Best Grants for Preschools in Maryland

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

African American Heritage Preservation Program Grants

The African American Heritage Preservation Program (AAHPP) provides $5 million in grants to assist in the preservation of buildings, sites, and communities significant to African American history and culture in Maryland. 

The program is jointly administered by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) and the Maryland Commission on African American History and Culture (MCAAHC). 

The Appalachian Region Healthcare Support Program aims to enhance healthcare delivery in rural areas by providing technical assistance to organizations such as critical access hospitals and rural health clinics. By focusing on planning and implementing healthcare service improvements, the program seeks to strengthen the operational performance and quality of care within these communities, ultimately benefiting the residents served by the Appalachian Regional Commission.

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program

The Historic Preservation Capital Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Historical Trust (MHT), provides $1 million in funding for the preservation of Maryland’s historic properties and sites. This grant program offers money for important and urgently needed preservation projects that benefit the public.

Preserving & interpreting the legacy of Maryland's past

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) supports historic preservation and revitalization by providing funding and resources to care for historic sites. MHT serves as the State Historic Preservation Office and operates Jefferson Patterson Park & Museum.

Funding

The Maryland Historical Trust (MHT) provides grants, tax credits, and loans for a variety of historic preservation projects. Explore our funding programs below.

Maryland Heritage Areas Program Project Grants

The Maryland Heritage Areas Program awards approximately $3 million towards capital and non-capital project grants within one or more of Maryland’s 13 heritage areas. These projects highlight Maryland's diverse heritage, enhance local communities, and promote tourism, sustainability, and economic development. 

The Maryland Heritage Areas Program Project Grants provide vital funding to preserve and interpret Maryland's rich history. With approximately $3 million available for capital and non-capital projects, these grants aim to enhance local communities, promote tourism, and support economic development throughout Maryland's 13 heritage areas. The Maryland Historical Trust oversees these initiatives, ensuring the legacy of the state's past is honored and sustained.

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 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 FCIDD Nonprofit Project Grants are designed to support 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across various states. Grants are awarded for projects that enhance accessibility, provide educational opportunities, and promote community engagement. The foundation encourages collaboration with local Civitan clubs, particularly in October and March funding rounds, while also offering open applications in July. The initiative aims to empower nonprofits to improve the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities.

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 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.

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.

About the IAC

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.

The Aging Schools Program

Maryland’s Aging Schools Program (ASP) was established by legislation in 1997. Subsequent legislation extended and modified it. Funds are distributed in accordance with Education Article §5-324 and the annual budget. Beginning with fiscal year 2010, funding for the Program was provided from proceeds of State general obligation bonds. Eligible projects were thereafter restricted to those having at least a 15-year anticipated lifespan.

The ASP is administered by the Interagency Commission on School Construction (IAC) in accordance with COMAR 14.39.02 Aging Schools Program. The IAC approves expenditures and develops administrative procedures for the program.

Purpose

The ASP provides State funds to all school systems in the State of Maryland to address the needs of their aging school buildings. These funds may be utilized for capital improvement projects in existing public school buildings and sites serving students.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

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 

Accessibility & Engagement

For museums, parks, other public spaces without a specific I/DD focus wanting to make property or equipment improvements and additions to better include visitors with I/DD.

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

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.

The TD Charitable Foundation's Capacity Building Fund empowers nonprofit organizations by providing grants aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities. Established in 2002, this initiative focuses on funding projects that promote job training, arts, and housing assistance, particularly for historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the foundation seeks to support organizations that align with its TD Ready Commitment drivers, ensuring impactful and sustainable community development.

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 US Department of the Interior's National Park Service (NPS) offers a grant to enhance outdoor recreation and cultural tourism in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. This initiative aims to connect communities with their natural and historical heritage while fostering economic growth. Projects supported by this grant will celebrate gateway communities and provide opportunities for visitors and residents to explore authentic experiences through various recreational activities and cultural engagements, strengthening the connection to the Chesapeake Bay.

About

The mission of Maryland Center for School Safety (MCSS) is to promote and enhance safer school communities. This is done through various training, grants, and community outreach programs.

SRO Adequate Coverage Grant

The SRO Adequate Coverage Grant is a non-competitive, State-funded grant program designed for local school systems and law enforcement agencies located within the State of Maryland. The main purpose of the SRO Adequate Coverage Grant is to assist local school systems and law enforcement agencies in fulfilling the requirements of the Safe to Learn Act of 2018. Funding is intended to support the costs of salary and fringe benefits for SROs, School Security Employees (SSEs), as well as overtime wages to provide adequate law enforcement coverage during routine school hours or for after-school activities . To be assigned as a School Resource Officer or School Security Employee, an individual must meet the conditions as outlined in MD. Code Ann., Education Art. §7-1501(j)(k) of the Safe to Learn Act and COMAR 14.40.04.03. 

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.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

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.

Maryland health care and community providers expanding access and promoting health equity can apply for grants of US $300,000 - US $750,000 to improve services for low-income and underserved residents. Grants from Maryland Community Health Resources Commission help organizations address health disparities, strengthen safety-net capacity, and tackle social determinants of health, which may benefit preschool-serving programs offering health-related services.

The Knauss Marine Policy Fellowship offers graduate students a unique opportunity to engage in ocean, coastal, and Great Lakes resource policy-making. Established in 1979, the program pairs students with hosts in the U.S. Congress or executive branch for a year-long paid fellowship. With awards ranging from $78,100 to $95,600, fellows gain invaluable experience while contributing to important environmental decisions. Eligible students must be enrolled in a graduate program and demonstrate an interest in marine policy.

The Competitive Graduate Research Fellowship, offered by Maryland Sea Grant, supports graduate students conducting research on critical issues affecting the Chesapeake Bay and coastal waters. This fellowship emphasizes social relevance and community engagement, particularly focusing on underserved populations. Awarded fellows receive a stipend of $34,000, tuition remission, and travel allowance. A professional mentor is required to ensure research aligns with the needs of resource managers and policy makers. Applications are encouraged from a diverse pool of candidates.

Maryland Department of Natural Resources Forest Service

About Us

The Maryland Forest Service restores, manages, and protects Maryland’s trees, forests, and forested ecosystems to sustain our natural resources and connect people to the land.

MUCFC Grant Program

Community Tree Planting and Education Grant Program

The Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Council (MUCFC) provides funding to support community-based tree planting and forestry education projects that strengthen Maryland’s urban forests. Grants are open to organizations statewide for work on public lands that improves the urban tree canopy, engages citizens, and promotes long-term environmental stewardship.

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 Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, aims to enhance college campuses through tree planting and maintenance. By engaging students and faculty in environmental initiatives, the program promotes sustainability and mental well-being. Participating institutions are recognized for their commitment to community forests, which contribute to energy conservation and climate change mitigation. This framework not only beautifies campuses but also fosters a sense of pride and responsibility among students and staff.