Best Grants for International Development in New Jersey

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.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

NCRC Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) - Housing Counseling Services

The Field Empowerment Fund (FEF) empowers NCRC network members to level up established service lines.

The Housing Counseling Services series within FEF supports HUD-approved housing counseling agencies in driving homeownership, such as through pre-purchase counseling. In addition, the program builds agency knowledge on heirs’ property challenges to better equip first-time and low-income homebuying households with the know-how to retain intergenerational wealth.

In doing so, FEF-HCS aims to help underserved families begin their homeownership journey, with an additional goal of ensuring foresight into the long-term future of their home purchase.

The FEF-HCS series is funded in partnership with Key Bank and HSBC, and targets communities within the Key Bank and HSBC branch footprints.

Through these partnerships, $2.5 million in Key Bank geographies and $1.5 million in HSBC geographies has been allocated for the subgrants for direct-to-client housing counseling services that will be awarded in three rounds in the FEF-HCS track.

Funding Support

Awardee agencies will receive subgrants to support their housing counseling services to clients.

Knowledge Building

Awardee agencies will attend a training session on heirs’ property challenges and best practices, hosted by NCRC National Training Academy. Bolstering counselor knowledge on this topic will ensure that your agency is not only serving clients in their personal wealth-building journey now, but also helping them preserve that wealth in generations to come.

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.

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.

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.

Tobacco Prevention and Cessation (TPC) Services

Funds will be used to prevent tobacco youth initiation and decrease youth smoking prevalence by developing and implementing programming aimed to increase tobacco awareness and environmental policy development within communities as well as the promotion of intervention cessation services to qualified tobacco users.

The Henry A. Jordan, M.D., Preservation Excellence Fund supports innovative projects in the Mid-Atlantic region, offering up to $5,000 to organizations committed to protecting cultural and natural resources. Established in 1996, this fund promotes collaboration among various stakeholders, facilitates policy development, and enhances public engagement in preservation issues. Eligible activities include planning and education efforts, requiring applicants to match grant funds and adhere to specific conditions to ensure effective use of resources for community sustainability.

The Presser Foundation, established in 1939, supports music education and philanthropy through capital support grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. Eligible organizations include non-profit, 501(c)(3) music education and performance entities located within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. Projects funded may include construction, renovation, or equipment purchases. The Foundation prioritizes initiatives that enhance music education while excluding non-music related venues and general operating expenses.

The Grand Haven Offshore Challenge Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students pursuing studies in natural resources, including fisheries and wildlife. This scholarship is available for applicants attending any public or private college or university. The fund was established to honor community contributions towards environmental preservation and is awarded based on academic merit and financial need. Apply once for all scholarships you may qualify for to streamline your application process.

The HRG Charitable Foundation Scholarship, administered by Scholarship America, aims to eliminate financial barriers for current high school seniors in the mid-Atlantic region pursuing STEM degrees. With a focus on expanding access for underrepresented students, the scholarship supports full-time undergraduate education at accredited institutions. Eligible applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. This initiative reflects Scholarship America's commitment to educational equity and student success, ensuring every student can achieve their academic goals.

The Department awards grants from State appropriations, federal awards, and other funding sources. Since the award and appropriation of these funds do not always conform to the State Fiscal Year, the information included in this directory is based on anticipated grant awards that will begin in the period from July 1 through June 30 of each State Fiscal Year. The ability of the Department to make grant awards is expressly dependent upon the availability of funds appropriated by the State Legislature from State and/or federal revenue or such other funding sources as may be applicable.

Healthy Women Healthy Families NOFA

Maternal and infant mortality and morbidity reduction activities focusing on racial and health disparities to improve health outcomes for women and infants. Maternal child health initiatives include community health workers, postpartum doulas, and breastfeeding education and support activities. Connecting NJ specialists to provide referrals to needed resources, linkages to core programs, and education and outreach in the community to pregnant individuals and families with young children to address their needs. 

Estimated amount of money in the grant program

• $ 5,000,000

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.

Special Child Health Services, Hemophilia Services Grant Program

To provide partial support to currently funded regional hemophilia treatment centers for patients residing in New Jersey and partial support or the purchase of health insurance policies, co-payments and deductibles for individuals with hemophilia. 

The Presser Foundation, established in 1939, offers grants between $2,500 and $50,000 to support music organizations across diverse genres. Focused on fostering music education and philanthropy, the Foundation seeks to empower non-profit, 501(c)(3) organizations within a 75-mile radius of Philadelphia. However, it does not fund theater or dance productions. Proposals are evaluated based on organizational accomplishments, community value, stability, and overall contributions to the music community.

