Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in New Jersey

The Great American Cleanup Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to enhance community beautification and environmental efforts across the U.S. This initiative encourages KAB affiliates to remove litter, plant greenery, and restore public spaces, contributing to the larger goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by 2026. With cash grants available, this program fosters collaboration among communities, promoting sustainable practices and a cleaner, greener future for all.

The Cigna Group Foundation is launching the Improving Youth Mental Health Grant, committing $9 million over three years to enhance mental health support for youth aged five to 18. This initiative targets post-pandemic challenges, offering resources to parents, caregivers, and youth service professionals. Nonprofits are encouraged to apply for funding between $100,000 and $150,000 to develop programs that promote social-emotional skills, enhance caregiver support, and improve access to mental health interventions in underserved communities.

The HOME ARP Rental Production RFP aims to support the development of affordable housing for low-income households, including those experiencing homelessness. It encourages collaboration with local housing authorities for project-based rental assistance and offers operating cost support for HOME-ARP units. A maximum of 30% of the funded units may be reserved for low-income occupants, thereby promoting mixed-income housing solutions and fostering community stability.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA) on Aug. 4, 2026, seeking to fund high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. This preannouncement provides potential applicants additional time to identify collaborators; obtain patient and stakeholder input on potential studies; and develop responsive, high-quality applications. 

Patient-centered CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences. 

Pre-Employment Transition Services- Paid Work-Based Learning Experiences

The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development (NJDOLWD), Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services understands the potential of meaningful work experience programs. The purpose of this contract’s services is to provide Paid Work-Based Learning Experiences (WBLE), under the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services matrix of Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). The services will enable Students with Disabilities (SWD) 16 to 21 years of age to experience work in Competitive Integrated Employment (CIE) for 150 hours.

Entities That Can Apply for Funding Under This NCO: Eligible applicants must be organizations with the capacity to service people with disabilities. 

Funding Amount:

$18,750,000.00

New Jersey Poison Information and Education System NJPIES NOFO

Provide poison expertise, treatment advice, and drug information; staffed by pharmacists, physicians, nurses, and poison information providers who are toxicology specialists and can provide immediate poison exposure management instructions. To operate and maintain a statewide poison information and education system according to P.L.1982, c.177 (NJSA 26: 2-119).

The Monmouth County Community Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of New Jersey, invites nonprofit organizations to submit proposals addressing diverse community needs. Prioritizing initiatives that emphasize diversity, equity, and inclusion, this grant supports programs in education, healthcare, and food security, among others. With funding up to $10,000 per organization, the grant aims to foster collaborative partnerships and address systemic issues affecting underserved populations in Monmouth County.

The US Department of Health & Human Services, through the NIH, invites applications for innovative approaches to implement SBIRT/P for addressing alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use in adults facing health disparities. This funding opportunity encourages research that tests screening, brief interventions, and referrals for treatment or prevention services. Applications are due on specified deadlines from February 2024 through March 2027, fostering collaboration with healthcare and community partners to enhance public health outcomes.

The Princeton Arts Fellowships, supported by The Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, aim to recognize and nurture early career artists across various disciplines including visual arts and performance. Selected fellows will spend two years at Princeton University, engaging in teaching and artistic projects. This fellowship not only provides a stipend of $93,000 annually but also fosters a vibrant community of creativity and collaboration, allowing artists to thrive in an academic environment.

The Consolidated Adult Basic Skills (ABS) and Integrated English Literacy and Civics Education (IELCE) Grant Program aims to enhance adult education and literacy through partnerships among government entities. Its objectives include helping adults gain literacy and skills for employment, supporting parents in their children's education, and aiding English language learners in improving their language and mathematics skills. This initiative will run from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2026.

The Extension Risk Management Education (ERME) Competitive Grants: Exploratory Projects aim to enhance agricultural producers' economic viability through innovative risk management education. Funded by the University of Delaware, these grants offer up to $10,000 for projects that address emerging risk topics or support producer workshops. With an 18-month duration from April 2026 to September 2027, this initiative encourages the development of new educational approaches to better serve the needs of farmers and ranchers.

Partners for Health Foundation offers Small Grants of up to $15,000 to promote health equity in communities. These grants support both general operating expenses and specific projects aimed at improving health outcomes. Eligible organizations include 501(c)(3) nonprofits and local government entities serving designated communities in New Jersey. The foundation prioritizes proposals that demonstrate collaboration, data-driven results, and a commitment to addressing health inequities.

The Great Apes and Gibbons Program Grant, administered by the Arcus Foundation, supports conservation efforts for great apes and gibbons across 24 priority landscapes in Africa and Asia. The program emphasizes sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife, having awarded over 2,000 grants to more than 500 organizations globally. Funding is not available for individuals or specific lobbying activities, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful conservation initiatives.

