Best Literacy Grants for Nonprofits in New Jersey

Nonprofit organizations, K-12 schools, colleges, and public libraries offering comprehensive family literacy programs in New Jersey can receive up to US $10,000 for adult education, children’s education, and parent-child together time. Dollar General Literacy Foundation supports programs within 15 miles of its stores that are listed in the National Literacy Directory.

New Jersey K-12 public schools with existing libraries that suffered significant library damage from a recent disaster can seek funding to replace books, media, and equipment. New Jersey literacy organizations can access funding through Dollar General Literacy Foundation’s Beyond Words program if they are within 15 miles of a Dollar General store or distribution center and meet all disaster-related criteria.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and public libraries offering adult basic education, GED preparation, or English language acquisition within 15 miles of a Dollar General store can apply for up to US $10,000. Focused on adult literacy, Dollar General Literacy Foundation invites eligible New Jersey programs to expand direct services for adult learners.

New Jersey local education agencies serving grades K-3 can access funding to adopt and implement high-quality universal literacy screeners through the FOCUS grant program. New Jersey Department of Education supports early literacy assessment and instruction statewide, which may benefit nonprofits partnering with schools on literacy and educational equity initiatives.

New Jersey local education agencies serving K–3 students with significant literacy needs can seek funding to implement evidence-based, data-guided tier one literacy instruction. Focused on comprehensive literacy components and progress monitoring, the New Jersey Department of Education’s BRIDGE program supports leadership teams using data protocols to improve curriculum, instruction, and outcomes in high-need schools.

New Jersey schools and community partners running academic enrichment and literacy-focused out-of-school programs can seek funding to establish or expand community learning centers in New Jersey. With a mission to strengthen student achievement, New Jersey Department of Education provides multi-year support for tutoring, youth development, family literacy engagement, and related educational services through the Nita M. Lowey 21st CCLC Program.

New Jersey nonprofits, schools, and public libraries creating or expanding summer reading programs for Pre-K–12 students can apply for up to US $3,000 to support literacy activities. Grants from Dollar General Literacy Foundation help fund programs for new readers, below-grade-level readers, and students with learning disabilities within 15 miles of a Dollar General store.

Schools, public libraries, colleges, universities, and 501(c)(3) nonprofits serving K–12 struggling readers in New Jersey can apply for Dollar General Literacy Foundation’s youth literacy grants, up to US $5,000, to implement or expand literacy programs. Funding can also purchase books, materials, software, or technology that support youth reading initiatives within 20 miles of a Dollar General store.

Adult education and literacy providers in New Jersey can receive funding to deliver basic skills, English literacy, and civics education programs that support employment and family economic stability. The New Jersey Department of Labor and Workforce Development offers up to US $1,837,827 for services including secondary diploma attainment, career pathways, ESOL instruction, and citizenship preparation.

With a mission to strengthen K–12 climate and literacy education, New Jersey Department of Education provides New Jersey school districts with funding to expand standards-based climate change instruction and student-led community resilience projects. Eligible local education agencies can apply for up to US $30,500 to develop interdisciplinary, experiential learning focused on local climate solutions.

New Jersey 501(c)(3) nonprofits with $100,000+ budgets offering literacy, job readiness, or youth skill-building programs can seek funding to improve quality of life and future workforce skills. RBC Foundation USA supports efforts that build in-demand skills, provide work experiences, and expand inclusive opportunities in communities where RBC Wealth Management has a business presence.

Schools, libraries, and youth-serving nonprofits in New Jersey can use this matching grant to implement Read for Success, an interactive literacy program providing diverse books and read-aloud resources for children from birth through grade 12. Reading Is Fundamental matches local dollars 1:1 to supply books, facilitator guides, and family engagement materials for participating students.

New Jersey adult literacy and basic education programs using digital tools can access funding through ProLiteracy to obtain free online learning solutions. Eligible U.S. and Canadian programs may receive subscriptions and licenses for platforms like New Readers Press Online Learning, Learning Upgrade, EnGen, Leamos, and News for You Online to expand distance and blended learning capacity.

New Jersey educational institutions and youth-serving nonprofits that provide literacy and youth services can receive matching book awards to run RIF’s Books for Ownership program. New Jersey literacy organizations can access funding through Reading Is Fundamental to purchase diverse, age-appropriate books children choose and keep, building home libraries and supporting reading engagement for kids from birth through grade 12.

New Jersey nonprofits supporting early childhood development, school readiness, or literacy for children ages 0–5 can apply for funding from the Ohio Children’s Foundation, with awards up to US $20,000. Programs that build early language skills, reduce toxic stress, engage parents in reading, or advance early education policy may be competitive.

Nonprofit community organizations, schools, clinics, and public agencies in New Jersey serving low-income children and families can receive free new books and educational materials to build home libraries and support literacy. With a mission to strengthen word-rich, healthy homes, The Molina Foundation provides book grants (not cash) to 501(c)(3)s, Title I schools, faith-based and tribal programs, and similar groups.

