Best Maryland Grants for Nonprofits

Land Acquisition and Planning

Greenspace Equity Program​

The Greenspace Equity Program was established in 2023 through legislation (Chapter 487 of 2023) to provide grants to eligible applicants for enhancing the public health and livability of overburdened and underserved communities by implementing projects to preserve, create, and improve public greenspace in overburdened and underserved communities. Funding for the program is authorized to come from the state share of Program Open Space subject to annual budget actions.

Greenspace Equity Program Grants Proposal Guide - Appraisal Funding

Purpose

The Greenspace Equity Program provides grant funding assistance to eligible applicants for enhancing the public health and livability of overburdened communities and underserved communities by implementing projects to preserve, create, and enhance community greenspace, which includes

• (i) community gardens;
• (ii) community gathering open space areas;
• (iii) community woodlands;
• (iv) green networks;
• (v) parks;
• (vi) trails;
• (vii) urban farms.

This grant round is specifically to provide funds for obtaining independent appraisals in advance of the applicant’s submission of an acquisition application for the FY 2028 Greenspace Equity Program Grant Application.

The Eastern Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes outstanding graduate students in entomology. Sponsored by the Entomological Society of America, it offers a fully funded trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate. Eligible nominees must be student members of ESA, pursuing or recently completing a graduate degree in entomology. Nominations are limited to two per university, ensuring the selection of the most deserving candidates.

The Fine Arts Initiative Grant, established by the Maryland General Assembly, aims to enhance arts education for prekindergarten-12 students in local education agencies. This program supports funding for dance, media arts, music, theater, and visual art, ensuring students meet or exceed state standards. With an anticipated 25 grants available, the initiative promotes alignment with COMAR 13A.04.16, focusing on comprehensive arts education and fostering creativity in Maryland's youth.

State-Aided Institutions (SAI) Field Trip Grant

This grant provides funds to Local Education Agencies (LEAs) to provide transportation to students for field trips to non-profit educational institutions that are qualified as State–Aided Institutions (SAIs). This program is intended to expand student access to enriching educational experiences offered by SAIs. Priority is provided for high-needs schools, being defined in this grant as a school having more than 40% of their enrolled students as receiving or eligible for the federal Free and Reduced Price Meal (FARMs) program.

Funding Amount Available

• $600,000 is available for this grant program.

Estimated Number of Grants

• Will vary based on the number of applications received.

Career and Technical Education (CTE) Perkins Reserve Grant FY 2027

The purpose of this grant is to support local education agencies (LEAs) in piloting or expanding innovative solutions to barriers in achieving key goals under The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. Specifically, this grant asks applicants to focus on establishing or expanding high school level Registered Apprenticeships (HSLRAs) in accordance with the Joint Implementation Plan for the Career and Technical Education Vision for Maryland’s Future. Applicants must target expanding student access to and awareness of HSLRAs or expanding accessibility of Related Instruction (RI) for HSLRAs, especially in Maryland’s high-demand priority sectors or other sectors with high regional demand.

This grant aims to directly support local innovation that is in alignment with and supports the Joint Implementation Plan for the Career and Technical Education Vision for Maryland’s Future, Maryland’s Joint Career and Technical Education Vision, and the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future 45% goal, where in by the 2030–2031 school year, 45% of public high school graduates who have met the College and Career Readiness (CCR) Standard (linked in the GIG) shall complete the high school level of a Registered Apprenticeship or another Industry-Recognized Credential (IRC) before they graduate.

Funding Amount Available

• $500,000

Estimated Number of Grants

• Two to Four grant awards 

MSDE Grant Programs

MSDE operates many formula and non-formula grants. All active grant programs are listed below and link directly to the grant program's dedicated webpage. MSDE will continue to add to and expand this page as the Department's new Office of Grants Administration and Compliance rolls out. 

Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund FY27

The Maggie McIntosh School Arts Fund supports the expansion of arts programs for students in Baltimore City Public Schools.

Funding is used to expand arts curriculum by providing grants to schools for classroom art supplies and student arts experiences through partnerships led by Arts Every Day.

