Best Grants for Preschools in New York

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 MacDowell Fellowship supports artists by providing a nurturing environment for creative work. This prestigious opportunity awards around 300 artists annually across various disciplines, including architecture, literature, and visual arts, based solely on artistic excellence. There are no residency fees, and financial assistance is available for travel and living expenses. MacDowell encourages applications from artists of diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in the arts community.

Rochester Area Community Foundation

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.

Cuvelier Family Scholarship

This scholarship was established in 1995 by Elinor M. Cuvelier, a longtime resident of Wayne County, in honor of her family.

Purpose of Scholarship

• To provide scholarships to high school seniors in Wayne County who will be attending a four-year college or university.

Award Details

• Number of recipients and individual total award amounts vary annually. Award paid over four years of study in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters. 
• Awards may be used for tuition, fees, books, and other expenses associated with higher education.
• This scholarship is renewable up to three times for a total of four awards in four consecutive years.

The New York Lake Champlain Basin Wetland and Floodplain Restoration Projects aim to enhance the ecological health of the Lake Champlain Basin by restoring critical wetlands and floodplains. With approximately $1,300,000 available in funding, this initiative seeks proposals that will improve water quality and support biodiversity. By collaborating with local agencies and organizations, the program emphasizes the conservation of vital habitats, ensuring a sustainable environment for future generations.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program invites proposals for land acquisition or conservation easements in the U.S. portion of the Lake Champlain Basin. The initiative aims to enhance water quality and ecosystems while prioritizing projects that protect native habitats and provide flood resiliency. Funding ranges from $100,000 to $4 million per project, supporting efforts that align with LCBP’s goals, including increasing public access to recreational areas as a secondary benefit.

The Architecture + Design Independent Projects Grants program, a collaboration between the New York State Council on the Arts and The Architectural League of New York, offers 25 grants of $10,000 each for innovative design proposals. Open to individuals and teams in various design fields, including architecture and graphic design, this initiative encourages creative exploration and public engagement with design. Applications will be evaluated by a panel of design experts, ensuring support for impactful projects that advance the discipline.

The NYSAR Community Reuse Grant supports community-based groups, municipalities, businesses, and non-profits in New York State to implement reuse initiatives. This year, $15,000 is available, with each awardee receiving up to $5,000. Notably, projects focusing on recycling or organics will not be considered. Applicants must submit a budget and answer all questions for consideration. Grant winners will be contacted in mid-October and are encouraged to attend the NYSAR3 Annual Conference to receive their awards.

The Battlefield Preservation Fund Grant aims to support initiatives that preserve battlefields and related historic sites. This funding encourages planning and educational efforts, particularly those that engage new audiences in preservation activities. Eligible applicants include public agencies and nonprofits in specified states. Grants can be used for staff support, consultant fees, and educational materials. Applicants must provide a one-to-one match for funding, ensuring strong community involvement in preservation efforts.

The New York State Tribute Foundation Grants support initiatives that enhance understanding of death, dying, and bereavement. By funding educational programs, research, and scholarships, the Foundation aims to improve public awareness and professional practices in these critical areas. Grants range from $500 to $15,000, with an emphasis on projects that align with the Foundation's core values. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations in New York State and individuals pursuing careers in funeral services.

The QM-Jerome Foundation Fellowship supports emerging visual artists in New York City, offering $20,000, mentorship, and professional development. Founded by the Jerome Foundation, the program aids artists at the beginning of their careers, encouraging innovative artistic approaches and risk-taking. The fellowship culminates in solo exhibitions at the Queens Museum in 2027, fostering community engagement and artistic growth among participants while honoring the legacy of philanthropist Jerome Hill.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Liu Shiming Art Foundation provides the Liu Shiming Artist Grants to support artists globally. Eligible applicants must have a degree in studio arts or have held a debut exhibition between 2015 and 2023. The foundation aims to promote understanding of Asian art and culture. Grants of $5,000 total will be awarded in two installments, with notification to successful applicants by December 2, 2025, and the first payment due by January 15, 2026.

The TD Charitable Foundation's Capacity Building Fund empowers nonprofit organizations by providing grants aimed at enhancing their operational capabilities. Established in 2002, this initiative focuses on funding projects that promote job training, arts, and housing assistance, particularly for historically underserved communities. With a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, the foundation seeks to support organizations that align with its TD Ready Commitment drivers, ensuring impactful and sustainable community development.

The New York Yankees' Complimentary Ticket Program offers local organizations the opportunity to enhance community engagement by providing complimentary tickets to non-premium home games. Interested applicants must submit a written request on official letterhead, including their mission statement, the number of tickets requested, preferred game dates, and representative contact information. This initiative aims to strengthen relationships with community partners and improve the quality of life in surrounding neighborhoods.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, initiated by the Arbor Day Foundation, promotes the integration of trees and green spaces into college campuses. By adhering to five key standards, institutions can achieve national recognition while enhancing the well-being of students and the environment. This program not only fosters community pride but also supports sustainability efforts, making campuses healthier and more beautiful for all. Join the movement to cultivate a greener future through education and active participation.