The Arts Lab Residency Grant by Young Audiences Inc provides a unique opportunity for New Jersey schools to engage professional teaching artists for a minimum of 20 days. This residency program enhances arts education across various disciplines while fostering professional development for staff. Schools gain access to valuable programming worth $14,500, promoting long-term cultural impacts and integrating Social Emotional Learning into the curriculum. Aimed at schools serving Pre-K to 12th grade, this grant supports creative collaboration and community engagement.

Impact 100 Jersey Coast Grants provide a minimum of $100,000 each year to nonprofit organizations that serve the Monmouth and Ocean County areas. These grants focus on vital community needs such as arts, education, health, and sustainability. Nonprofits must confirm eligibility through an application process, ensuring that proposals align with funding criteria. This initiative encourages diverse participation and aims to make a transformative impact in the community.

Local Bicycle/Pedestrian Planning Assistance Program (LBPPAP)

The New Jersey Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan establishes a vision for New Jersey as a place where people choose to walk or bicycle because both activities are a routine part of the transportation and recreation systems. NJDOT has taken steps to fulfill this vision through the adoption of a Complete Streets policy through which the Department has committed to the planning, design, construction, maintenance and operation of facilities that provide for the safe access and mobility of pedestrians, bicyclists and transit users of all ages and abilities.

In order to fully implement this policy and make New Jersey a safer and better place to bike, walk, and travel, it is important to build infrastructure that addresses the safety, mobility and access needs of cyclists, pedestrians, and individuals with disabilities. The benefits of facilities like sidewalks, bike lanes, traffic calming, and multi-use paths are maximized if they evolve from a rational planning process.

To facilitate this process, the Department offers support to communities with the Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Assistance program (BPPA). Under this program, NJDOT has retained the services of pre-qualified, on-call consultants with expertise in bicycle and pedestrian planning. These services are provided at no cost to counties and municipalities that demonstrate a need and desire to undertake planning activities that will lead to infrastructure projects that will improve travel for people who walk and bike or use scooters, wheelchairs, or transit.

Since 1997, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Assistance program has produced over 100 planning studies. These plans and studies have been used to prioritize local projects and often lead to applications for grant funding through NJDOT’s Division of Local Aid and Economic Development (Bikeways, Safe Routes to School, Transportation Alternatives, etc.).

Impact 100 Jersey Coast Grants offers substantial funding to nonprofit organizations serving Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Each year, a minimum of $100,000 is available for one transformational grant, with additional Mission Awards of up to $10,000 given to finalists not receiving the main grant. Proposals should address unmet needs, target underserved populations, and demonstrate high impact. Interested nonprofits must complete an Eligibility Form to confirm their eligibility before applying.

The New Jersey Agritourism Grant Program (NJATP) aims to support local agritourism businesses with up to $100,000 in funding to enhance visitor engagement and education. Funded by the $5 million Agritourism Fund, the program encourages projects that align with agricultural education and entertainment, ensuring applicants are located in New Jersey. This initiative fosters economic growth in the state by promoting unique agritourism experiences.

The FirstBank Charitable Foundation (FBCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit established in 2008, focused on supporting charitable organizations in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Florida. With over a million dollars awarded, FBCF aims to enhance community well-being through partnerships in health, housing, and education. Nonprofits aligning with FBCF's mission and demonstrating significant service impact are encouraged to apply for grants, fostering a stronger fabric within their neighborhoods.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The Connelly Foundation Grant, established in 1955, aims to create access and opportunities for those in need, particularly in the Philadelphia area. Focused on education, human services, and cultural initiatives, it supports nonprofits that enhance Catholic education, address essential needs, and promote civic engagement. The Foundation seeks to partner with organizations demonstrating effective leadership and sustainable practices, while avoiding direct grants to individuals or funding for advocacy and charter schools.

The William Penn Foundation's Arts and Culture Programming aims to enhance access to diverse high-quality arts experiences for all Philadelphians. With a focus on inclusivity and equity, this initiative invites proposals for projects that address historic inequities in arts access and engage communities through performances and exhibitions. Organizations with less than $750,000 in annual expenses are encouraged to apply for funding to support innovative and welcoming arts initiatives that enrich the cultural landscape through 2035.

DOE Weatherization 

Population to be Targeted:

• Income eligible clients.

Dollar Range for Award Minimum: $50,000.00

Estimate of Total Amount of Funds to be Awarded: $0.00

Dollar Range for Award Maximum: $1,000,000.00  

Allowable Costs:

• Measures recommended on the DOE approved energy audits 

Purpose of Grant:

To implement weatherization and conservation measures in the housing units of income-eligible families and individuals so as to reduce energy consumption and increase the comfort and health and safety of the occupants.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Local Public Health Infrastructure Grant Program, administered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health services across the state. This initiative supports local health departments in their critical roles of responding to public health challenges, ensuring community health, and maintaining essential services. With an emphasis on workforce development, foundational capabilities, and data modernization, the program seeks to strengthen public health infrastructures and improve health outcomes for over nine million New Jersey residents.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.