Best Grants for BIPOC in New Jersey

New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH)

The New Jersey Department of Health leads the state’s response to public health challenges and works to improve health outcomes for all New Jersey residents. Through its three primary branches—Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health—the Department collaborates across programs and partners to strengthen New Jersey’s health system. Guided by its mission to protect public health, promote healthy communities, and improve the quality of health care, the Department supports initiatives that advance prevention, system integration, and equitable access to health services statewide.

New Jersey Family Planning Grant Program

To provide funds to support clinical family planning and related services throughout the 21 counties of the State of New Jersey, with a focus to provide family planning services to low income residents of New Jersey.

The Discover NJ History License Plate Fund offers grants up to $5,000 to enhance heritage tourism in New Jersey. Supported by sales of the Discover NJ History license plate, this fund aims to develop visitor-ready sites. Eligible activities include visitor assessments, signage design, and website development. The program is open year-round, with specific deadlines for applications. This initiative promotes historical awareness and preservation, ensuring New Jersey's rich history is accessible to all.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

Department of Law & Public Safety

Under the direction of the Attorney General, the Office of the Attorney General and Department of Law & Public Safety are dedicated to making New Jersey safe for all its residents and visitors. Its diverse and complex responsibilities focus on protecting the lives and property of New Jersey citizens. In addition to providing statewide law enforcement and emergency response services, this Department and its approximately 7,700 employees are responsible for protecting citizens’ civil and consumer rights, promoting highway traffic safety, maintaining public confidence in the alcoholic beverage, gaming and racing industries and providing legal services and counsel to other state agencies.

New Jersey Law Enforcement Wellness and Resiliency Grant

The New Jersey Law Enforcement Wellness and Resiliency Grant Program (NJLEWRG) will provide funding to New Jersey law enforcement agencies to implement wellness and resiliency initiatives designed to support the physical, mental, emotional, and financial health of officers and employees. Programs will promote officer wellness and resiliency by providing funding for initiatives, including but not limited to counseling services, wellness training and programs, physical fitness enhancements, peer support, and the development of spaces or tools that improve officer health and well-being. 

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

New Jersey Department of Health

The scope of work for the public health system is ever-expanding, and the Department is on the frontlines in leading the response to public health challenges. The Department has three primary branches – Public Health Services, Health Systems, and Integrated Health. All work collaboratively toward improving health by strengthening New Jersey’s health system.

Our Mission: Protect the public’s health, promote healthy communities, and continue to improve the quality of health care in New Jersey.

New Jersey Department of Health - WIC Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program

Purpose for Which Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

To provide grant funds to the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) Agencies to assist them to perform the function of the Senior Farmers' Market Nutrition Program. The funds will be useed to screen and approve the eligibility of low income senior citizens of New Jersey in order to provide SFMNP benefits.

Quinn’s Corner Jumpstart Grants offer one-time funding of $5,000 to organizations supporting domestic violence survivors and their pets. The grants can be used for emergency funds, such as pet deposits and vet bills, or for planning funds aimed at future housing solutions for pets in shelters. Recipients are required to submit a follow-up report detailing the impact of the funding within six months. This initiative is backed by the Community Foundation of New Jersey.

The Childhood Lead Program, initiated by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to reduce childhood lead exposure through nurse case management and environmental investigations. This initiative targets children with elevated blood lead levels and emphasizes public outreach to educate families and professionals on lead screening and prevention strategies. By promoting healthy housing practices and awareness, the program seeks to improve long-term health outcomes for affected children across New Jersey.

Elevating High-Quality Work-Based Learning Grant Program

Purpose: 

The Elevating High-Quality Work-Based Learning grant supports the planning, implementation, and expansion of innovative work-based learning (WBL) practices designed to increase student engagement in high-demand career pathways. Eligible Local Education Agencies (LEAs) must propose creative strategies to expand access to high-quality WBL opportunities, whether focused on career preparation or career training.

Career preparation experiences involve sustained, interactive engagement with professionals from business and industry to deepen students’ understanding and build essential skills aligned with their chosen career pathway. Examples include internships and cooperative education.

Career training experiences represent the highest level of WBL. These are paid opportunities that provide targeted instruction and hands-on learning to develop the specific skills, knowledge, and competencies required for a particular job or occupation. Examples include pre-apprenticeships, youth apprenticeships, and clinical experiences.

Through this competitive grant, LEAs dedicated to establishing and strengthening WBL programs and partnerships rooted in meaningful stakeholder collaboration, will develop sustainable pathways that prepare students for high-skill, high-wage, and in-demand career opportunities.

This NGO is open to LEAs with grades 9-12 currently eligible to receive Perkins funding. The Career and Technical Education (CTE) program(s) of study referenced in the grant application must be currently approved and are actively serving students.

Eligible applicants may apply for awards up to $15,000, $30,000, or $50,000 based on the LEA’s combined total percentage of student participation in both career preparation and training WBL experiences as indicated in the 2024 NJSMART CTE Data submission.  Twelve (12) awards are expected to be made.

