Best Grants for 501(c)(3) in Nevada

The Nevada Heritage Fellowship Award, offered by the Nevada Arts Council, honors tradition bearers in Nevada who significantly contribute to the state's traditional arts. This fellowship, awarded as an honorarium, does not require funds to be allocated for specific projects. It aims to elevate public appreciation for traditional arts and recognizes artists who actively engage in their community's cultural practices, fostering a rich artistic heritage.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

NV Energy Powerful Partnerships Scholarship

To support the attainment of higher education for youth in our communities, NV Energy Foundation offers the Powerful Partnership Scholarship Program. The Powerful Partnership Program recognizes and encourages the accomplishments of outstanding high school seniors who have demonstrated leadership in academics and community service. NV Energy’s goal is to support tomorrow’s leaders’ educational achievements while creating a legacy of community involvement.

The NV Energy Powerful Partnerships Scholarship is offered to students who are graduating high school seniors in NV Energy’s northern service territory, including all communities served by NV Energy in northern Nevada. This one-time scholarship of $1,000 - $1,500 is awarded based on the program’s selection criteria and on the number of applications received. The scholarship will benefit the dependents of NV Energy employees and members of the general public. The scholarship may be used at any accredited university, college, community college, trade, or vocational school in Nevada. We encourage graduating high school seniors both in public and private schools as well as homeschooled to apply.

Dependents of NV Energy employees will be considered separately for a one-time scholarship of $2,000.

The scholarship recognizes the accomplishments of high school students who have demonstrated leadership in academics and community service.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Jack and Jane Becker Medical School Scholarship

The Jack and Jane Becker Medical School Scholarship is for medical students at the University of Nevada, Reno. Dr. John C. and Mrs. Jane Becker were well known to the Washoe County medical community. They were committed to providing medical services to the rural areas of Nevada. This scholarship honors the life and medical service of Dr. and Mrs. Becker and is given to assist medical students with their hefty education costs.

This is a one-time award and has the potential to be renewed with reapplication. 

The Early Childhood Education Infrastructure Expansion Grant, established by Senate Bill 460 in June 2025, allocates $4 million to enhance early childhood education facilities in underserved areas of Nevada. This initiative aims to provide high-quality education at little to no cost, ensuring accessibility for all children. The Department of Education will distribute funds up to $150,000 for every 800 square feet of facility expansion, fostering community growth and educational opportunities.

Community Foundation of Northern Nevada

Established in 1998 as a Nevada nonprofit 501(c) 3 Corporation, the Community Foundation of Northern Nevada has distributed more than $200 million in grants and scholarships from over 300 charitable funds to strengthen our Nevada home. 

Scholarship Program

The Community Foundation of Northern Nevada’s Scholarship Program is intended to help students cover the ever-increasing cost of tuition. Some of our scholarships are based on financial need, but others represent an award for achievement. These scholarships typically go to students who have excelled in an academic area or have shown they can balance academics, volunteer work, and extracurricular activities. There are also scholarships designated for students who have overcome adversity, students pursuing degrees in high-need areas, and adult learners outside the traditional college age group. Community Foundation scholarships can help cover tuition, books, and on-campus housing.

Steingard Family Scholarship

Established in 2019, the Steingard Family Scholarship will award up to $2,500. Awards have the potential to be renewed with reapplication for up to three additional years.

The Peter E. Palmquist Memorial Fund Grant provides vital support for research into under-researched women photographers and Western American photographers from the Great Depression era. Open to both individual researchers and nonprofit institutions, this grant emphasizes the importance of quality proposals and the ability to execute projects efficiently. Recipients will contribute their findings to the Humboldt Area Foundation, thus enriching the Peter Palmquist Archive and promoting the legacy of photography history.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Standard's Corporate Giving Program emphasizes community support and employee engagement, reflecting its foundational mission to enhance financial well-being. Established in 1906, the program focuses on Healthy Communities, Disability and Empowerment, Cultural Development, and Education. With a funding range of $500 to $25,000, it aims to make a substantial impact in the lives of individuals and families facing challenges. The Standard Charitable Foundation, launched in 2006, further extends this commitment by supporting organizations that align with its philanthropic goals.

The Cooperative Invasive Plant Cost Share Program by the Nevada Department of Agriculture aims to combat invasive plant species through a cost-sharing model. Eligible applicants include Cooperative Weed Management Areas and Conservation Districts in Nevada, focusing on projects that promote sustainable land management and ecological health. Funding covers early detection, control measures, and education to enhance community engagement in preserving Nevada's natural resources while adhering to federal guidelines.

About the Department

The Nevada Department of Education (NDE or Department) leads and collaborates with Nevada's 17 school districts and the State Public Charter School Authority to advance educational equity Statewide. With offices in Nevada's capital, Carson City, and Las Vegas, NDE oversees all pre-K-12 education in the State with mission of improving student achievement and educator effectiveness by ensuring opportunities, facilitating learning, and promoting excellence. Under the leadership of the State Board of Education and the Executive Team, NDE impacts the achievement of nearly half a million children and 30,000 educators.

