Best Grants for Preschools in Maryland

The Homelessness Solutions Program (HSP) administered by Maryland's Department of Housing and Community Development aims to prevent and end homelessness by providing over $15 million annually to local Continuums of Care. HSP prioritizes funding to projects that divert at-risk households from homelessness, connect individuals to mainstream benefits and housing, serve vulnerable populations, implement evidence-based practices, and ensure equitable service delivery.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Jubilee Trust Fund supports mission projects aimed at enhancing African-American leadership within congregations. Established in 1982, the fund promotes clergy recruitment, Christian education, and youth ministry. It addresses specific community needs through well-defined initiatives, ensuring that resources are allocated to projects that foster growth and presence of African-American churches in the region. Applications are reviewed by the Jubilee Fund Committee for potential funding.

The Appalachian Landscapes Project - Capital Grants Application Fall 2025 by the Open Space Institute aims to enhance conservation across the Appalachian Mountain region. With a focus on biodiversity, climate resilience, and community benefits, this initiative supports the acquisition of land and conservation easements. As a vital climate refuge, the Appalachians play a crucial role in safeguarding habitats and providing public recreation opportunities for the 26 million residents living in this area.

The Crane Family Foundation Grant supports Jewish education and violence prevention programs in Baltimore, Maryland. Established in 1991, the Foundation allocates 70-80% of its funds to Jewish education and 20-30% for violence prevention initiatives aimed at local youth. Organizations based in Maryland are eligible to apply, with specific deadlines for submissions. This funding opportunity reflects the Foundation's commitment to enhancing community welfare and educational opportunities.

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.

The Joseph Robert Foundation Grant provides essential funding for non-profit organizations focused on the arts, animal welfare, and environmental protection. Based in Pennsylvania, the foundation prioritizes smaller local organizations in the mid-Atlantic region, offering grants typically under $10,000. It encourages innovative projects and supports first-time grant seekers, prioritizing those with limited resources. Organizations can apply for general operating support or specific project funding to further their missions and impact their communities.

The Greenspring Grant Program, established in 2012, focuses on supporting local non-profits dedicated to economic and workforce development. With $100,000 in grants ranging from $10,000 to $15,000, the program is entirely employee-run, allowing teams to select deserving organizations. Eligible entities include 501(c)(3) non-profits in Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, while special consideration is given to local initiatives aimed at recovery, youth, and underserved populations.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

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.

Prekindergarten Expansion Grant

Purpose

The Prekindergarten Expansion Grant is a competitive grant program administered by the Division of Early Childhood at the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE). It provides funding for local education agencies (LEAs) and private providers to administer high-quality prekindergarten and school readiness services throughout the State for children and their families in alignment with The Blueprint for Maryland’s Future. The purpose of the grant is to broaden availability and expand access to high-quality prekindergarten educational programming and school readiness services for three- year-old and four-year-old students from families with household incomes up to 300% of Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

The Sponsorship Grant Program by the Chesapeake Bay Trust aims to enhance public awareness of environmental issues related to the Chesapeake Bay and Maryland watersheds. It supports events like conferences and festivals, fostering community engagement. Grants typically award up to $500 for programmatic and marketing support. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, encouraging diverse organizations to apply, especially those traditionally underrepresented in environmental initiatives.

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 NCAC-SOT Fall Symposium Trainee Abstract Award supports students and postdoctoral researchers presenting their work at the National Capital Area Chapter Fall Symposium. Eligible candidates must be enrolled full-time in an academic program within the MD, VA, DC region and submit a concise research description. Awards include $200 for first place and $100 for second place, encouraging scholarly engagement and innovation among trainees.

Maintenance Small Grants Program

Watershed restoration projects like tree planting, rain gardens, bioswales, conservation landscaping, pollinator habitat, and stream buffers generally have two phases: 1) installation and 2) operation and maintenance for the lifespan of the project. Maintaining projects keeps them functioning as designed and ensures aesthetic value, which maintains public support for these investments. We want restoration practices to clean water, cool neighborhoods, and provide habitat benefits long after installation.

Our goal is to grow this new program over time. We appreciate your feedback as we continue to build it.

What this funds: This program will focus on small-scale maintenance projects that are $500 or less, specifically for:

• invasive species removal/control and/or
• plant replacements/enhancements. Funds cannot be used to purchase non-native species.

The ALDI Community Gift Card Program provides financial support ranging from $100 to $1,000 to eligible nonprofits and schools that focus on after-school and out-of-school youth programs, as well as food banks. This initiative aims to empower organizations dedicated to child development and combating food insecurity. By applying, you can gain access to essential resources to further your mission and make a positive impact in your community.

