Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations

The 2025-2026 Texas Strategic Compensation for ESCs Grant aims to enhance teacher and principal retention by promoting strategic compensation systems. This initiative will support Educational Service Centers in implementing effective compensation strategies aligned with the Teacher Incentive Allotment. The grant focuses on hiring Regional Assistant Superintendents of Talent to work directly with school systems, ensuring a shift from traditional pay structures to performance-based compensation models. The goal is to increase the talent pool and improve educational outcomes.

The Berdach Trust Grant, established by Otto P. Berdach, aims to support organizations providing financial assistance to individuals in need, particularly when public welfare is insufficient. Operating primarily in Illinois and California, especially the Long Beach area, the trust focuses on health, human services, and public benefit programs. Grants are directed exclusively for direct financial aid, not for administrative costs, ensuring that assistance reaches those in genuine financial distress.

The PLTW Computer Science grant, supported by Arrow Electronics, is designed to help schools expand their existing PLTW Computer Science programs. Schools can receive up to $10,000 to introduce new courses or enhance current offerings. Eligible institutions are public or charter schools located within 25 miles of Alpharetta, GA. Funds can cover various expenses, including required equipment and training for teachers, making this opportunity pivotal for enhancing STEM education in the region.

Main Street Matters Program Designations 

The Main Street Matters (MSM) program is designed to support our downtown cores and surrounding neighborhoods with tools to create healthy, vibrant, and welcoming communities. Funding is available to support revitalization efforts in planning, business support, aesthetic improvements, and the increase of safety and security.

Communities may wish to consider designation through the MSM program as a Main Street or Elm Street. Designation is an opportunity for targeted investment and development including the identification of specific needs for investment and/or development and the design and implementation of a strategy to address those needs.

Uses

A flexible tool for use in community and economic development for a variety of uses including planning activities, façade grant programs, business improvement grant programs, accessible housing programs, and district development grants.

Appleton Education Foundation

The Appleton Education Foundation, a supporting organization of the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, has been working since 1997 to develop a steady source of support for grants now, and for many future generations of Appleton children.

Mission: We raise and direct private funds to strengthen and enhance education in our community.

AEF Grants

AEF favors grant projects that:

• Demonstrate educational innovation
• Promote original, creative ideas
• Focus on content enrichment and skills development
• Are not supported through normal school budgets
• Have measurable indicators of success
• Address one or more academic standards set by AASD

General Guidelines & Restrictions

• AEF typically provides seed money for creative projects and should not be considered a resource for ongoing funding.
• Murals: AEF gives funding priority to Artists in Residence programs over standalone mural projects.
• AEF places low-priority on funding: computer software, classroom sets of books, furniture, and food.
• Any proposed software must go through AASD’s software approval process before the grant is submitted.
• Grantees should carefully track expenses and save receipts for use of grant funds. Any unused grant funding ($20 or more) should be returned to the AEF.
• Grant recipients will be required to submit a final report to help the AEF ensure effective grant making and data collection.
• Submitting a final report is necessary to remain eligible for future grants.

AEF Mini Grant

Description

• Shorter version of traditional AEF grant application.
• Proposals will be accepted for projects that creatively enhance the education and instruction of students in any academic discipline.
• Grant money may not be used for operating expenses, such as for payment of substitute teachers or travel.

PLTW Computer Science

Ameren has partnered with PLTW to inspire students and provide the hands-on STEM learning experiences necessary to thrive in life beyond the classroom. Ameren is a long-time supporter of K-12 STEM education in the region and is working with PLTW to provide grant support to high schools interested in implementing or expanding their PLTW Computer Science programs.

At a time when computer science affects how we work and live, PLTW Computer Science empowers students in grades 9-12 to become creators, instead of merely consumers, of the technology all around them. The program's interdisciplinary courses engage students in compelling, real-world challenges. As students work together to design solutions, they learn computational thinking – not just how to code – and become better thinkers and communicators. Students take from the courses in-demand knowledge and skills they will use in high school and for the rest of their lives, on any career path they take.

