Best Grants for Children in New York

The Achelis and Bodman Foundation, established in 2015, focuses on grantmaking in New York City and northern New Jersey, addressing critical issues in six program areas: Arts and Culture, Education, Employment, Health, Public Policy, and Youth and Families. Emphasizing support for nonprofit organizations that are tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3), the Foundation aims to improve local communities through impactful grants while prioritizing accountability and excellence in various sectors.

The Cornelia T. Bailey Foundation offers general grants aimed at promoting arts, education, and environmental initiatives. Currently, they are not accepting applications for 2025 but will reopen in January 2026. Eligible organizations must be IRS-registered 501(c)(3) entities serving specific regions, with a focus on environmental, medical, and veterans initiatives. The foundation prioritizes projects that align with its mission and provides opportunities for quality arts programming.

• Glenn W. Bailey: STEM Scholars Grant
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Sprouts
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation STEM Stars
• Glenn W. Bailey Foundation Teen Tech Competition

Our Mission

Our Mission is to foster pathways to success in globally competitive STEM careers for students in the United States.

We want to help ensure that the United States remains a global thought leader in all forms of science, math, and technology by promoting projects which encourage, enhance and advance STEM education in this country and to promote projects which provide career opportunities for individuals with STEM education backgrounds.

The Foundation, formed in 2022, seeks to give students and educators more resources for developing and participating in STEM-based, hands-on learning. As a Foundation, we want to support STEM education programs that are making a difference for students regardless of their background or resources. We want every student in America to have enough exposure to STEM from an early age and to transform our attitudes around STEM subjects. We are working towards changing the narrative that promotes STEM subjects as challenging and difficult to the idea that a broad knowledge of STEM education is imperative for socioeconomic and economic freedom as an adult, for all.

Programs & Partners

STEM Encouragement 

It all begins with an idea. We support educational opportunities ranging in age from children through post-doctoral candidates and beyond to promote STEM learning and initiatives that seek to increase awareness and success in STEM careers in the United States.

Environmental & Climate

We will support Innovative Environmental Projects (IEPs) that utilize interdisciplinary research to identify and address critical environmental problems with cutting-edge, innovative solutions that are scalable and replicable.

Scientific Research

Contribute to advancements in biomedical research and innovation to accelerate the progress in medical research and drug treatment development - specifically for high-mortality, under-funded areas of need such as pancreatic and colon cancers.

Urban & Community Entrepreneurship

Advancing entrepreneurship in moderate-income and underserved communities to help business leaders of today and tomorrow prosper. The focus of this program is to help foster economic empowerment by investing in organizations focusing on one individual, one job, and one business at a time.

The Healthy Lives Grant Program by The New York Community Trust aims to enhance health services for older adults and individuals with disabilities in New York City. It focuses on creating an equitable healthcare system by supporting projects that improve access to care, reduce health disparities, and empower individuals through skill development. The program prioritizes innovative solutions that foster independence and community engagement, ensuring that vulnerable populations receive comprehensive support tailored to their needs.

The McKeen Fund Grant is dedicated to enhancing the lives of vulnerable populations, including seniors and disadvantaged children and families. This private fund supports medical, educational, and social service programs, prioritizing initiatives that cannot secure outside funding. The Fund emphasizes grants for capital projects and specific programs aligned with its mission, while also engaging in direct charitable activities. Organizations eligible must be 501(c)(3) public charities, primarily in Florida, Massachusetts, and New York.

Our Mission

We are dedicated to empowering organizations that promote the arts and develop programs designed to inspire, educate, and engage. Our vision is a world where the arts are not viewed as a luxury or elective, but as a vital part of every individual’s development and well-being.

Through strong community partnerships, we harness the transformative power of the arts to elevate educational outcomes, foster creativity, and enhance quality of life.

We believe in the synergy that arises when artists, educators, advocates, and creatives from all disciplines—musicians, museum professionals, actors, writers, and teachers—come together and collaborate. It is scientifically proven that the arts play a fundamental role in youth development, nurturing healthy brain function, social growth, and emotional resilience.

Aligned with our mission, we also support initiatives that protect and utilize nature as a source of enrichment and healing. Conservation and beautification efforts are not only essential to environmental health but also to individual and community well-being. Research consistently shows that time spent in nature supports both physical and mental health, especially for children. We are committed to partnering with organizations that recognize the vital connection between a thriving natural environment and a thriving population.