The Leonard & Helen R. Stulman Charitable Foundation Grants provide funding ranging from $25,000 to $150,000 to support initiatives in mental health, aging, and health care. The foundation prioritizes projects in greater Baltimore and Maryland, focusing on underserved populations and evidence-based practices. Organizations must qualify as public charities and adhere to non-discrimination policies. The foundation does not fund capital projects, K-12 education, scholarships, or conferences.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Gerstbrein/McCanna Scholarship for the Arts

After a long and rewarding career in Landscape Design and Art Education, Lisa Gerstbrein/McCanna wanted to promote the Arts and Industrial Arts in the community where she made her home and her livelihood. Her career brought her tremendous joy in pursuits that she loved as well as the satisfying reward of helping students find inspiration in the worlds of Art and Industrial Art. She is a true believer in the concept of STEAM based education. Accordingly, she established a fund to provide scholarships for the advanced education of advancing Senior High School Students in these areas who are residents of Armstrong County, Pennsylvania and are pursuing higher education in an approved program within 300 miles of their respective school - Armstrong High School, West Shamokin High School or Lenape Technical School. 

Scholarship Details

• Available to High School Seniors
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

Armstrong County Community Foundation

The Armstrong County Community Foundation, a public nonprofit corporation,

• Gives grants, scholarships, and organizational support to address the needs of our community.
• Builds a permanent endowment to help our donors create a legacy through this endowment.
• Promotes informed philanthropy to increase and sustain charitable resources for the region.
• Provides leadership and builds partnerships to identify and solve community issues.

Geophysical Society of Pittsburgh Scholarship

The Geophysical Society of Pittsburgh Scholarship Fund was established in 2013 by the Geophysical Society of Pittsburgh.

Scholarship Details

• Available to Adult Students
• Nonrenewable

All ACCF Scholarships are merit based.

Thome Aging Well Grant Program

As communities navigate rapid shifts in resources, rising housing and living costs, and other emerging challenges, this final round of Thome Aging Well funding aims to assist organizations that are supporting older adults through these uncertain times. These flexible, one-year grants are designed to bolster housing-based programs, services, and supports that safeguard the health, stability, and well-being of older adults during this moment of change.

Award

• Up to $200,000

This funding opportunity aims to provide flexible support to affordable housing organizations and past Enterprise Thome Aging Well grantees to respond to the urgent or emerging needs of their residents or clients with effective solutions. Eligible organizations must serve older adults (aged 55 and older) with lower incomes living in Michigan and Maryland.

Grants will have a one-year period of performance.

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 General COE Scholarship at the University of Maryland College of Education provides merit-based financial support for both undergraduate and graduate students pursuing education degrees. With a strong commitment to diversity and leadership, applicants must demonstrate full-time enrollment, academic achievement, and financial need. This scholarship is made possible through the generosity of alumni and friends, ensuring that students can access transformative educational experiences in a supportive community.

The AW Environmental Grant Program, backed by American Water Works Company, Inc., aims to support community-driven projects focused on water conservation and the protection of vital water resources. Since 2012, the foundation has invested over $15 million in innovative initiatives that enhance access to clean water and promote responsible water usage in underserved communities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) charities and educational institutions committed to environmental stewardship.

The MSAC Grants for Artists program supports the sustainability of artists' livelihoods in Maryland by providing funds for various living and working expenses. This program emphasizes holistic support, aiming to strengthen the creative workforce that is essential to Maryland's culture and economy. Eligible artists can apply annually, with funding disbursed in one payment within 6-8 weeks of agreement execution. The grant can be used for costs such as administrative fees, materials, and studio expenses.

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 County Arts Development Grant supports Maryland's county arts agencies through a structured funding formula, ensuring equitable distribution of resources to foster local arts activities. With two application cycles, agencies can apply for funding every three years, promoting community engagement and support for diverse artistic initiatives. The program emphasizes transparency and accessibility, allowing funds to be used for re-granting, programming, and administrative costs, ultimately benefiting county residents and artists alike.

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.

The COE Dean’s Graduate Student Emergency Fund at the University of Maryland provides essential financial support to graduate students facing unexpected emergencies. This fund aims to help students remain enrolled and continue their studies despite financial hardships. Eligible candidates must have completed one semester in the College of Education and be currently enrolled. The grant is awarded on a case-by-case basis, with one award permitted per student each academic year.

The COE AmeriCorps Scholarship at the University of Maryland supports AmeriCorps alumni in pursuing teaching careers. The College of Education, with over 100 years of excellence, offers up to five awards of $4,000 each to individuals who have completed full-time AmeriCorps service. Applicants must enroll in a Master's Certification program leading to teacher certification and complete a brief scholarship application describing their service.