Best Higher Education Grants in New Jersey

The Creag Foundation, established in 2009 in Woodinville, Washington, provides funding to innovative 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations addressing social issues. Focused on smaller organizations, the foundation seeks to support those with unique approaches to improve the human condition. Eligible applicants must have held 501(c)(3) status for at least one year and present a new or previously unaddressed solution to societal challenges. Applications are by invitation only, encouraging creativity and passion in charitable work.

The Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides grants to early-stage social entrepreneurs working on scalable solutions to pressing social and environmental issues. By supporting organizations with innovative approaches and proven impact, they aim to uplift underserved communities globally. The foundation offers operational support, funding of up to $300,000 over three years, and fosters a collaborative community among its portfolio organizations. They focus on candidates demonstrating measurable impact and sustainable growth potential.

The Hearst Foundation: Culture Grant aims to support outstanding nonprofits that enhance cultural engagement and artistic talent in the U.S. With a focus on programs that reach young people, the grant prioritizes organizations that create lasting impacts in the arts and sciences. The Foundation allocates 25% of its funding to cultural initiatives, favoring established organizations with a history of significant results. Eligible nonprofits must encourage inclusivity and sustainability in their programs.

The Hearst Foundation's Social Service Grant focuses on tackling chronic poverty by funding direct-service organizations that implement effective solutions for economic independence and family strengthening. With a mission to support diverse nonprofits in the U.S., the Foundation allocates approximately 15% of its total funding to social services, prioritizing scalable programs that serve significant populations. The minimum grant size is $100,000, and special consideration is given to organizations addressing affordable housing, domestic violence, and youth development.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

The W. W. Smith Charitable Trust provides funding through its Basic Needs Grant to nonprofits in the Greater Philadelphia area, focusing on food, clothing, and shelter assistance. Priority is given to vulnerable children and seniors. Grants range from $5,000 to $40,000, awarded for a one-year term, with a minimum funding requirement of $5,000. Organizations must be 501(c)(3) and have a service location in the eligible regions.

The Mutual of America Foundation Community Partnership Award honors exemplary nonprofit organizations in the U.S. that foster collaborative partnerships across sectors. Annually, a national competition showcases numerous organizations demonstrating impactful community partnerships. Six organizations receive recognition, including the Thomas J. Moran Award, which offers $100,000, and the Frances R. Hesselbein Award, granting $75,000. Since 1996, the award has acknowledged 262 partnerships, emphasizing Mutual of America's commitment to societal improvement through collaboration.

The Community Health Worker (CHW) Hub NOFA, funded by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance the CHW workforce across the state. The initiative focuses on certification efforts and integration of CHWs into standard healthcare practices. Eligible applicants include municipal governments, higher education institutions, hospitals, and non-profits. The program supports public health improvements and emphasizes the importance of timely reporting and progress toward grant objectives to ensure continued funding.

The Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics Training NOFA, issued by the New Jersey Department of Health, aims to enhance maternal health by providing essential training to healthcare professionals. This initiative focuses on developing a collaborative approach to deliver Advanced Life Support in Obstetrics (ALSO) training across New Jersey. The program is designed to improve knowledge and skills in managing obstetric emergencies, ultimately contributing to the reduction of maternal mortality and morbidity rates in the state.

The Gupta Family Foundation Grant aims to empower disadvantaged individuals by providing financial support to organizations that foster self-reliance. Headquartered in Herndon, Virginia, the foundation offers grants ranging from $5,000 to over $250,000, prioritizing smaller organizations with a strong commitment to their missions. Eligibility typically includes US-based IRS 501(c)(3) entities, with operations extending to countries like India and Kenya. The foundation emphasizes mission alignment and effective resource allocation to ensure maximum impact.

The J.W. Couch Foundation Grant focuses on supporting Wildlife Conservation nonprofit organizations that align with their mission of community betterment and environmental protection. The foundation seeks partnerships with organizations that promote animal wellbeing, early childhood education, teacher support, and outdoor activities. Eligible applicants must be registered 501(c)3 nonprofits or for-profit entities aligned with their charitable programs. This grant emphasizes collaboration and community engagement to create lasting impacts.

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.

Sickle Cell Disease Community Outreach Program and Education SCD COPE NOFA

The SCD COPE program looks to develop a community outreach campaign in order to educate stakeholders within the SCD community with the goal of improving the lives of individuals living with Sickle Cell Disease (SCD) in New Jersey. 

Estimated Amount in the grant program

• $ 114,241

The Community Facilities Grant Program in New Jersey offers essential funding to develop community facilities in rural areas, supporting projects that serve local populations. Eligible areas include rural communities with populations under 20,000. Funds may be used for purchasing, constructing, or improving facilities that deliver vital services, such as health care, education, and public safety. This program aims to enhance community infrastructure and support underserved populations throughout the state.

The Sexual Risk Avoidance Education program by the New Jersey Department of Health aims to promote the delay of sexual activity among youth, significantly reducing teen pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections. This initiative is comprehensive, trauma-informed, and inclusive of LGBTQ youth, with regional grants available for organizations capable of implementing effective health education services. This non-competitive continuation grant is open only to current eligible grantees, supporting its mission to enhance public health in New Jersey.

