Best Grants for Grassroots Organizations in New York

The Edward & Ellen Roche Relief Foundation Grants support nonprofits that assist disadvantaged women and children in New York City. Established in 1953, the foundation prioritizes funding for programs that promote the well-being and self-sufficiency of low-income women and their families, particularly those that focus on job training and placement for unemployed or underemployed women. This targeted approach aims to empower vulnerable populations and foster economic independence.

Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant Round 2

$20 million is available for Round 2 of Community Reforestation (CoRe) grant. The goal of CoRe is to support tree planting projects that will create or restore forested natural areas in urban communities across the state. Projects funded by this grant will directly contribute to the “25 Million Trees Initiative” launched by Governor Hochul in recognition of the importance of trees and forests for climate resiliency and community health. This grant is funded by the Clean Water, Clean Air and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022.

About the CoRe Grant

More than 85% of New York’s population lives in or near an urban community. $20 million is available for municipalities, nonprofits, soil and water conservation districts, Indian Tribes and Nations, and State agencies through the Community Reforestation (CoRe) Grant program for tree planting projects that expand and restore forested natural areas that serve urban populations. 

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Seminarian Studies, funded by UNICO Foundation Inc, offers four scholarships worth $1,000 each to full-time seminarians attending accredited Catholic seminaries in the U.S. Eligible applicants must be U.S. citizens, at least 18 years old, and either reside in specific states or have a UNICO sponsor. This scholarship supports the educational journey of seminarians, reflecting UNICO's commitment to serving the community and promoting Italian American heritage.

The Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The Norfolk Southern Trades on Track SkillPointe Scholarship offers $5,000 scholarships for students pursuing trades education related to the rail industry. Eligible candidates must be enrolled in a post-secondary institution and focused on railway-related trades. With over 1,000 scholarships funded and a mission to close the skills gap, this initiative empowers individuals towards high-demand careers without requiring a four-year degree, ultimately strengthening the workforce and economy.

New York State Office of Mental Health

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) oversees a large multi-faceted mental health system serving nearly 800,000 individuals each year. This includes operating 23 psychiatric centers and overseeing the Nathan S. Kline Institute and New York Psychiatric Institute. OMH regulates and certifies more than 6,500 programs operated by local governments and nonprofit agencies.

Mission

Our mission is to promote the mental health of all New Yorkers, with a particular focus on providing hope and recovery for adults with serious mental illness and children with serious emotional disturbances.

MH253020 Ukraine Refugee Health Program

Many Ukrainians are arriving in the United States with immediate as well as long-term mental health needs. It is critical that mental health providers serving Ukrainian arrivals be knowledgeable of the culture and unique challenges faced by refugees and asylum seekers.

The Office of Mental Health announces funds for the following efforts to support Ukrainian arrivals:

• The promotion of health literacy
• coordination of mental health services
• facilitation of wellness group activities

Applicants must identify the county or counties they intend to serve in their application.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

Mission & Vision

Rochester Area Community Foundation, in partnership with generous philanthropists and community partners, works to improve the quality of life for people who live and work in the eight-county region through its leadership and strategic grantmaking.

Our Mission:

We are cultivating a thriving Greater Rochester region — powered by philanthropy, grounded in community, and sustained across generations.

Our Vision:

We envision a Greater Rochester region transformed by enduring philanthropy, where every person, neighborhood, and future generation can thrive.

Kathleen McElligott Hall Memorial Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide financial assistance to students in upstate New York State to continue their education in the field of nursing.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $3,000; paid as $1,000 per year for up to three consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Donor Information

This scholarship was established as a tribute to Kathy after her untimely death from cancer at the age of 50. A graduate of Mercy High School, Kathy went on receive a degree in nursing. She was a member of the Legal Nurses Association, employed by the New York State Health Department, and provided medical consultations to many local attorneys. In addition to being an excellent nurse, Kathy was a devoted wife and mother, and a true friend to all who knew her.

The New York State My Brother’s Keeper Exemplary School Models and Practices grant aims to address the achievement gap in New York State, particularly for boys and young men of color. This initiative supports the replication of successful educational practices to ensure early learners are prepared for Kindergarten and reading at grade level by third grade. Additionally, it promotes college and career readiness by modeling higher-performing schools with graduation rates exceeding 80%.

The Advanced Course Access (ACA) Program aims to enhance equity in advanced course access for high school students in New York. With a funding allocation of $1.5 million per year, the program supports virtual and blended learning methods to help students in underserved districts gain access to Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate, and dual-credit courses. The initiative seeks to reduce financial burdens on schools while providing targeted support for teachers and students to improve success rates in advanced coursework.

