Best Louisiana Grants for Nonprofits

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Kurt Budke Scholarship

For students entering their sophomore year or above in college who plan on attending Louisiana Tech University, Oklahoma State University, Washburn University, or Wichita State University.

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

Project Lead The Way is offering a rolling grant opportunity for schools to implement the PLTW Engineering program for the 2025-2026 academic year and beyond. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the US. Grant recipients will receive funding to cover participation fees and training costs. Total funding amounts to $16,000, distributed over three years. Schools are encouraged to create pathways for students in engineering through this initiative.

Southern Foundation

Southern Foundation's mission is to secure financial support for each of the five campuses of the Southern University System; to provide broader educational advantages for our students, encourage research among our faculty, and advance the University’s role in helping to build an increasingly functional Louisiana.

Eighteen-Eighty (1880) Society Fund

Bound by a mutual love for Southern University that has provided educational opportunities for untold numbers of the under-served, and a want to insure its existence into perpetuity, devoted supporters formed an organization, The 1880 Society in 2012. Recognizing that giving and supporting Southern are noble virtues, the society is named for the year that Southern University was founded, and pays homage to its impressive history and tradition of achievement as being the first state-chartered university for African Americans in the State of Louisiana.

The mission of the Southern University System Foundation is to support the University through academic programmatic enhancements, increasing student access and success by providing recurring annual support for the campuses of the Southern University System. As such, the Foundation looks to support programmatic needs of the Southern University System campuses, departments and students. Awards will also be available to local community non-profit organizations located in surrounding areas of Southern University System campuses.

1880 Society fund is designed to direct grants to faculty, staff, and system units. In support of expanding educational advantages for students, research opportunities for faculty and strategic programming for campuses.

Southern Foundation

Southern Foundation's mission is to secure financial support for each of the five campuses of the Southern University System; to provide broader educational advantages for our students, encourage research among our faculty, and advance the University’s role in helping to build an increasingly functional Louisiana.

Southern Foundation Faculty Research Grant

The 1880 Society Annual Fund provides funding for student scholarships, faculty grants and strategic University initiatives while seeking to bring together a coalition of donors to create a culture of philanthropy for institutional longevity. Recognizing that giving and supporting our University are noble virtues, the 1880 Society was named to celebrate the founding year of our University. The fund has directed more than $6.5 million dollars in direct support to the students, faculty, and campuses of the Southern University A&M College System since its inception in 2012.

The mission of the Southern University System Foundation is to support the University through academic programmatic enhancements, increasing student access and success by providing recurring annual support for the campuses of the Southern University System. As such, the Foundation looks to support programmatic needs of the Southern University System campuses, departments and students. Awards will also be available to local community non-profit organizations located in surrounding areas of Southern University System campuses.

Our Mission

The Community Foundation’s mission is to improve the quality of life in Greater Kansas City by increasing charitable giving, educating and connecting donors to community needs they care about, and leading on critical community issues.

Scholarships

We offer hundreds of different scholarships for students in and around Kansas City.

Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants Scholarship Fund

The Kansas Association of Independent Crop Consultants created this scholarship fund to award to a qualified individual majoring in an agricultural field.

The Josh Turner Scholarship Fund for the Arts, established by the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, empowers high school seniors from rural areas across ten southern states to pursue careers in music and the arts. This fund honors Josh Turner's journey in the music industry and aims to support students focusing on diverse opportunities within the music business, including performance, writing, and production, as well as various art disciplines.

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, in collaboration with NOAA, is offering funding to enhance environmental literacy and community resilience across the U.S. Gulf Coast. This initiative supports projects focused on local environmental challenges and solutions through place-based education. With $4M available, applicants can request between $100,000 and $750,000 for projects lasting 12 to 36 months, aimed at engaging community members and fostering future leaders in addressing regional environmental issues.

State and Tribal Wildlife Grants

The State and Tribal Wildlife Grants Program provides federal funding to the states for conservation of nongame species and their habitat. The goal of the program is to prevent these species from being listed as threatened or endangered under the Endangered Species Act. This important program supports conservation of species that are not hunted or fished, many of which had no previous source of conservation funding. In addition, the program’s focus on proactive conservation measures designed to halt or prevent population declines is key, as conservation is often more effective and efficient before species undergo declines sufficient to warrant Endangered Species Act action.

Target Range Grant Program

The Target Range Grant Program supports the development of safe, public, and accessible shooting facilities in Louisiana to provide and promote:

• Additional recreational shooting and archery opportunities to the citizens of Louisiana
• Safe and responsible firearms ownership and use
• Shooting sports participation
• Locations for recreational shooters, hunters, and archers to practice their skills within reasonable proximity to their homes.

This program is administered through the Wildlife Restoration Program Fund in Louisiana through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act. This federal program receives funding from federal excise tax generated by sales of certain firearms and archery equipment. 