The Christian R. and Mary F. Lindback Foundation Grant supports excellence in education and assists distressed individuals in the Greater Philadelphia area, established by Christian R. Lindback's testamentary gift. Since 1961, the foundation has honored outstanding faculty with the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching and partners with the School District of Philadelphia to recognize exemplary public school educators. The Foundation prioritizes discretionary grants for projects that can be accomplished in a brief timeframe.

The Edna G. Kynett Memorial Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance cardiovascular health in the Delaware Valley. Established in 1954, it funds community health, professional education, and research programs targeting high-risk and underserved populations. The Foundation prioritizes innovative proposals focused on prevention and sustainable health improvements, particularly for children and adults. Grants typically do not exceed $50,000 and cover direct program expenses. Eligible applicants include public entities and 501(c)(3) organizations.

Insperity's Corporate Contributions program emphasizes community involvement and corporate citizenship, providing philanthropic grants and event sponsorships to 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Eligible organizations must engage Insperity employees or contribute to the communities where they operate. The program aims to support nonprofits in achieving their service goals and enhancing community welfare. Applications must be submitted 90 days prior to events, and funding requests can be made once a year.

The Georgia-Pacific Foundation Grant supports organizations in the Metro Atlanta area, focusing on education, entrepreneurship, community enrichment, and environmental sustainability. Established in 1958, the foundation prioritizes investments that align with its mission and values, promoting long-term well-being within communities where Georgia-Pacific operates. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, public schools, and local government entities located within 30 miles of GP manufacturing sites.

The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation offers grants to support diverse initiatives, including museums, educational programs, and environmental activities. Aiming to make a significant impact with modest funding, the Foundation targets IRS-qualified non-profits in the U.S. Grants typically range from $1,000 to $20,000, fostering community development and enhancement. Organizations focused on youth, seniors, and individuals with disabilities are particularly encouraged to apply, as the Foundation seeks to empower those in need.

The Women and Minorities in Construction Trades Program Grant aims to support women and minority veterans in overcoming economic barriers to access training in construction trades. This initiative offers funding for eligible organizations to provide comprehensive training, placement services, and support to prepare these veterans for successful careers in the construction industry. With a funding amount of $1,500,000, the program is focused on enhancing workforce diversity and inclusion within the sector.

Statement of Purpose

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is announcing the availability of funds for the Fluoride Varnish, Children’s Education and Screenings (FACES) grant. The overarching goal of the FACES program is to promote good oral health practices for school aged children through application of fluoride varnish as an oral health preventive measure via a voluntary school-based program. Additionally, this grant offers the opportunity to participate in the New Jersey Department of Health Basic Screening Survey for specified populations.

The infrastructure for this initiative will support new or existing programs in building preventive oral health services, including education programs and Fluoride varnish application for school aged children to promote the importance of oral health. The FACES program will coordinate and implement activities and strategies to address oral health issues affecting children from pre-K through grade 12. These efforts will be guided by a community needs assessment that identifies children at high risk for developing dental decay and other oral health problems.

Although the primary target population for this grant is school-aged children, other vulnerable groups at higher risk for dental decay—such as elderly individuals residing in assisted living or nursing homes, or pregnant women of lower socioeconomic status—will also be eligible to receive fluoride varnish as an evidence-based preventive measure. The decision to include additional at-risk populations should be made by the State Dental Director or the Program Management Officer, at the request of the applicant.

The program will utilize the Basic Screening Survey (BSS) to better understand the existing oral health status of specific populations. The BSS is a best practice recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors (ASTDD).

The Dr. Scholl Foundation offers grants annually to IRS 501(c)(3) organizations, primarily focusing on U.S. applicants. The foundation supports projects in education, social services, healthcare, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental efforts. While the grant cycle runs from October 1 to March 1, it encourages innovative solutions to global challenges. Only one application per organization is accepted each year, and funding is limited to one year. Unqualified organizations, including political entities, are ineligible.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

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

TB Prevention and Control Regional TB Specialty Clinic Services

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

To provide clinical care, treatment, nurse case management and/or outreach services to TB cases and suspects, their associated contacts and Class B1/B2 immigrants and refugees for a defined group of local health jurisdictions.

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

Comprehensive Cancer Control Program 

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

The Office of Cancer Control and Prevention provides funding to the ten Regional Chronic Disease Coalitions to support programmatic needs to enhance outreach and education activities across the continuum of cancer primary prevention, early detection, cancer survivorship, palliative care and transportation for screenings and survivorship health and wellness.

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.

Autism Medical Home Center of Excellence

Purpose for Which the Grant Program Funds Shall be Used

Approximately $3,5000,000 may be allocated to the following NJ Governor's Council for Medical Research and Treatment of Autism research projects: Predoctoral Fellowship Research (CAUT27GFP), Postdoctoral Fellowship Research (CAUT27DFP), Postdoctoral Associate Research (CAUT27DAP), Basic Research (CAUT27BRP), Clinical Research (CAUT27CRP), and Autism Medical Home Center of Excellence (CAUT27AMH), contingent on the availability of NJDOH funding.

Award Period: From: 8/1/26 Through: 6/30/31