Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Minnesota

The Grief Reach grant program, supported by the New York Life Foundation and the National Alliance for Children's Grief, invites innovative community expansion proposals to better serve grieving children. Eligible organizations can apply for funding up to $160,000 to enhance their programs, focusing on unique community needs. By collaborating with the Judi's House/JAG Institute, participants will receive essential training and resources for impactful program evaluation, fostering a supportive environment for children and families facing grief.

The Grief Reach: Changemaker Supported Community Expansion Cycle offers up to $110,000 to enhance community programs for grieving children. Organizations are encouraged to innovate and expand their services to better meet community needs. The initiative, in partnership with the Judi’s House/JAG Institute, emphasizes training and resources for effective program evaluation over a three-year period, culminating in impactful community expansion projects.

The NHLBI SBIR Phase IIB Small Market Awards aim to bridge the funding gap for small businesses developing technologies for heart, lung, blood, and sleep disorders. This initiative supports later-stage research and development for projects addressing rare diseases or pediatric populations. By promoting partnerships with investors and advocacy organizations, the program seeks to facilitate regulatory approval and commercialization of innovative biomedical solutions, ultimately enhancing public health outcomes.

The Presenter Consortium for Jazz Grant, offered by Chamber Music America, supports U.S.-based presenters collaborating to engage professional jazz ensembles. This grant provides up to $39,000 for expenses like ensemble fees, concert production, and marketing. Each consortium can include up to three presenters and aims to enhance the jazz experience through live performances and streamed concerts. Eligible projects must involve CMA’s New Jazz Works grantees, fostering creativity and community engagement in jazz.

Generally the Community Foundation's scholarships are awarded to applicants who have high financial need. Applicants with household income exceeding $100,000 are less likely to be awarded, but applying will allow you to be considered for targeted scholarships.

Virginia Valk Fehsenfeld Scholarship

Open to full time undergraduate students who are Kent County residents studying education, dietetics, nutrition, or human services and have a minimum 3.4 GPA.

The Special Wildlife Funds - Duck Stamp Grants program in Canada focuses on the development of waterfowl propagation areas specifically for the Mississippi Flyway. It supports projects in Manitoba and Saskatchewan aimed at enhancing breeding populations of migratory waterfowl. This initiative is funded through the sale of State Migratory Waterfowl Stamps and is targeted at not-for-profit organizations dedicated to the conservation and promotion of wild waterfowl, ensuring sustainable habitats and effective management practices.

The HIV Care Grant Program aims to enhance access to comprehensive, high-quality HIV care and treatment for low-income individuals in Pacific Island territories. Funded by the US HHS: Health Resources & Services Administration (HRSA), this initiative supports states and territories in developing effective systems of care, ensuring that those affected by HIV receive the necessary treatment and support to improve health outcomes.

Request for Proposals

Community Care Corps encourages organizations across the country to apply for 18-month grants ($30,000–$200,000) to develop and scale innovative volunteer programs that provide nonmedical assistance to older adults, adults age 18 and older with disabilities and family caregivers.

Projects funded through this initiative will increase the number of community-based volunteer programs available to provide nonmedical assistance while decreasing the number of older adults, adults with disabilities, and family caregivers who need assistance in maintaining independence in the community but are unable to obtain help. In doing so, the initiative will strengthen community-based supports that help people maintain independence, reduce unmet needs, and improve overall well-being.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund supports local events and initiatives that promote health and well-being in the community. Applications should be submitted at least 12 weeks prior to the event date. The fund prioritizes non-profit organizations, schools, and government agencies that align with the Health System’s Community Health Improvement Plan. Event sponsorships, local memberships, and partnerships are encouraged to enhance community engagement and address social needs, ultimately fostering a healthier community.

Who We Are

Buiding a stronger, More Vibrant Community

For over 70 years, the Scranton Area Community Foundation has served Northeastern Pennsylvania as a steward of charitable resources, a grantmaker, and a catalyst for positive change. Guided by our core values of collaboration, trust, integrity, innovation, and inclusivity, we work to ensure that our communities thrive with opportunities for all.

