Best Private Grants for Nonprofits in New Hampshire

New Hampshire 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing health and human services, dental care, food assistance, homeless shelters, or youth camperships can receive US $1,000 - US $7,500 for capital and operating needs. Grants from Agnes M. Lindsay Trust also support similar organizations in Maine, Massachusetts, and Vermont serving people in need.

New Hampshire housing and community organizations serving low- and moderate-income residents can access grants and low-interest financing for solar and other clean energy projects through the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority, with awards from US $20,000 - US $150,000. Funding supports capital projects that reduce energy costs and expand long-term clean energy investments in community facilities.

New Hampshire 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary program funding, typically as part of a broader budget. Focused on community impact, Costco Foundation invites organizations to apply with evidence-based, collaborative projects; applications are reviewed within 4–6 weeks and may receive support where Costco does business.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem-solving programs in New Hampshire may be eligible for funding to launch or expand their work. Grants from Creag Foundation help smaller or evolving organizations test new approaches to existing or previously unaddressed social issues, by invitation following a letter of inquiry.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

New Hampshire 501(c)(3) nonprofits providing direct social services that reduce chronic poverty and strengthen families can apply for more than US $100,000 to support programs, capital needs, or general operations. Focused on proven, scalable solutions, the William Randolph Hearst Foundation favors larger, well-established organizations serving broad populations across the U.S.

New Hampshire nonprofits, public schools, and municipalities running community, health, education, arts, environmental, or human services programs can access funding through Kennebunk Savings Bank Foundation. Support focuses on projects benefiting communities in Strafford and Rockingham Counties, excluding operating costs, scholarships, political or religious activities, and events or trips outside the bank’s operating area.

Grants from New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority help New Hampshire municipalities plan and implement community development, housing, public facilities, and economic development projects benefiting low- and moderate-income residents, with awards up to US $100,000. Cities and counties can apply and may sub-grant to nonprofits for activities like infrastructure, affordable housing, and microenterprise support.

New Hampshire nonprofit organizations working in charitable, educational, scientific, or medical fields can access funding through the Sidney Stern Memorial Trust for programs carried out in the U.S. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities, tax-exempt under federal law and, when applicable, California law, and not individuals or political or lobbying efforts.

Focused on waste management and recycling, New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services invites New Hampshire municipalities, government entities, nonprofits, and eligible private inspection stations to apply for gift grants. Awards up to US $5,000 support establishing, improving, or operating used oil collection centers and transporting collected oil to licensed recyclers.

Waste Reduction and Diversion Grant Program

A Waste Reduction and Diversion Grant program was established in RSA 149-R:4, III as part of the Solid Waste Management Fund. The Solid Waste Management Bureau now has rules in place to set requirements for a new program. As required by the law, the program provides matching grant funding to New Hampshire political subdivisions (such as municipalities or solid waste districts), private entities (such as nonprofit organizations), and businesses to support their efforts to improve solid waste reduction and diversion activities. Projects will need to demonstrate a significant improvement in waste diversion methods and contribute to a reduction of solid waste requiring disposal.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Nonprofits and community partners working on farming, food systems, or social science projects in New Hampshire and the broader Northeast can apply for Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research & Education’s reimbursement-based Farming Community Grant, awarding US $50,000 - US $250,000. Funding supports community-level research and education that improves the health and sustainability of agricultural communities.

Eligible 501(c)(3) conservation and community nonprofits, municipalities, Tribal Nations, and agencies in New Hampshire can apply for The Nature Conservancy’s Resilient and Connected Appalachians grants, offering up to US $100,000 for fee or easement land acquisitions. Funding covers capital, project development, stewardship, legal, and community engagement costs for resilient, connected Appalachian landscapes with clear community benefits.

New Hampshire 501(c)(3) nonprofits seeking support for education, health, human services, community development, or the arts can apply for funding from the Rogers Family Foundation. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 prioritize program support in Southeastern New Hampshire communities such as Derry, Londonderry, Salem, and neighboring towns.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and aligned for-profits working in preservation, education, or wellness, including those in New Hampshire, can seek the Storytelling Grant to share their community impact through compelling media. Grants from Jesse W Couch Charitable Foundation provide more than US $50,000 to help eligible organizations communicate their work in areas like conservation, mental health, and education.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Rural public entities and nonprofit organizations in New Hampshire can apply for USDA: Rural Development’s Rural Business Development Grants, with awards up to US $200,000 for technical assistance and training that benefit small rural businesses. Funding can support planning, facilities, revolving loan funds, incubators, transportation, and broader community and technology-based economic development projects.

Eligible New Hampshire conservation districts, municipalities, K–12 schools, scout groups, and qualified nonprofits can apply for the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food’s Conservation Grant Program, with awards up to US $35,000 for on-the-ground projects. Funding supports tangible work in water quality, wildlife habitat, soil conservation, best management practices, conservation planning, and land protection.

Rurally located public bodies, nonprofit organizations, and federally recognized tribes in New Hampshire can apply for USDA Rural Development’s Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants, with awards up to US $1,000,000 for drinking water emergencies. Funding covers waterline extensions, repairs, and new water sources or treatment facilities in eligible low-income rural areas.

State and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes in rural New Hampshire can seek funding for water, wastewater, solid waste, and stormwater infrastructure projects. USDA: Rural Development supports acquisition, construction, and improvement of systems, plus related costs like engineering, land and water rights, start-up operations, and necessary equipment in eligible rural areas.

New Hampshire public entities, private nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes serving rural communities can obtain funding for water and waste infrastructure projects, including acquisition, construction, or improvement of systems. These USDA Rural Development grants may benefit nonprofits needing clean drinking water, sewer, solid waste, or stormwater facilities in eligible small towns and rural areas.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving basic needs, at-risk youth education, workforce readiness, or domestic violence services in New Hampshire can apply for The TJX Foundation’s grants if located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office. Eligible groups complete an online questionnaire, then may be invited to submit a letter of inquiry and full application.