Best Library Grants in New Jersey

New Jersey 501(c)(3) nonprofits supporting children, education, or health and human services can seek monetary program funding that demonstrates measurable community impact. Focused on youth, education, and human services, Costco Foundation invites organizations, including those with library-based youth or educational programs, to apply; proposals are reviewed within 4–6 weeks based on need, collaboration, and budget.

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 Global Impact Cash Grants by Cisco Systems Foundation support innovative early-stage solutions aimed at addressing significant social problems. Targeting nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations, these grants focus on four key sectors: crisis response, education, economic empowerment, and climate regeneration. Eligible organizations must demonstrate alignment with these areas, particularly serving underserved communities. The foundation seeks to leverage technology for impactful solutions, ensuring sustainability and community resilience through strategic investments.

State Farm's Good Neighbor Citizenship Company Grants aim to enhance community safety, development, and education. Focused on long-term impact, they support initiatives in auto and home safety, disaster preparedness, affordable housing, and educational programs. Eligible recipients include nonprofits, educational institutions, and government entities. However, funding is not available for individuals, religious programs, or organizations outside the U.S. By addressing critical community needs, these grants foster safer and more resilient neighborhoods.

New Jersey library and cultural nonprofits running arts, science, or STEAM programs for broad audiences can apply for more than US $100,000 to support program, capital, or limited general operating needs. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes arts education, artist development, and impactful cultural institutions such as museums, theaters, and performing arts organizations across the U.S.

The Michael & Susan Dell Foundation provides grants to organizations focused on improving the lives of children in urban poverty in the U.S., India, and South Africa. They prioritize projects in education, health, and family economic stability. Grants typically do not exceed 25% of a project's budget or 10% of an organization's annual expenses. The foundation seeks to partner with organizations already making an impact, ensuring funding supports impactful social enterprises.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations offering early childhood education or community economic development programs in New Jersey communities where PNC operates may be eligible for this funding. With a mission to strengthen and enrich local communities, PNC Foundation provides grants for early learning, affordable housing, neighborhood revitalization, arts, and essential services for low- and moderate-income residents.

New Jersey accredited charities running community, education, humanitarian, environmental, or arts projects can access funding through Roche, supporting work from youth services and STEM education to cultural programs and disaster relief. Local Roche affiliates fund organizations and programs that are based and operating in the same country, with priority for innovative, sustainable, high-quality initiatives.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office in New Jersey can apply for The Tjx Foundation’s grants supporting basic needs, youth education, workforce readiness, and safety from domestic violence. Libraries with eligible enrichment or youth programs may be considered after completing the required eligibility questionnaire and letter of inquiry process.

Independent colleges and universities in New Jersey and nearby states seeking capital funding for undergraduate academic facilities can apply for George I Alden Trust’s higher education grants, with awards up to but not more than $100,000 for first-time applicants. Funding supports classrooms, libraries, labs, auditoriums, learning centers, and related equipment that strengthen undergraduate teaching and learning.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting basic needs, community development, or cultural enrichment can apply for Ameriprise Financial grants, including groups serving New Jersey. Focused on hunger relief, shelter, adult self-sufficiency, and community vitality, Ameriprise gives priority to programs with strong Ameriprise volunteer engagement and organizations serving communities in the U.S. and its territories.

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.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) organizations offering library services, education, or youth programs can seek US $5,000 - US $20,000 for scholarships, tutoring, literacy, journalism, or related initiatives. Focused on education, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust also considers community, arts, environmental, historic preservation, and accessibility projects that enhance learning opportunities and quality of life.

Spencer Educational Foundation Inc

The Spencer Educational Foundation was founded by the Rims Atlanta Chapter in 1979. To this day, Spencer remains the premier organization funding the education of tomorrow's risk management and insurance leaders.

The Spencer Educational Foundation: awards merit-based scholarships and grants to university students pursuing careers in risk management, insurance, and/or actuarial science; provides grants that create experiential learning opportunities both on and off campus; funds the development of risk management and insurance curricula in colleges and universities; supports Risk Managers by creating internship opportunities within the risk management function of their companies; and operates across the United States and Canada. 

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants

Since 2014, Spencer has invested over $1.6 million in developing risk management and insurance (RMI) courses at close to 70 colleges and universities, exposing approximately 19,000 students to the RMI industry.