The Encova Foundation of West Virginia is dedicated to improving communities by supporting local causes that align with the values of its associates and policyholders. They focus on health, education, and wellness, emphasizing the importance of children's success. Organizations applying for grants must be U.S.-based and verified as charitable. Preference is given to initiatives impacting health and education, especially those involving Encova associates as active participants.

The TogetherMD Grant program (formerly Maryland Elevates) is designed to enhance and sharpen the State’s steadfast focus on narrowing gaps for infants and toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities and their families in a comprehensive system of early intervention and special education services, birth through age 21. With heightened emphasis on high-leverage strategies and evidence-based practices necessary to transform early intervention and special education, TogetherMD targets disparities impacting children and families across a range of priority needs.

The RTP provides Federal funds to States t​o develop and maintain land and water-based recreational trails and trail-related facilities for motorized and non-motorized recreational trail uses. Some of these uses include pedestrian (hiking, running, wheelchair, snowshoeing), road/mountain biking, equestrian, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, off-road motorcycling, off-highway vehicle riding, paddle sports, personal watercraft, and motorized boats.

Administered by the Maryland Department of Transportation State Highway Administration (MDOT SHA), this program is a reimbursable grant program that matches federal funds with local funds or in-kind contributions to implement these trail projects. Projects can be sponsored by a county, a municipal government, or a non-profit agency.

The Maryland State Highway Administration (SHA) encourages non-profit organizations and government agencies to utilize the RTP to fund land and water-based recreational trail-related projects. This manual has been developed to provide a broad overview of project reporting and financial management requirements. Minor adjustments and refinements may be made to address specific project needs.

The Maryland Food and Agricultural Resiliency Mechanism Grant Program (MFARM) helps people who are food insecure to access the nourishment that they need, while providing a market for farmers to sell their products. The purpose of this program is to build food system resiliency by leveraging Maryland agricultural/seafood products and services to support the State's food banks and charitable emergency food providers to alleviate food insecurity.

The grant program allows Maryland's food banks, charitable emergency food providers and nonprofits to request funding to purchase agricultural/seafood products listed in the Certified Local Farm and Fish Program and deliver it to Maryland families in need throughout the year.

​​The funding priority is to purchase agricultural/seafood products listed in the Certified Local Farm and Chesapeake Invasive Species Provider Directory.

​Grant funds may also be used to fund the following activities;

• The transportation of agricultural/seafood products

The Maryland Corps/Service Year Option (MC/SYO) Program through Maryland’s Department of Service and Civic Innovation (DSCI) connects young adults—primarily 18–24-year-olds—with Maryland organizations for a minimum 9-month workforce and service opportunity.

As a Host Site Partner (HSP), your Maryland-based organization (whether nonprofit, for-profit, government/public agency—to name a few) will be part of an innovative program that supports the growth of your work and the talent of Marylanders.

By becoming a partner, your organization enters a community of Host Site Partners who grow our state’s talent pipeline with energetic and service-minded talent.

You will bolster Maryland’s economic growth and build the next generation of leaders.

• Grow your own workforce
  • Members spend at least 9 months contributing to your team and developing skills that matter to your organization. During their service term, they’re immersed in your organization's culture, making it easier to convert Members to full-time employees once the program concludes. The annual program cycle means your business can recruit new talent every year.
• Backed by DSCI every step of the way
  • DSCI actively invests in the talent serving at your organization. We provide dedicated Member Success coaches, on-the-job training offered through monthly member trainings and weekly professional development opportunities, and Host Site Partner resources.
  • Members can earn specialized apprenticeship credentials and other certifications on their own schedule, bringing fresh ideas and skills to your organization—plus, we cover the $6,000 completion award to incentivize their success.
• Build community 
  • Join a network of like-minded organizations who believe in the power of service and the importance of training the next generation. Together, we’ll build a talent pipeline for Marylanders that uplifts our communities and prepares the next generation for fulfilling careers across all sectors.