The Promoting Wellness and Healing in Communities Grants, administered by the New York State Office of Mental Health, aim to enhance mental wellness across communities. This initiative focuses on resilience and healing, offering funding of up to $750,000 over three years to support community-based organizations. These grants will facilitate universal prevention strategies, addressing the mental health needs of all New Yorkers and promoting recovery for those facing serious emotional disturbances.

The NYSCA Targeted Opportunities Grant supports the arts and creativity in New York State through various funding opportunities, including Folk and Traditional Arts Apprenticeships, Rehearsal Space for Performing Arts, and Performing Arts Residencies. Grants range from $10,000 to $35,000, depending on the program. Nonprofit organizations must prequalify with the State Financial System to be eligible for funding, ensuring a focus on enhancing artistic diversity across the state.

The New York Bar Foundation Grant Program aims to enhance access to justice and support essential civil legal services in New York. Focused on education, consumer debt, family matters, and racial equity, the foundation provides funding for organizations committed to these causes. Grants facilitate pro-bono resources and educational initiatives, ensuring a more equitable legal system. Established in 1950, the foundation continues to prioritize impactful projects that serve communities in need and advance the rule of law.

The Marilyn Lichtman Foundation supports non-profit organizations that align with its mission of aiding those in need, preserving wildlife, and assisting American armed forces and veterans. Grant applications must comply with Section 501(c)(3) of the IRS code and the foundation's specific guidelines. However, applications from for-profit organizations, political entities, government bodies, and individuals are not accepted. The foundation aims to make a meaningful impact in the community.

The Abelard Foundation, established in 1958, supports progressive social change projects located east of the Mississippi River. With an average grant size of $12,000, they prioritize new initiatives with budgets under $350,000. The foundation emphasizes community organizing, civil rights, and empowering marginalized groups. Eligible applicants must be associated with a nonprofit organization and demonstrate a commitment to local leadership and broader policy connections. The board meets biannually to decide on approximately 15 grants per year, focusing mainly on general support.

The Building Operations and Maintenance Training (PON 5357) program by NYSERDA aims to enhance the skills of operations and maintenance staff to improve energy efficiency in buildings. By providing funding for training initiatives, the program supports building owners and managers in creating a skilled workforce capable of operating energy-efficient systems. Funding can cover up to 90% of project costs, promoting sustainable practices and reducing carbon emissions across New York State.

The Lily Auchincloss Foundation, established in 1997, aims to enhance the quality of life in New York City through grants focused on human services, arts, and environmental initiatives. The foundation supports small to mid-sized organizations across the five boroughs, providing both general operating and program-specific funding. Its Human Services cycle prioritizes organizations dedicated to social change and education, ensuring a positive impact on all residents' lives.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Clean Energy Communities Technical Support Contractor: Cohort Track

Description

NYSERDA seeks a Contractor or Contractor team (referenced collectively as “Contractor”) that will support the Clean Energy Communities (CEC) Cohort Track, a proposed offering within the CEC program focused on local government peer learning cohorts. The CEC Cohort Track collectively engages small groups of local government representatives to delve into a transformative decarbonization topic. Participants will learn and troubleshoot together as they develop individual plans for implementing that decarbonization topic within their communities.

The Contractor will assist NYSERDA in designing and implementing strategies for the CEC Cohort Track. Key responsibilities include:

• Development and delivery of training curriculum and peer learning sessions
• Creation and implementation of mechanisms to incorporate ongoing participant feedback into cohort structure
• Development of case studies and assistance in promoting findings to non-participating local governments
• Assistance in program participants’ planning and implementation

NYSERDA anticipates facilitating at least five cohorts of approximately 10-15 program participants each, with at least one cohort starting each year between 2026 and 2029. Each cohort is anticipated to engage for a duration of 24 months. Cohort topics are intended to have broad impact, whether by transforming municipal operations or procedures, ensuring ongoing emissions reductions activities, promoting community-scale decarbonization, or otherwise setting in motion systematic decarbonization of governmental and/or private building stock.

The Neighborhood and Rural Preservation Programs in New York support community-based not-for-profit organizations to enhance housing accessibility and quality. With over 40 years of service, these programs provide funding for housing rehabilitation, counseling, and crime prevention initiatives. By leveraging public and private resources, they aim to revitalize neighborhoods, improve economic opportunities, and ensure safe and affordable housing for families across the state. This initiative plays a crucial role in addressing housing needs in various communities.

