Best Financial Assistance Grants in New Hampshire

The Agnes M. Lindsay Trust Grants provide essential financial support to nonprofit organizations in Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont, focusing on Health and Welfare, Dental Health, Camperships, Education, and Homeless Shelters. With a history of over 81 years, the Trust aims to assist those in need, especially in underserved populations. While they are currently not accepting unsolicited requests from colleges and universities, they continue to support initiatives that enhance community welfare and educational opportunities.

Community Development Finance Authority

The Community Development Finance Authority (CDFA) is a statewide, nonprofit authority focused on maximizing the value and impact of community development, economic development, and clean energy initiatives throughout New Hampshire. The organization leverages a variety of financial and technical resources, including the competitive deployment of grant, loan, and equity programs.

Low-Moderate Income Solar Grant Program

This program will expand opportunities for New Hampshire residents with limited income to access the benefits of solar and other cost saving energy resources, through housing and community organizations who provide support to these residents. Funding will include grants and coordinated low-interest financing. The program intends to meet the following objectives:

• Provide financing that creates new opportunities for low-and-moderate income (LMI) households to access cost saving energy technologies in their housing or through the community facilities that serve them. These households must benefit from associated cost reductions or benefits as outlined in the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) guidance for Public Housing Authorities (PHAs) and owners of properties participating in HUD Multifamily Assisted Housing programs regarding the treatment of financial benefits received from participation in community solar energy programs or the presence of on-site solar facilities.

• Enable organizations that are already planning capital projects and serving residents from low-andmoderate income households to expand their long-term facilities investments by supporting their transition to clean energy.

• Afford the opportunity for non-taxable entities that have eligible projects with the benefits of owning a solar system to increase access to cost saving energy project financing by providing a single source for grant and loan resources.

• Leverage public and private capital from CDFA’s existing financing resources.

Each applicant entity is eligible to receive one award through this program.

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The DanPaul Foundation aims to enhance early childhood development by training teachers and parents, protecting children from abuse, and promoting social responsibility. They provide grants to non-profits for programs that focus on education, health, and welfare of youth. Key initiatives include scholarships, environmental education, and support for underprivileged children. Grant amounts range from a few hundred dollars to $15,000 annually, with a focus on impactful, community-driven projects.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The KSB Grants & Sponsorships Program supports nonprofit organizations, public schools, and municipalities that benefit communities in southern York County, Maine, and Strafford & Rockingham Counties in New Hampshire. The program emphasizes funding for health, economic advancement, arts and culture, education, and environmental initiatives. It aims to address community needs, especially heightened by the COVID-19 pandemic, by fostering partnerships and promoting wellness and innovation across diverse sectors.

The NH Clean Vessel Act or Boat Pumpout Grants, administered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, support the establishment and maintenance of boat pumpout facilities. Organizations can apply for funding to install or renovate these facilities, ensuring they are publicly accessible and affordable. Grants cover future projects only and are available for various eligible expenses related to pumpout operations, promoting environmental health and water quality in New Hampshire.

The NH Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program offers financial assistance to eligible municipalities for planning and transformative projects aimed at improving community viability. Grants support public facilities, affordable housing, economic development, and microenterprise initiatives, prioritizing low and moderate-income populations. With a focus on innovative solutions and partnerships, the program encourages municipalities to address pressing community needs effectively. The funding is administered by the New Hampshire Community Development Finance Authority and is available on a rolling basis until all funds are allocated.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Used Oil Collection Gift Grant Program, managed by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, provides gift grants to municipalities for establishing and improving used oil collection centers. These grants aim to support Do-It-Yourselfers in properly recycling their used oil at licensed facilities. Eligible entities include towns, counties, and registered inspection stations, with most grants not exceeding $2,500, while multi-town centers may qualify for up to $5,000.