Target Range Grant Program

The Target Range Grant Program supports the development of safe, public, and accessible shooting facilities in Louisiana to provide and promote:

• Additional recreational shooting and archery opportunities to the citizens of Louisiana
• Safe and responsible firearms ownership and use
• Shooting sports participation
• Locations for recreational shooters, hunters, and archers to practice their skills within reasonable proximity to their homes.

This program is administered through the Wildlife Restoration Program Fund in Louisiana through the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act. This federal program receives funding from federal excise tax generated by sales of certain firearms and archery equipment. 

Louisiana State Historic Preservation Office

2026-27 Historic Preservation Fund Grants

The Louisiana State Historic Preservation Office (LASHPO) is composed of the Division of Archaeology and the Division of Historic Preservation as components of the Office of Cultural Development, Division of Culture, Recreation, and Tourism. The Office of Cultural Development serves the citizens of Louisiana by preserving, supporting, developing, and promoting Louisiana culture, including archaeology, arts, French language, and historic resources.

Each year the State Historic Preservation Office distributes an allocation of federal funds for projects through a competitive grant process. These historic preservation funds are provided by the National Park Service, U.S. Department of the Interior. Grant awards are generally between $3,000 and $80,000. The grant performance period is from October 1, 2026, to September 15, 2027. Funding is contingent upon the LA SHPO annual award from the National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund and State General Fund appropriations.

FY 26-27 National Park Service Historic Preservation Fund

Each year, Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser and the Division of Historic Preservation (DHP) and Archaeology distribute an allocation of federal funds for historic preservation projects through a competitive grants process. These funds are allocated to the Louisiana State Historic Preservation Office (LASHPO) by the U. S. Department of the Interior's National Park Service, Historic Preservation Fund (HPF). The focus of the grant proposals should be related to ongoing state and federally mandated programs and initiatives that are outlined in the Louisiana Comprehensive Plan.

The Apache Corporation Tree Grant Program is dedicated to large-scale conservation efforts by providing trees to nonprofit organizations and government agencies in the U.S. Since 2005, it has donated over 5 million trees, enhancing public greenspaces and supporting wildlife habitats. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations or government entities based in states where Apache operates. This initiative not only beautifies communities but also plays a vital role in environmental stewardship.

Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities

The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities acts as a steward and supporter of Louisiana’s diverse and vibrant culture and history.

To that end, we are dedicated to ensuring access to the humanities, offering and broadening pathways for a lifetime of learning for people of every generation and from every walk of life. We champion the humanities to enrich the lives of all Louisianans in all 64 parishes.

Our Mission: The Louisiana Endowment for the Humanities’ mission is to partner with communities, institutions, and individuals to explore Louisiana’s past, reflect on our present, and imagine our future.

Rebirth Grants

LEH Rebirth Grants support programmatic initiatives focused on the humanities. Eligible projects include public humanities programs that involve audience participation and discussion; documentary photography, podcast, and radio projects; humanities-based festivals and exhibition development; digital humanities projects including websites and online documentation of Louisiana history and culture; speaker series; assistance with publication projects; and humanities-based educational initiatives. Eligible projects must include the participation of humanities scholar(s).

All Rebirth Grant applicants must demonstrate 1:1 matching cost share in cash or in kind. 

The Louisiana Project Grants, managed by the Louisiana Division of the Arts, aim to enhance community engagement through diverse artistic initiatives. The program supports various art forms, including dance, music, and visual arts, focusing on innovation and collaboration. By prioritizing equity and inclusion, the grants foster artistic growth while ensuring access for all residents. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and educational institutions within Louisiana, emphasizing projects that benefit the community and promote cultural diversity.

The LDRCT General Operating Support Grant, offered by the Louisiana Division of the Arts, aims to provide essential funding for nonprofit arts organizations in Louisiana. These grants support operational expenses, such as salaries and facilities, over a two-year period. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to artistic disciplines and community engagement. The program encourages diversity and inclusion, fostering the growth of the arts sector while preserving Louisiana's unique cultural heritage.

The LEH Rebirth Grants support initiatives that promote the humanities through public engagement, including diverse projects like festivals, documentaries, and educational programs. The grants prioritize community involvement and balanced viewpoints, ensuring humanities scholars lead the projects. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Louisiana. Ineligible projects range from individual grants to those focused solely on the arts or scholarly audiences. The program encourages a wide participation across varied audiences, with an emphasis on underserved communities.

The Boo Grigsby Foundation, established in 2007, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in Baton Rouge and across Louisiana, focusing on education, health services, arts, human services, community initiatives, and conservation. With over $2,500,000 donated, the foundation aims to enhance community welfare through diverse programs and initiatives, ensuring all residents have access to vital resources and opportunities for growth.

The Queer Mobilization Fund (QMF) supports community-led projects that advance Queer and Trans liberation, particularly for BIPOC individuals in the Southeastern US. Established in 2016, QMF prioritizes grassroots organizations with budgets under $300,000. The fund emphasizes rapid response funding and capacity building, aiming to empower marginalized communities often excluded from financial support. QMF does not fund groups outside the Southeast or for-profit activities, ensuring resources are directed towards those leading efforts for LGBTQ+ rights.