The Read Across America State Affiliate Event Grant supports NEA state affiliates in enhancing coordinated events that celebrate diverse reading. This grant encourages proposals aimed at providing students with access to diverse books, addressing challenges such as curriculum bans. Activities may include guest readings, establishing diverse book clubs, and promoting literacy through community engagement. Applications are open only to state affiliates, with a strong emphasis on year-round reading awareness.

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.

The TruStage Foundation focuses on fostering economic mobility through education and housing initiatives. By supporting K-12 literacy, mentoring, and affordable housing projects, the foundation aims to uplift marginalized communities. With a commitment to addressing racial and socioeconomic disparities, TruStage seeks to empower individuals and families to build a brighter future. Their funding is directed towards impactful programs that align with their mission, while avoiding causes that do not meet their criteria for economic mobility.

The Believe in Reading Grant, offered by The Steve and Loree Potash Family Foundation, targets established literacy programs with a proven track record. The foundation aims to support initiatives that address literacy across various age groups, particularly in areas of high need. Grants can be up to $10,000, with a focus on projects that earmark funds specifically for literacy. Applications are reviewed bi-monthly, and first-time applicants are limited to $3,000.

The National Book Fund (NBF) offers grants to support adult education and literacy programs across the U.S. by providing New Readers Press materials. Grants typically range from $500 to $2,000, with applications considered for higher amounts if justified. Eligible applicants must have a defined project and use materials directly with learners. Priority is given to nonprofit organizations providing free literacy instruction. Note that individuals and lending libraries are not eligible for funding.

The McGraw Foundation offers annual grants to not-for-profit organizations, primarily in the greater Chicago area, focusing on education, conservation, and human services. Grant amounts typically range from $2,000 to $10,000, with larger grants available for particularly impactful projects. While supporting diverse initiatives, the Foundation does not fund individuals or specific events. Organizations must be tax-exempt under IRS regulations to qualify for funding. The Foundation encourages innovative approaches and partnerships in grant applications.

The Hamilton Family Charitable Trust Grant supports educational initiatives in Philadelphia and surrounding counties, focusing on children and youth. The Trust prioritizes programs that improve literacy and provide equitable educational opportunities. Grants, capped at $25,000, are available for first-time applicants and require 501(c)(3) status verification. Organizations must demonstrate effective use of funds, including audited financial statements and IRS Form 990 submission. The Trust seeks to enhance lives through community-driven educational projects.

Our Story

The IBMA Foundation was created by the International Bluegrass Music Association in 2007 with a bequest from the Richard Barnhart estate. Mr. Barnhart was a musician from northern Virginia who loved bluegrass and wanted to support educational programs for children. Since the beginning, our goal has been to support bluegrass-music-related educational, literary, artistic and historic preservation activities.

In our early years we produced Discover Bluegrass, an educational video that has been used in thousands of classrooms and libraries around the world. We have hosted dozens of teacher workshops and artist trainings. We created a bluegrass lesson plan competition and provided a network for leaders of after-school bluegrass programs.

Our project grants, which now total $25,000 a year, support bluegrass-related initiatives throughout the world. We also fund Bluegrass in the Schools Mini-grants ($7,000/year) which help schools to hire bluegrass bands for school programs. The Rosenberg Bluegrass Scholar Award recognizes excellence in academic research. Six college scholarships are granted for students working in various areas of the bluegrass music industry. The Arnold Shultz Fund supports increased participation of people of color in bluegrass music with grants that total $30,000/ year. Fletcher Bright Memorial Grants for Young Musicians (age 18 and younger) help young people go to bluegrass music camps and workshops, take lessons, and purchase educational materials.

IBMA  Foundation Project Grants

The IBMA Foundation awards project grants each year, usually in amounts between $1,000 and $2,500. The deadline to apply is December 2, 2024. Projects must align with the Foundation’s mission in one of the following areas

• Arts & culture
• Education
• Literary or academic programs
• History preservation

The Robert Glenn Rapp Foundation, established in 1951 in Oklahoma, aims to support charitable organizations across the U.S., with a focus on education and local initiatives. Grants are awarded to qualified 501(C)(3) organizations, prioritizing projects that align with the foundation's mission in areas such as education, health, arts, and literacy. Interested applicants must submit a Letter of Inquiry before applying for funding, ensuring alignment with the foundation's priorities.

The ENF Community Investments Program offers Spotlight Grants to Lodges, empowering them to tackle pressing community issues such as family literacy, veteran homelessness, and hunger. Each Lodge can apply for a $2,000 grant without needing to meet the GER's per-member-giving goal. Funds can be used for one of the designated project plans or combined with the Beacon Grant, enabling flexible support for local initiatives.

The ENF Community Investments Program offers Gratitude Grants between $3,000 and $5,000 to Elks Lodges that have met the GER’s per-member-giving goal. These grants empower Lodges to enhance community service and foster local engagement, supporting initiatives that promote health, education, and welfare. The program exemplifies the Elks' commitment to charity and community improvement, showcasing their dedication to building stronger neighborhoods and helping those in need.