The Kim Lamphier Bikeways Network Program provides grant support for a wide range of bicycle network development activities. The program supports projects that maximize bicycle access and enhance last-mile connections to work, school, shopping and transit. The Bikeways Program seeks to leverage past investments in bicycle facilities, complement existing state, local, and federal programs, and promote biking as a fun and healthy transportation mode. The program prioritizes funding projects which improve safety and access for disadvantaged communities. 

FY27 Aging-in-Place (AIP) Program

Program Authority and Purpose:

The Maryland Department of Aging (MDOA or Department) is pleased to issue this Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the award of grants through a competitive process under the Aging-In-Place (AIP) Program, under the authority of and in accordance with the §10-1201 of the Human Services Article of the Annotated Code of Maryland, amended by the Village Multigenerational Third Places Act (Senate Bill 530/House Bill 811), which shall take effect July 1, 2026. This funding opportunity aligns with the Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM) multisector plan on aging and the Department’s commitment to supporting Marylanders to age with health, financial security, social connection, and purpose.

Like the rest of the country, Maryland is home to a population of older adults which will grow considerably over the next several decades. By 2030, nearly one out of every four Marylanders will be 60 years of age or older (census.gov). The majority of older adults want to age in their homes or have limited alternatives due to the high cost of institutional or assisted living options. The AIP funding opportunity enables older Marylanders to live in their homes and participate in a community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level.

To provide the highest quality of care, it is essential that aging services are both person- centered and trauma-informed (PCTI) . Consequently, this FY27 funding opportunity prioritizes community-based organizations that provide essential programming, service coordination, and support within high-need areas. We are specifically seeking to reach low-income older adults facing the compounding challenges of declining health, social isolation, financial hardship, and language barriers. Integrating PCTI principles into the AIP model aims to rebuild the sense of security and stability necessary for Maryland's older adults to thrive within the communities we call home.

Description:

This funding opportunity aligns with MDOA’s Longevity Ready Maryland (LRM) multisector plan on aging. Successful applicants will propose projects that address the following strategies from the plan:

• Increase awareness and adoption of the neighbor-helping-neighbor Village model;
• Recruit older volunteers and multigenerational volunteer teams into coordinated service opportunities;
• Increase the number of intergenerational volunteer opportunities;
• Expand AIP options by providing wraparound services that include health care, transportation, and social services in coordination with Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs), Centers for Independent Living, Villages, and other community-based aging service providers;
• Increase access to home repair and modification programs that ensure safe and accessible home environments; 
• Leverage technology and community-based services to enhance transportation options and operability for older adults, especially in rural communities;
• Promote innovative opportunities to connect Marylanders across all ages through technology, programming, and community spaces; and
• Promote the adoption of initiatives that increase intergenerational connection to reduce age-related bias.

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (NFBMD), an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is an organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people, and has the power, influence, diversity and determination to help transform our dreams into reality. Members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations so that blind persons can have the life they want.

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland is a 501c(3) nonprofit made up of blind people of all ages, their families and friends. Our strong local chapters and divisions, and well-trained leaders help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. We bring our collective experiences together to effect change at the state and national level.

Sharon Maneki Youth Empowerment Grant Information

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland offers youth empowerment grants for blind and visually impaired students in elementary and secondary school. These grants help deserving students take advantage of some wonderful training opportunities available in Maryland and around the country.

Requirements

Students who receive grants are required to perform at least one of the following reflection activities within 45 days of completing the program. Parents may assist with this activity. Failure to complete a reflection activity may impact future eligibility for NFB support.

Reflection Activities:

• Prepare a short article of at least 500 words for publication in the NFB of Maryland's newsletter, The Spectator, or for posting on the NFB of Maryland Web site.
• Attend an NFB meeting. Give an overview of the program attended, and describe the benefits of the experience (approximately a 3 to 5 minute presentation).

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

National Federation of the Blind of Maryland

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland (NFBMD), an affiliate of the National Federation of the Blind, is an organization that believes in the full capacity of blind people, and has the power, influence, diversity and determination to help transform our dreams into reality. Members work together for a brighter tomorrow by raising expectations so that blind persons can have the life they want.

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland is a 501c(3) nonprofit made up of blind people of all ages, their families and friends. Our strong local chapters and divisions, and well-trained leaders help newly blind people adjust to vision loss, and promote the full participation and integration of blind people in our communities. We bring our collective experiences together to effect change at the state and national level.

