Best Grants for Community Service Projects in New Mexico

Nonprofits, tribes, public schools, and government agencies in New Mexico can seek funding for community-based initiatives that advance community development and revitalization, education, health, arts, environment, and rural development. With a mission to strengthen New Mexico communities, McCune Charitable Foundation provides support for projects aligned with its nine priority areas and focused on long-term community well-being.

501(c)(3) nonprofits in New Mexico working on basic needs, income creation, stable housing, or community development can apply for Bank of America Charitable Foundation’s Stable Housing and Empowering Communities grants. Funding supports economic mobility and community revitalization for low- and moderate-income residents, which may benefit community service projects serving vulnerable populations.

New Mexico community development and tourism organizations can access funding through the New Mexico Tourism Department to plan and implement sustainable tourism infrastructure projects statewide. Grants up to US $50,000 support ready-to-implement efforts like wayfinding, feasibility and design studies, signage, and other planning work that improves visitor experiences, boosts local economies, and enhances community destinations.

Community development and tourism-focused organizations in New Mexico can seek funding to build or enhance tourism infrastructure, visitor amenities, and destination improvements. Focused on sustainable community development, the New Mexico Tourism Department invites projects that boost visitation, improve resident and visitor experiences, and spur local economic growth with awards from US $5,000 - US $250,000.

Local and tribal governments, municipalities, and nonprofits partnering with a public fiscal agent can seek more than US $250,000 for shovel-ready tourism infrastructure projects in New Mexico. With a mission to strengthen sustainable tourism, New Mexico Tourism Department supports large-scale, community-based projects that boost visitation, enhance resident and visitor experiences, and spur local economic growth.

Tribal governments in New Mexico seeking funding for community development and public infrastructure projects can apply for the Tribal Infrastructure Fund. Grants from the State of New Mexico IAD help address essential needs like water and wastewater systems, roads, and electrical power lines through competitively scored project proposals reviewed by the Tribal Infrastructure Board.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits with established education or health programs can apply for $10,000 - $75,000 from L B Research and Education Foundation to expand proven work, including in New Mexico. Funding supports adolescent through adult education, college success, vocational training, and research-informed physical and mental health initiatives that reduce access and outcome gaps.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with at least three years of operation and a $100,000+ budget can seek funding for workforce preparation, youth development, and community accessibility projects in New Mexico. RBC Foundation USA supports programs building in-demand skills, improving financial stability, and enhancing inclusive community spaces in areas where RBC Wealth Management has a local presence.

New Mexico 501(c)(3) organizations and local government entities can seek funding for community development, food security, education, and agriculture initiatives, including general operations or specific projects. Greenpoint Foundation supports programs that enhance quality of life in local communities and requires impact reports within 6–12 months, with applications accepted year-round.

New Mexico community and economic development organizations working on disaster recovery and preparedness can access funding through the Economic Development Administration’s FY25 Disaster Supplemental program. EDA provides U.S. regions affected by 2023–2024 natural disasters with up to US $50,000,000 for readiness, implementation, or large-scale industry transformation projects that rebuild economies and strengthen long-term community resilience.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development and revitalization projects in New Mexico may be eligible for this funding, with a preference for programs in the Greater St. Louis area. Grants from Crawford Taylor Foundation also support related efforts in education, health, food access, housing, parks, environmental stewardship, animal welfare, and humanitarian relief within the U.S.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Alliance for Social Trust: Trust in Practice Awards

Trust is the foundation of vibrant, resilient communities and healthy civic life. Across the country, local and national organizations are demonstrating the profound ways trust shapes our collective well-being—strengthening relationships between neighbors, cultivating confidence in institutions, and enabling people to work together to solve shared challenges. These efforts are often rooted in the knowledge and leadership of those closest to the work. 

The Trust in Practice Awards support non-profit organizations that are collaborating on new initiatives to build trust across local or virtual communities. Grantees will be part of a national network dedicated to fostering trust through the Alliance for Social Trust’s programs and storytelling platforms. Award recipients will also participate in the annual Trust in Practice Summit to celebrate the work of trust builders.

About NCRC

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition (NCRC) is a nationwide network of nearly 800 organizations and champions working for a Just Economy, where all Americans can build wealth and provide for their families with stability and dignity.

Our vision: To solve America’s historic racial and socio-economic wealth, income and opportunity divides. This vision is the foundation of the Just Economy Pledge.

Fellowship for Equitable Development

The National Community Reinvestment Coalition matches top-level graduate degree students with premiere community development organizations.

NCRC is looking for fellowship projects that move the needle on housing, small business development, and workforce development. Projects may directly result in community outcomes in these focus areas, or involve work with community members to create plans or project pipelines that will solve local issues in these areas.