Through this partnership, Ameren has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW Computer Science programs beginning in the next academic year.

PLTW Program Status

Program Expansion

The Kathleen Patton Westby Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life by supporting the arts, arts education, and culture. Applicants must submit a letter of inquiry as the first step, as proposals are accepted only upon request. The foundation primarily funds tax-exempt organizations with 501(c)(3) status, and does not support deficit financing, individual grants, or research projects unless integral to broader programs.

The Kenny Family Foundation Grant offers micro-grants to local 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in New Castle County, Delaware. The foundation supports a variety of community initiatives, providing assistance through ShopRite gift cards, typically averaging $100. Organizations must submit a formal request along with IRS documentation to be considered. Since its inception in 2008, the foundation has been dedicated to improving the quality of life and promoting social welfare in the region.

The Nike Community Impact Fund focuses on enhancing active, inclusive communities in the Mid-South, specifically in Shelby County (TN) and DeSoto and Marshall Counties (MS). By awarding $100,000 in grants annually, the fund supports local nonprofits and schools that create opportunities for children to engage in play, sport, and physical activity. This community-driven approach ensures that the voices of local Nike employees are integrated into the decision-making process, driving lasting change.

The Medical Funds Grant, administered by the Seattle Foundation, aims to support medical research and address healthcare needs for low-income children. It prioritizes funding for specific equipment requests related to cancer, cardio-pulmonary diseases, and other significant health conditions. Additionally, it supports capital campaigns and facility renovations that enhance healthcare accessibility for underprivileged youth. Eligible applicants must be tax-exempt charities based in King County, with updated organizational profiles.

The LRAC Career Development Grants offer $2,000 to individual artists in various disciplines within a nine-county region. These grants support projects that enhance artistic growth and career development. Eligible applicants include practicing artists aged 18 and older, who have resided in the region for at least six months. Projects must be focused on fine arts and cannot commence before the grant contract is signed. For more details, refer to the LRAC guidelines.

Appleton Education Foundation

The Appleton Education Foundation, a supporting organization of the Community Foundation for the Fox Valley Region, has been working since 1997 to develop a steady source of support for grants now, and for many future generations of Appleton children.

Mission: We raise and direct private funds to strengthen and enhance education in our community.

AEF Grants

AEF favors grant projects that:

• Demonstrate educational innovation
• Promote original, creative ideas
• Focus on content enrichment and skills development
• Are not supported through normal school budgets
• Have measurable indicators of success
• Address one or more academic standards set by AASD

General Guidelines & Restrictions

• AEF typically provides seed money for creative projects and should not be considered a resource for ongoing funding.
• Murals: AEF gives funding priority to Artists in Residence programs over standalone mural projects.
• AEF places low-priority on funding: computer software, classroom sets of books, furniture, and food.
• Any proposed software must go through AASD’s software approval process before the grant is submitted.
• Grantees should carefully track expenses and save receipts for use of grant funds. Any unused grant funding ($20 or more) should be returned to the AEF.
• Grant recipients will be required to submit a final report to help the AEF ensure effective grant making and data collection.
• Submitting a final report is necessary to remain eligible for future grants.

AEF – General Grant 

Description

• Proposals will be accepted for projects that creatively enhance the education and instruction of students in any academic discipline.
• Grant money may not be used for operating expenses, such as for payment of substitute teachers or travel.

The Nike Community Impact Fund in Belgium supports local sports clubs and associations that work with vulnerable youth in Antwerp, Limburg, and Flemish Brabant. This employee-led initiative encourages community engagement and aims to foster inclusive, active environments for children. By providing financial assistance, it empowers organizations to drive positive change and make sports accessible to all, enhancing the social fabric of local neighborhoods.

