidate several funds to support nonprofit organizations addressing health needs in Rhode Island. Key focus areas include care for individuals with renal disease, cancer, and disabilities, as well as support for children with low-vision and blindness. Applications for summer camps are due by April 25, 2025, while other projects must be submitted by August 18, 2025.

About Us

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency is a self-supporting public agency that provides safe, affordable housing opportunities to enhance the quality of life of North Carolinians. Since its creation by the General Assembly, the Agency has financed nearly 333,400 affordable homes and apartments, totaling $37.4 billion.

The Agency provides financing through the sale of tax-exempt bonds and management of federal tax credit programs, the federal HOME Program, the state and national Housing Trust Funds, and other programs.

NC Urgent Repair Program

The North Carolina Housing Finance Agency (the Agency) proposes to make funds available for the 2026–2027 Urgent Repair Program (URP27). Program funding enables recipient organizations to provide deferred, forgiven loans of up to $15,000 for emergency home repairs and modifications to very low-income owner-occupied homes. Eligible households are those with one or more full-time household members with special needs (e.g., elderly, disabled and/or veteran full-time household members or a child six years of age or under living in the home with lead hazards). Household incomes cannot exceed 50% of area median income.   

The maximum funding amount is $330,000 for projects serving two or more counties in their entirety, and $165,000 for projects serving a single county. The minimum funding allocation is $99,000. 

Montana Department of Labor & Industry

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) is a state government organization that exists to uphold labor laws, ensure worker safety, and encourage business and employee growth and relations.

DLI accepts and investigates discrimination complaints, provides business support and education, and offers workers educational seminars, community resource centers, and job training.

WIOA Title II – Adult Education & Family Literacy Act Program Services

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (MTDLI), in compliance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is seeking applications from experienced and qualified organizations to execute essential workforce development through the WIOA Title II - Adult Education and Family Literacy Program.

In doing so, the Department is seeking applicants who:

• Implement service delivery strategies that align with the 406 JOBS initiative and America's Talent Strategy, including: use of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training models; training in Industry Recognized Credentials; employer engagement to ensure industry-driven strategies; and outreach to hard-to-reach populations.
• Coordinate with WIOA core partners.
• Deliver strong performance outcomes with respect to employment, wages, credential attainment, and skill gains.

Types of Awards

Adult Education Grant (AEFLA)-WIOA Section 231 funding

Corrections Education Grant-WIOA Section 225 funding

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) Grant-WIOA Section 243 funding

Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) (WIOA §243(a))

Prepare adults who are English language learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency and funds are specifically designed to provide IELCE services in combination with Integrated Education and Training (IET), allowable under WIOA Sec. 243.

• Prepare adults who are English language learners for, and place such adults in, unsubsidized employment in in-demand industries and occupations that lead to economic self-sufficiency
• Integrate with the local workforce development system and its functions to carry out the activities of the program
• Workforce preparation activities
• Workforce training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster
• Integrated education and training that: Provides adult education and literacy activities, concurrently and contextually with both workforce preparation activities and workforce training for a specific occupation or occupational cluster.

The Illinois Racing Board Charity Grant provides essential Wellness Services to individuals working or residing at Illinois' pari-mutuel race tracks. With over $26 million allocated over 30 years, the program ensures access to medical, dental, and counseling services. For 2024, approximately $767,193 is available for grants, supporting non-profit organizations that can demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of backstretch residents. Eligible applicants must meet specific requirements, including prior IRS approval and a solid project plan.

This funding opportunity aims to enhance understanding of chemical-induced skin injuries, particularly those recognized as public health threats. The initiative encourages research focused on identifying commonalities in these injuries and exploring shared signaling pathways. By investigating therapeutic targets, this program seeks to develop effective medical countermeasures. Multiple application deadlines are set from 2025 to 2027, supporting diverse research proposals in this crucial area.

The William Penn Foundation aims to enhance access to mental health services for young children and caregivers in Philadelphia. This initiative addresses the high rates of adverse childhood experiences in low-income communities and supports families with children aged 0-8 facing barriers such as limited income and cultural challenges. By increasing the number of qualified providers and ensuring culturally competent care, the Foundation seeks to improve mental health outcomes and promote healthier parent-child relationships.

The NIH R25 program enhances clinician-scientists' involvement in research by supporting educational activities aimed at recruiting individuals from diverse backgrounds into biomedical, behavioral, and clinical sciences. This initiative promotes the development of research experiences and mentoring networks to foster a robust research workforce. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant's organization, providing an opportunity for engaging with the NIH's mission.

Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services

At the Montana Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS), we are dedicated to our mission of serving Montanans in their communities to improve health, safety, well-being, and empower independence. As the largest executive branch agency in the state, our broad reach allows us to provide essential, community-based support where and when it matters most. Our DPHHS team is passionate about improving our clients’ lives and helping them build a more secure and independent future.

