Best Grants for Environmental Projects in New Hampshire

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 Cyanotoxin Monitoring Equipment and Training Grants, offered by the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services, support public water systems in monitoring cyanobacteria and cyanotoxins in surface water sources. Since 2017, these grants have funded essential equipment like fluorometers and microscope cameras, and assist in developing Quality Assurance Project Plans. Eligible applicants include municipalities, non-profit organizations, and various associations. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, ensuring continuous support for water quality initiatives.

The Neil and Louise Tillotson Fund Dash Grants aim to enhance the quality of life in New Hampshire, particularly Coös County, by supporting nonprofit initiatives focused on health, education, and community development. Grants range from $250 to $2,000 for projects lasting up to one year. Eligible organizations include tax-exempt entities and governmental bodies, promoting sustainable practices and collaboration within the community. This funding opportunity encourages innovative solutions to pressing local needs.

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 OSI Northeast Resilient Landscapes Initiative Fund supports conservation projects in New England, the mid-Atlantic, and Central Appalachians aimed at preserving biodiversity amidst climate change. This fund provides grants and loans to nonprofits for acquiring climate-resilient lands, enhancing ecological connectivity. Projects must meet specific criteria regarding landscape resilience and stewardship to be eligible. By focusing on high-priority areas, the initiative ensures effective use of resources to safeguard vital habitats and species.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

Wells Fargo Community Giving supports nonprofit organizations focusing on financial health, housing affordability, small business growth, and sustainability. The grant cycle runs from February to October, inviting organizations with 501(c)(3) status or equivalent to apply. Funding is prioritized for programs addressing critical community needs, while limited support is available for local initiatives like disaster relief and arts. Organizations must demonstrate fiscal stability and potential impact to be considered for funding.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The Hansen Family Foundation Grant seeks to empower organizations that uphold the American values of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. Focused on diverse causes like children, education, animals, environmental conservation, humanitarian efforts, and arts, the foundation is committed to supporting initiatives that create positive change. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits, while political campaigns and organizations with high budgets or overheads are ineligible. This grant fosters impactful contributions to society.

The New Hampshire Conservation Grant Program, managed by the State Conservation Committee, provides competitive grants for projects aimed at protecting and enhancing the state's natural resources. Focus areas include water quality, wildlife habitat, soil conservation, and land protection. Eligible applicants include municipalities, nonprofits, and schools. Projects should be completed within two years and do not require matching funds, although additional financial contributions may strengthen applications.

The Adelard A. and Valeda Lea Roy Foundation Grant focuses on supporting organizations in arts, education, health, and environmental sectors, especially in underserved communities in Massachusetts and Northern New England. Grants typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, with an emphasis on projects that address food security, housing, and cultural access for disadvantaged populations. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that align with its current funding priorities, particularly benefiting low-income youth, Indigenous communities, and immigrants.

The Community Facilities Direct Loan & Grant Program in Vermont and New Hampshire provides essential funding for rural areas to develop community facilities. This program aims to enhance local services by financing construction and improvements of facilities like health care centers, public safety buildings, and educational institutions. Eligible applicants include public bodies and non-profit organizations, with varying grant assistance percentages based on community income levels and population size. Applications are accepted year-round, but early submission is encouraged.

The Greater Rochester Community Health Foundation offers targeted grants of up to $25,000 to nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing access to dental, maternal, and mental health care in Strafford County, New Hampshire. Established with proceeds from the Frisbie Memorial Hospital sale, this foundation aims to improve community health and well-being. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) tax-exempt entities, while those outside Strafford County may apply if they serve the area.

The Madelaine G. von Weber Trust Grant supports impactful charitable projects across New Hampshire, honoring Mrs. von Weber's legacy. The Trust seeks innovative, sustainable solutions that enhance community welfare through funding for diverse initiatives, including environmental conservation, arts, and social services. With a focus on capital projects that promise lasting benefits, the Trust encourages applications from well-governed 501(c)(3) nonprofits that demonstrate strong community support and a clear rationale for funding needs.

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 Integrated Pest Management Program Grants, awarded by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets & Food, aim to promote sustainable pest management practices. Since 1998, these grants support projects that incorporate biological, cultural, and chemical tactics to minimize environmental risks. The program is open to various applicants, including private citizens and organizations, focusing on education and reducing pesticide use to enhance public health and environmental quality. Priority is given to diverse applications, including educational initiatives and urban projects.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services offers Local Source Water Protection Grants to enhance the protection of public drinking water sources. Since 1997, funding has supported efforts by municipalities, water suppliers, and local organizations to develop programs that ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources. Eligible projects must contribute to the protection of active or planned public water systems, with a focus on implementation and community engagement.

The Wellborn Ecology Fund supports school-based projects that enhance environmental and ecological science knowledge in the Upper Valley. Established in 2013, it focuses on K-12 and early childhood education, especially in underserved communities. With over $5.5 million awarded since 2001, the fund promotes place-based ecology education, professional development for teachers, and initiatives like farm-to-school projects. This initiative aims to instill a deep understanding of local ecosystems and foster environmental stewardship among students.

The New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services has launched the Large PWS Lead Service Line Inventory Grant program to assist water systems with over 1,000 service connections in identifying service lines marked as 'unknown'. This initiative is part of compliance with the EPA Lead Copper Rule Improvements, requiring annual service line inventories. Grants of up to $60,000 are available, with no community match required, to facilitate the identification and replacement planning of lead service lines.

The Audrey Hillman Fisher Foundation Grant aims to enhance health and healing for communities through investments in the arts, education, human services, and environmental initiatives. With a focus on Pittsburgh, PA, Santa Barbara, CA, and Squam Lakes, NH, the foundation accepts grant applications year-round, with deadlines of January 5 for June funding and July 1 for November funding. The foundation prioritizes projects from new organizations within these regions.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The NH Sea Grant is inviting proposals for research funding of up to $100K per year for projects addressing key focus areas such as sustainable fisheries, coastal ecosystems, and aquaculture. This funding cycle runs from February 1, 2024, to January 31, 2026. Proposals that integrate innovative research with outreach and education are encouraged, particularly those related to aquaculture, leveraging matching funds from NOAA's National Sea Grant College Program.

The Resilient and Connected Appalachians Grant Program, offered by The Nature Conservancy, provides up to $100,000 for projects that acquire land and easements throughout the Appalachian region. This program emphasizes equitable conservation, aiming to support historically marginalized communities and enhance access to nature while addressing climate change impacts. Projects must demonstrate community engagement and align with the program's goals to protect vital habitats and foster resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

The Land and Community Heritage Investment Program (LCHIP) in New Hampshire provides matching grants to support the acquisition and preservation of ecologically significant lands and historic resources. Since its inception in 2001, LCHIP has partnered with local communities and nonprofits to ensure the protection of vital natural and cultural resources. Grants range from $10,000 to $500,000, promoting land conservation for water quality, wildlife habitat, and scenic views, thus enhancing both community well-being and the local economy.

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.

About NHDES

Helping to sustain a high quality of life for all citizens by protecting and restoring the environment and public health in New Hampshire.

The mission of the New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services is to help sustain a high quality of life for all citizens by protecting and restoring the environment and public health in New Hampshire. The protection and wise management of the state’s environment are the main goals of the agency. 

Coastal Resilience Grants

Competitive grant funding for coastal community and habitat resilience projects.

To support coastal communities as they adapt to climate changes, the New Hampshire Coastal Program administers the Coastal Resilience Grants (CRG) Program, which provides funding for coastal community and habitat resilience projects. 

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.