Best Youth Sports Grants in Maryland

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The Frederick Douglass Scholarship (FDS) at the University of Maryland is a prestigious merit-based scholarship targeting academically talented transfer students from Maryland community colleges. Established to honor the legacy of Frederick Douglass, it offers 30 full and 15 partial tuition scholarships. Eligible students must have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher and meet specific residency requirements. This scholarship aims to empower students through transformative educational experiences, contributing to their academic and professional growth.

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 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.

The Peoples Bank Foundation Grant aims to create a significant impact in local communities by providing financial support to nonprofit organizations. With over 20 years of service, the foundation has awarded more than $7.5 million in grants and scholarships across several states. It prioritizes initiatives that assist low to moderate-income individuals and families, encouraging organizations within its footprint to apply for funding to enhance their community-focused programs.

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 Chesapeake Conservation and Climate Corps Host Organization Grant, offered by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, aims to enhance public engagement in environmental restoration through a structured program. This initiative places young adults (ages 18-25) with various nonprofit organizations or government agencies for a year of stipend-supported service. Participants gain valuable experience and training in areas such as environmental education and sustainable practices, fostering the next generation of environmental leaders.

The Aileen Hughes Award Program, managed by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, recognizes exemplary leadership in land conservation by individuals associated with Maryland land trusts. This prestigious grant honors the legacy of Aileen Hughes, a notable conservationist and advocate for civil rights. By encouraging nominations from Maryland land trusts, the program aims to celebrate innovation, collaboration, and excellence in the field, thereby fostering community involvement in protecting natural resources essential to the Chesapeake Bay.

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 Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Thanksgiving Offering Fund supports child and youth care agencies through grants funded by the generous contributions of Presbyterians. Established in 2001, this initiative allows individuals, groups, and congregations to donate, ensuring continued support for vital services. Contributions can be made through direct donations, bequests, or gifts of various assets. Funds are allocated based on designations and a formula for undesignated contributions, promoting community welfare.

The Presbytery Initiative Grants, funded by the Synod of the Mid-Atlantic, support mission projects endorsed by two presbyteries. These grants are made possible through generous donations from Presbyterians, emphasizing community contributions to sustain funding. Applications are accepted twice a year, with deadlines on February 1st and August 1st. Individuals and congregations can contribute through various means, including estate bequests and donations, to assist in fulfilling the mission objectives.

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 Synod of the Mid-Atlantic offers the New and Small Church Grant Fund to support new and small churches in their mission projects. Funded through generous donations from Presbyterians, these grants help churches implement priorities in education, evangelism, and social justice. Eligible applicants include PCUSA churches within the Synod's bounds. Interested parties can find brochures and applications on the Synod's website or by contacting the Synod Office.

The Synod of the Mid-Atlantic's Visionary Fund supports innovative and inclusive programs addressing education, evangelism, and social justice. These grants, funded by generous donations from Presbyterians, aim to foster community growth and development. Contributions are vital for continuing this mission, with options available for individual, group, or congregational donations, as well as estate bequests and gifts of securities or real estate. Together, we can make a meaningful impact.

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.

Chesapeake and Atlantic Coastal Bays Trust Fund (Outcome 1)

There are two tracks including the traditional competitive grant program and the Pay for Performance track.

Traditional Competitive Grant Program

What kind of projects are supported by the Trust Fund?

Implementation-ready restoration proposals can be submitted under this funding source. Example projects can include, but are not limited to: wetland restoration, afforestation and other tree planting projects, riparian buffer restoration, stormwater best management practices, stream restoration, meadow plantings, and agricultural best management practices.

Projects must address water quality in the Chesapeake Bay or Atlantic Coastal Bays by reducing non-point source pollution, namely nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment. Projects should be cost-effective, located in targeted areas, and be implementation-ready. Competitive projects will be large-scale, multi-partnered efforts with demonstrable water quality benefits. Proposed projects should demonstrate the ability to construct within 12 months of award. Additionally, the state is interested in supporting projects that provide desirable co-benefits (Maryland Code, Natural Resources § 8-2A-04), including:

• The restoration of aquatic resources, such as seagrass beds or oyster reefs;
• Climate resilience;
• Carbon sequestration;
• Creation of wildlife habitat;
• Local employment opportunities;
• The improvement or provision of recreational opportunities; or
• Environmental justice benefits;

Funding is only available for projects located in the Maryland portions of both the Chesapeake Bay Watershed and the Atlantic Coastal Bays. Tree planting projects are eligible for all of Maryland. Public and private lands are eligible. Site visits are required for all stream restoration projects.