The NCRC Fellowship cultivates the next generation of community development leaders and empowers them to tackle the issues of tomorrow. The community development sector will face significant challenges in the coming decades from climate change, widening wealth gaps, food insecurities, extreme housing shortages and other needs. These challenges will disproportionately impact low-wealth communities and communities of color. Therefore, it is NCRC’s intention and pledge to uphold the values of community empowerment in the fellowship program.

Interested students and host organizations must apply for this fellowship opportunity.

Program Benefits for Student Fellows Include:

• High-quality training and support from regional leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• A $20,000 stipend for the eight-month, part-time (20-hours per week) fellowship
• The opportunity to meet with leaders in the nonprofit, government, planning and community development fields
• Academic credit, in accordance with the policies of the Fellows’ respective universities
• Complimentary admission to the NCRC annual Just Economy Conference

Program Benefits for Host Organizations Include:

• Fresh, innovative talent to help advance organizational mission
• The opportunity to help shape the next generation of community development leaders
• Participation in a fellowship program at little to no cost

The Process

1. NCRC Members Apply; 2. NCRC Selects Member Projects; 3. Students Apply To Selected Projects; 4. Top Student Candidates Interviewed; 5. NCRC & Member Select Student Fellow; 6. NCRC Onboards Member & Student 7. Fellowship Commences

Student Fellow Applications

Fellow applications will open for eligible students once host projects have been reviewed and finalists selected. Students will apply to be considered for a specific host project. Top student candidates will be interviewed by NCRC as well as the host organization.

Fellow Requirements

• Must provide documentation confirming active enrollment (i.e. Letter of Enrollment from Registrar or transcript)
• Must commit to fellowship for full Period of September 14, 2026-May 14, 2027 academic school year
• Must commit to a 20 hour/week fellowship
• Must commit to a schedule with at least one day per week in-office of host organization

New Mexico community development and service nonprofits can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in education, public health and emergency response, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, and youth and civic leadership. U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations with at least one year of outcomes may receive up to US $10,000, with rolling quarterly reviews.

501(c)(3) public charities running community development, education access, humanitarian, or LDS-aligned programs, including work benefiting New Mexico communities, can seek Strategic Impact Grants for strategic projects. Bertin Family Foundation supports international development, community development, and educational access initiatives, with applications accepted via its Foundant portal in Q3 and funds distributed in Q4.

Nonprofit organizations running community development and financial independence programs in New Mexico can access funding through the St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation, with awards of US $500 - US $5,000. Projects in areas like youth support, homelessness and housing, social services, veterans, and civic or community initiatives may be eligible.

Nonprofit organizations providing youth, housing, social services, veteran support, or civic and community programs, including those serving New Mexico communities, can apply for St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s community support grants; awards US $500 - US $5,000 for community-focused projects. Applicants should align with the foundation’s impact areas and demonstrate service to individuals and families of modest means.

U.S. nonprofit staff leading community development or revitalization projects can receive $500–$1,000 micro grants for new or expanded components that uplift their communities. Focused on empowering unseen leaders, Enhearten Unseen Leaders invites those serving New Mexico and beyond to propose specific, values-driven projects reflecting humility, integrity, and love.

Nonprofit and community organizations running community development, social services, education, or arts programs in New Mexico and other Andersons operating areas can seek support for events and projects. With a mission to enhance quality of life, Andersons Charitable Foundation provides funding for initiatives that strengthen communities, support families, and promote agricultural and environmental stewardship.

The Ferguson Cares Grant is an essential aspect of Ferguson's Sustainability strategy, focusing on social challenges and community wellbeing. This grant supports nonprofit organizations in the U.S. dedicated to affordable housing, skilled trades workforce development, clean water access, and enhancing local economic quality of life. Ferguson aims to create lasting partnerships that drive positive impact within their operational regions, reflecting their commitment to social responsibility and community support.

OneRural provides essential technical assistance to rural organizations, fostering the development of affordable housing and community initiatives. This program offers tailored support, helping organizations enhance their operational capabilities and drive impactful change. By accessing expert resources and training, participants can effectively navigate challenges, improve program outcomes, and strengthen community resilience. This initiative targets nonprofits and tribal entities, ensuring that rural communities receive the guidance needed for sustainable growth and development.

BMO Gives is committed to fostering positive societal impact through community support and charitable initiatives. It focuses on enhancing community and economic resilience, as well as environmental sustainability. Eligible applicants must be registered charities or non-profits operating in Canada or the U.S. and align with BMO's corporate values, which promote inclusivity and non-discrimination. The program aims to support projects that address significant societal needs and empower local communities.