Best Grants for Capital Funding in Maryland

The NAACP X Society Awards Scholarship

The NAACP x Society Awards Scholarship is one of many funding opportunities available to students through NAACP's Inspire Initiatives. We offer scholarships to outstanding and qualified students pursuing undergraduate degrees. Through the generosity of our donors, we advance efforts to ensure equity in educational opportunity that prepares students for success in school, work, and life.

Scholarship amount: $1,000 to $5,000

This is a non-renewable scholarship opportunity.

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 

Bristol Myers Squibb is dedicated to enhancing healthcare and advancing scientific knowledge through its Corporate Giving program. By supporting various organizations, BMS aims to improve health equity and access to essential medicines for underserved populations. Their focus includes charitable donations, medical education, and community support initiatives. This commitment reflects BMS's goal to make a positive impact on patients' lives and foster strong communities where their employees work and live.

Bell's Brewery Small Grassroots Grants support projects focusing on water stewardship across the Great Lakes watershed. With grant amounts ranging from $500 to $5,000, eligible organizations can apply for funding to improve ecosystem health, enhance public health through better water resource management, and promote resilience against climate-related water risks. This initiative highlights Bell's commitment to environmental stewardship and community support in all 50 states and DC.

The NHLBI Career Transition Award (K22) supports postdoctoral fellows and research trainees in the NHLBI Division of Intramural Research, facilitating their transition to independent research roles at extramural institutions. Key deadlines for applications include October 12, 2024, and February 12, 2025, among others, providing ample opportunity for qualified investigators to advance their careers.

The Clean Water Montgomery Grant Program, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, aims to enhance water quality in Montgomery County through community engagement and innovative projects. Grants support watershed restoration, public outreach, and litter reduction, with funding levels ranging from $25,000 to $100,000 depending on the project type. While matching funds are encouraged for most projects, they are mandatory for permeable paver installations. This initiative fosters sustainable behavior change and encourages creative proposals.

The Maryland Elevates Grant Program aims to improve outcomes for infants, toddlers, children, and youth with disabilities within a comprehensive early intervention and special education system. Targeting disparities, it supports non-profits, community-based partners, and higher education institutions committed to implementing evidence-based practices and equitable solutions. The program emphasizes accelerated learning in inclusive environments, fostering teacher capacity and instructional leadership to enhance educational experiences for families across Maryland.

Enhance your organization’s capacity with AmeriCorps Maryland funding opportunities

AmeriCorps is the largest funder of national service in the United States, connecting organizations, public agencies, and institutions of higher education with individuals willing to dedicate their time and efforts to addressing critical needs across the state. AmeriCorps Maryland offers funding to support the development and operation of programs that engage individuals in direct service.

To qualify for funding through an operational grant, AmeriCorps Maryland programs must support the equivalent of 20 full-time AmeriCorps Members in their first year of operation. The amount of the grant award is based on the number of AmeriCorps Members serving with the organization. Organizations launching new programs may apply for planning grant opportunities. These grants do not include AmeriCorps Members but enable organizations to lay the foundation for a successful AmeriCorps operational program.

AmeriCorps Maryland Workforce Development Planning Grants

Planning Grants provide up to $240,000 in funding for the 6-month planning period beginning July 15, 2026. Applicants will propose developing a new AmeriCorps program that includes a defined, Member-focused career pathway that intentionally embeds workforce attributes into a service term.  

Planning Grants support program development and capacity-building activities. They do not fund AmeriCorps member positions during the planning year.

AmeriCorps is a national service program that engages individuals in meaningful service to strengthen communities. Through AmeriCorps Maryland Formula Operational Grants, organizations may place full- or part-time AmeriCorps members in communities across Maryland to address critical local needs.

The Fence Authority Scholarship offers a $1,000 award to students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in fields that enhance community beautification, such as architecture, civil engineering, and environmental sciences. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and involved in community service. This scholarship aims to empower students to contribute positively to society while furthering their education in impactful disciplines.

The Delaplaine Foundation Grant is a private family foundation based in Frederick, Maryland, dedicated to enriching communities through support for non-profit organizations focused on cultural arts, education, health, historical preservation, and spiritual enlightenment. With a commitment to local impact, it primarily awards funding in Frederick County, while also considering applications from nearby states and beyond. Eligible organizations must be recognized as tax-exempt public charities under IRS regulations.

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

Eligible Projects

Grants are available for research, survey, documentation, conservation, planning and educational activities involving historic, architectural, archaeological or cultural resources (i.e., the tangible remains of Maryland's past). 

The ASHRAE Region III Setty Family Foundation Scholarship supports undergraduate students pursuing engineering degrees in HVAC&R fields. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or be in the top 30% of their class. Eligible institutions include those hosting an ASHRAE student branch or accredited engineering programs. This scholarship promotes academic excellence and sustainable practices in the built environment, aligning with ASHRAE's mission to advance technology and human well-being.

The Helen Pumphrey Denit Charitable Trust Grant aims to support organizations that enhance education, culture, health, and human services, primarily within the Baltimore region. Established in 1988, it prioritizes grants for capital and program support, while general operating support is considered but less favored. Organizations must skip one grant cycle before reapplying. Certain requests, like those for debt reduction or individual support, are not eligible. Special preference is given to specific local institutions.

