Best Grants for Capital Funding in Maryland

The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board (MGPUB) is inviting proposals aimed at enhancing the profitability of grain production in Maryland. Established in 1991, MGPUB manages a voluntary checkoff program funded by grain producers. The board supports projects related to corn, wheat, barley, sorghum, and rapeseed/canola, focusing on education, promotion, and research to improve public understanding of agriculture. This initiative seeks to provide financial backing for impactful agricultural endeavors.

The Johns Hopkins Urban Health Institute (UHI) offers Strategic Consultation Grants aimed at enhancing health and health equity in Baltimore City. These grants support faculty collaborations with city government on projects that improve community health. Up to $10,000 is available for each proposal, which can be used for various activities justified in the budget. This initiative emphasizes community engagement and aims to mobilize resources effectively to address local health challenges.

The Addressing Disparities in Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and Obesity in Maryland Communities program aims to reduce health inequity among Maryland’s racial and ethnic minorities. SDOH objectives highlight the significance of upstream factors, typically outside health care delivery, necessary to reduce health disparities and maintain healthy communities and populations. The program does this by funding organizations to provide community-based interventions addressing SDOH.​

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities have the right to direct their lives and services. This means they are in control of their own lives and make decisions about the services and supports they get, with help if they want it.

The DDA wants everyone to be able to live, love, learn, work, play in the community, and go after their hopes, dreams and goals. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities, their families, and other community members help the DDA with this work. We support people to receive services based on what they need to reach their goals. The DDA believes supports and services must be person-centered, flexible, and focused on the needs and choices of each person and family. 

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) funds employment, day, residential and support services for people with developmental disabilities. The DDA offers services to both children and adults. You can apply at any age.

Creating Health Access for Next Generation Equity (CHANGE) Grant Program

Launched in 2023, the AstraZeneca Foundation’s signature Creating Health Access for Next Generation Equity (CHANGE) program works to improve access to quality healthcare.

Beginning April 1, 2026, the AstraZeneca Foundation will accept grant requests of $200,000 - $220,000 for review and consideration for its next cohort of CHANGE grant awardees. Organizations receiving funding in 2026 may be considered for renewed funding on an annual basis for two additional years, contingent upon meeting objectives, funding availability and approval by the Foundation’s Board of Trustees.

The intent of the grants is to provide general operating support for organizations working in innovative, collaborative ways at the community level to help improve access to quality healthcare in their community during the grant year and beyond. Our aim is for funded organizations to maximize the benefit to community members and community-based organizations and to work toward continuing their services beyond potential AstraZeneca Foundation funding.

Please see FAQs for additional guidelines.

The Maryland Horse Board Grants Program aims to enhance the state's horse industry through funding for projects that increase awareness, education, and participation in equestrian activities. Grants, typically around $1,000, support diverse initiatives, particularly those aligning with the Maryland Horse Forum Report. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government programs, and educational institutions in Maryland. Funding requests should not exceed $3,000, fostering sustainable growth and inclusivity within the horse community.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration's Low Intensity Support Services (LISS) Program serves children living at home with their family and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities living in their own home in the community who are not receiving any support services from the DDA. The LISS program's goal is to ensure that children and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities live happy, healthy, independent lives while being integrated into their communities across their lifespan. Below are just a few highlights:

• It is flexible to meet the needs of children as they grow and adults as they mature across their lifespan. And;
• Provides up to $1000 to assist eligible children and adults with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities with purchasing eligible services and/or items to address their needs. And;
• Enhances or improves the quality of life, for eligible children and adults with developmental and /or intellectual disabilities as well as promotes independence and community integration.

The Violence Intervention and Prevention Grant Program aims to reduce gun violence through evidence-based and evidence-informed health strategies. This program supports initiatives that are scientifically evaluated and demonstrate positive outcomes in preventing violence. By focusing on public health principles, the grant encourages the development of hospital-based violence intervention programs that provide essential counseling and social services to individuals recovering from violence-related injuries.

The Driver Education in Public High Schools Grant Program, administered by the Maryland State Department of Education, aims to provide funding for public high schools and nonprofit organizations to deliver driver education courses. Priority is given to schools with at least 40% of students eligible for free or reduced-price meals, ensuring equitable access to essential driving education. A total funding amount of $2,000,000 is available to support this initiative.

