Best Marketing Grants for Nonprofits 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 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.

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 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 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.

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.

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 Mid-Atlantic Older Adult Ministries Endowment Fund, supported by the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic, provides essential funding for programs aimed at older adults. This endowment, maintained by the Presbyterian Foundation, ensures that the income generated will directly benefit ministries catering to the needs of older adults within the community. Contributions are vital for sustaining these efforts, and various donation methods are welcomed to support this important cause.

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.

21st Century Community Learning Center Program

The Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers program supports eligible organizations in providing academic enrichment activities and a broad array of additional services during non-school hours or periods when school is not in session.

Programs reinforce and complement regular school-day instruction, target students’ academic needs, and provide families with opportunities for active and meaningful engagement in their children’s education.

Funding Amount Available

The minimum amount awarded to each subgrantee is $50,000, and the maximum award is $400,000.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

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.

The Keep Maryland Beautiful Grant Program, in partnership with the Chesapeake Bay Trust and other local agencies, offers funding for tree planting projects on agricultural lands in Maryland. With approximately $230,000 available, applicants can request up to $10,000 for small-scale projects or $50,000 for larger initiatives. This program aims to enhance environmental stewardship, improve water quality, and increase native tree populations, contributing to Maryland's goal of planting 5 million sustainable trees by 2031.

The SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The California Casualty Music & Arts Grant supports K-12 public schools facing budget cuts that threaten their music and arts programs. Eligible applicants, who must be active employees of public K-12 schools and members of specified educator associations, can request grants of $250 for music or arts needs. This initiative aims to enhance creative education across the states, excluding AK, HI, MA, MI, NY, and WI. Applications received by July 15 will be notified by November 30.

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 Bayard Long Award supports students researching plant species in the Philadelphia area and surrounding regions. With a typical funding of $2000, it encourages studies that enhance understanding of local flora, including field and herbarium work. Eligible projects must include at least one native plant species, promoting both academic and practical botanical endeavors. This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in degree programs at any post-secondary institution, furthering educational and scientific exploration in botany.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

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.​

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 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 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 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 Louis H. Shaman Charitable Foundation, established by Louis H. Shaman, offers grants to support organizations aiding senior residents in Maryland. With an average of five grants awarded annually, the foundation prioritizes 501(c)(3) exempt organizations that benefit the elderly, disadvantaged, and disabled. Organizations that have exceeded 15% in fundraising expenses over two years are ineligible. Applications are reviewed during the foundation's annual grant meeting.

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 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.