Best Grants for Community Centers in New Mexico

The Bill Armstrong Grant, established by the New Mexico Potters and Clay Artists, honors a founding member dedicated to ceramics education. This annual grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations and educational institutions in New Mexico, providing funding for supplies, artist contracts, and promotional activities related to ceramic art. Awards up to $1000 are available, contingent on Board approval based on merit and specific needs. This initiative fosters creativity and excellence in the clay arts community.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 5) aims to empower small businesses through comprehensive support from the U.S. Department of Transportation. By providing financial and technical assistance, business training, and outreach, the initiative helps small businesses enhance their competitiveness for DOT-funded contracts. This program is vital for fostering economic growth and ensuring small firms are well-prepared to engage in transportation-related projects at various governmental levels.

The Western SARE Graduate Student Research and Education Grant Program supports innovative research and educational outreach in sustainable agriculture. Funded by the USDA, it aims to enhance environmental quality, improve profitability for producers, and uplift rural communities. Projects must involve both research and education components, with proposals authored by graduate students collaborating with their advisors. This initiative fosters communication of results to agricultural professionals, ensuring practical applications for sustainable practices in the Western U.S.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The Rae Lee Siporin Scholarship for Women provides financial assistance to women in New Mexico who are returning to complete their undergraduate degree after a break. Eligible applicants must demonstrate financial need and be enrolled for at least one semester during the 2024-2025 academic year. Awards of up to $1,000 are offered annually to support their educational journey and help them graduate successfully.

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 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 External Collaborative Research Grants by Boehringer Ingelheim support academic and clinical scientists in proposing research studies. These grants facilitate collaboration with Boehringer Ingelheim, which may provide intellectual and financial support. Applicants must assume full responsibility for their research while complying with regulatory standards. The funding should cover research costs, excluding salary support for the collaborative partner. Interested investigators must apply online for consideration.

The Judith Shelton-Gibson Endowment Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to empower students from diverse backgrounds pursuing higher education and professional certifications. This fund supports a wide range of categories, including BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and those with disabilities, ensuring accessibility for all. Scholarships are available for undergraduate and graduate students, as well as vocational training, fostering educational growth throughout the region.

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 Hispanic Scholarship Endowment Fund, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to empower minority students from southern New Mexico by providing scholarships for higher education. This initiative supports students attending New Mexico State University or Dona Ana Community College, promoting inclusivity across various backgrounds, including BIPOC and those with disabilities. The fund emphasizes educational access, catering to diverse paths from vocational training to advanced degrees, fostering a community equipped to thrive.

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 Village at Northrise Endowment Fund Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to support students in their educational pursuits, including undergraduate and vocational programs. This scholarship is open to diverse student groups, including those from BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ communities, as well as individuals with disabilities. By fostering educational opportunities, the fund contributes to the growth and development of individuals and the community in Southern New Mexico.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in New Mexico support rural communities in addressing emergencies threatening safe drinking water access. With funding up to $1 million for water source construction and $150,000 for water transmission line repairs, this program empowers eligible entities like local governments, nonprofits, and tribes. It aims to restore access to clean water, enhance community resilience, and promote environmental sustainability following disasters such as droughts, floods, or chemical spills.

The Anne Ray Internship at the School for Advanced Research (SAR) offers two nine-month positions for recent college graduates and junior museum professionals. Interns gain hands-on experience in educational programming, research, and collections management, while receiving a salary, housing, and professional development opportunities. One internship is specifically designated for an indigenous individual from the U.S. or Canada, emphasizing diversity and community engagement within the museum field.

The Vescovo Automotive Technology Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, aims to support students in their second year of the Automotive Technology Program at Doña Ana Community College. Applicants must maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher and be actively enrolled. This scholarship reflects the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and fostering community development in Southern New Mexico.

The Lowell R. Duhrsen II Memorial Endowment Scholarship, offered by the Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico, supports students pursuing higher education and professional certifications. The scholarship is open to diverse groups, including BiPOC individuals, those with disabilities, and LGBTQIA+ students. It aims to enhance educational opportunities across various fields, reflecting the foundation's mission to improve quality of life in the region through charitable giving and support for meaningful causes.

The Ron and Susan Dubin Native Artist Fellowship, part of the Indian Arts Research Center, provides support for Native American artists through a three-month residency. Artists receive a monthly stipend, housing, studio space, and access to collections, encouraging exploration and creativity in various disciplines including painting, photography, and performance. Applications are open to indigenous individuals from North America, and the fellowship emphasizes traditional artistry, running from June 15 to August 15.

Tobacco Cessation & Prevention Grant Program (TCPP)

In July 2008, IAD received its first allocation from the Tobacco Settlement Revenue Oversight Committee (TSROC), thereby initiating IAD’s administration of a grant program open to tribes.

During the 2025 New Mexico Legislative Session, IAD received an Interagency Transfer Fund Appropriation for up to $249,300 from the Tobacco Settlement Fund. The funds are to support Tobacco Cessation & Prevention Project (TCPP) initiatives for tobacco cessation and prevention programs for Native American communities throughout the state. 

