New Mexico Grants for Nonprofits

The California Botanical Society Paul Silva Student Research Grant supports undergraduate and graduate student members conducting botanical research in western North America. Grants of up to $600 are available for projects aimed at advancing Western American botany. The funding can cover research travel, supplies, and minor equipment, with the goal of producing a professional publication. Collaborative applications are encouraged, and there are no restrictions based on citizenship.

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

The Sussman-Miller Educational Assistance Fund, managed by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, provides financial aid to New Mexico residents enrolled in higher education. Eligible students must maintain a GPA of at least 3.5 and demonstrate financial need. Scholarships vary based on educational costs and are renewable for up to four years, supporting both undergraduate and certificate programs. This initiative aims to enhance educational access and career readiness in the local community.

The Western Society of Malacologists offers Student Research Grants in Malacology to support research in the study of mollusks. Grants of up to $1000 are available for full-time students engaged in relevant projects. Applicants from all countries are welcome, with no citizenship restrictions. This initiative encourages students to present their findings at WSM meetings, promoting academic growth and collaboration within the malacological community.

Wireless Communication Device Policy Implementation Grant Program

In accordance with NMSA § 22-1-17, each school district and charter school must adopt and implement a wireless communication device policy that adheres to minimum requirements issued by the New Mexico Public Education Department (PED).

​Because of the increasing prevalence of wireless communication devices in schools, ensuring that students have access to safe, high-quality education without disruptions from personal wireless communication devices is key.

​Schools across the country have seen success from policies controlling the use of cellphones and other wireless communication devices during instructional hours. In studies conducted nationwide, restricting the use of these devices has been shown to support anti-bullying efforts and promote social emotional health amongst students.

In an effort to support schools implementing their Wireless Communication Device Policy, The Office of Broadband Access & Expansion (OBAE), pursuant to their authority under NMSA §§63-9J-5 – 63 9J-7, may fund projects to control broadband connectivity in school districts and school buildings. School districts and charter schools may apply for grant funding to purchase physical items and/or services necessary to implement their Wireless Communication Device Policy. 

The Trennert-Iverson Conference Scholarship, offered by the Western History Association, provides two annual awards of $500 each to graduate students pursuing M.A. or Ph.D. degrees. This scholarship aims to alleviate the financial burden of attending the annual association conference by covering registration fees and tickets for key events. The scholarship not only supports academic growth but also encourages networking among scholars in the field of western history.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Dollar General School Library Relief Grant Program, managed by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, provides crucial support to K-12 public school libraries that face significant damage due to disasters such as fires or federally recognized acts of terrorism. This grant aims to restore essential library resources, ensuring that affected communities can continue to access vital educational materials and support. Libraries must be within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and meet specific eligibility criteria.

Each PLTW Engineering course engages students in interdisciplinary activities like working with a client to design a home, programming electronic devices or robotic arms, or exploring algae as a biofuel source. These activities not only build knowledge and skills in engineering, but also empower students to develop essential skills such as problem solving, critical and creative thinking, communication, collaboration, and perseverance.

Through this partnership, Intel Foundation has committed funds to support PLTW grants to schools interested in starting or expanding PLTW programs beginning in the 2027-2028 academic year.

Program Requirements: 

• Grantee must offer at least one PLTW Engineering course in the 2027-2028 academic year and must offer one additional course each academic year of the grant period (two different courses in two years). 
• Schools may implement any PLTW Engineering courses of their choosing. 
• Grantee must complete two years of Grant reporting. 

Grant Award and Distribution Schedule:

• Total Award: $40,000
  • 2027-2028: $20,000
  • 2028-2029: $20,000

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Family Literacy Grants to nonprofit organizations that support family literacy initiatives. Eligible applicants must provide services such as adult education, children's education, and parent-child engagement activities. Organizations must be located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store and have a valid IRS tax ID. This funding aims to enhance literacy skills for families, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers the DGLF Summer Reading Grants, which support the development and expansion of summer reading programs aimed at Pre-K to 12th grade students, particularly new and below-grade-level readers, including those with learning disabilities. Eligible organizations, such as nonprofits, schools, and libraries within 15 miles of a Dollar General store, can apply for grants up to $3,000 to foster literacy and education initiatives.

The DGLF Youth Literacy Grants, established by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, aim to enhance literacy among underperforming students in K-12. Organizations such as schools and libraries can apply for funding to implement or expand literacy programs, purchase necessary materials, and acquire technology. With over $159 million awarded to date, the foundation supports efforts that provide equitable education opportunities, ensuring every child has the chance to learn and succeed, regardless of their background.

The Centers of Biomedical Research Excellence: Development Phase (COBRE-D) program aims to enhance biomedical research capacity in IDeA states, which historically receive low NIH funding. By providing critical support for early-career investigators and essential infrastructure, COBRE-D facilitates a long-term vision for institutions. This initiative not only supplements start-up packages for new hires but also establishes research facilities and improves administrative services, paving the way for less-resourced institutions to transition into the COBRE E/S program.

The Vecino – Neighbor Helping Neighbor Fund, managed by the New Mexico Foundation, aims to support nonprofit organizations facing financial crises and addressing urgent community needs. Since its inception in 2015, it has allocated over $1.1 million to various initiatives. The fund prioritizes rural organizations and requires applicants to be 501(c)(3) nonprofits in good standing or have a suitable fiscal sponsor. Grants will vary based on available funding, reflecting the commitment to transform lives in New Mexico.

