Best Renewable Energy Grants in Massachusetts

Massachusetts and other New England 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, fiscally sponsored projects, and public agencies working on renewable energy, clean mobility, or climate resilience can access funding through Barr Foundation. Grants prioritize equity-centered, often POC-led efforts that cut greenhouse gas emissions, build climate-resilient communities, and strengthen an inclusive climate movement in the Northeast.

Nonprofit and public-entity building owners in Massachusetts can receive portfolio-wide electrification and decarbonization planning services to advance toward zero-emissions buildings. Focused on building decarbonization, the Massachusetts Clean Energy Center invites eligible organizations to join its BETA: Roadmaps pilot for custom multi-year roadmaps, implementation support, and financing analysis that can complement renewable and sustainable energy efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services approaches can seek support to address social problems, including those intersecting with renewable or sustainable energy in Massachusetts. Creag Foundation considers invited proposals from smaller or evolving organizations developing new solutions to existing or previously unaddressed social issues; interested groups may begin with a letter of inquiry.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth with education, health, development, or welfare programs can seek up to US $15,000 for child advocacy, poverty relief, homelessness, and environmental education projects, including in Massachusetts. The Dan Paul Foundation supports workshops, scholarships, scientific endeavors, and enrichment initiatives that directly benefit children and young people worldwide.

Massachusetts 501(c)(3) nonprofits running renewable or sustainable energy, environmental stewardship, or related community programs can access funding through Eversource Energy Foundation, with typical awards of US $1,000 - US $10,000. Eligible organizations must be within Eversource’s service territory and may also propose projects in education, basic needs, wellness, workforce, or community development.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

Public K-12 schools, districts, and educational collaboratives in Massachusetts can receive up to US $250,000 in low- or no-cost technical assistance for decarbonization planning and energy-efficient school facilities. The Massachusetts Clean Energy Center supports renewable and sustainable energy upgrades through comprehensive building assessments, decarbonization roadmaps, focused studies, and renewable energy feasibility and REC analyses.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) cultural institutions with audited expenses over $2 million, including those in Massachusetts, can apply for the Hearst Foundations’ Culture Grant; awards more than US $100,000 for arts and science programming. Funding supports impactful programs, capital projects, and limited general or endowment support, with emphasis on youth engagement, arts education, STEM/STEAM, and artist development.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts seeking support for charitable, educational, scientific, or medical work may be eligible for this U.S.-focused funding. Grants from Sidney Stern Memorial Trust help tax-exempt organizations with broadly beneficial programs, which can include renewable or sustainable energy initiatives that advance general welfare within the country.

Nonprofit organizations running renewable energy and broader sustainability projects in Massachusetts and other eligible states can apply for US $50,000 - US $400,000 in funding from Green Mountain Energy’s Sun Club Sustainability Grant. Focus areas include rooftop solar, energy efficiency, clean transportation, education, resource conservation, and sustainable agriculture, with awards based on environmental, social, and financial impact.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts working on community development, housing, jobs, hunger, or related basic needs may be eligible for sponsorship support; arts, culture, environmental, and diversity initiatives are also considered. Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s regional sponsorships may benefit programs that complement renewable or sustainable energy efforts within broader community revitalization work.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts located within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office can seek funding for basic needs, youth education, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. The TJX Foundation supports programs helping vulnerable families and children access resources and opportunities to build better futures.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Spark Good: Strengthening Community Local Grants program by the Wal-Mart Foundation empowers local organizations through grants ranging from $250 to $5000. This initiative aims to enhance community welfare by supporting diverse projects, including animal shelters and educational programs. Eligible organizations must have a verified Spark Good account, ensuring funds are allocated effectively to meet local needs and foster community development. Together, we can create lasting impacts through small yet significant actions.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on renewable energy, climate change, or related environmental initiatives in Massachusetts, especially Southeastern coastal communities, may be eligible for operating or project support. Grants from Island Foundation help Massachusetts groups link climate change and regional planning, support sustainable fisheries and agriculture, and advance environmental justice and community health in coastal areas.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

Massachusetts renewable energy developers and other commercial, industrial, institutional, nonprofit, or public entities can access funding to modernize small hydropower and conduit facilities through the Commonwealth Hydropower Grant. Massachusetts Clean Energy Center offers up to US $300,000 for feasibility studies or construction that increase MA RPS-qualified hydropower output and benefit Massachusetts entities or workers.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

Qualified technology consultants or firms in Massachusetts can apply for Massachusetts Clean Energy Center’s three-phase engagement to assess, modernize, host, and support its Production Tracking System for renewable energy programs. This contract-style opportunity funds diagnostics, migration, and long-term operations for systems supporting RPS, SREC, Renewable Thermal, Alternative Energy, and Clean Peak Standard compliance.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Massachusetts working on youth development, food security, housing, or environmental stewardship can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards; awards US $30,000 - US $350,000 for impactful community programs. Projects with sustainable practices or environmental education may be especially relevant for renewable and sustainable energy efforts.

Eligible Massachusetts state entities planning to replace fossil-fuel systems with efficient electric or renewable thermal equipment can apply for the Massachusetts Department of Energy Resources’ Public Entity Decarbonization Grant, with awards up to US $2,450,000. Funding supports heating, cooling, water heating, maintenance, landscaping, and commercial kitchen electrification projects at existing state facilities, including those advancing renewable and sustainable energy goals.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant can apply for Gupta Family Foundation grants of US $5,000 - US $250,000. Grants from Gupta Family Foundation help support poverty alleviation, disability services, disaster relief, and human services for smaller organizations worldwide, which may include Massachusetts-based 501(c)(3)s working alongside renewable energy or sustainability initiatives.