Best Quality of Life Grants 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 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 Engaging Young Catholics Grants aim to support ministries that provide faith formation to children, teens, young adults, and families. By focusing on the pastoral needs of young Catholics, the program enhances community vibrancy and fosters new leadership within the church. Catholic Extension prioritizes operational support and seed funding for initiatives that develop youth and young adult ministries, ensuring that dioceses can effectively reach and engage younger generations in their faith.

The Building Capacity Grants by Catholic Extension aim to enhance the financial and operational capabilities of dioceses. This initiative focuses on funding projects that promote efficiency, financial stability, and effective fiscal management, ultimately fostering a self-sustaining community. Eligible programs include fundraising development initiatives and operational assessments, ensuring resources are utilized efficiently while supporting professional development for church leadership. This grant empowers dioceses to strengthen their foundations for future growth.

The Francis Grants, established by Catholic Extension, offer funding for significant events in poor mission dioceses, such as the ordination of new Bishops, anniversaries, or papal visits. These grants also support educational endeavors for Bishops. Named in honor of Francis Clement Kelly, Francis Cardinal George OMI, and Pope Francis, the program aims to strengthen the Catholic faith across the U.S. Since 1905, Catholic Extension has invested over $500 million to assist communities in need.

The Outdoor Equity Fund (NM) promotes equitable access to the outdoors for underserved youth in New Mexico. Established in 2019, this initiative offers transformative outdoor experiences that foster a connection to nature while promoting stewardship of the state's lands and waters. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $40,000 support programs that encourage outdoor recreation and career pathways, ensuring that all young people can enjoy the physical and mental benefits of outdoor activities.

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.

Arts Learning in Schools and In Community

New Mexico Arts offers two grant categories for arts education projects with K-12 school-age children: Arts Learning in Schools and Arts Learning in Community. Charter schools and 501 (c) (3) private schools and 501 (c) (3) organizations may apply for themselves. Public schools must apply through the parent-teacher organization if that organization is a 501 (c) (3) or through the school district.

Arts Learning in Schools

Arts Learning in Schools supports a wide range of programs taking place in K-12 schools either during school hours or during after-school programs. These programs may focus on creative process arts activities, arts activities integrated into other content areas, art history, or arts education professional development. In school residencies with individual artists are also included in this category (note: applicants for residencies cannot be individuals and the applicant must be a charter school, 501(c)(3) private school, school district, or 501(c)(3) organization). In school projects (including residencies) may be short-term, mid-length, or long-term.

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 Water and Waste Facility Loans and Grants program aims to provide safe drinking water and waste disposal services to low-income communities on Tribal lands, addressing significant health risks. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized Tribes, state and local governments, and nonprofit organizations. Funding can be used for constructing essential water and waste systems, and while matching funds are typically required, a full grant is possible under certain conditions. Applications are accepted year-round.

The USDA Rural Development program provides essential loans and grants to improve water and waste disposal services in low-income communities, specifically targeting Colonias recognized before 1989. This initiative aims to alleviate health risks associated with inadequate access to safe drinking water and waste management. Eligible applicants include federally-recognized tribes and local governments, with funds supporting the construction of vital infrastructure to ensure community health and sustainability.

The Sabbatical Research and Education Grant, offered by Western SARE, enables faculty worldwide to collaborate with farmers and researchers in the Western U.S. This program focuses on conducting innovative research and educational outreach in underserved regions, with an emphasis on unexplored topics. Grants up to $75,000 are available for projects spanning one year, promoting agricultural sustainability and community involvement.

The Southwest Intervention Fund, managed by the National Trust for Historic Preservation, supports preservation efforts of traditional cultures across Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, West Texas, and Utah. Grants ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 are available for local partners, nonprofits, and government agencies to address emergency threats and promote preservation planning. Eligible projects include archaeological site surveys, public awareness workshops, and legal assistance for cultural resource management, ensuring the protection of vital historic sites.

The SEARCH Grant provides essential support for very small, financially distressed rural communities by funding predevelopment feasibility studies and technical assistance for water and waste disposal projects. Eligible applicants include state and local governments, nonprofits, and federally recognized tribes. Funds can be used for feasibility studies, design analysis, and technical help in securing financial assistance, ensuring improvements in rural infrastructure and community health.

About The American Chestnut Foundation:

Our mission is to return the iconic American chestnut to its native range.

Our vision is a robust eastern forest returned to its splendor.

Small Grants Program

Are you looking for funding to support your American chestnut research? External small grants offer recipients a variety of benefits such as professional development and an expanded network. Grant activities contribute to the continuous renewal and development of faculty and staff, to the education and motivation of students, and achievement of our mutual interest — restoration of the American chestnut. This is a small grants program. TACF does not ordinarily fund projects in excess of $10,000.

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.

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 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 Food and Agricultural Sciences National Needs Graduate and Postgraduate Fellowships program, managed by the USDA's NIFA, aims to enhance the training of new graduate students in food and agricultural sciences. It provides essential funding for master's, DVM, and doctoral students, focusing on developing the next generation of experts to address critical needs in agricultural sciences. This initiative supports U.S. citizens and residents in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the USDA's mission.

The Nationwide Fishing Trap Removal, Assessment, and Prevention (TRAP) Program aims to eliminate derelict fishing traps nationwide. Focused on collaboration, it emphasizes standardized data collection, quantifying impacts, and comprehensive data sharing. With an annual budget of up to $1,475,000, the program supports 6 to 15 projects, providing grants ranging from $50,000 to $200,000 for 18-month initiatives. This effort significantly enhances marine resource conservation by reducing bycatch mortality and removing abandoned traps.

The Frost Foundation, established in 1959, aims to support educational, charitable, and religious initiatives. It prioritizes grant-making for organizations that foster creativity and self-reliance, particularly in New Mexico and Louisiana. The Foundation encourages innovative programs and collaborations that address urgent community needs. Eligible applicants must possess a 501(c)(3) status, ensuring they can effectively utilize funds to create positive change beyond traditional boundaries, while promoting alliances to maximize impact.

The Globe Life Texas Rangers Baseball and Softball Grant Program supports nonprofit baseball and softball initiatives across five states, including Texas and Arkansas. This program aims to enhance youth sports by providing funding for essential needs such as field renovations, equipment, and uniforms. Since 2012, it has awarded over $1.1 million to more than 150 organizations, ensuring children have access to the joy and community of sports. Grants are available to 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth aged 18 and under.

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 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 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 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 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.