Best Maryland Grants for Nonprofits

The Special Presenter Initiatives Grants, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation in partnership with various local arts organizations, aim to support the presentation of professional performing artists at small and mid-size community venues. This initiative encourages projects that feature touring artists and includes community engagement activities, fostering meaningful interactions between artists and local audiences. The program seeks to enhance the cultural landscape of the participating jurisdictions through diverse and innovative performances.

The HRG Charitable Foundation Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America, aims to eliminate financial barriers for current high school seniors in the mid-Atlantic region pursuing STEM degrees. With a focus on expanding access for underrepresented students, the scholarship supports full-time undergraduate education at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative reflects Scholarship America's commitment to educational equity and student success, ensuring every student can achieve their academic goals.

Maryland Department of Transportation

The Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) is made up of five modal administrations: the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA); the Maryland Port Administration (MPA); the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA); the State Highway Administration (SHA); the Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) – and authorities that are a part of MDOT, including the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA) and the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA). This unique approach provides the state’s leadership with the ability to develop a coordinated and balanced approach to transportation.

Urban Tree Program 

The MDOT Urban Tree Program is a stewardship community tree planting program to help plant trees in communities that have lost trees as a result of transportation construction projects. The program was established by statute (Transportation - §2–103.8) out of the 2021 legislative session and was developed as a grant program in partnership with the Department of Natural Resources and the Maryland Urban and Community Forestry Committee (MUCFC). The opportunity to apply for grant funding is open year-round! Applications will be reviewed twice a year for spring and fall planting seasons. The program awards grants for planting projects with additional funds available for pocket forest projects. The program supports the Maryland Five Million Trees initiative and supports MDOT's efforts to being the greenest department of transportation in the country.

Projects are prioritized if they support environmental justice initiatives, reduce the Urban Heat Island effect, and/or support the urban tree canopy.

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.

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.

The Wawa Foundation offers financial grants exceeding $2,500 to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations in its six-state market, focusing on health, hunger, and supporting everyday heroes. Applications are accepted in January, April, July, and October, with grant requests reviewed prior to the next submission window. Eligible organizations include those working to improve lives through health initiatives, hunger relief efforts, and support for community heroes. For more details, visit the Wawa Foundation's official site.

The Wawa Foundation offers in-kind support to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations within its six-state area, focusing on health, hunger, and everyday heroes. Organizations can request product donations, such as Wawa brand beverages, or gift baskets for fundraising events. Requests must be made at least four weeks in advance, and support is subject to availability. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and enhance local philanthropy through meaningful contributions.

The Wawa Foundation offers Financial Grants through its Local Connection Grants program, providing funding under $2,500 to support local non-profit organizations. This initiative emphasizes health, hunger, and community heroes, ensuring that support is directed toward registered 501(c)(3) organizations within Wawa's operational areas. Applicants can expect feedback within four weeks after submission, with ongoing inquiries accepted until budget limits are reached, encouraging re-application for future funding.

Maryl​and Community Health Resources Commission (CHRC)

The Maryland Community Health Resources Commission (CHRC) was created by the Maryland General Assembly through the Community Health Care Access and Safety Net Act of 2005 to expand access to health care for low-income Marylanders and underserved communities in the state and support the delivery of affordable, high-quality health services by bolstering the capacity of the State’s health care safety net infrastructure. The CHRC is an independent commission, within the Maryland Department of Health (MDH), whose 11 members are appointed by the Governor. Since its inception, the CHRC has awarded 985 grants totaling $396 million, supporting programs in every jurisdiction of the state. These programs have collectively served more than 912,000 Marylanders. CHRC grantees have used initial grant funds to leverage more than $59 million in additional federal, private, and local funding. Approximately 75% of Commission programs have been sustained at least one year or more after the initial grant funding has been expended.

The Maryland General Assembly created the CHRC because it recognized the need to have an independent commission focused solely on supporting projects that serve the unique health needs of vulnerable populations, strengthen the state’s network of community health resources, and address delivery gaps in Maryland’s dynamic health care marketplace. Health insurance coverage is not always sufficient for at-risk communities and vulnerable populations looking to receive affordable, high quality health care services. The fundamental policy objective of the CHRC’s authorizing statute is to expand capacity and resources to community health providers that can close these health gaps.

The CHRC’s annual Requests for Applications (RFA) have long reflected the Commission’s commitment to promote health equity, reduce health disparities, improve health outcomes, address Social Determinants of Health (SDOH), foster partnerships, and support state health priorities. 

