Best Grants for Museums in New Hampshire

The Smyth Trust, established in 1949 by Marion C. Smyth in memory of her husband, Frederick Smyth, supports cultural enrichment and educational opportunities in music for Greater Manchester youth. Offering scholarships to students from local high schools and grants to music organizations, the Trust aims to foster musical talent and appreciation. It ensures that deserving candidates, regardless of financial circumstances, can pursue their passion in music, reflecting the legacy of community service and infrastructure development initiated by Frederick Smyth.

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 NH Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) is a federally funded program established in 1965, aimed at providing matching grants to state and local governments for the acquisition and development of public outdoor recreational areas. With funding sourced entirely from offshore oil and gas leases, the program supports a legacy of quality recreational resources. Since its inception, the LWCF has allocated nearly $50 million to over 700 projects, ensuring public accessibility and sustainability in outdoor recreation.

The NH Recreational Trails Program (RTP) offers competitive funding for public trail projects across New Hampshire, supporting motorized and non-motorized trails. Eligible applicants include non-profits, educational institutions, and government entities. RTP funds, derived from the Federal Highway Trust Fund, are designated for trail maintenance, construction, and development activities. Attendance at informational workshops is mandatory for applicants. This program aims to enhance recreational opportunities and ensure safe and accessible trails for all users.

Grant Applicants

New Hampshire Victim Services Funding Opportunity

A funding opportunity for organizations that provide victim services for the State of New Hampshire is being released through a Request for Proposal through the New Hampshire Department of Justice (NH DOJ). This funding is dedicated to supporting programs for direct services to victims of crime.  

Special consideration will be made for projects that support victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse.

The Bayard Long Award supports students researching plant species in the Philadelphia area and surrounding regions. With a typical funding of $2000, it encourages studies that enhance understanding of local flora, including field and herbarium work. Eligible projects must include at least one native plant species, promoting both academic and practical botanical endeavors. This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in degree programs at any post-secondary institution, furthering educational and scientific exploration in botany.

The NH Agricultural Management Assistance Grant provides essential financial support to agricultural producers in New Hampshire, enabling them to mitigate financial risks through diversification and conservation practices. The program assists with up to 75% of the costs for installing conservation practices, with a maximum of $50,000 in payments per participant per fiscal year. Eligible participants must be engaged in agricultural production and comply with specific regulations regarding land use and income.

The New England Dance Fund Grant supports choreographers in New England by offering $500 to $1,000 for opportunities that advance their careers. This grant prioritizes diversity in artistic expression across various backgrounds and disciplines. Eligible applicants must maintain a Creative Ground profile and reside in one of the six New England states. The fund aims to empower artists through diverse opportunities such as residencies, workshops, and mentorships, fostering growth in the regional dance landscape.

The New England States Touring (NEST) Grant supports nonprofit organizations in New England to present performances, readings, and screenings by regional and international artists. With three funding tiers—NEST 1, NEST 2, and NEST 3—this initiative aims to enhance community engagement, foster collaborations, and promote diversity in the arts. Eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 to fund projects that occur between June 1, 2025, and August 31, 2026.

Ideas to Innovation (i2i) Activation Grants

In spring 2026, CDFA hosted an i2i (Ideas to Innovation) symposium focused on strengthening social infrastructure in New Hampshire communities. Social infrastructure refers to the places, relationships, organizations, and services that create opportunities for people to connect, belong, and participate in community life. When these connections are strong, communities are more resilient and better positioned to support economic vitality, civic engagement, and sustainable community development.

As part of this convening, CDFA is soliciting proposals that advance social infrastructure and connectivity within New Hampshire’s communities. Proposed ideas may span a wide range of topics and community contexts but should be grounded in creating inclusive, accessible spaces and experiences that foster connection, shared identity, and a strong sense of place. The proposals could also help spark or expand community engagement efforts showcased through the i2i event. 