Funding Opportunities for Healthcare Professionals

Join us in a funded project and improve patient care, clinical outcomes, and staff knowledge. DPHHS has a wide variety of available grant opportunities for health improvement that fit any clinic or hospital work schedule. Interested in more than one? We can work with health systems to create an outline of activities to align grants and receive additional funding. 

Cardiovascular Funding Opportunities include: Access to Care; Community Health Worker (CHW) Social Need Project; and others.

Access to Care

Increase screening for health-related social needs and build partnerships to address health disparities. With a focus on patients who have diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol.

The Donald C. and Laura M. Harrison Family Foundation, established in 2006, aims to enhance educational opportunities for underprivileged students in the Greater Cincinnati area. With a focus on innovative programs and scholarships, the foundation supports initiatives in primary, secondary, and adult education. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000 annually, promoting sustainability and collaboration with other donors. Eligible applicants must be IRS-designated 501(c)(3) organizations, prioritizing local community impact.

The Healthy Tree Canopy Grants for Cities program aims to enhance tree canopies and foster community engagement in tree protection. This initiative offers funding between $10,000 and $50,000 for eligible cities that have completed a tree inventory. It addresses threats to trees from invasive species and promotes public education on tree care while encouraging diversity in the urban forest. A 25% match of total project costs is required, ensuring community investment in local environmental health.

Career and Technical Education

The goal of the South Dakota Department of Education is for all students to graduate college, career, and life ready. The Division of College, Career and Student Success provides support for students' preparations for postsecondary education and the workforce. Services are connected to approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning, student organizations and more. In-line with the department's aspiration, DCCSS works to ensure students not only graduate from high school, but that they are prepared to navigate the transitions and life events that come after high school.

Workforce Education Grants

In 2013, the South Dakota Legislature established the Workforce Education Fund through SB 235. Part of that fund was designated to provide grants for Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs in secondary schools.

The Workforce Education Grants provide school districts and private, nonprofit entities who provide specialized training in South Dakota the opportunity to make transformative change in career and technical education programs. High quality CTE programs give students the knowledge, skills and experiences to be well prepared for postsecondary education and the workforce. Partnerships among secondary education, postsecondary education, and business & industry lay the foundation for modern CTE programs.

Grant Purpose & Eligibility

The Workforce Education Grants are designed to demonstrate alignment to postsecondary education and South Dakota workforce needs, developing the state's talent pipeline for workforce development and economic growth. Projects must provide work-readiness training, including technical training. Projects cannot include adult basic education, English learner services, or high school equivalency training programs.

Eligible applicants are private, nonprofit entities that provide specialized career and technical services and education as referenced in SDCL 13-13-89. The entities that are awarded grants will serve as fiscal agents through the completion of their projects. All applications must demonstrate commitment by all grant partners to the grant project and its sustainability following the conclusion of the grant.

Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act Title I - Dislocated Worker Program Services

The Montana Department of Labor & Industry (MTDLI), in compliance with the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA), is seeking applications from experienced and qualified organizations to execute essential workforce development through the WIOA Title I - Dislocated Worker Program.

In doing so, the Department is seeking applicants who:

• Implement service deliver strategies that align with the 406 JOBS initiative and America's Talent Strategy, including:
  • use of apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship training models,
  • training in Industry Recognized Credentials,
  • employer engagement to ensure industry-driven strategies, and
  • outreach to hard to reach populations.
• Coordinate with WIOA core partners.
• Deliver strong performance outcomes with respect to employment, wages, credential attainment, and skill gains.

Economic Development Grants

Montana’s CDBG Economic Development Program is designed to stimulate economic development activity by assisting Montana’s private sector to create or retain jobs for LMI Montanans. Specifically, this includes individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income.

The program can assist businesses by awarding grants to local governments and making fixed-rate financing available to those businesses at low interest rates. In addition, the program can offer payment deferrals, lower first-year payments, and interest-only payments.

Businesses work with local governments to apply to the program, and the local government then loans to an eligible business or grants to a nonprofit. CDBG-ED funds are intended to be used in situations where a funding gap exists and alternative sources of public and private financing are not adequate.

The focus of the program is to support the creation or retention of full-time permanent jobs for Montanans. Loan amounts are based on the number of employees a business will retain or the number of new positions to be created. Loan terms are determined according to the use of funds and the businesses financial position. The business must ensure that at least 51% of the jobs are made available to, or held by, individuals earning less than 80% of the area median income.

The City of Naperville is allocating $100,000 from the National Multistate Opioid Settlement for grants aimed at opioid remediation programs. Eligible organizations include school districts, medical providers, and faith communities, among others. Approved programs focus on distributing Naloxone, providing medication-assisted treatment, and expanding recovery services, particularly for vulnerable populations. This initiative aims to significantly impact the community by enhancing education and resources to combat opioid misuse.