Arbor Rising Grant, established in 2010, is a NYC-based nonprofit providing unrestricted multi-year funding and capacity-building support to nonprofits focused on alleviating poverty. The grant process occurs every three years, with the next round in 2025 being invitation-only. Eligible organizations must demonstrate high potential and effective leadership, typically operating on a modest budget. Arbor Rising prioritizes applicants from the NYC metro area while expanding to cover the lower 48 US states.

The Corrine and Henry Bower Memorial Foundation Grant offers approximately $35,000 annually to support wellness, education, and visual arts programs in Pennsylvania and surrounding states. The foundation prioritizes year-round programming, measurable outcomes, and collaboration with other organizations. However, it does not fund general operating costs, new programs, or for-profit entities. Eligible applicants must have a proven track record of service and demonstrate financial accountability.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

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.

The CBT Environmental Education Grant Program, funded by the Chesapeake Bay Trust, offers $290,000 for Fiscal Year 2026 to support environmental literacy initiatives in Maryland. Eligible applicants include higher education institutions, nonprofits, and public agencies. The program aims to enhance students' knowledge and motivation to engage in responsible environmental stewardship through projects like Meaningful Watershed Educational Experiences (MWEE) and capacity-building efforts. Grants of up to $40,000 are available for projects lasting up to three years.

The Sun Club Sustainability Grant, offered by Green Mountain Energy, empowers U.S.-based nonprofits to implement sustainability initiatives. Established in 2002, this grant supports diverse projects, including clean transportation, renewable energy, and resource conservation. Organizations must demonstrate three years of tax-exempt status and a commitment to community impact. Awards range from $50,000 to $400,000, focusing on measurable environmental, social, and financial benefits. Join us in fostering a greener future through innovative solutions and community engagement.

The Food Lion Feeds Charitable Foundation, established in 2001, has awarded over $17.5 million to combat hunger in its operating areas. This foundation focuses on supporting children at risk of hunger and enhancing the capacity of feeding agencies to provide nutritious meals. They also emphasize nutrition education to mitigate health risks associated with hunger. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits located within 20 miles of a Food Lion store, with applications accepted annually.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The John J. Leidy Foundation, established in 1957, has a rich history of supporting Maryland’s nonprofits, focusing on social welfare, arts, health, education, and services for disabled individuals. With a preference for organizations serving the Baltimore Metropolitan area, the foundation offers grants for operating support, programs, and equipment. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) entities, with reapplication permitted after one year for denied requests, ensuring continued community support and development.

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.

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 Chesapeake Bay Green Streets, Green Jobs, Green Towns (G3) Grant Program, funded by the EPA and Chesapeake Bay Trust, supports innovative green infrastructure projects enhancing community livability. With funding opportunities ranging from conceptual plans to full project implementation, this program aims to reduce stormwater runoff, improve urban green spaces, and boost local water health within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Eligible locations include parts of Delaware, Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, as well as New York.

The CBT Youth Environmental Education Grant Program aims to enhance youth engagement in environmental education in Maryland and surrounding areas. This program funds projects that allow students to explore local environmental issues through hands-on research, leading to actionable solutions. Grants support various initiatives, including outdoor investigations and educator training, with funds available up to $10,000 for selected projects. This initiative seeks to foster sustainable practices and environmental stewardship among young learners.

The Maryland Horse Board Grants Program aims to enhance the state's horse industry through funding for projects that increase awareness, education, and participation in equestrian activities. Grants, typically around $1,000, support diverse initiatives, particularly those aligning with the Maryland Horse Forum Report. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government programs, and educational institutions in Maryland. Funding requests should not exceed $3,000, fostering sustainable growth and inclusivity within the horse community.

The MD Spay and Neuter Grant Program, initiated by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, aims to decrease the number of pets surrendered and euthanized in shelters. By providing grants to local governments and non-profits, the program facilitates free spay and neuter services for low-income families, unowned community cats, and supports capital projects for clinics. This initiative is vital for improving animal welfare and reducing shelter populations across Maryland.

The Maryland Specialty Crop Block Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Agriculture, provides approximately $400,000 in competitive grants to enhance the competitiveness of specialty crops in Maryland. Eligible applicants include non-profits, government agencies, and educational institutions. Grants range from $15,000 to $140,000 for projects lasting up to two years, with a focus on benefiting a broader group of producers. Proposals must align with industry priorities and demonstrate collaborative support.