Equally important is our dedication to supporting veterans. We recognize the sacrifices made by servicemen and women and believe they deserve meaningful pathways to recovery, healing, and renewed purpose. That’s why we invest in programs that provide therapeutic support, service animals, respite opportunities, and community-centered initiatives that help veterans and their families thrive. Veterans’ well-being is not only a moral imperative but also a cornerstone of a strong, resilient community.

As a charitable foundation, we remain committed to supporting initiatives that drive progress, improve lives, and create lasting, positive impact across the arts, the environment, education, and veteran support.

The P/Arts Program

The P/Arts Program was created to strengthen connections between the philanthropic, arts, and education communities, fostering meaningful collaborations that enrich learning and inspire growth.

Eligible applicants must be accredited 501(c)(3) organizations that integrate visual and/or performing arts education into their work. Through P/Arts, we seek to support programs that:

• Revitalize learning by enhancing and transforming outdated public school curricula.
• Motivate and inspire students of all ages, encouraging curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
• Empower educators by deepening professional development opportunities for teachers, professors, and childcare providers.
• Bridge the gap between school and home, creating continuity in learning and support for children and families.
• Apply evidence-based, arts-based instruction proven to strengthen both academic and personal outcomes.
• Address inequities in education by helping to close the achievement gap and expand access to high-quality learning opportunities.

At its heart, the P/Arts Program reflects our belief that the arts are a powerful driver of educational transformation, unlocking potential not just in the classroom but in entire communities.

The Robin Hood Foundation Grant supports 501(c)(3) organizations in New York City focused on alleviating poverty. This strategic grantmaking initiative partners with promising organizations to create long-term solutions for economic mobility across various life stages. Eligible entities are encouraged to express their interest, as funding opportunities are not available through unsolicited proposals. By fostering collaboration in the community, the Foundation aims to maximize its impact on low-income New Yorkers.

The Sills Family Foundation provides grants to nonprofits focused on early childhood education, environmental justice, arts and culture, and support for families in crisis. They prioritize programs benefiting communities affected by the criminal justice system, as well as refugees and asylees. Grants typically range from $10,000 to $25,000, with an emphasis on systemic change and community-based solutions. The foundation operates primarily in metro New York City and California, accepting applications for one-year grants only.

The Tiger Foundation provides grants to nonprofit organizations in New York City, focusing on Education, Family Support, and Youth Workforce Justice. With no deadlines for Letters of Inquiry, the foundation seeks organizations with measurable outcomes, skilled leadership, and community engagement. Their Seed and Expansion Fund supports innovative early-stage organizations aiming to address unmet needs, ensuring effective services are accessible to low-income families and individuals across the city.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

The William G. McGowan Charitable Fund provides grants focusing on Education, Human Services, and Healthcare initiatives. The fund prioritizes programs with measurable outcomes that aim to alleviate poverty and suffering. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits and align with the fund's mission to create sustainable change. Applications are accepted by invitation only in specific regions, with a rolling deadline. The fund seeks collaborative efforts to maximize impact across its program areas.

The Grief Reach Cycle 3 grant offers $15,000 to U.S.-based 501(c)(3) nonprofits dedicated to supporting grieving children and youth. This funding aims to enhance organizational capacity through strategic planning, volunteer engagement, and collaborative partnerships. Organizations must demonstrate a commitment to providing direct services and align their projects with the grant's focus areas. This competitive opportunity seeks to empower underserved communities by expanding access to vital grief support services.

The Raymond J. and Mary C. Reisert Foundation Grant aims to enhance community well-being by supporting local 501(c)(3) organizations in education, healthcare, and housing initiatives. Grants typically range from $500 to $15,000, with an emphasis on projects in Eastern North Carolina, Long Island, NY, and Central Maine. The foundation has awarded over 300 grants since its inception, reflecting its commitment to impactful community partnerships and ongoing evaluation of funded projects.

The Gordon J. Barnett Memorial Foundation, established in 1955, supports educational initiatives in Florida, Indiana, New York, and Oklahoma. It prioritizes funding for tax-exempt organizations, including primary schools, universities, and trade schools. The foundation does not fund political campaigns or individuals. Grants are aimed at enhancing educational opportunities and preventing cruelty to children and animals, reflecting the foundation's commitment to charitable and educational purposes.

