Best Monroe County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision: We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Clifford B. Bushnell Scholarship

This scholarship was created to reflect a family value of higher education providing need-based scholarships to young African-American women from Monroe County.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide financial assistance to an African American female from Monroe County who is a graduating high school senior or has completed her first year of college and is identified as an Urban League Black Scholar. 

Award Details

• One award of $4,000; paid as $1,000 per year for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. 
• Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.

Renewability

This scholarship is renewable for up to three times for a maximum of four annual awards to support undergraduate studies. Award renewability varies per recipient:

• Graduating high school seniors receive awards that are renewable for a maximum of four awards in four consecutive years of undergraduate studies;
• College freshman receive awards that are renewable for a maximum of three awards in three consecutive years of undergraduate studies;
• College sophomores receive awards that are renewable for a maximum of two awards in two consecutive years of undergraduate studies; and
• College juniors receive one award for undergraduate studies.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Clark Family Mental Health and Disability Scholarship

Barbara and Tom Clark have been blessed with good health, four children, grandchildren, and a comfortable lifestyle. They come from modest backgrounds with parents who provided them with educational opportunities and strong work ethics, which has enabled them to be in a position to share their good fortune with others. Their youngest child, born with Down Syndrome, has been the beneficiary of many services provided by agencies and health systems serving the developmentally disabled. With their help, she has grown into a fine young woman.

Both Barbara and Tom have been closely involved with agencies serving the disadvantaged and have personally witnessed the skills and dedication of those who have chosen this career. This scholarship was established to assist individuals dedicated to serving in the field of developmental disabilities or mental health with their advanced educational pursuits. Through this scholarship, the Clarks desire to help these individuals with the educational requirements to improve their skills in serving those in need.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide financial support for individuals working in or planning to work in the fields of developmental disabilities or behavioral health within the eight-county area surrounding Rochester (Genesee, Livingston, Monroe, Ontario, Orleans, Seneca, Wayne, and Yates counties) who wish to pursue a master’s degree in their field. The intent of this scholarship is to elevate the state of practice and increase the number of individuals serving in the fields of developmental disabilities and behavioral health.

Award Details

• Number of recipients and award amounts vary. The amount awarded will be based on the student’s actual cost of attendance, financial need, and receipt of other available grants and financial resources. Award paid in one lump sum in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.
• Awards may be used for tuition, books, fees, and other graduate level educational expenses.
• The scholarship is a one-time award; however, students may reapply in future years and receive a maximum of four awards during a consecutive six-year period.

The GM Corporate Giving Grants support U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations focused on STEM education and transportation initiatives. Applications are accepted from January to September, with a requirement to submit requests at least three months before the program’s start date. GM emphasizes charitable contributions in the communities where it operates, ensuring that organizations align with its values. The grant amount is not limited and is assessed based on the proposed program's merit and needs.

The Awesome Foundation offers Local Chapter Grants of $1000 to individuals and groups for innovative projects that enhance community engagement. Each chapter operates independently, focusing on unique interpretations of 'awesome' across various fields such as arts and technology. Grants are awarded monthly, emphasizing no-strings-attached support. This initiative encourages creativity and experimentation, aiming to inspire and delight communities worldwide. For more details, applicants can explore individual chapter preferences and restrictions through the foundation's website.

Cholish Engineering Scholarship

To provide financial aid to students pursuing engineering at Rochester Institute of Technology.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $3,000; paid in one lump sum 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. 

The Neighborhood Builders Program, supported by Bank of America, empowers 501(c)(3) nonprofits through a two-year leadership development initiative. Participants receive funding, training, and networking opportunities to enhance their impact in communities. Since its inception, the program has invested over $346 million, training more than 4,000 leaders. The initiative focuses on advancing social mobility and economic opportunities, ensuring affordable housing, and fostering resilient communities. This program is vital for nonprofits aiming to strengthen their leadership and community engagement.

The Brockport Arts Fund, supported by the Rochester Area Community Foundation, aims to enhance the cultural landscape of the Village of Brockport. By providing financial assistance for performing arts events and public art installations, the fund benefits both residents and visitors. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations within the 14420 zip code, focusing on projects that foster community engagement and artistic expression. This initiative seeks to inspire lasting positive change through art and creativity.

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.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Edward T. Mulligan, MD Memorial Award

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide a loan repayment award to a University of Rochester or Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine (LECOM) medical school graduate who has matched in a surgical residency in the metro-Rochester area.

Allowed Use of Award

Awards may only be used to repay medical school loans held by recognized lending institutions such as federally insured banks and credit unions.

This scholarship is a one-time award and is not renewable.

Donor Information

Edward T. Mulligan, MD was a revered Rochester surgeon whose career was shortened by his untimely death in 1975. The award is endowed by the Mulligan Family.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission: We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Rochester Tooling and Machining (James M. Nieboer) Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

For students enrolled in the advanced manufacturing industry related curricula at an accredited community college, junior college, or technical post-secondary institution within the Finger Lakes region.

