Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in New Jersey

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for undergraduate students pursuing dietetics. Applicants complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships ranging from $500 to $25,000. Eligibility includes enrollment in an ACEND-accredited program and various special criteria. This initiative supports students from diverse backgrounds, encouraging future professionals in nutrition and dietetics. Membership in the Academy is recommended but not mandatory for application.

The Northeast SARE Partnership Grant Program supports innovative projects that enhance sustainable agriculture practices through collaboration between agricultural service providers and farmers. With funding up to $30,000, the program encourages research and education initiatives that address sustainability challenges in Northeast farming systems. It aims to foster partnerships that lead to better agricultural practices and community well-being, focusing on involving farmers directly in project development.

The Community College Opportunity Grant (CCOG) in New Jersey provides tuition-free community college for eligible residents. Students with an Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) between $0 and $65,000 can apply, ensuring they meet deadlines and maintain academic progress. CCOG covers remaining tuition costs after other financial aid is applied, making higher education accessible to more individuals. This initiative reflects New Jersey's commitment to supporting students in their pursuit of a first associate degree.

The Rural Business Development Grants in New Jersey aim to enhance economic development and create jobs through financial support for eligible entities. Grants are available in two categories: Opportunity grants, which prioritize smaller requests, and Enterprise grants, designed for projects benefiting small and emerging businesses in rural areas. These grants can be utilized for various purposes, including training, land acquisition, pollution control, and community development, fostering sustainable growth in rural communities.

The New Jersey Emergency Medical Shock Trauma Air Rescue (JEMSTAR) program, overseen by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health response through a dedicated helicopter service. This initiative serves both residents and visitors, ensuring timely medical assistance across the state. To qualify for funding, applicants must be established helicopter or communication centers in good financial standing. This program addresses critical healthcare needs and reinforces New Jersey's emergency medical services framework.

The Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers over 250 scholarships for dietetic interns, allowing a single application to apply for multiple awards. Scholarships range from $500 to $25,000, with eligibility for interns enrolled through June 30, 2024, including those with off-cycle matches. Applicants should consider their career goals in areas like clinical dietetics, culinary arts, and nutrition education. Academy membership is encouraged but not required. Fundraising determines the number of scholarships available each year.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Comprehensive Cancer Control Program NOFA, funded by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance cancer prevention and screening services through grants awarded to various organizations. This initiative supports outreach and education across cancer care, including primary prevention, early detection, survivorship, and palliative care. Eligible applicants include county governments, tribal entities, educational institutions, hospitals, and non-profits, emphasizing community health promotion and policy change strategies.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation offers a variety of scholarships for students in the Dietetic Technician Program, with over 250 scholarships available. Ranging from $500 to $25,000, these scholarships help support aspiring dietetic professionals. Applicants need to complete a single application to be considered for multiple scholarships based on eligibility. Membership in the Academy is encouraged but not mandatory for applying.

The Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Course Expansion grant aims to enhance access to college-level courses for disadvantaged students in New Jersey. Through this program, Local Education Agencies will receive funding to train educators to teach Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) courses, thus increasing course offerings and improving existing programs. This initiative is open to eligible LEAs and will run from June 1, 2025, to December 31, 2026.

The Baltimore Life Community Grants Program, established by the Baltimore Life Foundation, awards grants of up to $500 to nonprofit organizations in various states, including Maryland and Virginia. This initiative aims to enhance community quality of life through projects that focus on family safety and community enhancement. Eligible applicants must be IRS-certified 501(c)(3) organizations, with priority given to those with volunteer support. This program reflects Baltimore Life's commitment to corporate citizenship and community involvement.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Pershing Square Sohn Cancer Prize is awarded to early-career scientists in the New York area who are pursuing innovative cancer research. Established by the Pershing Square Foundation in partnership with The Sohn Conference Foundation, the prize offers $250,000 annually for up to three years. With a commitment of over $49 million since 2013, the Alliance aims to accelerate cancer cures by fostering collaborations between academia and industry, providing a unique network and access to vital resources for groundbreaking research.

The Garden Club of America Award in Coastal Wetlands Studies supports graduate students engaged in coastal wetlands research. Established through the Rockefeller Environmental Education Fund, this scholarship promotes conservation by funding field work in tidal and nontidal wetlands across coastal states, including the Great Lakes. Eligible applicants must be enrolled in a U.S. graduate program and can propose their own wetlands study. The award aims to foster environmental education and scientific inquiry in this vital ecosystem.

The NJCCR Bridge Cancer Research Grants aim to support innovative cancer research projects in New Jersey with funding up to $200,000 for two years. Targeted at dedicated researchers facing temporary funding gaps, these grants promote advancements in cancer prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and survivorship. Eligible applicants must hold full-time faculty positions. The NJCCR plays a crucial role in enhancing cancer research and addressing health disparities within the state.

The Education & Leadership Impact Grants by BLBB Charitable aim to support nonprofit organizations focused on enhancing educational opportunities for disadvantaged youth in Greater Philadelphia. Grants under $15,000 facilitate programs in college access, economic self-sufficiency, K-12 education, and local environmental education. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that promote long-term connections and leadership development, ultimately aiming to break the cycle of poverty and foster sustainable community growth.

The New Jersey Department of Health is offering a grant for evidence-based strategies aimed at preventing and managing cardiovascular disease in high-burden adult populations in Newark. The initiative seeks to enhance health outcomes by reducing hypertension rates through collaborative efforts among public health services and community organizations. Eligible applicants include municipal, county, and state governments, as well as non-profit organizations and health centers. This grant is pivotal in fostering healthier communities in New Jersey.

The Partners for Places Jobs and Inclusive Infrastructure Initiative Grants aim to support communities by leveraging infrastructure funds to create equitable projects that benefit underserved areas. This pilot program will provide funding for local workers through career training and inclusive economic practices. With grants ranging from $45,000 to $120,000, the initiative focuses on enhancing human infrastructure, fostering collaboration among key partners, and ensuring that frontline communities directly benefit from project implementations.

The NJ Radon Awareness Program Grant aims to provide funding for radon testing in New Jersey municipalities, health departments, schools, and non-profit agencies focused on weatherization. Grants will reimburse costs up to $2000 per entity, including shipping. Selection is based on a first-come, first-served basis, making it essential for interested parties to apply promptly to secure funding for this important public health initiative.

The Strengthening Local Public Health Capacity Grant Program, offered by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance public health infrastructure and outbreak preparedness. This initiative focuses on addressing chronic diseases through evidence-based strategies, collaborating with local stakeholders to improve health outcomes for vulnerable populations. By supporting workforce development and data modernization, the program seeks to ensure a healthier future for all New Jersey residents, ultimately reducing premature deaths and disabilities.

The State Land Urban Acquisition Partnership aims to enhance urban communities in New Jersey by funding the acquisition of properties for parks and greenways. This initiative supports Urban Aid municipalities and Community Collaborative Initiative communities, focusing on repurposing undesirable structures and remediating contaminated properties. By increasing public green space, the program fosters healthier, more vibrant communities, ensuring long-term public benefit and environmental sustainability.

The External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Great Companions Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of New Jersey, supports non-profit organizations that assist companion animals in New Jersey, including dogs, cats, and horses. The fund emphasizes community-driven initiatives that address inequities and serve historically underserved populations. With grant awards ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, priority is given to smaller organizations with annual budgets under $1 million, fostering innovative solutions in animal welfare.

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 

Program Area Improvements

For I/DD specific 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) looking to add/improve programming potential via equipment and property improvements, updates and additions.