The Harry Sudakoff Foundation Grant supports qualified charities in Sarasota, Florida, focusing on arts, community, education for youth, environment, human services, and science. Established by builder Harry Sudakoff, the foundation prioritizes organizations with a history of support. Grants are restricted to 501(c)(3) entities, excluding individuals and certain funding types like endowments and operating expenses. A commitment to impactful contributions is central to the foundation's mission.

The Cowles Charitable Trust Grant supports initiatives aligned with the philanthropic legacy of Gardner Cowles, Jr. Focused on education, social justice, health, and the arts, it favors organizations recognized as 501(c)(3) by the IRS. The Trust encourages applications for general operating support and seeks partnerships rather than being the sole funder. Notably, it considers applications from established partners and supports efforts in Downstate New York and South Florida, with a preference for diverse funding sources.

The Venable Foundation, a corporate funder, provides grants averaging $10,000 to nonprofits focused on human services, legal support, education, workforce development, youth impact, health, environment, and arts. Funding is targeted at organizations in specific regions, including Washington, DC, Baltimore, New York City, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago, Miami, and Denver, reinforcing equitable opportunities for economically disadvantaged individuals.

The Garman Family Foundation Grant, administered by the Community Foundation for Greater Buffalo, focuses on enhancing mental health, physical wellness, and education, particularly for women and children. With two annual cycles, it supports organizations in Western New York that hold a 501(c)(3) status. Applications are limited to one grant per year, prioritizing impactful initiatives. However, certain funding areas, such as higher education scholarships and political activities, are excluded from consideration.

The Robert & Toni Bader Charitable Foundation, established in 2010, supports projects that align with Jewish ideals in education, science, and the arts. Based in Indianapolis, this foundation has funded initiatives across the United States, addressing various social issues. They do not impose minimum or maximum grant amounts, focusing instead on the project's merit and alignment with their mission. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations, while general operating funds are not provided.

The Frances L. & Edwin L. Cummings Memorial Fund Grant supports organizations in New York City and Northeastern New Jersey focusing on social welfare, education, and health. The Fund prioritizes innovative youth programs and provides funding for new program development, staffing, and capacity building. However, it does not support cultural arts initiatives or programs outside the specified geographic area. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and typically only receive one-year grants.

The Grief Reach: Changemaker Supported Community Expansion Cycle offers up to $110,000 to enhance community programs for grieving children. Organizations are encouraged to innovate and expand their services to better meet community needs. The initiative, in partnership with the Judi’s House/JAG Institute, emphasizes training and resources for effective program evaluation over a three-year period, culminating in impactful community expansion projects.

The Grief Reach grant program, supported by the New York Life Foundation and the National Alliance for Children's Grief, invites innovative community expansion proposals to better serve grieving children. Eligible organizations can apply for funding up to $160,000 to enhance their programs, focusing on unique community needs. By collaborating with the Judi's House/JAG Institute, participants will receive essential training and resources for impactful program evaluation, fostering a supportive environment for children and families facing grief.

The NY Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in underserved communities. It focuses on academic enrichment, offering a variety of services including tutoring, youth development, and health education. The program also encourages family engagement in education, promoting literacy and overall development. This initiative is supported by the New York State Education Department to foster a well-rounded educational experience for children.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

Ameriprise Community Grants focus on supporting nonprofits that enhance community vitality and meet basic needs. With over 120 years of commitment to philanthropy, Ameriprise Financial engages employees in volunteerism and grantmaking. Key giving areas include hunger relief, housing stability, and community development. Priority is given to organizations with active volunteer engagement from Ameriprise advisors and employees, creating a meaningful impact on financial independence and community resilience.

The MGM Resorts Foundation Community Grant Fund supports nonprofit agencies providing essential services in areas such as affordable housing, education, and health. Grants are awarded for a one-year period and focus on regions where MGM Resorts employees live and work. Eligible applicants must comply with diversity policies and serve individuals or families. The foundation does not fund governmental agencies or projects exclusively for medical research. This initiative aims to enhance community well-being through targeted support.

The Mother Cabrini Health Foundation supports healthcare initiatives aimed at vulnerable populations in New York State through the General Fund & Eight Populations Grant Program. This program addresses unmet healthcare needs by funding projects that benefit immigrants, low-income individuals, older adults, and others. Grants typically start at $75,000, promoting direct services while ensuring adherence to the ethical principles of the Roman Catholic Faith.