The Mechanism for Time-Sensitive Substance Use Research (R21 Clinical Trial Optional) aims to support pilot and exploratory research in urgent substance use areas, including responses to emerging drug crises and evolving healthcare systems. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time, with optional Letters of Intent encouraged. This funding opportunity emphasizes the need for rapid review to address pressing public health issues related to substance use and addiction in a timely manner.

The Small Community Grants Trust Program, funded by the City of Boston, supports 501c3 organizations that positively impact local communities. Grants are available for various initiatives, such as humanitarian aid, enhancing recreational areas for children, and beautifying public spaces. Eligible organizations must be operational for over a year, while individuals and for-profit businesses are ineligible. The program aims to foster community engagement and provide immediate support to improve the lives of Bostonians.

The Get Grounded Foundation Grants, established in 2015, focus on supporting innovative programs for youth in the Denver and Boulder metro areas. In 2025, they will celebrate their 10th anniversary by inviting nominations for special grants, rather than accepting traditional applications. Although no outside applications will be accepted this year, they remain committed to funding impactful initiatives that address child abuse prevention, mental health, and food insecurity, with an average grant size of $2,500.

This grant assists eligible adults seeking to enter or re-enter the workforce, improve occupational skills, or advance in their careers.

The Centre Gives Program is an annual 36-hour online giving event hosted by the Centre Foundation, taking place on May 14-15, 2025. This initiative encourages community donations, allowing donors to support local nonprofits while amplifying their contributions through matching funds and prizes. Since its launch in 2012, over $12.5 million has been raised for more than 190 organizations in various sectors, including education and health, fostering community engagement and support.

About GOED

Vision

Be the place of unmatched opportunity and livability.

Mission

We advance Utah’s long-term economic success so people and businesses can thrive – through innovation, capital, and quality of life.

Rural Communities Opportunity Grant

The RCOG empowers rural communities to take responsibility for economic development planning, projects, and activities, and to manage their unique opportunities. The grant addresses the economic development needs of rural communities, which include:

• Business recruitment, development, and expansion
• Workforce training and development
• Infrastructure, industrial building development, and capital facilities improvements for business development

Building the Future Workforce Challenge

Awarding $5 million and the opportunity to test bold, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen the advanced manufacturing and industry technician workforce—today and for the future.

About the Challenge

Caterpillar knows preparing the workforce for the future is urgent. Communities, employers, and industry need new ways to close advancing skill gaps. The Building the Future Workforce Challenge invites fresh perspectives from all sectors to rethink training. Up to five teams will be awarded $1 million each for sustainable, tech‑forward solutions that strengthen today’s—and tomorrow’s—advanced manufacturing and industry technician talent pipelines.

What types of solutions are you looking for?

The Building the Future Workforce Challenge aims to identify, test, and scale innovative, sustainable solutions that will address today’s and tomorrow’s advanced manufacturing and industry technician skill gaps. A core requirement of any solution is that it remains relevant amid evolving technology—ensuring that breakthrough innovation and human potential rise together.

Strong proposals for Building the Future Workforce Challenge will meet four criteria outlined in the scoring rubric, and proposed solutions must focus on one or more of the following solution categories for Building the Future Workforce Challenge:

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.

Notice of Funding Opportunity

Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) VAWA – Culturally Specific 2026 NOFO # 1744-0618

The Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority is requesting proposals for NOFO # 1744-0618, VAWA Culturally Specific grants. A total of $825,000 in funding in Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) is available through this solicitation for use over a period of 12 months.

The Culturally Specific Program Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) will support the development, enhancement, and expansion of culturally specific victim services. This funding opportunity supports efforts to raise public awareness of victim services, particularly for culturally specific communities. The goal of the Culturally Specific Program is to establish, maintain, and expand sustainable, culturally appropriate services that address the unique needs and challenges of victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking from culturally specific communities.

This funding opportunity addresses an important need and service gap identified in Illinois: culturally specific services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, stalking, and human trafficking.

The Three Rivers Foundation, established in 2011, focuses on improving the health and welfare of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians' historical homelands. It invites funding applications for innovative projects in education, health, public safety, and more, especially those benefiting Native Americans in Oregon or having a statewide impact. The foundation prioritizes grassroots efforts and collaborative approaches, ensuring that the needs of local communities are met through responsive grant-making.

The Aquatic Invasive Plant Control, Prevention and Research Grant, offered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, supports initiatives aimed at managing and researching state-listed invasive aquatic plants. Grants are available for local lake associations, municipalities, and higher education institutions to enhance efforts in controlling and preventing the spread of these harmful species, which threaten the state's waterbodies. Applications are due by September 15 for control grants and November 30 for prevention and research grants.