Best Arts Grants for Nonprofits in New Mexico

The Carl & Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Collections-Related Grants for Nonprofits, aimed at enhancing public interest in art through innovative projects. Grants support exhibitions, academic convenings, research, and catalog publication, focusing on art from the Spanish Americas, digital media, and more. The foundation prioritizes proposals from 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S., particularly from New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas, fostering partnerships that advance art scholarship and cultural engagement.

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 JFLA Mini Grant for Japanese Arts & Culture Program supports projects aimed at enhancing the understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Grants of up to $5,000 are available for qualifying nonprofit organizations. Eligible projects must occur in the 13 states west of the Rocky Mountains and focus on fostering U.S.-Japan collaborations through various artistic mediums. Notably, applicants must be designated 501(c)(3) organizations and adhere to specific funding guidelines.

The Labcorp Charitable Foundation, a private 501(c)(3) entity, aims to enhance healthcare access and education for all. With grant opportunities focusing on food programs, healthcare services for underserved populations, and STEM initiatives, it seeks to support community health and well-being. Organizations eligible for funding must be U.S.-based and hold tax-exempt status. Requests are reviewed biannually, in March and September, to foster impactful community projects.

The New Mexico Humanities Council offers Subaward Grants aimed at supporting humanities-focused nonprofit organizations, tribal governments, and governmental institutions. Grants are limited to $2,000 and are designed to foster publicly accessible projects that promote dialogue and inquiry in communities. Interested applicants must schedule a consultation with NMHC staff and submit an eligibility screening form. The funding process is responsive, aiming to reduce the time between application submission and initial payment.

The Semnani Family Foundation, established in 1993, is dedicated to supporting marginalized communities worldwide through health, education, and disaster relief initiatives. Founded by Khosrow and Ghazaleh Semnani, it began by funding an orphanage in Romania. The foundation also operates locally, providing free healthcare through the Maliheh Free Clinic in Utah. Its commitment to human welfare drives impactful partnerships in countries such as Afghanistan, India, and South Africa, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.

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 Carl and Marilynn Thoma Foundation offers Special Project Funding to support innovative initiatives in the arts, particularly in under-resourced areas. This grant encourages collaborative projects that enhance community engagement and education, focusing on art exhibitions and scholarships in the greater Texas Panhandle. By fostering leadership and creativity, the Foundation aims to empower individuals and organizations to make a lasting impact in the fields of art and art history.

The El Paso Community Foundation Grant supports innovative philanthropic projects in the El Paso region, including far west Texas, southern New Mexico, and northern Chihuahua, Mexico. Established in 1977, the foundation has awarded over $167 million in grants to address community needs. Key focus areas include arts, education, health, and economic development. Priorities include collaboration and impactful projects, while avoiding grants for individuals, capital campaigns, or religious purposes.

The Kerr Foundation Inc. offers grants to 501(c)3 organizations, focusing on education, arts, health, and human services. Priority is given to Oklahoma entities, but applications from neighboring states and Washington D.C. are also accepted. The foundation supports various project types, including capital, program, and operating expenses. Note that back-to-back grants are not allowed, enforcing a three-year gap for reapplication after funding. This ensures a broad and impactful reach for community development.

The Nusenda Community Rewards Giving program, established by the Nusenda Foundation, supports nonprofit organizations and public schools in New Mexico. Grants range from $2,500 to $15,000, aimed at enhancing education, healthcare, environmental initiatives, the arts, and community services. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) or public schools, serving specific New Mexico areas. The foundation emphasizes alignment with its values and the impact of proposed programs. For more details, visit the FAQs on their website.

The McCune Charitable Foundation Grant supports community-driven initiatives in New Mexico aligned with nine key priorities focused on enhancing local well-being. Funding is available for 501(c)(3) nonprofits, tribal organizations, public schools, and government agencies that foster collaboration across various sectors. The foundation emphasizes community involvement and aims to build sustainable programs addressing economic development, education, health care, and arts engagement, thereby creating lasting impacts in underrepresented communities.

The TourWest Grants, funded by the National Endowment for the Arts, aim to support presenters and organizations in the Western region by providing flexible funding for touring artists. This competitive grant encourages community engagement and outreach, fostering collaboration between artists and local communities. It prioritizes accessibility to the performing arts, especially in underserved areas. Applicants must be tax-exempt organizations or local government units and demonstrate a commitment to community needs through their projects.

The Devasthali Family Foundation Fund, established in 2011 by Drs. Ammu and Rama Devasthali, supports arts, education, and child hunger initiatives in Southern New Mexico. This fund encourages nonprofit organizations across twelve counties to apply for funding, fostering positive community impact. The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico has been a pivotal resource for charitable giving, enhancing the quality of life and supporting meaningful causes throughout the region.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

The Competitive Community Grants - Spring Cycle invites proposals from organizations in Santa Fe, Mora, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel counties. Focus areas include civic and economic opportunities, health and human services, and empowerment of Black futures. The program supports initiatives that promote workforce development, affordable housing, food security, and community engagement. Grants range from $5,000 to $20,000 based on annual budget, fostering impactful change in local communities.