Allowed Use of Award

Expenses associated with higher education.

Renewability

This award is not automatically renewable; students may reapply each Fall and Spring semester.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established in 1993 by the Rochester Tooling and Machining Institute, Inc. to encourage students to engage in the metalworking industry.

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.

The JetBlue Foundation is dedicated to enhancing aviation-related education and STEM initiatives, aiming to inspire future aviation leaders. Offering grants up to $50,000, it supports educational organizations that focus on aviation technology, engineering, operations, and maintenance. The foundation prioritizes programs benefiting under-represented communities in aviation, including veterans, women, and diverse groups, ensuring a broader range of voices in the industry.

The Erie Insurance Giving Network Grant supports organizations focused on community building, safety, and environmental responsibility. Grants under $10,000 can be submitted at any time, while larger requests follow specific deadlines. Priority is given to organizations with community representation in their governing bodies. Eligible entities include nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions, and municipalities. The initiative emphasizes a commitment to diversity and inclusion, aligning with ERIE's corporate values.

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.

The F26AS00083 Aquatic Invasive Species Grants are part of the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative for Fiscal Year 2026. These grants, administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, aim to support state-level management plans to combat aquatic invasive species in the Great Lakes region. Eligible applicants include Great Lakes states and their designees, with funding awarded through a competitive selection process.

The Suzanne H. Lee Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in the Brockport, New York area, focusing on diverse program areas including religious, scientific, educational, health and medical research, and arts and culture. It exclusively funds nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code, and does not accept applications from individuals. This grant aims to enhance community welfare through targeted funding.

The Built to Play Skatepark Grants, funded by the Tony Hawk Foundation, aim to support the creation of free, public skateparks in low-income communities across Southeast Michigan and Western New York. With grants up to $250,000, the program emphasizes community involvement, environmental sustainability, and accessibility. It prioritizes projects designed by experienced contractors that engage local skaters in leadership roles. This initiative reflects a commitment to fostering healthy lifestyles and combating childhood obesity through active play.

The Joseph S. Rippey Charitable Trust Grant supports charitable organizations in Rochester, NY, focusing on various program areas including animal welfare, education, and community development. This private foundation funds only nonprofit organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS tax code. Grant applications are not accepted from individuals, ensuring that support is directed solely toward established charitable entities.

The NFL Foundation Grassroots Program, in partnership with the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), aims to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of community football fields. With grants up to $250,000, this initiative addresses the critical lack of safe recreation spaces in low-income neighborhoods, ensuring children and adults have access to well-maintained facilities for gathering and exercise, ultimately fostering community health and well-being.

The Great Lakes Protection Fund Grant aims to support projects that deliver significant ecological improvements to the Great Lakes region. The Fund seeks transformative initiatives that involve collaboration among diverse stakeholders and rely on scientific rigor. Eligible applicants include non-profits, universities, and businesses, and the projects must demonstrate a positive environmental impact on the Great Lakes ecosystem. Importantly, the Fund does not support advocacy or compliance-related activities.

The Karpus Family Foundation Grants provide support to organizations focused on helping people and animals in need. With a commitment to education and community welfare, the foundation funds various initiatives, including assistance for disabled veterans, prevention of domestic abuse, and animal welfare. Organizations operating in the Greater Rochester area, Florida, and Cleveland are prioritized, and grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) entities that align with these goals. Applications are accepted year-round, with specific cycles for full proposals.

The Rochester Area Community Foundation invites non-profit organizations to apply for grants to support high-quality summer learning programs for K-12 students in its eight-county region. This initiative aims to enhance educational equity and improve student outcomes through evidence-based strategies. Eligible applicants must be school districts or 501(c)(3) organizations that operate in the specified counties and demonstrate effective program designs.

The Great Lakes Foundation Grant supports projects aimed at preserving wilderness areas and promoting marine safety in the Great Lakes region. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the foundation has awarded over $318,212 since its inception in 1993. Grants have funded various initiatives, including breakwater construction and academic research, to enhance appreciation and safety of the marine environment for both members and the general public.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

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 Great Lakes Fisheries Trust offers grants for ecological and biological research aimed at enhancing ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations. These grants support competitive fisheries research, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and stakeholder value. The next funding cycle will open with a request for proposals in late 2026 for the 2027 program year, promoting innovative research and capacity-building efforts within the fisheries sector.

The Kyrias Foundation Grants aim to support innovative and impactful community projects. With a mission to empower individuals and families, the foundation provides funding for capacity building, capital projects, and specific initiatives. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $50,000, targeting tax-exempt organizations, municipalities, and civic groups. The foundation values collaboration, innovative approaches, and proposals addressing specific community needs, while ensuring that funded projects benefit the community as a whole.