This scholarship is awarded to a student who intends to pursue nursing or a related field of study at a college or university, and who demonstrates academic achievement, good citizenship, service to others, leadership, and financial need.

The CCRP Initiative invites applications for basic research on chemical threats affecting the nervous system, including chemical warfare agents and toxic industrial chemicals. This funding aims to elucidate toxicity mechanisms, explore new toxic exposure manifestations, and identify targets for therapeutic development. Proposals should generate data relevant to understanding these toxic threats, with applications due by 5 PM local time. Optional Letters of Intent are encouraged 30 days prior to the proposal deadline.

The Cigna Group Health Equity Impact Fund aims to reduce health disparities by supporting local nonprofits in Hartford, CT, and St. Louis, MO. With an annual commitment of $3 million, the Fund focuses on enhancing access to culturally appropriate healthcare, transportation, and mental health services. By addressing root causes of health inequities, the Fund empowers communities to improve overall health outcomes and foster sustainable change in underserved areas.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is launching a funding opportunity for up to four Clinical Trials Network Laboratory Centers (LCs). These LCs will support HIV prevention and treatment strategies by providing necessary laboratory infrastructure and technologies for clinical trials. They will ensure rigorous laboratory testing and oversight, enhance sample integrity, and utilize advanced data management systems to meet evolving demands in HIV research and testing.

The Little Giraffe Foundation is dedicated to supporting neonatal health through research grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. Since 2011, they have provided substantial resources to hospitals and institutions, focusing on both immediate and long-term health challenges faced by premature infants. Eligible applicants include scientists and healthcare professionals from U.S.-based institutions. The foundation aims to advance research in biological processes, genetics, clinical studies, and more, improving outcomes for vulnerable populations.

The Little Giraffe Foundation, a national non-profit based in Chicago, provides NICU Support Grants ranging from $100 to $1,000. Since 2011, they have positively impacted countless families by delivering over 32,000 gift bags and funding essential research. These grants aim to enhance the experience for parents and patients in neonatal intensive care units, supporting initiatives like holiday gift bags and resources for bonding with babies. Applications are welcomed from eligible U.S.-based institutions.

The Friends Foundation for the Aging Grant supports innovative and impactful programs aimed at addressing the needs of older adults, particularly within underserved populations. This Quaker foundation prioritizes collaboration and sustainability in its funding efforts. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) public charities focused on enhancing the quality of life for aging individuals. Grants are typically awarded for one year and target organizations that align with the foundation's mission and values.

The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) is launching a funding opportunity for Clinical Trials Units (CTUs) as part of its effort to combat HIV/AIDS. This initiative aims to support innovative clinical trials and implementation research to improve prevention and treatment strategies. With a focus on both domestic and international research sites, CTUs will play a crucial role in addressing the HIV epidemic and enhancing participant recruitment and retention. This funding opportunity is authorized under the Public Health Service Act.

Jack Kent Cooke Foundation

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation is dedicated to advancing the education of exceptionally promising students who have financial need. Since 2000, the Foundation has awarded $304 million in scholarships to more than 3,400 students from 8th grade through graduate school, along with comprehensive academic advising, career pathway counseling and other support services. The Foundation has also provided $136 million in grants to organizations that serve such students.

The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation’s scholarship programs are designed to encourage and support outstanding students who work hard and have financial need. Our scholarships provide financial assistance and academic support to high school, undergraduate, and graduate students. In addition to the monetary award, students join a thriving network of more than 3,400 Cooke Scholars.

Young Scholars Program

The Cooke Young Scholars Program is a selective five-year, pre-college scholarship for exceptionally promising 7th grade students with financial need. It provides comprehensive academic and college advising, as well as financial support for school, Cooke-sponsored summer programs, internships, and other learning enrichment opportunities.