John T. McCraw Scholarship Program

The Program will award up to four individual scholarships of $4,000 each. These scholarships will be given to qualified blind students who exhibit academic achievement, community involvement, and leadership.

The John T. McCraw Scholarship Program has been established to promote post-secondary educational opportunities for Maryland's blind students. The recipients may use these scholarships to defray the cost of educational expenses incurred at any post-secondary institution during the academic year. All John T. McCraw scholarships are merit-based and are awarded based on academic excellence, community service, and leadership.

• Recipients are required to attend the annual Convention of the National Federation of the Blind in its entirety, July 3-8, 2026, in Austin, Texas, as well as the annual Convention of the National Federation of the Blind of Maryland, in February 2027, in Maryland. Financial assistance to attend the Conventions will be provided.

• Shortly after submitting applications, the scholarship committee will select the recipients, but will not award the scholarships until personally interacting with the recipients at both conventions. Scholarships will be awarded at the state convention banquet in February 2027. Recipients' participation in both conventions in their entirety is mandatory in order to qualify for these scholarships.

The Medium-Duty and Heavy-Duty Zero-Emission Vehicle Grant Program, offered by the Maryland Energy Administration, aims to support the purchase of zero-emission vehicles and heavy equipment for commercial use. With up to $10 million available in Fiscal Year 2026, grants can cover 75% of the costs for eligible vehicles, promoting clean transportation options in Maryland's fleet companies and communities.

The France-Merrick Foundation Grant, focusing on Maryland's Greater Baltimore area, supports one-time, project-oriented requests exceeding $50,000. Prioritizing financial sustainability, the Foundation funds projects across civic, cultural, community, economic development, education, health, and environmental sectors. It emphasizes innovative collaborations to enhance community vitality and resilience while ensuring adherence to sustainable practices. Organizations must demonstrate 501(c)(3) status and financial stability, with a commitment to improving lives and strengthening neighborhoods through targeted initiatives.

Maryland State Arts Council 

Founded in 1967, The Maryland State Arts Council (MSAC) is an agency of the State of Maryland's Department of Commerce that plays an essential role, ensuring every person has access to the transformative power of the arts.

MSAC advances the arts in our state by providing leadership that champions creative expression, diverse programming, equitable access, lifelong learning, and the arts as a celebrated contributor to the quality of life for all the people of Maryland.

A&E District Operating Support Grant

Annual operating grants support activities, programs, and projects in Arts & Entertainment (A&E) Districts throughout Maryland. Appointed management entities for designated A&E Districts may apply for MSAC operating support funds to support district priorities. 

Use of Funds

Grant funds may be used for:

• Salaries and administrative expenses
• Events, programming, and projects in the A&E District
• Marketing of the A&E District and/or its businesses, artists, events, etc.
• Re-granting to local organizations, artists, and schools to support arts programming or projects
• Services for district artists, businesses, and arts organizations
• Other operating expenses

The Van Metre Companies Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in education, medical, and human welfare services. With a legacy of nearly 70 years, Van Metre prioritizes innovation and community involvement, ensuring financial stability while delivering exceptional value through technology. Recognized as a Best Place to Work, their culture empowers employees and fosters a collaborative environment, reflecting a commitment to excellence and strategic growth in the Northern Virginia market.

Maryland State Department of Education

Maryland has over 1,400 public schools, 24 local education agencies, and over 7,000 child care providers serving all of the state’s 23 counties plus Baltimore City. The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) works collaboratively with the State Board of Education and stakeholders to ensure the promise of an excellent and equitable education for all students, especially those who have been historically underserved. At MSDE, we are a dedicated team of educators, specialists, and administrators joined together by a single vision: to be a system of world-class schools where students acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for success in college, career, and life.

Field Trip Grant to Museums of Cultural Import

Program Description

The Museums of Cultural Import Field Trip Grant Program is a Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) grant program that aims to assist public schools in allowing students to visit Museum of cultural import which include The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum; The National Museum of African American History and Culture; Jewish Museum of Maryland; and The Reginald F. Lewis Museum of Maryland African American History and Culture. This grant is intended to cover any related expenses for student field trips to the prior identified museums. All Maryland local school systems are eligible for these grant funds.