The Chesapeake Bay Small Watershed Grants, offered by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the EPA, aim to enhance water quality and restore vital habitats in the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Funding is available through two programs: SWG Implementation grants for direct on-the-ground actions, and SWG Planning and Technical Assistance grants to support community-based efforts. Projects must align with specific program priorities to qualify for funding.

What We Do

Since our creation by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest private conservation foundation. We work with both the public and private sectors to protect and restore our nation’s fish, wildlife, plants and habitats for current and future generations.

NFWF supports conservation efforts across all 50 states and U.S. territories. Since our founding, we've funded over 23,300 rigorously evaluated projects, awarded to both large environmental organizations and small local initiatives. We do not fund advocacy or litigation, and do not conduct membership campaigns. Instead, we focus on achieving results and building a better future for our world.

Chesapeake Bay Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction Grants

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), in partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the federal-state Chesapeake Bay Program (CBP) partnership, is soliciting pre-proposals through the Innovative Nutrient and Sediment Reduction (INSR) Grants program to improve water quality and reduce nutrient and sediment pollution to the Chesapeake Bay and its tributary rivers and streams. Major funding for the INSR Grants program is provided by EPA, with other important contributions from Altria Group, the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS), and the U.S. Forest Service. 

The Veterans Engagement Mini Grant Program, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, aims to support veteran groups and organizations. This initiative facilitates healing and therapeutic services, outdoor recreation, community engagement, and green jobs training for veterans. By promoting these activities, the program enhances the well-being of veterans and fosters community involvement, ensuring that they receive the necessary support and resources. This grant is a vital step in empowering veterans and enhancing their quality of life.

The Urban Trees Mini Grant, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports small tree planting projects in urban underserved areas across Maryland. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis until funds are exhausted, and projects can receive up to $10,000. This initiative is part of Maryland's broader goal to plant 5 million native trees by 2031, enhancing access to green spaces for communities in need.

The Norfolk Southern Corporate Giving: Thriving Communities Grant Program supports initiatives that promote sustainability, workforce development, and community resilience across a 22-state network. With grants ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, the program aims to foster economic development and ensure equal access to basic necessities. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt nonprofits, government entities, and public schools, emphasizing diversity and inclusion in their community-focused efforts.

The Urban Trees Award Program aims to enhance urban communities by funding tree planting projects that improve air quality and combat climate change. Managed by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, this initiative supports underserved neighborhoods, empowering them to access resources for local improvements. Projects can request funding from $15,000 to $1,000,000, catering to various community sizes and needs. The overall goal is to plant 5 million trees by 2031, creating greener, healthier environments.

The Capacity Building Initiative (CBI) by the Chesapeake Bay Funders Network aims to enhance the organizational capacity of groups working towards community well-being and natural resource management. Funded projects may include strategic planning, staff training, and technology assistance, with funding requests typically capped at $40,000 for nonprofits and $150,000 for local governments. Eligible applicants include nonprofits and local governments operating within the Chesapeake watershed, focusing on water and natural resource goals.

Dover Grants, offered by Speedway Children's Charities, supports 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on children's welfare in Delaware and the mid-Atlantic region. The grants prioritize initiatives assisting homeless, foster children, and victims of trafficking. Applicants must complete a two-phase application process, beginning with a Pre-Proposal and followed by a Full Proposal if selected. The organization emphasizes funding for critical, medical, and educational needs to foster a brighter future for children.

The Wolpoff Family Foundation Grant seeks to support established organizations in Montgomery County, Maryland, that have been operational for at least five years. This foundation aims to foster community development, education, and medical research, and invites re-applications from previously funded organizations. Grants are available for specific initiatives, with a maximum award of $15,000 for first-time grantees, focusing on measurable impacts and community needs.

The Van Metre Companies Foundation Grants support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations in education, medical, and human welfare services. With a legacy of nearly 70 years, Van Metre prioritizes innovation and community involvement, ensuring financial stability while delivering exceptional value through technology. Recognized as a Best Place to Work, their culture empowers employees and fosters a collaborative environment, reflecting a commitment to excellence and strategic growth in the Northern Virginia market.

The Maryland Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Grant, administered by the Maryland State Department of Education, aims to support local education agencies and community organizations in providing after-school academic enrichment programs. This grant focuses on assisting students from low-performing schools to meet academic standards while offering additional services such as youth development, substance abuse prevention, and family literacy opportunities. Grants range from $50,000 to $400,000, enhancing educational and community engagement.