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.

Anna and Lester Swang and Margaret Swang Scholarship

Purpose of Scholarship

To provide scholarship support to graduating high school seniors planning to attend and undergraduate students attending SUNY Potsdam.

Number and Size of Awards

One award of $10,000; paid as $2,500 per year for up to four consecutive years of undergraduate study. Award paid in the Fall and divided equally between the Fall and Spring semesters.

Renewability

This scholarship is renewable up to three times for a total of up to four awards in four consecutive years. Award renewability varies per recipient:

• Graduating high school seniors receive awards that are renewable for a total of four awards in four consecutive years;
• College freshman receive awards that are renewable for a total of three awards in three consecutive years;
• College sophomores receive awards that are renewable for a total of two awards in two consecutive years; and

College juniors receive one-time awards that are not renewable.

The Lake Champlain Basin Program is inviting proposals for its Artist-in-Residence Grant Programs, aimed at fostering innovative projects that engage artists in utilizing scientific and cultural data to enhance the understanding of the region's natural resources. With approximately $80,000 in funding available, grants of up to $40,000 will be awarded to support sustainable AiR programs. This initiative seeks to promote artistic engagement with the Lake Champlain Basin's ecological and historical context.

The Creative Opportunity Fund, managed by A.R.T./New York, offers general operating support grants ranging from $2,000 to $5,000 for small professional theatres in New York State with budgets under $500,000. This initiative aims to promote capacity building and stabilization by providing flexible funding to theatres that face barriers to mainstream funding due to racial, economic, disability, and geographic factors. The fund is a regrant from the New York State Council on the Arts, ensuring broad access to necessary resources.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

What is an eligible area?

• Rural areas outside a city or town with a population of fewer than 50,000 residents. Urbanized areas near a city of 50,000 or more may not be eligible.
• The borrower’s headquarters may be based within a larger city so long as the project service area is located in an eligible rural area.
• The lender may be located anywhere.

 What kind of funding is available? 

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually. Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
• Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

The Folk and Traditional Arts Community Projects Grant, offered by the Mid Atlantic Arts Foundation, supports projects that enhance traditional arts and cultures in the mid-Atlantic region. Non-profit organizations can apply for grants ranging from $1,000 to $5,000, with a required 1:1 match. Eligible activities include performances, workshops, and public art collaborations, particularly those engaging underrepresented communities. This initiative fosters artistic expression and cultural connection across diverse communities.

The Mid Atlantic Tours Grants program supports presenters in the mid-Atlantic region who engage Roster Artists during their project periods. Eligible presenters can receive up to a 50% subsidy for artist compensation, which includes fees, housing, and travel. The application process is straightforward and non-competitive, but early engagement with the artist's tour manager is advised due to limited funding. This initiative fosters a diverse range of performances and community engagement.

The David Whitehouse Research Residency for Scholars at The Corning Museum of Glass offers a unique opportunity for scholars to engage with the museum's extensive glass research resources. Named after former director David Whitehouse, this residency supports research in glass-related topics and provides access to the Rakow Research Library. Residencies, lasting from one to three weeks, include transportation, room, and board, fostering collaboration with museum experts to advance knowledge in the field.

The CTBF: Eager to Learn Grant Program provides essential support for college test preparation and promotes access to trade schools. Aimed at empowering students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds, the program funds organizations that enhance SAT and ACT scores and offer mentorship. Grants, capped at $25,000, focus on equitable opportunities in education, ensuring all students can pursue their optimal paths, whether through college or vocational training.

The Rural Business Development Grants in New York aim to support small rural businesses by providing technical assistance and training. With no maximum grant amount, priority is given to smaller requests. Funded projects can include training, land acquisition, and community development, among others. Eligible areas include rural regions outside urban centers with populations of 50,000 or more. This initiative, funded by USDA Rural Development, fosters economic growth and sustainability in underserved communities.

The Mutual Self-Help Housing Technical Assistance Grants in New York provide essential funding to qualified organizations for local self-help housing projects. These grants enable very-low- and low-income families to construct their own homes with guidance and technical assistance. Eligible applicants include government and private non-profit organizations as well as federally recognized tribes. The program fosters community collaboration and provides families with the skills needed to manage their housing construction efforts effectively.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in New York provides vital funding to develop essential community facilities in rural areas, which include health care, public safety, and educational services. Eligible areas are defined as rural communities with populations of up to 20,000 residents. The program aims to enhance local infrastructure and support community development, helping to improve quality of life for residents while ensuring that funding is accessible based on local median household income levels.

The Water & Waste Disposal Loan & Grant Program in New York provides crucial funding for the development of clean drinking water systems, sewage disposal, solid waste management, and storm water drainage in eligible rural areas. This program supports state and local governments, private nonprofits, and federally-recognized tribes in their efforts to enhance public health and environmental quality. Eligible applicants can use the funds for construction, improvement, and related activities to ensure reliable service delivery.