About Us

At Maryland Humanities, we’re passionate about making the humanities part of our daily lives.

Our Mission

Maryland Humanities creates and supports bold experiences that explore and elevate our shared stories to connect people, enhance lives, and enrich communities.

Our Vision

We envision a Maryland where the humanities are understood as central to everyday life because they help us reflect on the past, understand the present, and shape the future. The result will be a state where thoughtful and informed Marylanders are committed to a lifetime of learning that invigorates and strengthens our democracy through an open-minded exchange of ideas.

Strengthening the Humanities Investment in Nonprofits for Equity Grant

Championing the humanities across a state as diverse as Maryland requires many contributors and much collaboration. That’s where our Marilyn Hatza Memorial SHINE Grant Program comes in: Strengthening the Humanities Investment in Nonprofits for Equity.

We have been actively adjusting our grant practices over the past few years with a focus on equity and accessibility.

With the Marilyn Hatza Memorial SHINE Grant Program, Maryland Humanities takes the next step in our grantmaking evolution and aims to lower barriers and provide funding in a more equitable way to organizations statewide. Thank you to the State of Maryland via the Maryland Historical Trust for providing the Hatza SHINE seed money and helping to invest in a healthier humanities landscape statewide.

80 general operating support grants of $5,000 each to Maryland nonprofits conducting work in the humanities will be awarded.

Program Goals

• Continue and expand general operating support funding, awarding $900,000 in grants.
• Focus on small and mid‐size humanities, cultural, and educational nonprofits that may not have staff capacity or resources to be competitive in fundraising.
• Ensure a broad geographic reach, similar to what we were able to realize from our COVID‐relief grants, which funded organizations in all 23 of Maryland’s counties, plus Baltimore City.
• Continue to refine lessons learned on how to evaluate applicants and distribute funds equitably, while ensuring accountability and responsible fiscal stewardship.
• Convene annual cohorts of grantees in new networks of engagement and common purpose to amplify the state’s investment, strengthening both the organizations and communities.

The Sprouting School Gardens Grant, provided by the Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, supports school-based gardening and cooking programs to foster healthy eating habits in children. Grants between $5,000 and $10,000 help cover program operations, supplies, and educator stipends. Eligible applicants include schools and 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas served by Sprouts Farmers Market, promoting meaningful connections between local teams and school gardening initiatives.

The Growing Healthy Kids Grant, funded by The Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, aims to support community-based programs that enhance children's nutrition access and health education. With grant amounts ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, this initiative focuses on hands-on programs that promote healthy habits among children and their families. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates, helping to ensure that the funds directly benefit local communities.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The IAC Mission

The mission of the Interagency Commission on School Construction is to achieve a safe, healthy, and educationally sufficient learning environment for every child attending a public school in Maryland. Our vision is a fiscally sustainable statewide portfolio of Pre-K-12 school facilities that will remain educationally sufficient for current and future generations of students and teachers.

Built to Learn Program

Purpose

Provides for up to $2.2 billion in school construction project funding through Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) issued special revenue bonds and provides for management of the projects by MSA.

Minimum Project Cost: $4,000,000

Funding Allocation Methods

• Calculated allocations based on estimated bond proceeds are set for Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Frederick County, Howard County, and Montgomery County.
• The other 17 LEAs share the remainder of the allocations, capped in proportion to their September 2019 enrollments.
• Maximum State Allocation is established for individual projects.
• Funding allocations must be used within 10 years of award.

State/Local Participation: State/Local cost share % applied

The Andrew W. Mellon Fellowship at the National Museum of the American Indian (NMAI) offers a unique opportunity for recent graduates in conservation. This full-time, two-year position focuses on the preservation of Indigenous cultural heritage, allowing fellows to engage in meaningful research projects under expert guidance. With an annual stipend of $50,000, plus funding for research and travel, this fellowship aims to foster a deep understanding of Native American cultural practices and conservation techniques.