Best Monroe County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The Helen and Ritter Shumway Foundation Grant aims to support conservation and historic preservation in Rochester, New York, and nearby areas. This grant encourages charitable organizations to submit requests for general operating and program support, particularly focusing on traditionally underserved communities. The foundation, established by Helen S. Mayer, also honors the legacy of her brother, Ritter Shumway, by backing causes they valued. Applications for endowment campaigns or capital projects are typically not accepted.

The Dolores Zohrab Liebmann Fund Fellowships provide financial support for U.S. citizens pursuing graduate studies in various fields at accredited institutions. The fellowships cover tuition and offer an annual stipend of $18,000 for living expenses. Candidates must demonstrate financial need and have an outstanding undergraduate record. Applications are submitted through the dean of the university, with deadlines in January and notifications by mid-June. This program honors Dolores Zohrab Liebmann's legacy of supporting education.

Nautilus Scholarship

To provide scholarship support to graduating high school seniors in Monroe County pursuing a degree in architecture, construction, construction management, or a related field, or a program leading to teacher certification in a STEM field or pursuing a trades program or degree.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $4,000 to a student pursuing a two- or four-year professional degree; paid as $1,000 per year for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Additionally, one non-renewable award of $1,000 for students pursuing a trades degree or program and paid in one lump sum. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

The Bank of America Charitable Foundation focuses on improving economic mobility and social progress through partnerships with nonprofits. It prioritizes basic needs, income creation, stable housing, and community empowerment. By supporting vulnerable populations, the foundation aims to enable individuals to achieve their goals and contribute positively to their communities. The foundation emphasizes sustainable progress, ensuring that all community members have access to essential resources and opportunities for growth.

The Stickley Scholarship Fund, established by L. & J. G. Stickley, Inc., offers the Aminy I. Audi Scholarship Award. This scholarship supports high school graduates who are children of full-time employees with over two years of service. Recipients must demonstrate financial need, engage in community service, and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative underscores the foundation's commitment to fostering educational opportunities and equity in the Central New York region.

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

Cascades Donations and Sponsorships focuses on building sustainable partnerships in education, entrepreneurship, and amateur sports. They support community organizations, promote healthy lifestyles, and recognize student engagement through grants. Cascades prioritizes projects in its operational regions and encourages initiatives that address climate change and foster inclusivity. Their funding approach is rooted in creating lasting positive impacts and supporting the next generation of leaders while adhering to their values and philosophy.

The William and Sheila Konar Foundation Summer Program aims to enhance equitable access to high-quality summer learning experiences for economically disadvantaged youth in Monroe County. In collaboration with the United Way of Greater Rochester and ESL Federal Credit Union, this initiative will provide essential support for 2026 Summer Programs. Applicants are encouraged to provide comprehensive information to ensure effective evaluation by the funders involved.

Purpose of Scholarship

To assist accomplished graduates of the Rochester City School District who are motivated to attend college and need financial support to obtain either an Associates or Bachelors degrees from SUNY schools with the goal of employment and economic self sufficiency.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance for the expenses associated with higher education for a student who possesses a spirit and aptitude for understanding and appreciating the free enterprise system that allows private philanthropy to exist.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Purpose of Scholarship

For academically talented and community-minded high school graduates continuing their education.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

The Max And Marian Farash Charitable Foundation invites community organizations to apply for the Out-of-School Time - Summer Fun & Learning RFP. This initiative aims to enhance access to innovative, high-quality summer programs for youth in Monroe and Ontario counties. By supporting diverse out-of-school opportunities, the Foundation seeks to empower young individuals to develop skills, engage with peers and mentors, and enjoy enriching experiences beyond traditional school hours.

Purpose of Scholarship

For a graduating Rochester City School District senior who plans to study science, technology, engineering, or math at Monroe Community College.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to a current, full-time, sophomore or junior female student at St. John Fisher University continuing her education.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for educational expenses at St. John Fisher University.

The selection process is coordinated through St. John Fisher University. A committee at the college reviews applications, selects the recipient(s), and informs the Community Foundation.

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarships for optometry students in an accredited College of Optometry who demonstrate financial need and a sincere desire to practice optometry in Upstate New York after graduation, preferably in the counties of Monroe, Genesee, Livingston, Ontario, and/or Wayne.

Allowed Use of Award - Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other educational expenses for optometry school.

Preference is given to applicants who want to return to Upstate New York after graduation and work in areas served by the Rochester Optometric Society. 

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on community transformation in Southeast Michigan and Western New York. With a spend-down structure by 2035, the foundation prioritizes collaborative investments in key areas like active lifestyles, success preparation, caregiver support, and economic development. Emphasizing urgency and innovation, it seeks to create lasting impacts by fostering partnerships and supporting visionary projects that address significant community needs.

The Audience Marketing and Promotion Grant, offered by the University of Rochester, encourages students to develop innovative strategies to engage local communities and boost attendance at Eastman concerts. Applicants must be current students aiming to attract at least 50 new attendees through unique promotional projects. The grant supports original ideas that do not overlap with existing marketing efforts, and proposals should include a clear timeline, budget, and metrics for success.

The Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP) in New York provides essential funding for nonprofit organizations at high risk of terrorist attacks. It offers financial support for physical and cybersecurity enhancements, helping organizations located outside urban areas to strengthen their security measures. Prequalification in the New York Statewide Financial System is required for applicants. This initiative underscores the commitment of the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services to enhance community safety and resilience.

The Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Legacy Fund for Youth Sports Grants, established by the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Foundation, aims to enhance youth sports and recreation in six counties of New York. Grant requests can range from $5,000 to $25,000, supporting nonprofits and government entities that serve youth. Priority is given to community-engaged programs that align with eight identified strategies to keep youth active. Applications are limited to one per organization and must focus on quality sports experiences.

The Rochester Women's Giving Circle Grant Program supports women and girls in Monroe County on their journey to economic independence. By pooling resources, members fund programs that provide education, training, and job readiness skills. Grants, typically up to $25,000, are awarded to charitable organizations that align with the Circle's mission, focusing on sustainable self-sufficiency rather than crisis intervention. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and directly serve the target demographic.

The New York State Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program aims to enhance K-12 meal preparation by utilizing fresh local farm products. With a total funding of $50 million over five years, the program will award $5 million to each of the ten regions, encouraging projects that alleviate food insecurity and bolster market opportunities for local producers. This initiative seeks to strengthen the state's food system resiliency while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

The LGBT+ Giving Circle Grant supports organizations that are inclusive of the LGBTQ+ community in the Greater Rochester area. Established in 2011, it aims to enhance community diversity through projects aligned with its mission. Eligible organizations must hold 501(c)(3) status and have a nondiscrimination policy that includes LGBT+ individuals. The grant does not fund special events, fundraising campaigns, or religious activities, ensuring focused support for impactful initiatives.

Elizabeth and Eric Rennert Family MCC Scholarship

To provide assistance to Rochester City School District graduating seniors attending Monroe Community College.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $7,000; divided into equal annual installments paid over two consecutive years of undergraduate study at Monroe Community College. Award may be split between two or three recipients and is paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. Minimum award $1,000.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

New York State Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services

The New York State Office of Faith and Nonprofit Development Services stands as a beacon of support and resource for faith-based and nonprofit organizations across the state. With a mission deeply rooted in Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to support and expand these communities, the Office is dedicated to fostering growth, equity, and connectivity.  

At its core, the Office aims to empower Faith and Nonprofit organizations. By providing essential information, facilitating access to state grants, and enhancing organizational capacities, it seeks to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all New Yorkers.  

OFNDS Technical Assistance Request for Application (RFA)

This RFA seeks to award funding that will develop a program to provide free technical assistance to nonprofits across New York State. The program seeks to build organizational capacity, improve nonprofits' ability to maximize funding opportunities, expand programmatic impact, and ensure accountability to fiscal compliance standards necessary to do business with New York State. 

Overview- Proposed Areas for Technical Assistance

The purpose of this grant is to fund qualified nonprofit organizations to administer a no-cost Technical Assistance program for the nonprofit community in New York State. Under this grant, the Technical Assistance provider will assist nonprofit organizations with a presence in the assigned region with fiscal infrastructure planning and development, and organizational compliance required to do business in and with New York State, and resource development. These services will increase the nonprofits’ ability to secure, administer and sustain public funding opportunities for New York State grants, and community initiatives.

The Technical Assistance proposed should be practical and tailored to the needs and realities of smaller organizations with limited staff and resources. Successful applicants are required to provide Technical Assistance in a group setting or to individual organizations, as needed. 

Preference will be given to organizations with three or more years’ experience providing similar services to nonprofit organizations. 

Award Regions

Awards will be granted to qualified nonprofit organizations according to two regions: Region A, Downstate; and Region B, Upstate. 

Region B, Upstate

• Capital Region (Albany, Columbia, Greene, Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Warren, and Washington Counties)
• Central NY (Cayuga, Cortland, Madison, Onondaga, Oswego)
• Finger Lakes (Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, Wyoming, Yates)
• Mid-Hudson (Dutchess, Orange, Putnam, Sullivan, Ulster)
• Mohawk Valley (Fulton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Oneida, Otsego, Schoharie)
• North Country (Clinton, Essex, Franklin, Hamilton, Jefferson, Lewis, St. Lawrence)
• Southern Tier (Broome, Delaware, Chemung, Chenango, Schuyler, Steuben, Tioga, Tompkins); and
• Western NY (Allegany, Cattaraugus, Chautauqua, Erie, Niagara)

The Vitality Grants program aims to bolster regional vitality by preserving historical assets and fostering educational initiatives. Nonprofit organizations are encouraged to apply, focusing on projects that create lasting impacts, promote community revitalization, and enhance sustainability. The program prioritizes efforts that engage the community with its rich historical heritage, while ensuring economic development and equity in storytelling and preservation efforts.

The IML Mentorship Grant offers students at the Eastman School of Music funding and mentorship to foster innovative ideas in music. It seeks applicants who demonstrate musical excellence, a compelling project concept, and the potential for sustainable initiatives. Eligible candidates must be full-time students during the award period and attend an advising appointment before applying. This grant aims to enhance creativity and add value to both the music field and the community.