Santa Fe Community Foundation

The Santa Fe Community Foundation inspires philanthropic generosity, strengthens nonprofits, and fosters positive change to build a more vibrant, healthy, and resilient region. We envision a thriving northern New Mexico, where all people can find opportunity, build connections, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

Funding for community nonprofits

The Santa Fe Community Foundation provides several opportunities for eligible nonprofits—both statewide and in our funding region (Santa Fe, Mora, Rio Arriba, and San Miguel counties).

Empower! Black Futures Community Fund

Black life, arts, and culture will be uplifted through grant making to nonprofits in the state of New Mexico.

We will support organizations that work on:

• Promoting community development through capacity building, strategic planning, professional development, and collaborative exploration.
• Fostering Black artistic expression and preserving cultural heritage through the presentation of diverse and emerging artists, the documentation and archiving of Black history, and the promoting of cultural exchange and community dialogue.
• Building financial literacy through the creation and distribution of financial resources, and providing real-world classes, counseling, and hands-on experiences to targeted businesses and families.

Grant Sizes

We offer $5,000, $10,000, $15,000, or $20,000 general operating support depending on your annual budget:

• Organizations with an annual budget up to $50,000 may apply for a $5,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $50,001 - $150,000 may apply for a $10,000 grant;
• Organizations with an annual budget between $150,001 - $500,000 may apply for a $15,000 grant; and
• Organizations with an annual budget of $500,001 or more may apply for a $20,000 grant.

The Albuquerque Community Foundation offers Field of Interest Grants to support diverse nonprofit organizations in the Greater Albuquerque Metropolitan Area. Annually, grants ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 are awarded to initiatives in arts, education, environmental preservation, economic development, human services, health, and animal welfare. Organizations must have a minimum three-year history and align with the Foundation's values and fields of interest, ensuring impactful contributions to the community.

The Dr. Robert Palmer Grant Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, supports non-profit organizations in Luna County, NM. This funding aims to enhance the well-being of local residents through various initiatives, including education, health, and arts. The foundation has been a vital resource for community improvement for 35 years, fostering collaboration and empowering projects that create positive change. Grants are available for both new and ongoing projects that demonstrate measurable outcomes.

The Wellness Fund Grant, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to enhance maternal and child health outcomes in the region. Non-profit organizations in Doña Ana, Hidalgo, Grant, Lincoln, Luna, Otero, and Sierra counties are encouraged to apply for funding. The grant supports various initiatives, including educational programs, direct services, and wellness prevention. With funding typically ranging from $3,000 to $10,000 annually, this initiative seeks to foster positive community health impacts.

The Courageous Innovation Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, celebrates nonprofits that utilize bold and innovative strategies to tackle persistent issues in northern New Mexico. Nominations are open to all community members, including nonprofit staff and volunteers, until May 8, 2026. This prestigious award reflects the Foundation's commitment to fostering positive change and supporting organizations that align with its funding priorities, such as Arts, Education, and Health.

The Quiet Inspiration Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, recognizes nonprofits in northern New Mexico that have quietly made impactful contributions to their communities over at least three years. The award celebrates organizations that build trust and support among diverse groups while aligning with the Foundation's funding priorities. Nominations are open until May 8, 2026, inviting all community members to honor these vital contributors.

The Resiliency Award, presented by the Santa Fe Community Foundation, honors nonprofit organizations that enhance the resilience of vulnerable communities facing challenges such as natural disasters and public health crises. This annual award, part of the 40th Piñon Awards, seeks nominations from community members and aims to recognize organizations with a strong track record in northern New Mexico. Eligible nonprofits must have operated for at least three years and align with the Foundation's funding priorities.

About Us

The Santa Fe Community Foundation inspires philanthropic generosity, strengthens nonprofits, and fosters positive change to build a more vibrant, healthy, and resilient region. We envision a thriving northern New Mexico, where all people can find opportunity, build connections, and contribute to the well-being of their communities.

Piñon Awards

Now in its 40th year, our annual Piñon Awards recognize local nonprofits making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. First held in a board member’s living room, the awards ceremony has become a beloved fall tradition filling the La Fonda ballroom with supporters, community leaders, and friends new and old. Thank you for joining us in honoring the nonprofit leaders who make our region a better place for all.

Each year, the Santa Fe Community Foundation proudly presents Piñon Awards to nonprofit organizations making extraordinary contributions to northern New Mexico communities. We are currently accepting nominations for our 40th Annual Piñon Awards through Friday, May 8, 2026.

Tried & True Award

An organization that has served the community for over a decade with consistent and high-quality programs, services, and opportunities despite changes in the external environment.

The Rainbow Fund Grant aims to enhance LGBTQIA+ life in Southern New Mexico by awarding funds to nonprofit organizations dedicated to this community. Supported by local individuals and businesses, the fund focuses on improving mental and physical health, fostering the arts, and addressing the needs of youth and the elderly. Grants will facilitate essential services, ensuring a lasting impact and collaboration among LGBTQIA+ groups in the region.

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.