Columbus and Franklin County Federation of Women's Clubs Fund-Education

The purpose of the Columbus and Franklin County Federation of Women’s Club Scholarship Fund shall be to make scholarship awards available for the benefit of women attending Otterbein University as full-time students in the field of education.

Award Amount:

• Minimum $500

Ann E. Myers Scholarship

Ann E. Myers was born in Tiffin, Ohio in 1951. She held a Bachelor’s Degree from The Ohio State University and a Master’s Degree in Education from Ashland University, and was a National Board Certified Teacher. Teaching elementary school was Ann’s true calling and joy. She began her teaching career in Lancaster, Ohio in 1973. She taught in Lancaster until 1984, at which time she began teaching in the Dublin, Ohio school system. From 1984 until her retirement in 2012, Ann taught at various elementary grade levels at Olde Sawmill, Wyandot, Scottish Corners, and Indian Run. During her teaching career, Ann gave freely of her time to mentor younger teachers. Above all, she loved her students and would do anything for them. After retirement, Ann volunteered her time at Habitat for Humanity, Franklin County Food Bank, Franklin Park Conservatory, and Upper Arlington Library. Ann battled cancer for many years until her death in 2018. Courage and optimism were her best traits. Ann’s husband established the scholarship to ensure that her legacy of teaching young students the wonders of learning would live on. The scholarship establishes that goal by encouraging Dublin High School students to pursue a career in education.

Award Amount:

• $10,000 payable over four years at $2,500 per academic year.

The Pittsburgh Foundation

Established in 1945, The Pittsburgh Foundation is one of the nation’s oldest community foundations and as of 2022 is the 18th largest of more than 750 similar foundations across the United States.

As a community foundation, its resources comprise endowment funds established by individuals, businesses and organizations with a passion for charitable giving and fulfilling the Foundation’s mission of improving quality of life for all in the region. The Foundation currently manages about 2,500 individual donor funds and, together with its supporting organizations and its affiliate, The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County, has assets of $1.386 billion (2022). Grantmaking benefits a broad spectrum of basic needs and development opportunities within Pittsburgh and beyond.

Scholarships

The Pittsburgh Foundation and The Community Foundation of Westmoreland County provide scholarship opportunities for local students to pursue their educational goals. Scholarships are available for graduating high school seniors, undergraduates, graduate, medical and professional school students who are attending community colleges, four-year universities and career/technical schools.

Preckel-McAuley Scholarship Fund

The Preckel-McAuley Scholarship Fund was created at The Pittsburgh Foundation to provide scholarships to students pursuing a master's degree in Archives and Information Science at the University of Pittsburgh's School of Computing and Information.

Award Type: Single Year. Previous recipients are encouraged to re-apply in consecutive years.

The Art of Community: Rural SC Grants, offered by the South Carolina Arts Commission, aims to enhance community access to the arts in rural areas. By supporting arts-based projects, this grant encourages public engagement and collaboration among local residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations, colleges, and government entities. Priority is given to projects that develop artistic skills and foster creativity, addressing specific challenges faced by rural communities in South Carolina.

The Raley’s, Bashas’, and Food City Project Learning Garden Grant Program, supported by the Captain Planet Foundation, offers schools valuable resources for STEAM education through garden-based learning. Schools will receive raised garden beds, a mobile cooking cart, access to online lessons, and professional development for teachers. This initiative promotes hands-on learning and healthy eating, enriching students' educational experiences while fostering a connection to nature. A total package valued at $7,500 will enhance the learning environment for students.

Downtown Revitalization Fund

The Downtown Revitalization Fund brings together IEDA’s Commercial Facade and Streetscapes programs under a unified strategy to strengthen the economic and social vitality of Iowa’s downtown districts. Supported by the federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program, these initiatives help communities reinvest in core commercial areas through coordinated improvements to both private building fronts and the public realm. Together, the programs advance HUD’s community development objectives by improving essential public facilities, enhancing local infrastructure, and supporting commercial revitalization within eligible downtown areas. Through targeted façade rehabilitation and transformative streetscape upgrades, the Downtown Revitalization Fund helps communities create safer, more inviting, and economically resilient downtown environments that benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Please note that all applications are required to address both objectives.