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on supporting organizations that empower communities through basic needs, income creation, and stable housing. By investing in health and job opportunities, they aim to enhance economic mobility for low- and moderate-income families. Their partnerships target vulnerable populations, ensuring equitable access to resources that foster community vitality and resilience. This initiative emphasizes the importance of stable housing as a foundation for personal and communal growth.

Maryland Department of Transportation

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is made up of five modal administrations: the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA); the Maryland Port Administration (MPA); the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA); the State Highway Administration (SHA); the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) – and authorities that are a part of MDOT, including the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This unique approach provides the state’s leadership with the ability to develop a coordinated and balanced approach to transportation.

Urban Tree Program 

The MDOT Urban Tree Program is a stewardship community tree planting program to help plant trees in communities that have lost trees as a result of transportation construction projects. The program was established by statute (Transportation - §2–103.8) out of the 2021 legislative session and was developed as a grant program in partnership with the Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Committee (MUCFC). The opportunity to apply for grant funding is open year-round! Applications will be reviewed twice a year for spring and fall planting seasons. The program awards grants for planting projects with additional funds available for pocket forest projects. The program supports the Maryland Five Million Trees initiative and supports MDOT's efforts to being the greenest department of transportation in the country.

Projects are prioritized if they support environmental justice initiatives, reduce the Urban Heat Island effect, and/or support the urban tree canopy.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA) on Aug. 4, 2026, seeking to fund high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. This preannouncement provides potential applicants additional time to identify collaborators; obtain patient and stakeholder input on potential studies; and develop responsive, high-quality applications. 

Patient-centered CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences. 

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Extension Risk Management Education (ERME) Competitive Grants: Exploratory Projects aim to enhance agricultural producers' economic viability through innovative risk management education. Funded by the University of Delaware, these grants offer up to $10,000 for projects that address emerging risk topics or support producer workshops. With an 18-month duration from April 2026 to September 2027, this initiative encourages the development of new educational approaches to better serve the needs of farmers and ranchers.

The Rosendin Foundation Annual Grant provides financial support to community-focused 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations across various states, aiding initiatives in emotional, occupational, and nutritional health. Grants can reach up to $50,000 and are geared towards organizations that positively impact their communities. However, the foundation does not fund discriminatory practices, political efforts, or religiously affiliated projects, ensuring that support is directed towards inclusive and impactful community services.

The Department of Natural Resources’ Watershed and Climate Services Grants Gateway

The Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Watershed & Climate Services (WCS) is committed to providing technical and financial assistance to Maryland’s communities that are challenged by intense storms, changing sea levels and increasing flooding, while balancing growing populations, economic growth, and increased tourism and recreation. These trends make the already challenging task of restoring the Chesapeake Bay, safeguarding people and infrastructure and managing natural resources even more complex.

Grants Gateway provides a resource for partners seeking technical and financial support for projects that foster healthy and resilient ecosystems, communities, and economies. Grants Gateway provides a centralized hub to streamline the grant application process for governments, academic institutions, and non-governmental organizations.

Eligible projects across six programs (as above) will improve water quality, restore local waterways, increase community flood planning, develop the next generation of environmental stewards, improve shorelines, and plan for beneficial reuse.

Community Flood Planning (Outcome 2)

Reduce current and future coastal and precipitation-based flood risks through proactive planning.

The Community Flood Planning grant is a financial assistance opportunity designed to help local communities understand, plan for, and mitigate the impacts of coastal, tidal, and precipitation-induced flooding.

The Community Flood Planning program supports projects that prioritize:

• Actionable data - The program funds flood-focused assessments, plans, or strategies to inform land use decision-making and future green or grey infrastructure at the community, county, or municipal level.
• Policy upgrades - The program provides resources for local governments to confidently adopt higher standards, update zoning laws, or implement effective adaptation strategies.
• Scientific alignment - The program encourages decision-making informed by the latest science and data sources for either or both short (1-10 years) and long (10+ years) term flood impacts.
• Design and implementation - In addition to planning, funding can cover best management practice siting, recommendations, and conceptual designs, which helps position local priority projects for implementation.
• Community engagement - The program encourages outreach to help governments gather feedback from residents, especially those vulnerable to flood impacts, and supports building better buy-in for future initiatives.

At this time, eligible projects may only be located within Maryland’s Coastal Zone (see map for details). Since these are planning projects, the project area can encompass both public and private lands.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Great American Cleanup Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to enhance community beautification and environmental efforts across the U.S. This initiative encourages KAB affiliates to remove litter, plant greenery, and restore public spaces, contributing to the larger goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by 2026. With cash grants available, this program fosters collaboration among communities, promoting sustainable practices and a cleaner, greener future for all.

The Santander Charitable Sponsorship Program focuses on supporting low- to moderate-income communities primarily in the Northeast and Florida. With a commitment of $100 million in charitable giving, the program addresses key community development needs, including affordable housing, job creation, financial education, and disaster relief. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or be public agencies, demonstrating capacity to meet community needs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Infant & Early Childhood Mental Health Support Services Grant Program, administered by the Maryland State Department of Education, aims to enhance mental health practices for young children. It focuses on building the capacity of early care providers and families to address developmental and behavioral issues. The program will offer support through referrals and services, ensuring equitable access to mental health resources. Ten grants ranging from $150,000 to $500,000 will be awarded to eligible applicants.