Best Youth Sports Grants in Maryland

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.

The Ron Goellner Conservation Fund Award, administered by the Cryptobranchid Interest Group, offers grants up to $2,000 for projects focused on the conservation of giant salamanders. This initiative supports innovative research, field conservation, and educational initiatives that aim to protect these species and their habitats. Open to all applicants, the fund prioritizes projects that demonstrate broad conservation impact and partnerships. Applications are automatically considered for two separate grants of up to $1,000 each.

The United for Good Nonprofit Resiliency Grant, provided by United Way of Central Maryland, aims to support 501(c)(3) organizations in Central Maryland that address essential needs for individuals and families. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $25,000 are available for nonprofits facing urgent challenges, enabling them to sustain operations, expand assistance, and improve organizational resilience through collaboration or consolidation.

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.

Sharon Maneki Youth Empowerment Grant Information

The National Federation of the Blind of Maryland offers youth empowerment grants for blind and visually impaired students in elementary and secondary school. These grants help deserving students take advantage of some wonderful training opportunities available in Maryland and around the country.

Requirements

Students who receive grants are required to perform at least one of the following reflection activities within 45 days of completing the program. Parents may assist with this activity. Failure to complete a reflection activity may impact future eligibility for NFB support.

Reflection Activities:

• Prepare a short article of at least 500 words for publication in the NFB of Maryland's newsletter, The Spectator, or for posting on the NFB of Maryland Web site.
• Attend an NFB meeting. Give an overview of the program attended, and describe the benefits of the experience (approximately a 3 to 5 minute presentation).

The EDA Philadelphia FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development by providing grants for creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). This initiative supports eligible organizations, including Indian Tribes and District Organizations, to develop plans that foster economic prosperity and job retention in distressed areas. Through various investments, the program strengthens local capacities for effective economic development and job creation.

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.

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.

Built to Learn Program

Purpose

Provides for up to $2.2 billion in school construction project funding through Maryland Stadium Authority (MSA) issued special revenue bonds and provides for management of the projects by MSA.

Minimum Project Cost: $4,000,000

Funding Allocation Methods

• Calculated allocations based on estimated bond proceeds are set for Anne Arundel County, Baltimore City, Baltimore County, Frederick County, Howard County, and Montgomery County.
• The other 17 LEAs share the remainder of the allocations, capped in proportion to their September 2019 enrollments.
• Maximum State Allocation is established for individual projects.
• Funding allocations must be used within 10 years of award.

State/Local Participation: State/Local cost share % applied

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Big Ten Academic Alliance Smithsonian Fellowship offers unique research opportunities for graduate students from member universities. Eligible candidates can conduct research at the Smithsonian in diverse fields such as anthropology, ecology, and history of science. The fellowship provides a stipend of $45,000 per year, with additional research allowances, and supports both U.S. and international students. This initiative fosters collaboration among leading academic institutions to advance knowledge and innovation.

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 Venison Donation Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, provides funding to organizations for butchering and processing donated deer, aiding those in need. With a maximum grant of $25,000, eligible grantees include county governments and 501(c)(3) organizations. Funds can cover up to $60 per deer processed, requiring quarterly reports detailing processing activities and distributions to recipient organizations. This initiative supports nutritional needs for vulnerable populations in Maryland.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

 What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

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.

TC Energy’s Build Strong program supports vital organizations in communities near its operations. By providing grants, scholarships, and in-kind support, the program aims to enhance safety, education, environmental protection, and community well-being. Eligible applicants include non-profits and community groups addressing local needs. Ineligible activities include operational expenses and for-profit endeavors. The program prioritizes projects demonstrating measurable community impact, fostering a collaborative relationship between TC Energy and local stakeholders.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

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.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - Maryland

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

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.

About the Interagency Commission on School Construction

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.School Safety Grant Program (SSGP)

School Safety Grant Program provides grants to local school systems and the Maryland School for the Blind (MSB) to address school security improvements, including but not limited to secure and lockable classroom doors, areas of visual refuge in classrooms, surveillance, security vestibules, and other structural school security related improvements that have direct impact on the school facility, students, and school administrators. 

The Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports projects that enhance traditional arts and cultures in the mid-Atlantic region. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a required 1:1 match. Eligible activities include performances, workshops, and public art collaborations, particularly those engaging underrepresented communities. This initiative fosters artistic expression and cultural connection across diverse communities.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.

About the 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.

Local Early Childhood Advisory Council (LECAC) System Improvement Grant

Purpose

The Local Early Childhood Advisory Council (Local ECAC) Systems Improvement Grant supports local advisory councils in strengthening early childhood systems at the county level.

Local ECACs will use grant funds to conduct or summarize local needs assessments, identify barriers to collaboration, develop local action plans, coordinate local early childhood initiatives, report local priorities to the State ECAC, and support evidence-based quality improvement and improved child outcomes.

Bob's Discount Furniture Charitable Foundation supports non-profit organizations with resources rather than individual sponsorships. They require requests to be submitted on the letterhead of a qualified 501(c)(3) organization. This ensures that assistance reaches those in need through established channels. Interested parties should provide specific details regarding their requests to facilitate the application process. With a commitment to fairness, Bob's Cares aims to effectively support community initiatives across the country.

The William and Helen Thomas Charitable Trust provides funding to nonprofit organizations focused on education, environmental protection, medical research, and support for the underprivileged. This trust, based in Florida, primarily serves communities in Palm Beach, Martin, and St. Lucie Counties, along with select areas in Appalachia. It seeks to assist public charities classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, ensuring support for impactful charitable initiatives.

Community Parks and Playgrounds Program

Maryland's Community Parks and Playgrounds Program invests in the future of established communities by developing and revitalizing parks and playgrounds statewide. With the support of the Governor and the Maryland General Assembly, a total of $102.4 million has been approved so far for 934 parks and playground projects for our communities across Maryland.

The Governor's Fiscal Year 2027​ budget includes $5 million to fund 26​ ​new parks and playgrounds projects. The projects will be presented to the Board of Public Works for final approval.​

New Parks & New Life for Old Parks!​

The Community Parks and Playground Program provides funding to allow the State to focus on restoring existing and creating new park and green space systems in Maryland's cities and towns. The Community Parks and Playgrounds Program will provide flexible grants to local governments to respond to the unmet need for assistance to rehabilitate, expand or improve existing parks, create new parks, develop environmentally oriented parks and recreation projects, or purchase and install playground equipment in older neighborhoods and intensely developed areas throughout the state.

The National Sea Grant Law Center is inviting proposals for the Coastal Resilience Program to research laws and policies addressing coastal resilience challenges such as sea level rise and flooding. With a funding cap of $150,000 over two years, this initiative aims to assess the effectiveness of existing policies and promote informed decision-making in coastal management. Up to two projects will be selected for funding, supporting innovative solutions to enhance community resilience against environmental threats.