The Marvin R. and Pearl E. Patterson Family Fund Scholarship, offered by the Grand Haven Area Community Foundation, supports students aspiring to study graphic or fine arts, as well as those interested in environmental sciences. Open to high school graduates from the Tri-Cities area, this scholarship considers leadership, community involvement, and academic achievements, although financial need is not a requirement. Applicants must provide transcripts and relevant documents to qualify for this opportunity.

The John Ben Snow Foundation provides funding primarily for tax-exempt organizations in Central New York, focusing on education, arts, community initiatives, and youth programs. Established in 1948, the foundation prioritizes proposals that enhance educational opportunities and reduce barriers for under-resourced individuals. Additionally, it considers projects in environmental and historic preservation, though these areas receive limited funding. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $10,000.

The Enbridge Community Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in North American communities through strategic donations and sponsorships. With funding ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, the grant supports organizations focused on safety, education, environmental stewardship, and Indigenous culture. Enbridge encourages early applications, with decisions typically made within eight weeks. The grant seeks to empower local initiatives that foster community strength, vibrancy, and sustainability.

About Northeast SARE

The Northeast Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) Program offers grants and education to farmers, educators, service providers, researchers and others to address key issues affecting the sustainability of agriculture throughout our region.

The program serves Connecticut, Delaware, Massachusetts, Maryland, Maine, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. The program is administered by Northeast SARE's host institution, the University of Vermont.

Farming Community Grant Program

The Northeast SARE Farming Community Grant applies social science research and education projects that strengthen farming and food systems at the community level.

These projects explore innovative approaches to improving the health and sustainability of agricultural communities in the Northeast. This program supports projects that are grounded in community partnerships and informed by the lived experiences of farmers. It encourages collaboration among farmers, service providers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations to co-create solutions that are responsive to local needs and scalable across the region.

This program encourages innovative solutions to challenges in farming and food systems in the Northeast USA, including but not limited to the areas of: Marketing and business; Crop production; Raising livestock; Aquaculture; Economic and social sustainability; Ecological knowledge; Projects related to climate and/or bioenergy work that provide direct or indirect benefits to farmers,ranchers, and private foresters; and more.

Technical Assistance Program

Applicants and grantees of the Farming Community Grant Program are eligible for Technical Assistance (TA) provided by Northeast SARE’s Technical Assistance Providers.

Funding: This grant is reimbursement based; you must spend money to receive the grant funds.

The Dunkin’ Prom Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to bring joy to teenage patients unable to attend their own prom due to illness. By funding hospitals to host prom-like events, the program ensures these patients experience this significant milestone. Grants typically range from $20,000 to $50,000, supporting the creation of memorable events with themes, food, entertainment, and formal wear for the teens, making a positive impact in their lives.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

Parks & Trails New York

Founded in 1985 by a group of passionate park advocates who believed New York’s magnificent state park system merited its own advocacy group, PTNY’s purview quickly grew to include trails, outdoor recreation, active transportation, and bicycle and pedestrian issues.

Over its tenure, PTNY has successfully prevented the closure of over 100 sites during a critical budget crisis, championed the effort to close gaps in the Erie Canalway Trail, and developed the foundational concepts for the Empire State Trail (EST). Through grants and grassroots support, we’ve directed $10 million to community groups and engaged over one hundred thousand volunteers, ensuring cherished public spaces thrive. Today, these efforts contribute to the remarkable success of nearly 88 million park visits and nearly 10 million annual users on the nation-leading Empire State Trail.

Western New York Trail Town Grants

Background

Administered by Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), and with generous funding provided by the Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Foundation, PTNY will offer $60,000 in competitive grants to support a broader initiative aimed at boosting local economies by leveraging visitation to nearby public lands. The grants can be used to promote place-making efforts, improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists, and implement community-driven projects that prioritize active transportation alternatives for cyclists and pedestrians.

Matching Funds

Trail Town Grants require a local match of at least 10% of the total project budget (not the ask). The entire match may be from in-kind sources (volunteer labor, donated materials, etc.) or may be supplemented by cash. The amount funded through this project must be no more than 90% of the total project budget.

The Liberty Mutual Scholarship, funded by the Liberty Mutual Foundation, offers financial support to students pursuing degrees in industrial hygiene and related fields. Over 30 years, AIHF has awarded over $3.1 million to eligible students. Applicants must be enrolled in specific accredited programs by Fall 2026. The scholarship encourages applications from all qualified students, including those not in listed programs, provided a school administrator submits a justification for their inclusion. Complete applications are due by January 5, 2026.