Best Quality of Life Grants in New Hampshire

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

The Waste Management Charitable Contributions Program supports initiatives that enhance environmental stewardship, sustainability education, and community vitality. With a commitment to civic pride and economic development, the program prioritizes organizations that address local needs and promote sustainable practices. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that focus on public purposes, while ineligible requests include funding for operating costs and individual fundraising events. This initiative fosters a collaborative approach to community betterment.

Waste Reduction and Diversion Grant Program

A Waste Reduction and Diversion Grant program was established in RSA 149-R:4, III as part of the Solid Waste Management Fund. The Solid Waste Management Bureau now has rules in place to set requirements for a new program. As required by the law, the program provides matching grant funding to New Hampshire political subdivisions (such as municipalities or solid waste districts), private entities (such as nonprofit organizations), and businesses to support their efforts to improve solid waste reduction and diversion activities. Projects will need to demonstrate a significant improvement in waste diversion methods and contribute to a reduction of solid waste requiring disposal.

The Music Drives Us Performance Grant supports talented musicians in New England by providing funding for free concert series in schools, after-school programs, and public spaces. With a mission to enhance music education, the grant allows musicians to receive compensation for their time and expenses while delivering educational experiences to underserved communities. Organizations can apply for grants up to $10,000, ensuring that music remains an accessible and enriching part of children's lives.

The NRP Research Grant Program offers up to $50,000 for healthcare professionals to explore optimal neonatal resuscitation methods. It encourages innovative research addressing gaps in transitional physiology and effective teaching of resuscitation skills. Applications must focus on evidence-based practices and demonstrate potential for meaningful impact in delivery room care. Researchers from Canadian and US institutions are eligible, though applications primarily focused on quality improvement without a research emphasis will not be considered.

The NHCHF Emergency Funding program supports New Hampshire 501(c)(3) organizations responding to urgent needs affecting families with children aged 0-5. With applications opening January 12, 2026, the fund aims to assist nonprofits facing challenges due to unforeseen circumstances, including increased service demand and financial constraints. This one-time funding opportunity seeks to enhance resilience and ensure continued service delivery to vulnerable families, particularly low-income and immigrant communities.

The LFF: Nature-Based Climate Action Grant aims to support initiatives that leverage natural systems to combat climate change. By funding projects focused on tree planting, prairie restoration, and carbon sequestration, the program seeks to engage communities and enhance understanding of climate challenges. Ideal applicants include rural organizations working to create measurable environmental impacts while fostering collaboration and policy change. This grant represents an opportunity for organizations ready to take significant strides in addressing the climate crisis.

Research for Novel Approaches in Sustainable Agriculture Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Research for Novel Approaches grant program funds ‘proof of concept’ applied research projects that are designed to confirm the benefits and/or feasibility of new practices and approaches—i.e., Novel Approaches—in agriculture.

These applied research projects must have some existing evidence from previous experiments or pilot projects (your own or others) suggesting that the practice or approach is beneficial and feasible, but further testing, data, and refinement are needed before it can be recommended for widespread adoption by farmers.

Research for Novel Approaches Grant projects require an explicit connection to the needs and interests of farmers in the Northeast. All proposals must include documented interest among farmers and service providers in utilizing or promoting the novel approach should it be proven beneficial and feasible.

Funding Available

Novel Approaches grants have a minimum award of $30,000 and a cap of $250,000.

The Eastern Branch John Henry Comstock Award recognizes outstanding graduate students in entomology. Sponsored by the Entomological Society of America, it offers a fully funded trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $100 cash prize, and a certificate. Eligible nominees must be student members of ESA, pursuing or recently completing a graduate degree in entomology. Nominations are limited to two per university, ensuring the selection of the most deserving candidates.

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 Coaching Enhancement Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to increase diversity in assistant coaching roles by providing financial support to member institutions. Over two years, selected schools receive $15,000 to cover salaries, requiring a matching contribution. This initiative encourages ethnic minority and gender representation, allowing up to 11 institutions to benefit annually, thus enhancing inclusivity in collegiate sports.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant by the NCAA Division III aims to bolster ethnic minority and gender representation in senior athletics administration roles. With an annual budget of $1.6 million, it supports up to 46 schools and conferences over five years. Eligible institutions must be active NCAA Division III members and meet various requirements. This grant encourages diversity in leadership, fostering an inclusive environment for student-athletes.

The Autism Community Impact Grant by the Flutie Foundation supports not-for-profit organizations that enhance the lives of individuals and families affected by autism. In 2023, the grant focuses on underserved and culturally diverse communities, funding programs that make an immediate impact. Eligible projects include educational, vocational, and recreational opportunities, as well as support services. The Foundation encourages applications that serve those profoundly affected by autism, aiming to improve their quality of life.

The Dairy Farm Improvement & Modernization Grant supports dairy farmers in enhancing their operations for sustainable success. This funding aids in modernizing outdated systems and implementing innovative solutions that improve farm viability, milk quality, and worker conditions while addressing climate impacts. Eligible applicants include dairy farmers, cooperatives, and service providers across Northeast states. Awards range from $15,000 to $100,000, requiring a 25% match contribution.

