Best Grants for International Development in New Jersey

The NJ Growing Apprenticeship in Nontraditional Sectors (GAINS) Grant aims to foster the growth of Registered Apprenticeship programs approved by the USDOL. This initiative is designed to enhance economic development by promoting skills and educational attainment, ultimately leading to better-paying careers. With a funding amount of $5,000,000, the program encourages participation across a variety of sectors, welcoming all apprenticeable occupations to apply and contribute to New Jersey's workforce development.

The Public Health Leadership and Workforce Development Grant, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health infrastructure by funding mentorship programs for newly licensed Health Officers and workforce capacity-building initiatives. Through collaboration with local stakeholders, the grant seeks to create a more robust public health workforce, ultimately improving health outcomes and quality of life for New Jersey residents. This initiative is a critical step in addressing chronic disease prevention and health promotion.

The Santander Charitable Sponsorship Program focuses on supporting low- to moderate-income communities primarily in the Northeast and Florida. With a commitment of $100 million in charitable giving, the program addresses key community development needs, including affordable housing, job creation, financial education, and disaster relief. Eligible organizations must have IRS 501(c)(3) status or be public agencies, demonstrating capacity to meet community needs. Unsolicited applications are not accepted.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

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.

About PCORI

PCORI funds patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER).

Our Mission

PCORI helps people make informed healthcare decisions, and improves healthcare delivery and outcomes, by producing and promoting high-integrity, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

Broad Pragmatic Studies PCORI Funding

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA), seeking to fund patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. 

Research Initiative Highlights

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.

Special Areas of Emphasis

For Cycle 2 2026, PCORI is particularly interested in submissions that address the following Special Areas of Emphasis (SAE) within the BPS funding opportunity. The purpose of identifying these SAEs is to encourage submissions to these areas, rather than limiting submissions to these topics. Applicants addressing one of the below SAEs should identify the area that is best associated with their research approach:  

• Addressing Obesity
• Diabetes Prevention, Care and Treatment
• Management of Urogynecological and Pelvic Pain
• Pain Management for Individuals Living With Sickle Cell Disease

In PCORI-funded research, patients and other research partners are expected to meaningfully contribute their lived experience or professional expertise to ensure studies are patient-centered, relevant and useful for healthcare decision making. Applicants must address PCORI’s Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research — an evidence-based framework supported by tools and resources to guide effective engagement strategies. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to consider the inclusion of a broad range of patient-centered burdens and economic outcomes. 

Broad Pragmatic Studies PFA: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 Study Specifications

PCORI will commit up to $120 million in direct costs through this funding opportunity. This funding opportunity contains three categories for funding:

• Category 1: Category 1 will support research projects with direct costs up to and including $5 million.

• Category 2: Category 2 will support research projects with direct costs greater than $5 million and up to a maximum of $12 million. Applications for funding under Category 2 will be required to provide additional information in the Letter of Intent (LOI) and application to justify the size and scope of the proposed research projects and to explain how additional funds are necessary with respect to the scale, scope and complexity of personnel and material resources needed to address the research question.

• Category 3: Category 3 will support research projects with direct costs up to $12 million that utilize PCORnet® to conduct observational studies and/or pragmatic trials that are national in scale. Category 3 PCORnet Studies® must include two or more Clinical Research Networks and share study progress, performance metrics and best practices with the network to promote continuous learning and improvement. PCORnet Studies® will leverage the PCORnet Common Data Model® as appropriate. Additional details about Category 3 can be found on the PCORI website.  

The Funding for Optimal Comprehensive Universal Screeners (FOCUS) grant, provided by the New Jersey Department of Education, supports Local Education Agencies (LEAs) in implementing high-quality universal literacy screeners for grades K-3. With a budget of $5.25 million, this initiative aims to enhance early literacy identification and instruction, ensuring compliance with state literacy standards. The grant fosters a data-driven approach to literacy education and promotes effective practices across New Jersey's educational landscape.

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

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) Program

Executive Summary

The FASD Program aims to improve outcomes for people who use substances during the perinatal period by using evidence-based practices to improve access to postpartum resources and service delivery networks. The program aims to connect those seeking services to the appropriate levels of care and provide education and training to clinical providers to deliver trauma-informed care.

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 New Jersey Summer Expansion Project aims to enhance positive youth development for at-risk youth during summer months. This initiative provides funding up to $270,000 to community-based programs, allowing them to expand their services or add new components. With a focus on youth engaged with the justice system, the program seeks to create enriching opportunities when schools are closed, ensuring that young people have access to growth and learning experiences.

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 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 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 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 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 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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

Pharmaceutical Services for Adults with Cystic Fibrosis Program (CYS)

To provide funding to a non-profit agency that will assist adults living with Cystic Fibrosis to purchase nutritional supplements, prescription drugs, medical supplies and equipment needed to manage the disease.

The NJCBIR Individual Research Grant aims to promote transformative research for treating traumatic brain injuries in New Jersey. With funding up to $150,000 annually, the grant encourages innovative projects focused on neural protection, repair, and regeneration. It invites interdisciplinary collaboration and aims to enhance clinical interventions, improve patient outcomes, and advance scientific knowledge in the field. This initiative is backed by the New Jersey Department of Health, ensuring impactful research to benefit the community.

The New Jersey Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) Competitive Grant Program aims to enhance services for victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. With $1,260,000 in funding, the program prioritizes support for underserved communities, including the economically disadvantaged and racial minorities. Grants of up to $45,000 will be awarded for projects focusing on essential services like crisis response, advocacy, and outreach, ensuring comprehensive support for vulnerable populations across New Jersey.