Best Mental Health Grants in Massachusetts

Postdoctoral fellows and mentored clinician scientists conducting mental health and psychiatric or related biomedical research in Massachusetts can apply for two-year awards from the Charles A. King Trust, administered by Health Resources in Action, ranging from US $219,100 - US $240,000. Funding supports advanced training toward independent research careers in human disease and public health.

Nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts working to build AI readiness and organizational capacity can apply for Citizens Charitable Foundation’s Champions in Action award, which provides US $50,000. With a mission to strengthen community-focused nonprofits, Citizens Charitable Foundation provides selected organizations with funding plus promotion, publicity, and volunteer support that may benefit mental health and related service providers.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts addressing food security, housing stability, or safe, bias-free spaces can seek up to US $25,000 to strengthen their programs. Sincere Charitable Foundation considers impact and organizational capacity, and includes mental health resources and supportive services within its priorities for vulnerable communities.

Nonprofit organizations in Massachusetts working on equity in aging, including mental health and social determinants of health for older people, can seek multi-year general operating support that also covers staff wellness and leadership capacity. Grants from Point32Health Foundation help community-based groups advancing social and racial justice for older adults, especially in communities facing systemic inequities and disinvestment.

Small 501(c)(3) organizations offering mental health and emotional support programs in Massachusetts and the broader Northeast U.S. can seek funding for services that relieve suffering for people or animals in need. Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation awards up to US $2,500, with a preference for well-run groups under $1M in assets and limited government funding.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits with at least three years of status and $100,000+ budgets can seek funding for mental health, youth development, job readiness, and related programs in communities where RBC Wealth Management operates. RBC Foundation USA supports efforts that build in-demand skills, increase community prosperity, and advance environmental sustainability alongside mental health services.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits and fiscally sponsored groups with urgent or immediate needs can access approximately US $2,500 to support community-focused work, including mental health and psychiatric programs. New Commonwealth Racial Equity and Social Justice Fund prioritizes historically underfunded organizations advancing racial equity, community empowerment, and transparency across Massachusetts.

Nonprofit organizations working on mental health access and education equity in Massachusetts can apply for US $10,000 - US $75,000 from the L.B. Research and Education Foundation. U.S.-based 501(c)(3)s with $500,000–$10 million budgets and established, research-informed programs for adolescents, post-secondary students, or adult vocational learners may be competitive.

Veterans and first responders seeking wellness, rehabilitation, or mental health recovery support in Massachusetts can apply for the Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, which funds access to treatment and holistic wellness programs. With a mission to strengthen the military-veteran community, Bob Woodruff Foundation backs evidence-based services like mental health care, physical therapy, adaptive training, and fitness partnerships nationwide.

The nccPA Health Foundation's Mental Health - Community Outreach Grant supports innovative PA-led projects aimed at improving mental health awareness and reducing stigma in communities. With funding up to $2,500, this grant encourages collaboration among PAs, PA students, and organizations to address the mental health needs of vulnerable populations. Applications are accepted year-round, promoting ongoing community engagement and systemic change through education, prevention, and treatment initiatives.

This funding opportunity from the Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute aims to enhance health decision-making through comparative clinical effectiveness research, focusing on critical areas such as cancer, maternal health, and mental health. The initiative encourages robust observational studies that utilize existing data to derive patient-centered insights. Applications must address specific themes approved by PCORI and demonstrate potential benefits to the U.S. healthcare system, thus ensuring relevance and stakeholder engagement in research efforts.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) will announce the Phased Large Awards for Comparative Effectiveness Research on December 2, 2025. This funding aims to support high-quality, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research projects. The initiative encourages applicants to engage with patients and stakeholders to address critical healthcare dilemmas and improve decision-making. Projects should compare established clinical alternatives with evidence of efficacy, targeting vital health issues across diverse populations.

Mildred's Dream Foundation Grant provides vital support to community-based non-profit organizations focused on Education, Domestic Violence, and Physical or Mental Health Challenges. With grants up to $25,000, the foundation aims to honor Mildred's commitment to improving lives and creating a better world. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits providing direct services in these areas. Notably, the foundation excludes funding for certain institutions, ensuring resources are directed to those genuinely in need.

The Stenzel Scholarship, established in 2023, awards $2,500 annually to individuals with cystic fibrosis enrolled in higher education programs in health or environmental sciences. This scholarship honors Isa and Ana Stenzel, who dedicated their lives to supporting others with CF. Applicants must provide proof of enrollment and can receive funding based on their enrollment status. This initiative aims to empower those affected by cystic fibrosis to pursue meaningful educational opportunities.

