Best Grants for Charities in New Jersey

Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Our Mission: Empower Students to Thrive in an Evolving World

Our Philosophy for Education: We believe all students – beginning at a young age – need access to real-world, applied learning experiences that empower them to gain the skills they need to thrive in college, career, and beyond.

We believe teachers play an immeasurable role in empowering students, and our programs provide teachers with the support and resources they need to devote more time to inspiring students.

PLTW Engineering - New Program In Partnership With Ardagh Group

Ardagh Group has partnered with PLTW to support education in its local communities where Ardagh employees live and work. This partnership recognizes the critical role education, and access to education, plays in ensuring equal opportunities and in building successful, vibrant communities. It is expected that over the next 10 years, Ardagh sponsored education programs will benefit more than 500,000 PreK-12 students as well as delivering best-in-class teacher training to more than 5,000 teachers across 2,000 schools in Ardagh's U.S. communities.

Ardagh is a global supplier of sustainable packaging solutions with 16,000+ employees worldwide, and proud local employer.

Program Requirements

The purpose of this grant is to assist the grantee's implementation of the PLTW Engineering program. Grantee must offer the PLTW Engineering program for three academic years. Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course in the 2028-2029 academic year (two different courses in two years). Grantee may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. Grantee must complete three years of grant reporting.

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.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

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.

Public Health Emergency Preparedness - LINCS

Sustain and enhance the established designated regional LINCS Agency PHEP programs. Funding will support Local Core Capacity for Public Health Emergency Preparedness by maintaining and enhancing the capabilities of emergency-ready public health departments by upgrading, integrating and evaluating local public health jurisdiction's preparedness, response and recovery in accordance with the NJDOH and updated federal program guidelines and requirements. 

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 Emergency Medical Services Task Force Support Group

Fund an organization that provides New Jersey with highly trained and specialized EMS planning resources to support major incidents and pre-planned events using a well-coordinated, robust, all-hazards approach through the state’s Emergency Management System to include building acute care medical surge capacity through the development, maintenance and growth of strong HCC(s); sustain and support the development of the New Jersey Emergency Medical Services Task Force (NJEMSTF) and the NJEMSTF Planner (FTE) position(s). The goal is to continue supporting the established NJEMSTF programs in the north, central, and south regions to meet the mission and value statements of the program and NJDOH.

The Scott Ralls Fund Grant, administered by the American Camping Association, NY and NJ, supports capital improvement projects for nonprofit accredited camps. Established in honor of Scott Ralls, a dedicated advocate for the camp industry, the fund has distributed over $372,000 to enhance the camp experience. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit accredited member camps, with a preference for projects that are standalone and can be completed within a year.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

Purpose and Overview

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH), Office of Tobacco Control and Prevention (OTCP), is soliciting applications through this Request for Applications (RFA) to implement the Tobacco Age of Sale Enforcement Program. The purpose of this program is to support enforcement of New Jersey’s Tobacco Age of Sale law, which prohibits the sale of any tobacco products to anyone under the age of 21, through routine compliance inspections of Tobacco Retail Establishments (TREs). Eligible organizations will be responsible for recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising inspectors to conduct compliance inspections and monitor adherence to New Jersey’s tobacco control laws.

Meland Foundation Nursing Scholarship

The Meland Foundation grants funding for scholarships to nurses in the NJ-NY-CT-PA area with BSN degrees wishing to pursue Nurse Practitioner, MSN, and DNP degrees with a pediatric specialty and who share the vision of the Foundation.

The Meland Foundation — founded by a beloved pediatrician who built a successful family medical practice in Northern New Jersey — provides and supports inspirational and informational programs to enhance the ability of families to care for loved ones and to provide hope to patients and their caregivers.

The amount of each nursing scholarship is between $2,000 and $5,000.

Scholarships are granted annually.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.

The Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Scholarship in New Jersey offers financial support to dependent children of law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty. This renewable scholarship covers the cost of attendance for up to four years at approved New Jersey institutions. Eligible applicants must maintain full-time enrollment and satisfactory academic progress, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance to continue their education while honoring their parent's legacy.