The Ideas to Innovation “i2i” Activation Grant opportunity is designed to help spur new ideas and encourage creative thinking and innovation in community development efforts throughout New Hampshire. More specifically, CDFA seeks to provide resources for initiatives, public events and partnerships that:

• Recognize the value of mutual relationships (e.g. interconnectedness) of various community systems (e.g. economic, social, environmental, public health, employment, and livability); and
• Generate actionable ideas and innovative thinking that can potentially lead to new and replicable policies, incentives, or financing models that advance and/or compliment multiple systems in New Hampshire communities.

The focus of the i2i Activation Grant shifts each year based on community needs, evolving trends and feedback from partners. 

The AmeriCorps Formula Programs in New Hampshire, administered by Volunteer NH, aim to enhance community strength through service and volunteerism. These programs engage dedicated individuals to tackle pressing societal challenges such as affordable housing, mental health access, and food security. By connecting volunteers with local organizations, AmeriCorps fosters civic engagement and empowers communities to thrive. Participants receive support, including living allowances and educational awards, promoting a culture of service and community improvement.

Department of Business and Economic Affairs

The Department of Business and Economic Affairs (BEA) is the premier resource for businesses considering expansion in, or relocation to, New Hampshire, as well as people seeking a home in a place where they can balance their careers amid the natural beauty it offers.

Dedicated to enhancing the economic vitality of the state and promoting it as a destination for domestic and international visitors, BEA is comprised of the Division of Economic Development, Division of Planning & Community Development, and the Division of Travel and Tourism Development.

Within these divisions are programs that support BEA’s mission to keep the state’s economy strong and competitive, from international trade and government procurement to workforce development and municipal planning.

State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) Grant

The New Hampshire Office of International Commerce (OIC) administers the State Trade Expansion Program (STEP), which provides direct funding to eligible small businesses to defray costs of exporting. Small businesses can apply for a grant up to $8,000, which will reimburse 80 percent of the costs of these activities that aid in accessing international markets.

The funding is flexible and can be used for activities including attending an international trade show, designing marketing materials, conducting market research, getting products certified to ISO or other standards, and more.

New Hampshire Department of Business and Economic Affairs-Office of International Commerce, have developed programming for New Hampshire small businesses to maximize the STEP award. 

New Hampshire Department of Environmental Services

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. 

Formed in January 1987 by state statute RSA 21-O, NHDES was legislatively created through the consolidation and reorganization of four previously separate agencies: the Air Resources Agency, the Office of Waste Management, the Water Supply and Pollution Control Commission, and the Water Resources Board. Each of these groups is now represented within the department’s three divisions: Air Resources, Waste Management and Water.

New Hampshire Clean Diesel Grant Program

NHDES is making funding available for eligible projects that reduce diesel emissions in New Hampshire. Eligible projects include on-road and non-road vehicle, equipment or engine replacements, marine shore power systems, truck stop/parking space electrification and EPA-verified idle reduction and aerodynamic technologies.

This program is a partial reimbursement program only. Applicants must cover the full cost of the proposed project prior to seeking partial reimbursement for eligible project costs.

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.

Granite State Clean Fleets Grant

The Granite State Clean Fleets Grant (GSCF) is a competitive reimbursement program funded by the Volkswagen Mitigation Trust (VW Trust) to offset excess nitrogen oxides (NOx) resulting from Volkswagen’s emissions violations. This program reduces NOx emissions by funding projects that scrap and replace older, dirtier diesel-powered units with newer, cleaner alternative-fuel or diesel-powered units. 

Under this program:

• Existing diesel vehicles, engines, equipment and systems (units) are scrapped for replacement. These units are replaced with newer, cleaner diesel-powered, electric or alternative-fueled replacement units. Please see Section 6 Post Award Requirements for more details.
• All applicants must cover the full cost of the project upfront prior to seeking partial reimbursement for eligible project costs.
• Approximately $2.5 million is available from New Hampshire’s Volkswagen Mitigation Trust (VW Trust) to support diesel emissions reduction projects that have been selected through the competitive scoring process.
• This RFP is open to public entities operating in New Hampshire to submit project proposal applications. There is no limit to the number of applications an entity may submit.
• Applications will be accepted on a rolling monthly basis until all the available funding has been obligated. NHDES plans to score complete and accurate project proposal applications received on or before the last day of each calendar month and notify selected applicants electronically within five (5) business days (e.g., applicants applying on or before April 30 would be notified of selection status by May 7).
• Applications received after midnight on the last day of each month will be scored in the following calendar month.