The funding may be used to address tobacco cessation and prevention initiatives that benefit Native American communities in New Mexico. Ideally, eligible projects will focus on culturally appropriate tobacco cessation and prevention initiatives, reducing the use of commercial tobacco and/or increasing the awareness of the harmful effects of vaping. Funds can be used to support emerging programs or expand the capacity of existing programs.

Each year, a Notice of Funding Announcement (NOFA) will be placed on our website notifying all interested parties of new monies available.

Each applying entity is limited to applying for one Tobacco Cessation and Prevention program.

Total Funding Available:

• $249,300.00

The Asian Cultural Council's Graduate Fellowship provides financial support for travel and living expenses to graduate students from Asia studying in the U.S. It offers $15,000 for one academic year, potentially renewable for another year, covering essential costs while pursuing full-time coursework. This initiative fosters international cultural exchange and enhances academic training in the arts. Eligible applicants must be enrolled full-time in accredited graduate programs and commit to at least two consecutive semesters of study.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Texas Methodist Foundation Grant supports innovative and sustainable solutions to improve the quality of life for communities in Texas and New Mexico. Emphasizing faith-based social impact, the grant prioritizes organizations that empower those in poverty through strategic partnerships and measurable outcomes. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations that align with the foundation's mission. This grant cycle offers both competitive and invitation-based funding opportunities aimed at fostering hope, health, and belonging.

Mission & Vision

Mission:

The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Vision:

A community connected to the resources it needs to thrive.

Your Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico (CFSNM) serves as a vehicle for people of all means to make a lasting impact on quality of life in our region now and in the future. Our organization is supported by a broad base of individuals, families, corporations, and institutions connected by the desire to improve Southern New Mexico. We manage over 300 endowments, including 48 non-profit organizational endowments in Southern New Mexico, and are home to over 40 scholarships and nine annual grant cycles. As a center for charitable giving we support the arts, feed the hungry, expand literacy, improve health, and support countless other meaningful causes in the twelve counties including: Catron, Chaves, Doña Ana, Eddy, Grant, Hidalgo, Lea, Lincoln, Luna, Otero, Sierra & Socorro. 

Apply for a Scholarship

Your CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys. 

With a wide range of categories, your CFSNM offers scholarships for everyone including, but not limited to:

• BiPOC
• Students with disabilities
• LGBTQIA+
• Healthcare
• Volunteerism
• CTE, Trade, Vocational
• In-state and out-of-state
• All degree paths for undergraduate to post-grad
• Students returning to school

Myra Covarrubias Special Needs Scholarship

To support a college junior or senior at New Mexico State University majoring in Special Education

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Barry McClure Memorial Scholarship Endowment Fund

Scholarships for post-secondary education for students graduating from a high school in southern New Mexico, participating in a track or golf program or entering a professional golf management program at New Mexico State University.

Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico

Mission: The Community Foundation of Southern New Mexico serves as a community resource, connects donors to needs, and supports charitable organizations in their work.

Scholarships

CFSNM offers scholarships that support students from all walks and stages of life in pursuing various avenues of their educational and professional journeys.

Applicants must be pursuing any avenue of higher education and/or professional certifications. This includes undergraduate, post-grad, vocational and more! Applicants must be actively enrolled as a student. Applicants in high school must be a graduating senior.

Alexis Elle Endowment Fund Scholarship

For single mothers with financial need attending NMSU and/or DACC

2026-2027 AmeriCorps State Request for Applications – AmeriCorps Operational Programs

Funding Overview

The 2026 AmeriCorps Operational Programs competition is to request applications to establish AmeriCorps programs throughout the State of New Mexico to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic participation through service. All updates and amendment notifications will be sent out to those organizations that submit a Notice of Intent to Apply on February 9, 2026.

This funding competition is for AmeriCorps Operational Programs. This opportunity combines the former “Competitive” and “Formula" competitions into one Request for Applications (RFA).From this one RFA, the Serve New Mexico Commission will consider, after a review process, which successful applicants will be considered for the Competitive competition and submitted on behalf of the Serve New Mexico Commission to be considered by AmeriCorps for Funding and which applications will be considered for the “Formula” funding which is provided by AmeriCorps and based on a population-based formula to distribute AmeriCorps funding to each state.Those applications that are selected for the “Competitive” opportunity should note that while the Serve New Mexico Commission will review the received application and conduct a review process designed to identify and determine which programs will be represent the Serve New Mexico Commission, the funding decisions will be made by AmeriCorps.All applicants who are selected for the Competitive, will also be considered for Formula in the event they are not selected for funding by AmeriCorps.There will be a separate competition for Planning Grants, and Operational Programs in the first or second year of funding after the Formula allocations are made available to the states. See RFA 26-631-7004-00103 (below) for Program Year 2026–2027 funding priorities.

The Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.