This is a single fifteen (15) month grant program.

Based on the availability of FY26 State Career Readiness and Technical Education Aid appropriations, this single project period grant program will begin April 1, 2026, and end on June 30, 2027.

The New Jersey Cultural Trust's Capital Historic Preservation Grant Program supports eligible organizations in preserving historic resources listed on the New Jersey Register of Historic Places. Organizations must be designated as "qualified" to apply for funding, which does not require a match. This program aims to foster financial stability and capacity for nonprofit cultural organizations by funding important capital projects that enhance cultural heritage in New Jersey.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

The CFNJ: Church in Radburn Christian Values Grant aims to support organizations that reflect Christian values through impactful community engagement. This grant prioritizes initiatives in Bergen and Passaic Counties that enhance spiritual growth and advocate for social justice, particularly for marginalized populations. By fostering compassion, service, and love, the grant seeks to empower diverse organizations to address community needs and promote equity, with funding ranging from $15,000 to $50,000 for selected projects.

The Wawa Foundation offers in-kind support to 501(c)(3) non-profit organizations within its six-state area, focusing on health, hunger, and everyday heroes. Organizations can request product donations, such as Wawa brand beverages, or gift baskets for fundraising events. Requests must be made at least four weeks in advance, and support is subject to availability. This initiative aims to strengthen community ties and enhance local philanthropy through meaningful contributions.

The Hazardous Discharge Site Remediation Fund provides grants and loans to public and private entities for the assessment, investigation, and cleanup of hazardous substance discharges at brownfield sites. Established in 1993, it aims to support redevelopment efforts by covering 100% of assessment costs and up to 75% of remedial action costs. Funded by a portion of the New Jersey Corporate Business Tax, it fosters collaboration between the Department of Environmental Protection and the Economic Development Authority.

The Von Voigtlander Family Foundation Grant, though currently closed, aims to support 501(c)(3) charitable organizations, primarily in Michigan. The foundation emphasizes animal welfare, parks preservation, veteran support, and youth empowerment. Their mission is to enhance lives through community-focused initiatives that foster resilience, education, and well-being. They prioritize charities that promote responsible pet ownership, outdoor recreation, and provide resources for veterans and youth, ensuring a positive impact across multiple sectors.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

The Specific Population Community Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to reduce health inequities among six targeted populations. Four grantees will be selected to provide tailored health navigation services, conduct outreach, and manage program activities. This initiative is designed to foster collaboration between key staff and community members, ensuring comprehensive support and addressing barriers to access, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for New Jersey residents.

The Alleghany Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) organization in Virginia, focuses on enhancing the quality of life in the Alleghany Highlands through strategic funding initiatives. It seeks grant applications that address key areas such as economic transformation, educational excellence, health and wellness, community capacity, and civic leadership. By prioritizing innovative projects and supporting local organizations, the Foundation aims to foster sustainable growth and community engagement, ensuring a vibrant future for the region.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

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.

New Jersey State Council on the Arts

In 1966, the legislature passed and the governor signed a law creating the NJ State Council on the Arts and directing us to do all that is necessary and appropriate to: support, encourage, and foster public interest in the arts; enlarge public and private resources devoted to the arts; promote freedom of expression in the arts; and facilitate the inclusion of art in every public building in New Jersey.

Folk & Traditional Arts Apprenticeship Project

FTAP grants provide $10,000 to support an individualized, structured learning opportunity between an Apprentice artist and one or more Mentor Artists. By providing funds to support artists’ time and project expenses, FTAP grants allow intermediate-level artists to significantly advance their skills and cultural knowledge in a specific folk and traditional art form. Strong apprenticeships foster the continuation of valued community traditions, contributing to the ongoing vitality of these specific folk and traditional arts.

The FTAP application process is a two-part process. After submitting Application Part 1, eligible applicants will be sent the link to Application Part 2.

The Santander Bank Charitable Giving Program is committed to enriching communities through $100 million in charitable giving. It focuses on community development, emphasizing affordable housing, small business support, and financial education. Eligible applicants must be recognized as public charities by the IRS and demonstrate the capacity to serve community needs. The program aims to foster partnerships to uplift low- and moderate-income communities across its operational footprint, ensuring a lasting impact through philanthropic efforts.

The NJCCR Postdoctoral Fellowship Grants aim to retain talented scientists dedicated to cancer research in New Jersey. These grants support innovative research projects with funding up to $200,000 for a maximum of two years. Applicants must be accepted for postdoctoral training under a qualified sponsor at a New Jersey research institution. This initiative is part of NJCCR's commitment to advancing cancer research and improving health outcomes in the state.

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 NJCCR: Pilot Program Research Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to tackle priority areas related to the causes of cancer. This two-year grant focuses on research into genetic, biochemical, and environmental factors, as well as behavioral and socioeconomic aspects. It encourages innovative approaches to pain management and cancer health disparities, fostering collaboration among stakeholders to improve outcomes for high-burden communities in New Jersey.