The Historic Rehabilitation Grant, offered by the New Hampshire Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP), supports the preservation of historical resources in the state. Since 2001, LCHIP has allocated $54 million to 364 organizations for projects that maintain the integrity of significant cultural and historic sites. Grants range from $10,000 to $500,000, covering up to 50% of total project costs, and aim to uphold community heritage while enhancing local quality of life.

The Preservation Planning Grants by LCHIP aim to safeguard New Hampshire's vital historic resources through financial support for preservation plans. Grants range from $5,000 to $25,000, covering up to 50% of project costs. Eligible projects must enhance publicly owned or nonprofit properties listed on the State or National Register of Historic Places. These grants facilitate comprehensive assessments by professionals to ensure effective restoration and rehabilitation strategies, thereby enriching community heritage and quality of life.

The AgEnhancement Grant, awarded by Farm Credit East and CoBank, provides funding between $500 to $10,000 annually to support projects that enhance agriculture, commercial fishing, and forest products in the Northeast. Since 1996, over $3.5 million has been distributed to various organizations. The program seeks initiatives that promote diversity and provide opportunities for all-sized farms, ensuring long-term benefits to the community and industry.

The Bald Peak Community Fund, now in its 23rd year, has contributed over $2.8 million to local charitable organizations, focusing on food and heating assistance as well as services for children and the elderly in the Lakes Region. Grants are awarded to 501(c)(3) organizations that have been thoroughly vetted for quality and reliability. Fundraising occurs throughout the summer, with distributions managed by the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation in November.

The NH Volunteer Engagement Program Grants provide essential funding to organizations in New Hampshire that seek to enhance their volunteer capacity. With grants ranging from $15,000 to $25,000, these funds support projects aimed at recruiting, managing, and retaining volunteers effectively. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, local governments, and educational institutions. Projects must demonstrate sustainability beyond the funding period and align with priority areas like affordable housing and mental health, fostering community engagement through volunteerism.

The Greater Merrimack Valley Efforts Horne Family Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community services in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. With a commitment to Human Services, Environment, and Wildlife, the foundation supports initiatives aiding at-risk youth, the homeless, and victims of abuse. It provides operational support and funding for innovative programs, prioritizing conservation, health, and welfare in upcoming grant cycles. The foundation encourages eligible organizations to apply for grants that align with its mission and values.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in Vermont provides essential funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, and stormwater drainage in eligible rural areas. This program specifically targets households and businesses that struggle to secure commercial credit, aiming to enhance public health and environmental quality. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes, ensuring that vital services are accessible to all. Projects funded must demonstrate financial sustainability.

The Dudley T. Dougherty Foundation Grant supports nonprofit charitable organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the IRS Revenue Code. Established in 2002, the foundation aims to empower groups committed to positive change, fostering respect for life and the environment. Their vision emphasizes collaboration for a better future, encouraging applicants to embody these values in their initiatives. With a focus on impactful projects, this grant is an opportunity for organizations striving to make a critical difference in our world.

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 Lawrence Foundation is a private family foundation established in 2000, dedicated to granting funds for environmental and human services causes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and public schools, with grants typically ranging from $5,000 to $10,000. The foundation supports unrestricted grants for various projects, including disaster relief and environmental programs, but does not fund individuals or for-profit entities. Applications are evaluated based on alignment with the foundation's priorities.

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 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.

The Allison Keller Education Technology Grant Program, established by the Doug Flutie, Jr. Foundation for Autism, aims to bridge the technological gap for schools and organizations supporting individuals with autism. Since 2012, over $820,000 has been awarded to enhance learning through technology, including iPads and apps. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations and public schools in Massachusetts and surrounding New England states, with one program per district receiving funding annually.

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.

The NH Clean Water State Revolving Fund offers low-cost financial assistance for projects aimed at enhancing public health and water quality. It supports local communities with funding for wastewater infrastructure and pollution control initiatives. Benefits include below-market loan rates, potential loan forgiveness, and project support throughout planning and construction phases. Annual loan pre-applications are encouraged for various water management projects, ensuring a collaborative approach to environmental stewardship in New Hampshire.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.