Our Course Development Grant program supports Introductory Risk Management and Insurance Course Development - for universities that have not previously offered any such instruction - as well as proposals for additional Course Curriculum Development and Program Development - for universities looking to develop a RMI program and/or expand existing RMI course offerings, with an emphasis on new and emerging areas in the industry.

Spencer Educational Foundation: Course Development Grants for NJ Schools

The Spencer Educational Foundation and New Jersey RIMS Chapter are looking to partner with colleges and universities in New Jersey to expand RMI education. Spencer’s Course Development funding supports the development of RMI curricula. Funding opportunities range from introductory course development (i.e., RMI 101) at institutions with no RMI courses to expanding existing RMI courses to address upper-level topics (e.g., Insurance Company Operations, P&C, and ERM). Grant amounts typically range from $10,000 to $25,000 (average $15,000), and New Jersey RIMS Chapter engagement is possible to support RMI graduate scholarships and experiential learning initiatives. 

New Jersey libraries and other eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits or government units offering health education and support services can access funding through Bayer Fund for cancer and cardiovascular disease programs. Organizations near an eligible Bayer community may fund evidence-based awareness, education, and access-to-care initiatives, including support for patients, caregivers, and at-risk populations.

Public libraries in New Jersey offering adult literacy, digital literacy, or career pathway training can apply for the Community Library Adult Literacy & Career Pathway Grant Program, with awards up to US $400,000. Funding from the New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development supports instruction, credentials, or certifications that improve employability and career advancement for residents.

Mercer County New Jersey students pursuing two years of study at a college, university, community college, or vocational school may be eligible for the Mary Elliott Wislar Memorial Scholarship, supporting higher education costs. Princeton Area Community Foundation honors Mary’s legacy of educational leadership and community involvement through this academic scholarship opportunity.

Focused on education and community services, 501(c)(3) organizations in New Jersey that operate in Ocean County and serve local residents can seek $1,500 - $5,000 for programs including libraries. The Charles B Mathis Memorial Trust prioritizes initiatives for the elderly, poor, sick, or disabled and projects promoting education, good government, religion, and good morals.

With a mission to improve quality of life, O'Reilly Automotive Foundation provides New Jersey nonprofits with project, operating, or capital support for economic stability, workforce development, health and social services, and disaster relief. U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations near O’Reilly Auto Parts locations, including those connected to library services for underserved communities, may be eligible.

The True Inspiration Awards, established by Chick-fil-A in 2015, recognizes nonprofit organizations that significantly impact their communities. In 2025, the program will distribute $6 million in grants, ranging from $30,000 to $350,000, to sixteen selected organizations. Categories include Caring for People, Caring through Food, Community, and Caring for our Planet, with a focus on educational initiatives, food security, housing services, and environmental stewardship, honoring the legacy of founder S. Truett Cathy.

Libraries and other 501(c)(3) organizations in the Southern U.S. seeking single-year support for education, poverty relief, disaster relief, or family and youth services may be eligible; awards cannot fund capital projects. Grants from Robinson Foundation help mission-driven groups, including those with library services, create tangible, meaningful impact for their communities.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) libraries seeking endowments, capital construction, or innovative equipment can apply for $50,000 - $150,000 in support from the Gladys Brooks Foundation. Focused on strengthening library services, this funding favors projects that expand public access to information and are largely funded by the grant or represent a discrete project component.

Nonprofit organizations in New Jersey that lead strong, replicable community partnerships may be eligible for Mutual of America Foundation’s national Community Partnership Award. This U.S.-wide competition honors collaborations among public, private, and social sector partners addressing significant social issues, which can include innovative, partnership-based library services and programs.

Non-sectarian 501(c)(3) organizations and qualifying foreign nonprofits working to help disadvantaged people become self-reliant can apply for Gupta Family Foundation’s grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $250,000 for focused interventions and humanitarian relief. New Jersey library organizations that meet the revenue, mission, and leadership criteria may be eligible if their services address disadvantage or emergency needs.

Public bodies, community-based nonprofits, and Federally Recognized Tribes in rural New Jersey can use this program to build, expand, or improve library and other essential community facilities, including equipment and related costs. Focused on rural development, USDA: Rural Development invites eligible communities under 20,000 residents to apply for graduated grant assistance based on local income levels.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) nonprofits and community-based organizations can seek funding for specific projects that enhance family life, safety, or community quality of life. Focused on community enhancement, Baltimore Life Foundation invites applicants to request up to US $500 for initiatives such as child safety education, community clean-ups, or neighborhood watch activities.