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Office of Small and Disadvantaged Business Utilization is offering funding to establish the Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (SBTTAC) in Region 1. This initiative aims to provide crucial technical assistance and business development support to small businesses while ensuring compliance and reducing barriers. The program includes a 10-month base year with two potential option years, emphasizing the Department's commitment to accountability and support for small enterprises.

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 XENO PRIZE for Performance Arts, awarded by Franklin Furnace, supports early-career LGBTQ+-identifying performance artists creating new work in 26 states with restrictive gender-affirming laws. This annual prize, established in 2023, offers $5000 to a selected recipient from proposals submitted for the Franklin Furnace FUND for Performance Art. The deadline for submissions is April 1, 2025, encouraging innovative voices in the contemporary performance art landscape.

New Hampshire Department of Energy

The Department of Energy is New Hampshire’s newest state agency. In the State Budget that went into effect July 1, 2021, the New Hampshire General Court and Governor Sununu created the Department of Energy.

The Department was designed to “…improve the administration of state government by providing unified direction of policies, programs, and personnel in the field of energy and utilities, making possible increased efficiency and economies from integrated administration and operation of the various energy and utility related functions of the state government.”

Low-Moderate Income Solar Grant Program

Executive Summary

Pursuant to RSA 362-F:10 X, the New Hampshire Department of Energy (Department) issues this Request For Proposals (RFP) seeking proposals for community solar photovoltaic (PV) projects that will provide direct benefits to New Hampshire low, moderate, or low and moderate income (LMI) residential electric customers who reside within the same electric distribution utility service territory. Proposals must present a comprehensive plan that clearly demonstrates and quantifies the net direct benefits to participating LMI customers. Projects or portions of projects that have requested funds from the Department’s Non-residential Competitive Grant Program, Commercial & Industrial (C&I) Renewable Energy Rebate Program, or Residential Renewable Electric Generation Incentive Program, are not eligible for funding under this solicitation. Projects or portions of projects that are designed to depend upon LMI EAP Community Solar designation are not eligible for funding under this solicitation. 

The Department is seeking proposals from qualified individuals, entities, or multiple entities for community solar projects that would provide direct benefits to LMI residential electric customers or to residents of a public housing authority or housing project. For the purposes of this RFP, a residential electric customer is a residential customer of an electric utility that receives electric bills in the customer’s name.

The Booth Ferris Foundation's Higher Education Grant Program offers crucial capacity-building support to eligible higher education institutions in New York State, requiring an annual budget exceeding $1 million. Established in 1957, the Foundation has contributed over $425 million to various charitable causes. This program focuses on enhancing institutional effectiveness and sustainability, ensuring that organizations can thrive and serve their communities effectively. Note that the Foundation does not fund requests from individual schools or certain types of support.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

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 Clowes Fund supports socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals in New England, particularly through immigrant services and workforce development. Grants are available for both introductory and continuation applications, focusing on areas like education and community integration. Organizations serving specific counties in New Hampshire are prioritized. With a rigorous application process, fewer than 10% of introductory applications result in funding, while returning grantees have a higher success rate for continuation grants.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The EDA Philadelphia FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to enhance regional economic development by providing grants for creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). This initiative supports eligible organizations, including Indian Tribes and District Organizations, to develop plans that foster economic prosperity and job retention in distressed areas. Through various investments, the program strengthens local capacities for effective economic development and job creation.

The NCAA Division II Degree Completion Award provides financial assistance to student-athletes who have exhausted their athletics eligibility, enabling them to complete their first undergraduate degree. Since its inception in 2001, nearly $9 million has supported approximately 1,875 athletes, with a remarkable 90 percent graduation rate among recipients. The award covers tuition costs up to $15,000 for remaining credits and may be used in the summer term or short terms surrounding the final undergraduate year.

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.