The Title XVI Water Reclamation and Reuse Projects, funded by the US Department of the Interior's Bureau of Reclamation, invites proposals for innovative water reuse solutions. This program enhances water supply reliability and supports sustainable practices for urban and agricultural communities. By leveraging Federal and non-Federal resources, the initiative aims to address water scarcity and improve hydropower reliability, aligning with national priorities for energy and resource management.

The WaterSMART Enhancing Water Resources Projects program invites eligible entities to secure funding for initiatives that enhance water resource management across various sectors, including conservation, infrastructure improvement, and watershed restoration. Priority is given to projects that collaboratively address community needs and yield significant environmental benefits. This funding opportunity aligns with federal priorities aimed at optimizing resource use and improving grant oversight, as outlined in recent executive orders.

The New Mexico Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Reinvestment Plan Grants invite proposals for using CMP funds to enhance the quality of life and care for nursing home residents. The program seeks innovative projects that improve resident care, such as training for staff and support for resident councils. Eligible applicants include advocacy organizations and certified long-term care facilities. However, funds cannot address compliance issues or cover standard operating costs. This initiative aims to foster community-based improvements in nursing home environments.

The WaterSMART: Desalination Construction Projects initiative by the Bureau of Reclamation aims to enhance water supply reliability through cooperative funding and support for desalination facilities. This program aligns with federal priorities to improve energy and resource management, encouraging proposals that diversify local water sources. By focusing on innovative solutions to water scarcity, the initiative promotes sustainable water management practices, especially for growing communities facing water shortages.

Catholic Extension provides essential funding to support the construction, expansion, or renovation of churches and community facilities. This initiative aims to meet the facility needs of under-resourced Catholic dioceses across the U.S. By focusing on active projects, Catholic Extension ensures that communities can enhance their worship spaces and support local ministries, ultimately fostering a stronger church community. Funding is available for both minor and major requests, with an emphasis on urgent needs and robust funding strategies.

The Wild Sheep Foundation (WSF) offers Grant-In-Aid (GIA) funding to support conservation and management programs for wild sheep populations across North America and Central Asia. Established in 1977, WSF prioritizes collaborative proposals that involve partners and matching funds. The organization has raised over $130 million for wild sheep conservation, emphasizing scientific management and public education about sustainable hunting practices. GIA funding decisions align with WSF's mission and identified priority goals.

The Wilburforce Foundation Conservation Grants aim to enhance the conservation of vital lands, waters, and wildlife in Western North America. By 2025, their vision is to ensure native wildlife thrives across connected landscapes. The foundation supports organizations dedicated to strategic conservation efforts, focusing on habitat security and wildlife linkages. Grants are available to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and similar entities, fostering initiatives that protect critical wildlife habitats and promote ecological integrity.

The Building Foundation Grants by Catholic Extension aim to support essential pastoral and administrative functions in under-resourced communities. These grants provide salary subsidies and operational funding to ordained, religious, and lay ministers, ensuring access to Catholic services. Prioritizing areas with significant financial need, this initiative seeks to sustain the church's presence where it is most critical, enabling continued ministry and outreach for those who may otherwise be underserved.

The Building Leaders Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the recruitment, education, and ongoing formation of church leaders. This initiative provides critical funding for the professional development of both ordained and lay leaders in mission dioceses. By fostering partnerships with various organizations, it addresses the need for trained ministers and supports various funding areas, including seminarian sponsorship and diaconate formation, ensuring a robust future for church leadership.

The New Mexico Ornithological Society (NMOS) offers two annual research grants, including the $1000 Ryan Beaulieu Research Grant, which honors Ryan Beaulieu and supports non-collection bird research. The NMOS Research Grant also provides $1000 for projects related to New Mexico's avifauna. Both grants require recipients to present their findings at an NMOS Meeting or submit an article to the NMOS Bulletin, with preference given to student applicants.

The Cooperative Marketing Grant Program (NM) fosters collaboration between the New Mexico Tourism Department and local entities to enhance tourism. By providing a co-funded, co-branded marketing platform, the program allows eligible organizations to achieve greater media buying power, extend the New Mexico True brand, and access tailored marketing strategies. Partners benefit from expert service, performance reporting, and additional digital advertising options, all aimed at optimizing their marketing efforts and boosting tourism in New Mexico.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in New Mexico provides crucial funding for developing essential facilities in rural areas, including health care, public safety, and educational services. This program supports eligible communities, including tribal lands, with populations of up to 20,000 residents. Grants cover a significant portion of project costs, ensuring that local governments and nonprofits can improve community services and infrastructure. Applications are accepted year-round, allowing for continuous community development.

The Tourism Event Growth & Sustainability (TEGS) Program offers marketing and technical assistance to boost tourism events in New Mexico. Through the Event Cooperative Marketing initiative, events can secure up to $15,000 in funding with a 2:1 matching investment. Marketing efforts should focus on areas outside New Mexico, with specific advertising guidelines to enhance visibility and reach. Applicants must demonstrate an online presence to qualify for funding.