The Federally Qualified Health Center Expansion Program NOFA aims to enhance public health in New Jersey by providing financial support for Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). These centers are crucial for delivering essential primary care, dental, and mental health services to uninsured and underinsured populations. The program, initiated by the New Jersey Department of Health, ensures that health care access is improved and health disparities are reduced across communities.

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.

Tobacco Special Population

To redeuce tobacco-related disparities in special populations, such as the Lesbians, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer, and Questioning (LGBTQ+) community. The purpose of the funding will be to reduce tobacco product use by raising awareness of statewide tobacco cessation sevices like the NJ Quitline and Quit Centers in an effort to increase utilization of these services by the LGBTQ+ community.

The Lavelle – Brother Kearney Scholarship Program offers financial assistance and career preparation for legally blind college students in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut. Through competitive scholarships, the program supports higher education at select institutions in the Tri-State area, fostering independence and professional development. Recipients are selected based on academic performance and essential skills, ensuring they are well-prepared for future careers. This initiative not only promotes educational opportunities but also enhances the quality of life for blind and visually impaired individuals.

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 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 SFS Fellows Grant, awarded by the Society for Freshwater Science, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to freshwater science research, policy, or management. Each year, up to four fellows are selected based on their sustained excellence and leadership within the field. This initiative also encourages diversity by promoting nominations from underrepresented groups and mid-career professionals. The grant fosters collaboration and participation in SFS activities, enhancing the impact of freshwater science.

The Teacher Development Grant Program aims to recruit and support teacher candidates in high poverty school districts across New Jersey. This initiative focuses on enhancing the placement and financial support of minority teachers while providing effective strategies and resources for institutions of higher education to implement. The program is designed to promote inclusivity and sustainability in education by ensuring that teacher candidates gain practical experience in challenging environments, thereby contributing to the overall improvement of educational outcomes.

The New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism (NJTT) is pleased to offer the Cooperative Marketing Grants, Destination Marketing Organization Grants, and the NJ Agri-Tourism Grant Program. Each grant program aligns with the Division’s goal of promoting and marketing New Jersey as a premier destination.

 Agri-Tourism Grant Program 

The Agri-Tourism Grant Program is a collaboration between the New Jersey Department of State, Division of Travel and Tourism and the New Jersey Department of Agriculture travel industry. As a result, the New Jersey Agritourism Grant Program was created to support New Jersey Agritourism businesses to promote the expansion, diversification, and sustainability of New Jersey’s Agritourism industry.

The Agri-Tourism grant is open to New Jersey organizations who can demonstrate a significant interest in supporting New Jersey’s Agri-Tourism businesses in their efforts to attract, entertain and educate visitors.

The Bonnie Cardone Memorial Scholarship, offered by the Women Divers Hall of Fame, awards $1,500 to a woman diver enrolled in a U.S. or Canada degree program in journalism, graphic arts, photography, or videography. This scholarship aims to support those committed to using their education to benefit the ocean environment and community, promoting greater awareness and conservation efforts. Eligible applicants must demonstrate their dedication to these fields and their potential impact on marine ecosystems.

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 Bernard and Carolyn Torraco Memorial Nursing Scholarships, funded by the UNICO Foundation, offer $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing accredited nursing programs in the United States. These scholarships support nursing students of all ethnicities who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens and enrolled in a campus-based program, with a focus on continuing their studies within the academic year 2025-2026.

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.

New Jersey Department of Education

Mission: The New Jersey Department of Education supports schools, educators and districts to ensure all of New Jersey's 1.4 million students have equitable access to high quality education and achieve academic excellence.

Water Infrastructure Improvement Grant

The New Jersey Department of Education (“NJDOE”), in consultation with the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (“NJDEP”), is issuing these Final Guidelines to inform public school districts of a grant program addressing water infrastructure improvement, as authorized by the Securing Our Children’s Future Bond Act, P.L. 2018, c.119 (“Bond Act”) and implemented by regulations enacted in N.J.A.C. 6A:26A-1.1 et seq. (“Regulations”), the “Securing Our Children’s Future” grant program.

The Bond Act provides $100 million in grant funding for eligible work to remediate water contamination in school districts.

These water infrastructure grant programs are open to all New Jersey school districts that operate school buildings. The grant program does not include those entities that do not meet the definition of “school district” under the Bond Act, such as charter or renaissance schools.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.