Program Experience

Educational Advisers support Young Scholars to maximize high school experiences and to go on to thrive at the nation’s top-performing colleges. Our programming and support may include:

• Identifying an appropriately rigorous high school.
• Engaging in four-year planning and goal-setting.
• Funding for academic and extracurricular opportunities, such as music and art lessons, supplemental academic classes and technology.
• Annual summer programs, including two required Young Scholar programs.
• Year-round Young Scholars community programming.
• Networking opportunities with a high-achieving peer community.

The NIDCD Mentored Research Education Pathway (R25) aims to enhance research education for otolaryngology residents and medical students. This program provides essential career development activities and mentored research experiences, fostering a new generation of researchers in biomedical and clinical sciences. By focusing on specialized training, it supports the recruitment of individuals from diverse backgrounds into impactful research careers, ultimately benefiting the field of otolaryngology and related health sciences.

Carl Hill Memorial Scholarship

Awards:

• One time award of $500.

The Harry Kramer Memorial Fund Grant supports U.S. charitable organizations that assist individuals and institutions in Israel, focusing on welfare, healthcare for the sick and aged, and education in South Florida. Founded by Harry A. Kramer, a successful entrepreneur and veteran, the fund reflects his deep commitment to charitable causes. Organizations must qualify under Section 501(c)(3) and meet specific eligibility criteria to apply for funding, ensuring that aid reaches those in need.

The Colon Cancer Coalition offers the Get Your Rear in Gear Grants to support local programs aimed at improving colon cancer screening and awareness. Open year-round, applications are reviewed biannually in February and August. Grants fund initiatives that educate the public about colon cancer and alleviate the financial burden on patients. By applying, organizations commit to promoting local events that raise funds for these important community programs.

The Project Cure CRC Early-Career Investigator Award, offered by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, seeks to attract innovative early-career faculty to colorectal cancer research. This award supports groundbreaking research aimed at enhancing our understanding and treatment of colorectal cancer. With no application deadlines, submissions are reviewed on a rolling basis, allowing awardees to receive funding for their original preclinical, translational, or early clinical research projects, fostering the next generation of CRC research leaders.

In 2025, the Community Foundation of Madison & Jefferson County awarded over $233,000 in scholarships to graduating seniors of the county’s public and private high schools. Nearly 50 different students earned money toward their college costs. Scholarships are available for a variety of applicants. Some are specific to schools, majors, need, or interests.

CFMJC scholarships may be used for tuition and related expenses like fees and required equipment at accredited colleges and universities. Room and board are not covered.

Madison Chautauqua Scholarship for the Arts in Memory of Bob Fourhman

Criteria evaluated:

• Letter of recommendation and artwork samples

Required materials:

• Letter of recommendation from a person knowledgeable about your talent and accomplishments in your art form; and
• An uploaded sample of your work (maximum 3 photos or 1 short video/audio clip)

Scholarship amount:

• $1,200 | 1 scholarship

The Hearing Health Foundation's Emerging Research Grants (ERG) program supports innovative research in hearing and balance, providing up to $50,000 per year for promising projects. Since 1958, it has fostered early-career researchers and led to significant advancements in the field. Eligible applicants must be affiliated with U.S. institutions and hold relevant advanced degrees. The program emphasizes underfunded areas and encourages applications that expand knowledge and research capabilities in hearing health.

The OVW Fiscal Year 2026 Tribal Sexual Assault Services Program provides crucial support to Indian Tribes and organizations in addressing sexual assault through intervention and advocacy. This program aims to assist victims of all ages, including youth and children, as well as their families and those affected by the trauma, except for perpetrators. Applications must be submitted by September 3, 2026, at 4:59 PM ET in JustGrants.

The Conservation Partners Legacy Grant Program, managed by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, offers competitive grants ranging from $5,000 to $500,000 for projects that restore, protect, or enhance vital habitats like prairies and wetlands. Applicants must provide a 10% match of non-state funds and the total project cost cannot exceed $1,000,000. Focused on habitat benefits, the program emphasizes conservation easements and public ownership for funded projects.