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 HOME Community Housing Development Organizations program in New Jersey aims to provide funding for creating affordable housing units for low-income households. This initiative is targeted at certified non-profit developers with proven experience in affordable housing development and management, ensuring they meet specific criteria set by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs. The program supports various project-related costs while excluding ineligible activities like public housing modernization.

The RFA - Housing Production Investment Fund aims to enhance affordable housing availability by leveraging federal HOME funds. This program, established under the National Affordable Housing Act of 1990, provides state and local governments with essential resources to create decent housing for low- and very low-income households. It also strengthens governmental capacity and promotes private sector participation, thereby expanding the role of nonprofit housing providers in community development.

The New Jersey Healthy Homes Initiative Grants aim to support New Jersey FamilyCare Members at risk of homelessness or institutionalization. This program, in collaboration with the Department of Community Affairs, focuses on constructing and renovating affordable, community-based housing. By providing essential resources for maintaining and managing these homes, the initiative seeks to enhance housing stability and improve the quality of life for vulnerable populations throughout New Jersey.

The National Housing Trust Fund (NHTF) in New Jersey aims to bolster affordable housing initiatives for extremely low-income households. This program supports the development and preservation of safe, decent rental housing for those earning 30% or less of the Area Median Income. With a commitment to maintain these units for at least 30 years, the NHTF complements existing federal, state, and local housing efforts while offering technical assistance to applicants through workshops and one-on-one consultations.

The Youth Transitions To Work (YTTW) Grant Program, led by the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development, aims to support high school juniors, seniors, and out-of-school youth in transitioning to high-skill, high-wage employment. By facilitating connections to labor demand occupations, the program promotes long-term career growth and encourages youth to pursue further education and lifelong learning opportunities. This initiative strengthens the workforce and fosters economic development in New Jersey.

The Diabetes Prevention & Control NOFA by the New Jersey Department of Health aims to fund evidence-based strategies for preventing and managing prediabetes and diabetes among high-burden adult populations. This initiative supports municipal, county, and state governments, as well as non-profits and health centers to strengthen community health. It emphasizes collaboration among public health services to enhance healthcare quality in New Jersey. Successful applicants can continue their impactful work in diabetes prevention.

The Shore Protection Program in New Jersey aims to safeguard coastal areas from storm damage, erosion, and sea-level rise. It funds projects like beach replenishment and bulkhead construction, prioritizing initiatives that enhance public access and align with state resiliency efforts. Eligible applicants include municipalities and counties, with a minimum local cost share of 25% required. This program is crucial for maintaining New Jersey's coastline and protecting vital infrastructure from natural threats.

The Gridiron Veterans Scholarship, provided by the Bob Woodruff Foundation, offers essential financial support for military veterans and first responders. This initiative focuses on wellness, rehabilitation, and recovery programs, ensuring participants can access mental health services, physical therapy, and holistic resources. The foundation prioritizes those facing emotional and physical challenges, empowering them to overcome barriers and improve their quality of life through customized, evidence-based support.

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 NJCBIR: Pilot Research Grant aims to foster innovative research to treat and cure traumatic brain injuries in New Jersey. It encourages experienced and new investigators to explore groundbreaking approaches in brain cell regeneration. Through funding, the program supports feasibility studies and other research methodologies, ultimately aiming to improve treatment outcomes for individuals affected by traumatic brain injuries. The initiative also includes establishing a central registry for tracking brain injury cases to enhance research and prevention strategies.

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 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 Asian Cultural Council's New York Fellowship offers a transformative six-month program for artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia. Participants engage deeply with New York City's vibrant cultural landscape, attending performances, exhibitions, and workshops while building networks with local communities. This unique opportunity fosters peer-learning and individual artistic development, encouraging fellows to incorporate their experiences into their practices and contribute to their home cultures. The fellowship emphasizes exploration, exchange, and support, culminating in a rich cultural immersion.

The Asian Cultural Council's Individual Fellowship provides artists, scholars, and arts professionals from Asia and the United States with opportunities for self-directed cultural exchange and research in unfamiliar regions. This program supports activities such as interviews, workshops, and archival research, fostering cultural immersion and collaboration. With a funding limit of $35,000, the fellowship encourages innovative proposals that enhance creative perspectives and relationships among peers, while also ensuring strong eligibility criteria for applicants.