The Anderson-Rogers Foundation Grant supports U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations focused on environmental protection, animal welfare, climate change mitigation, and social support. Established in 2001, this family foundation prioritizes innovative projects and general operating support for small organizations facing financial constraints. Note that applicants must first submit a letter of inquiry, as the foundation does not fund scholarships or grants to individuals or religious organizations, nor does it support organizations outside the U.S.

The Coaching Enhancement Grant - Division II aims to enhance diversity in NCAA coaching by providing financial support for new assistant coaching positions. This grant specifically targets increased representation of ethnic minorities and women in athletics. Selected schools receive funding for three years to cover salaries and benefits, totaling $370,000 annually for up to 21 institutions. Eligible schools must be active NCAA Division II members committed to these diversity efforts.

The ReFED Catalytic Grant Fund, managed by Refed Inc., supports innovative solutions to minimize food waste and reduce methane emissions, a cost-effective strategy for climate action. This fund prioritizes initiatives that enhance food recycling and improve supply chain efficiency in the beef and dairy sectors. By focusing on proven methods, the grant aims to accelerate impactful changes in the food system, ultimately fostering sustainable practices and collaborative efforts to combat food waste.

The Strategic Alliance Matching Grant - Division II offers financial support to enhance ethnic minority and gender representation in mid- to senior-level athletics administration roles across NCAA Division II institutions. With an annual budget of $860,000, the grant aims to fund up to 20 schools and conferences each year. Eligible applicants must be active Division II members and are encouraged to collaborate with their human resources departments during the proposal process, ensuring compliance with grant requirements.

The New Hampshire Outdoor Council Grant supports initiatives aligned with hiking trail maintenance, search and rescue operations, and educational programs to reduce the need for rescues. Organizations, municipalities, and agencies can apply for grants ranging from $500 to $5,000. The Council evaluates requests based on cost efficiency, impact, and available funding alternatives. Proposals should be submitted 10 days prior to bimonthly meetings to be considered for funding.

The National Coastal Resilience Fund (NCRF) aims to protect coastal communities through nature-based solutions, enhancing habitats while addressing the growing threats of climate change. Established in 2018, the fund focuses on restoring vital ecosystems like marshes and reefs to mitigate flooding impacts. With rising sea levels and increasing storm intensity, NCRF invests in community-led projects that foster resilience, ensuring both people and wildlife can adapt to changing environmental conditions.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Kroger Foundation is dedicated to uplifting communities through significant charitable contributions, having donated over $1.9 billion in the past six years. Their focus on combating hunger through the Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative exemplifies their commitment to social impact. Annually, they provide over $300 million to nonprofit organizations aligned with their mission, promoting health, education, and disaster relief while fostering diversity and inclusion. This initiative reflects Kroger's belief that strong communities are a shared responsibility.

The Albert G. and Olive H. Schlink Foundation, established in 1966, has significantly impacted Ohio's nonprofit sector by increasing its annual grant distribution from an initial $500 to over $1.4 million in 2023. The Foundation prioritizes organizations with ties to Erie and Huron Counties and emphasizes thoughtful evaluation of all grant applications. With a focus on community needs, it continues to honor the founders' legacy while adapting to the evolving demands of local nonprofits.

The Fields Pond Foundation Grant aims to support community-based nature and land conservation initiatives that enhance public access and awareness. Grants typically range from $500 to $25,000, with a focus on projects that involve local residents in conservation efforts. The foundation prioritizes trailmaking, land acquisition, and educational programs, encouraging collaboration among organizations. It seeks to empower communities to connect with their environment while ensuring ecological integrity.

The Mazamas is committed to exploring and preserving mountain environments in the Pacific Northwest through research grants. These grants support nonprofit research that aligns with the Mazamas’ mission, encouraging proposals from graduate and undergraduate students. Successful applicants often conduct field studies that enhance understanding of the region's natural features. Notably, the Mazamas also welcome innovative research ideas that may fall outside traditional grant guidelines, promoting a diverse range of scientific inquiry.

About DHHS

DHHS is the largest agency in New Hampshire state government, responsible for the health, safety and well-being of the citizens of New Hampshire. DHHS provides services for individuals, children, families and seniors, and administers programs and services such as mental health, developmental disability, substance misuse, and public health. This is accomplished through partnerships with families, community groups, private providers, other state and local government entities, and many citizens throughout the State who help make New Hampshire a special place in which to live.

RFP-2027-DBH-20-COLLE: Collegiate Recovery Programs

Division for Behavioral Health

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, Division for Behavioral Health (“Department”) is seeking responses to this Request for Proposals ("Solicitation" or "RFP") from qualified Vendors to increase awareness of and access to recovery supports and services for students with alcohol and drug use problems and/or who are sober-curious and creates a supportive campus environment that fosters wellness, connection, and long-term success.