The nccPA Health Foundation's Empower Grant supports Board Certified PAs and PA students in improving health equity through funding up to $5,000 for innovative projects. Focus areas include addressing health disparities, mental health, oral health, and promoting diversity in the PA workforce. Grantees must demonstrate a commitment to underserved populations and showcase PA leadership that transforms grassroots initiatives into sustainable health solutions.

The Day-End Dough-Nation® Program by Panera Bread exemplifies community generosity through the donation of unsold bakery products to local charities. This impactful initiative supports various organizations that distribute food to those in need, including shelters, health centers, and youth programs. By partnering with thousands of non-profits nationwide, Panera Bread not only reduces food waste but also plays a crucial role in addressing hunger and promoting equality within communities.

The NIMH Career Transition Award (K22) supports tenure-track intramural investigators at NIMH in their transition to independent research faculty positions. This program aims to foster innovative research in mental health, encouraging applicants with a strong record of research excellence. Key deadlines for applications vary, including those for standard and renewal submissions, emphasizing the importance of timely applications to secure funding and advance mental health research initiatives.

Massachusetts high school seniors in approved college readiness programs can access funding that supports higher education, mental wellness, and overall college success. Through the Dell Scholars Program, the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation offers flexible scholarship support plus academic, financial, professional, and mental health resources to help Pell-eligible students persist through college and into careers.

PTA leaders supporting school-based mental health in Massachusetts can apply for a 12‑month Healthy Minds Fellowship, with a US $1,500 stipend, to deepen knowledge and leadership. With a mission to strengthen family engagement, National Congress of Parents & Teachers provides training, action planning, and train‑the‑trainer opportunities for active PTA leaders who have implemented the Healthy Minds program.

Nonprofit organizations providing mental health and related patient care services can seek funding that may benefit programs in Massachusetts and beyond. With a mission to support healthcare and community services, the Albert G and Olive H Schlink Foundation gives special consideration to Ohio-based charities but also considers requests from organizations across the U.S. working in mental health and care services.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and fiscally sponsored community groups in Massachusetts working in Boston can seek funding to expand programs for Black men and boys, including mental health and wellness services. City of Boston’s Community Empowerment Fund offers up to US $20,000 for initiatives in neighborhoods like Roxbury, Dorchester, Mattapan, and Hyde Park.

Nonprofits, schools, and government agencies in Massachusetts can seek support for community health, mental health, and wellness initiatives through the Thriving Community Impact Fund’s Support Grants. With a mission to strengthen community well-being, Gundersen Lutheran Medical Foundation provides up to US $2,499 for programs addressing health, poverty, economic stability, and neighborhood environments, including mental health efforts.

Nonprofits, schools, and government agencies running community health, mental health, or wellness initiatives in Western Wisconsin, Southeast Minnesota, or Northeast Iowa can seek core contribution grants supporting direct services. Gundersen Lutheran Foundation supports programs improving physical, mental, and social well-being, poverty and economic stability, and neighborhood environments with awards of US $2,500 - US $49,999.

Massachusetts mental health and social service providers serving motion picture exhibition and distribution workers can access financial assistance for medical, counseling, housing, and emergency needs through the Will Rogers Motion Picture Pioneers Assistance Fund. Eligible applicants are industry individuals facing illness, injury, or life-changing events, with programs that may also support vocational rehabilitation and equipment aid.

Organizations that can operate a national crisis counseling and support line for disaster-related emotional distress can apply for SAMHSA’s Disaster Distress Helpline program, with awards up to US $1,200,000. This funding supports 24/7, toll-free, confidential mental health and crisis intervention services across the U.S., including Massachusetts and its territories.

State government agencies in Massachusetts working on mental health and substance use services can seek planning funds to develop Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) certification systems and Medicaid Prospective Payment Systems. Focused on behavioral health infrastructure, the US Department of Health & Human Services Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services offers up to US $1,000,000 for states preparing for the CCBHC Demonstration program.

The SMSNA Scholars in Sexuality Research Grants Program supports junior investigators in exploring human sexuality and sexual wellness. Funded by the Sexual Medicine Society of North America, this initiative provides $5,000 to undergraduate, medical, and graduate school students. Awards are disbursed in two payments, with specific reporting requirements. This program aims to enhance research in sexual medicine and foster diversity in the field, particularly focusing on historically underserved populations.