• Objective 1: Development and Implementation of CBE programming
  • The grant’s primary objective is focused on the implementation, evaluation, and expansion of the EV competency-based education (CBE) framework.
  • Programs span the EV Technology occupational continuum from development and production to maintenance and body work for Electric Vehicles, as well as installation and maintenance of critical infrastructure, and are listed in Section D of the attached PDF..
• Objective 2: Wraparound Student Supports
  • This objective focuses on colleges designing or implementing programs with a student-centered approach as they create or implement curriculum.
  • A strong student support model includes effective strategies for recruitment, retention, and comprehensive services that help students succeed.
  • Uses of funds can include, but are not limited to:
    • Investments in academic advising and career guidance
    • Supplemental instruction
    • Wraparound support services and barrier reduction (academic and non-academic)
    • Community needs assessments
    • Partnering with community-based organizations to braid barrier reduction funding

The Friends of Loutit Library Fund Scholarship, established by the Friends of Loutit Library in 2005, aims to assist students pursuing an advanced degree in Library Science. This scholarship is open to individuals who either reside or have resided in the Tri-Cities area of Northern Ottawa County. Financial need is not a consideration, ensuring that all eligible students can apply for this essential educational support from the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation.

The Cressey Family Charitable Trust Grant supports education and literacy initiatives in the Eugene/Springfield area of Oregon. Established in 2006 by John P. Cressey, the trust honors his parents' legacy of community service. The foundation focuses on funding non-profit organizations and the City of Eugene Public Library to enhance reading programs and educational opportunities for local residents. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations operating within the specified geographic area.

The Yukon Community Development Fund: Tier 3 offers substantial financial support for projects aimed at enhancing the economic and social well-being of Yukon communities. With funding available for up to 90% of total project costs exceeding $75,000, eligible organizations include registered non-profits, municipalities, and First Nations. Projects that generate local employment, foster community involvement, and create measurable benefits for residents are prioritized, ensuring sustainable development in the region.

The A.I.R. Fellowship Program, established in 1993, empowers emerging women and non-binary artists in New York City by providing them with their first solo exhibition, mentorship, and professional development opportunities. Each year, six artists benefit from a 12-month fellowship that includes workshops, curatorial support, and a stipend of $3,000, fostering an inclusive community that encourages creative exploration and dialogue among diverse artists.

The Massachusetts Robotics Digital Twin Initiative aims to enhance access to robotics technology and foster the robotics entrepreneurial ecosystem across the Commonwealth. This funding opportunity, issued by the Innovation Institute's Robotics Department, will provide competitive capital grants for innovative robotic designs and applications. Projects will focus on building both physical robots and their digital twins, ensuring the resulting digital resources are publicly available for use by researchers and entrepreneurs, thus promoting collaboration and technological advancement.

The Yukon Community Development Fund: Tier 2 offers financial support for projects that generate sustainable economic and social benefits within Yukon communities. Eligible projects can receive up to 90% funding, ranging from $20,001 to $75,000. The fund supports various initiatives including new construction, renovations, and skill development. Non-profit organizations, charitable entities, and local governments are encouraged to apply, fostering community engagement and long-term growth.

The purpose of this project is to support the implementation of the Effective Schools Framework (ESF) and Effective District Framework (EDF) by campuses and school systems throughout the state. Support will include the development and implementation of training, tools, resources, and platforms to support the implementation of the ESF and EDF. This project will also provide support to low performing schools by providing resources and support for continuous improvement efforts to reduce the number of low-performing campuses in the state. This project will include logistics and operations for training, events, and School Improvement and District Strategic leadership touchpoints.