The MSDE Home Visiting - Healthy Families Grant Program for FY 26 aims to enhance community-based services for children and families in Maryland. With funding between $55,000 and $350,000, the program focuses on improving childhood well-being, addressing trauma, and promoting economic self-sufficiency through evidence-based home visiting initiatives. This grant supports efforts to bridge racial disparities and foster positive parent-child relationships, ultimately contributing to better maternal health and school readiness outcomes.

The Environment Anne Arundel Fund, established by the Community Foundation of Anne Arundel County, supports local nonprofits focused on environmental protection and improvement in Anne Arundel County and the Chesapeake Bay. Grants will fund projects addressing stormwater issues and increasing community awareness of environmental challenges. Eligible applicants must operate within the county, hold 501(c)(3) status, and demonstrate their commitment to educating the public and engaging citizens in environmental stewardship.

State capital funding for the creation and enhancement of accessible arts facilities.

This grant can support capital projects that include the expansion of, production of, renovation of, or major repairs to a facility operated by an eligible organization. 

Projects that prioritize energy-efficient building methods and technologies, increase facility accessibility for people with disabilities, or expand an organization’s programming and ability to serve a broader audience are strongly encouraged to apply.

Gilead North America Grants support community-informed programs that enhance healthcare for vulnerable populations. Grants are available for innovative projects addressing HIV, liver diseases, oncology, and inflammatory diseases. Applications are invited from tax-exempt nonprofits based in the U.S. who focus on health equity and community engagement. Gilead prioritizes funding for projects that demonstrate a strong capability to deliver impactful outcomes, helping to eliminate barriers to healthcare and improve access to essential services.

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 FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Maryland Grain Producers Utilization Board offers two $1,000 scholarships for students studying agriculture at any secondary education institution. These scholarships are available for non-members, welcoming those without a grain production farm background. Established in 1991, the Board promotes Maryland's grain industry through education and research, funded by a voluntary checkoff program. Eligible applicants must reside in Maryland and submit educational information, a reference, and complete two essay questions.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The Children’s Justice Act Committee Grant aims to enhance the investigation and judicial handling of child abuse cases, particularly focusing on child sexual abuse and exploitation. This initiative, reauthorized in 2003, provides critical funding to states to develop programs that ensure the protection of child victims from further trauma during legal proceedings. It emphasizes a coordinated response from law enforcement and child welfare agencies, fostering a supportive environment for affected children.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

The MSCRF Post-Doctoral Fellowship Program RFA aims to advance stem cell research by providing funding for post-doctoral fellows in Maryland. This initiative supports innovative research focusing on the prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and cure of human diseases through human stem cells. With awards of up to $65,000 per year for two years, the program seeks to foster the next generation of researchers and enhance the state's biotechnology landscape.

The Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant Program, a collaboration between the Chesapeake Bay Trust and Maryland Environmental Trust, supports land trusts and organizations in Maryland. With funding up to $10,000, this initiative aims to enhance civic engagement and stewardship practices. Projects should focus on education, outreach, and local environmental solutions. Inspired by Janice Hollmann, the grant fosters organizational capacity and promotes the long-term stewardship of protected lands.

The Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) invites applications for its Clinical Program to advance medical therapies through human stem cell research. This initiative aims to develop innovative strategies for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of human diseases. Eligible applicants must propose projects with clear milestones and can receive up to $1,000,000 in funding for a maximum of two years. The MSCRF is dedicated to fostering state-funded stem cell research and cures.

About the AASM Foundation

For 25 years the AASM Foundation has been the leading organization helping investigators, community leaders, and clinicians address the challenges of the evolving field of sleep. The programs of the AASM Foundation support career development, high-impact research projects, and community programs that are Championing a Bright Future in Sleep Health.

Howard University Medical Alumni Association Scholarship

The AASM Foundation has partnered with the Howard University Medical Alumni Association (HUMAA) to fund scholarships that are administered by HUMAA’s scholarship program. In 2026, up to five $3,000 scholarships will be provided to Howard University medical students who are interested in pursuing a career in sleep medicine and demonstrating financial need.

The Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Protecting Against Hate Crimes Grant Program offers essential funding to nonprofit organizations, including faith-based groups, to enhance security against potential hate crimes. This initiative, aligned with the goals of the Maryland Governor's Office of Crime Prevention, aims to foster collaboration between law enforcement and community services. The grant supports various categories, including personnel, equipment, and operating expenses, ensuring targeted facilities receive necessary protection and resources.