Early Childhood Literacy & Readiness Programs Grant

The Early Childhood Literacy & Readiness Programs Grant was established with the passage of Senate Bill (SB) 460 in June 2025 during the 83rd session of the Nevada Legislature. These funds are intended to establish an innovative new program or to expand an existing early literacy program that supports children less than the age of six years old, their families, and early childhood professionals. 

Funds awarded through the competitive application process must supplement and not supplant existing state or federal funds

Goals and Priorities

Priority will be given to applicants who:

• Have demonstrated sustained success in improving the literacy and readiness for entering kindergarten of children less than 6 years of age; OR
• Provide services to geographical areas with higher proportion of children entering kindergarten who have demonstrated a deficit across early learning domains during the immediately preceding two years. 

Participation and Evaluation

Each program supported by a grant awarded must:

• Serve children who are less than 6 years of age;
• Be evidence-based;
• Provide appropriate individualized accommodations and supports for children with disabilities;
• Include a plan of reporting accountability for the performance of the program; and
• Include an implementation plan which is financially sound and proposes to use all funds awarded within FY27.

The Rural Business Development Grants in Nevada aim to foster economic growth and job creation in rural areas by providing financial assistance to eligible entities. The program offers two types of grants: Opportunity grants for community projects and Enterprise grants for small business support. While there is no maximum grant amount, smaller requests are prioritized. The funds can be utilized for various purposes, including training, infrastructure development, and strategic planning, contributing significantly to rural development.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in Nevada offers funding to develop vital community facilities in rural areas, benefiting towns with populations under 20,000. Eligible projects include healthcare, public safety, education, and essential services. This program prioritizes lower-income communities, providing up to 75% funding for qualifying projects. Applicants can be public bodies, non-profits, or federally recognized tribes. It's a year-round program, ensuring ongoing support to enhance community infrastructure and services.

The U.S. Department of Transportation is offering funding to establish the Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) in Region 6. This initiative, part of the Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization, aims to support small businesses in transportation sectors. The cooperative agreement includes a 12-month base year and two additional option years based on performance, promoting growth and accessibility for local businesses in transportation.

The Wilburforce Foundation Conservation Grants aim to enhance the conservation of vital lands, waters, and wildlife in Western North America. By 2025, their vision is to ensure native wildlife thrives across connected landscapes. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to strategic conservation efforts, focusing on habitat security and wildlife linkages. Grants are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities, fostering initiatives that protect critical wildlife habitats and promote ecological integrity.

The Western SARE Professional Development Program Grant supports education and outreach for agricultural professionals. Aimed at enhancing knowledge in sustainable agriculture, it provides funding for projects that train educators and farmers through workshops, conferences, and digital media. With a focus on the environmental, economic, and social aspects of agriculture, projects can last up to three years and receive up to $100,000 in funding. This initiative fosters a 'train the trainer' approach to improve agricultural practices.

The Salad and Go Charities Grant supports local 501(c)(3) nonprofit meal programs that provide nutritious food to those facing food insecurity. Aimed at enhancing community wellness, the program offers grants ranging from $1,000 to $10,000 for initiatives like expanding kitchen facilities and sourcing healthy ingredients. Organizations in Texas, Oklahoma, Nevada, and Arizona are encouraged to apply, fostering access to affordable food for vulnerable populations in need.

The Western SARE Professional + Producer Grant Program fosters collaboration between Agricultural Technical Advisors and Producers to promote sustainable agriculture through research and outreach. This initiative aims to improve environmental quality, enhance profitability for farmers, and ensure community well-being. By supporting demonstrations, educational activities, and practical applications, the program seeks to communicate effective sustainable practices to agricultural professionals, ultimately benefiting rural economies and ecosystems.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Western SARE Graduate Student Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative research and educational outreach in sustainable agriculture. Funded by the USDA, it aims to enhance environmental quality, improve profitability for producers, and uplift rural communities. Projects must involve both research and education components, with proposals authored by graduate students collaborating with their advisors. This initiative fosters communication of results to agricultural professionals, ensuring practical applications for sustainable practices in the Western U.S.

The Underground Storage Tank System Upgrades Grant Program in Nevada aims to assist small businesses with the financial burden of complying with federal UST regulations. Grants of up to $90,000 are available for the purchase and installation of necessary equipment, ensuring environmental safety. Approximately $2 million is anticipated annually for upgrades, prioritizing applicants based on need. Eligible applicants must meet specific requirements, including being registered with the state UST program and complying with petroleum fund enrollment.

The Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The Nevada Outdoor Education and Recreation Grant Program aims to provide equitable and high-quality outdoor experiences for Nevada students aged 18 and younger. Administered by the Nevada Division of Outdoor Recreation, this program allocates state funds for environmental education and recreation initiatives. Grants of up to $50,000 are available, encouraging projects that enhance academic performance and environmental literacy. The program seeks to bridge social barriers and foster community engagement through increased access to nature.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.