The SESAPS Francis Slack Award, established by the Southeastern Section of the American Physical Society, honors individuals who have selflessly contributed to advancing physics in the Southeast. It recognizes efforts in enhancing research facilities, strengthening academic departments, and fostering regional physics organizations. Nominations remain active for three years, with a focus on encouraging women and minority candidates. This prestigious award commemorates the legacy of Francis G. Slack, a pivotal figure in the development of the Southeastern Section.

The LA Conservation Stewardship Program (CSP) is designed to enhance land management practices for agricultural producers in Louisiana. By offering tailored conservation plans, CSP aims to improve productivity and protect natural resources. With a focus on sustainable practices, participants can increase crop yields, enhance wildlife habitats, and adopt innovative conservation activities. This program is a crucial part of the USDA's efforts to support working lands and promote environmental stewardship across 70 million acres nationwide.

South Arts, Inc. offers Professional Development Grants for Arts Organizations to enhance the skills and knowledge of Southern arts entities. These grants aim to support operational stability and growth, focusing on organizations with budgets of $500,000 or less. Eligible applicants include a range of arts organizations within South Arts' nine-state service area. The program emphasizes first-time opportunities and requires a dollar-for-dollar cash match, ensuring a commitment to professional development in the arts.

The Frost Foundation, established in 1959, aims to support educational, charitable, and religious initiatives. It prioritizes grant-making for organizations that foster creativity and self-reliance, particularly in New Mexico and Louisiana. The Foundation encourages innovative programs and collaborations that address urgent community needs. Eligible applicants must possess a 501(c)(3) status, ensuring they can effectively utilize funds to create positive change beyond traditional boundaries, while promoting alliances to maximize impact.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is responsible for managing and protecting Louisiana’s abundant natural resources.

Mission Statement: To manage, conserve, and promote wise utilization of Louisiana’s renewable fish and wildlife resources and their supporting habitats through replenishment, protection, enhancement, research, development, and education for the social and economic benefit of current and future generations; to provide opportunities for knowledge of and use and enjoyment of these resources; and to promote a safe and healthy environment for the users of the resources.

Boating and Fishing Access Program

LDWF provides funding to local governmental entities (subrecipients) for the development and construction, renovation, or improvement of boating and/or fishing access facilities. Eligible projects include:

• Acquiring new land for facilities
• Building new facilities; and
• Acquiring, renovating, or improving existing facilities. 

Facilities include auxiliary structures necessary to ensure safe use of recreational boating access facilities. A broad range of access facilities and associated amenities can qualify for funding; however, they must provide benefits to recreational boaters and/or anglers and cannot restrict access to the general public. 

Funding is provided as a cost reimbursement. The subrecipient is responsible for covering the cost of the project and requesting reimbursement of up to 75% of the total project cost. A local governmental entity can also sponsor a project developed by the private sector if it provides a public benefit to recreational boaters and/or anglers.

Project Requirements

• Projects will not be considered unless the local sponsor provides evidence of land ownership or a lease agreement for the proposed area.
• Subrecipients must adhere to federal regulations outlined in 2 CFR 200, including all procurement requirements. Projects must adhere to Buy America Build America (BABA) regulations.
• Maintenance and land control of funded projects by the subrecipient will be required for 25 years for freshwater projects and 20 years for saltwater projects.
• If a project is selected, the subrecipient is responsible for acquiring a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) 404 Permit or clearance, a Louisiana Coastal Use Permit, if applicable, and all other applicable permits.
• Facilities must comply with Barrier-Free Design Regulations as set forth in the Rehabilitation Act as amended in the Americans with Disabilities Act. Design suggestions are provided in the Design Handbook for Recreational Boating and Fishing Facilities published by the States Organization for Boating Access.
• Income generated from the project can only be used for maintenance and operation of the project. The application must address the potential for income generation.
• If land value is used as match or if federal funding will be used to purchase property, an appraisal and review appraisal will be required. The appraisal must meet Yellow Book Standards and must be conducted no more than six months prior to the grant application.

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

The Community Partnership Grants by the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation support music and arts education in Louisiana's K-12 schools. Grants of up to $7,500 are available for instruments, supplies, and instruction. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and local nonprofits. The program aims to enhance cultural traditions and foster artistic expression, continuing a legacy of over $13.5 million in funding for community projects since 1979.

The Community Partnership Grants by the Jazz & Heritage Foundation aim to support music and art education programs, cultural events, and artistic projects that reflect Louisiana's rich culture. With grants up to $5,000, the foundation prioritizes Louisiana-based applicants, fostering community engagement and cultural preservation. Since 1979, over $13.5 million has been awarded, helping schools and nonprofits thrive. This initiative encourages both documentation and creation of artworks that celebrate the unique heritage of Louisiana.