Best Grants for Preschools in New York

Nuvance Health is committed to enhancing community well-being through strategic sponsorships. By partnering with nonprofit organizations, Nuvance Health promotes initiatives that align with its mission of providing exceptional healthcare. Eligible organizations must be not-for-profit, located near Nuvance Health facilities, and support the health system's goals. However, Nuvance Health does not sponsor individuals, political events, or groups lacking direct community benefit. This commitment reflects Nuvance's dedication to fostering health and wellness in the Hudson Valley and Western Connecticut.

The Keyholder Residency at Lower East Side Printshop offers emerging artists free 24-hour access to printmaking facilities, fostering artistic development. Participants can create new works in a collaborative environment, receiving a $1,000 stipend and basic supplies. This program encourages artists without studio access to apply, providing opportunities for exhibitions and professional growth while ensuring a supportive community in New York City.

The Connect Kids to Parks Field Trip Grant Program offers financial support to New York's school age children (pre-K through grade 12) by reimbursing transportation costs for educational field trips to nature and historic sites. Eligible applicants must register in SFS and, if a not-for-profit, must be prequalified. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis, and submissions must be made at least six weeks prior to the trip.

The Golden Foundation Residency, offered by the Sam and Adele Golden Foundation for the Arts, aims to support professional artists over 25 who work with paint. This program encourages exploration of innovative materials and technologies, providing a platform for artists to expand their creative expression. With six four-week sessions available this year, each accommodating up to three artists, the residency focuses on new methods in art-making, introducing residents to advanced techniques and resources.

The Agriculture Energy Audit Program, offered by NYSERDA, assists eligible farms in New York with energy efficiency measures through no-cost energy audits conducted by Flexible Technical Assistance Consultants. This program supports various farm types, including dairies and greenhouses, and provides benchmarking reports for greenhouse facilities. By promoting energy efficiency, the program aims to help farmers save money and reduce fossil fuel dependence, contributing to environmental sustainability.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Environmental Justice Community Impact Grant Program, offered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, aims to empower communities in addressing environmental issues and health hazards. By providing competitive grants, the program supports not-for-profit organizations in implementing projects that mitigate exposure to environmental harms, fostering community consensus and enhancing public outreach and education. This initiative is vital for promoting environmental justice and improving the quality of life in affected communities.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

The Snowmobile Trail Grant Program in New York allocates funds to local governments for developing and maintaining designated snowmobile trails within the State Snowmobile Trail System. Administered by the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, this program ensures that only trails with Phase I approval are eligible for funding. Key deadlines include the Pre-Proposal for Phase 1 and the Full Proposal for Phase 2, emphasizing the structured approach to trail funding.

The Milton Fisher Scholarship for Innovation and Creativity is a four-year renewable award aimed at high school seniors and first-time college freshmen who demonstrate exceptional innovation and creativity. Unlike traditional scholarships that prioritize academic achievement, this scholarship seeks to reward students who have solved problems creatively, whether in the arts, sciences, or community challenges. It encourages innovative thinkers from Connecticut or New York City to pursue their higher education goals.

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley 

Community Foundations of the Hudson Valley (CFHV) empowers individuals, families, businesses, and organizations to fulfill their philanthropic goals through the establishment of charitable funds that support the needs of Dutchess, Putnam and Ulster counties. With over $100 million in assets, CFHV manages nearly 600 charitable funds and has distributed more than $777 million in grants and scholarships since January 2000. We lead initiatives to address urgent community needs such as food insecurity and educational challenges, offering both immediate relief and long-term support.

H. Normington Schofield Scholarship

Established by the family and friends of Norm Schofield, scholarships are available to graduating seniors of Beacon High School, John Jay High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School and Our Lady of Lourdes High School planning to major in environmental studies or education.

Type of Award

One-time scholarship payable to school.

Current High School

Beacon High School, John Jay High School, Our Lady of Lourdes High School, Roy C. Ketcham High School

The Brownfield Opportunity Area Program in New York aims to revitalize underutilized and contaminated properties, enhancing community investment and growth. Managed by the New York State Department of State, the program provides grants and technical assistance to develop strategic redevelopment plans. This initiative targets areas with known contamination, especially in disadvantaged communities, transforming them into valuable assets that promote economic development and improve quality of life for residents.

The Smart Growth Community Planning Program, managed by the New York State Department of State, aims to enhance community planning by integrating Smart Growth principles. This program supports the development of comprehensive plans and zoning codes that prioritize equity, economic development, environmental stewardship, and energy efficiency. By fostering inclusivity and sustainability, it empowers communities to create vibrant, livable spaces that cater to diverse populations and promote long-term resilience.

The NYSCA Reserve Fund Grants (RFG) aim to provide financial support to nonprofit arts organizations in New York State, helping them establish or enhance reserve funds. With grant amounts ranging from $10,000 to $75,000, eligible organizations must have a budget under $3 million and have received NYSCA funding in the past three years. The initiative addresses industry volatility, offering not only funds but also supplementary services to ensure long-term sustainability.

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 AHC New Construction Request for Proposals aims to enhance homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income families in New York. Through grants, the Affordable Housing Corporation supports the construction and renovation of homes, encouraging community development. Grants of up to $75,000 per unit are available for new homes, rehabilitation, and improvements, promoting affordability and stability in the housing market. Applications are accepted until funding is fully allocated.

The AHC Home Improvement Request for Proposals aims to enhance homeownership opportunities for low and moderate-income families in New York. Through grants of up to $75,000, the program supports governmental and non-profit organizations in promoting affordable housing, community stabilization, and home renovations. Eligible applicants include municipalities and charitable organizations dedicated to affordable housing. This initiative addresses the critical need for affordable homeownership alternatives and encourages the development of viable housing solutions.

The AHC Acquisition & Rehabilitation RFP aims to enhance homeownership opportunities for low- and moderate-income families in New York. By providing grants up to $75,000 for various project types, including new constructions and home renovations, the program fosters community development and stability. Eligible applicants include municipalities and not-for-profit organizations dedicated to affordable housing. This initiative is essential for ensuring sustainable living conditions and promoting homeownership alternatives in the local market.

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 Honda USA Foundation's Mobility Pillar Award aims to empower individuals with disabilities by funding programs that enhance access and mobility. The foundation supports nonprofit organizations and schools that provide therapeutic, adaptive, and comprehensive care programs, as well as mobility modifications and assistive technology. Applications are accepted from U.S.-based organizations with 501(c)(3) status or fiscal sponsors, ensuring that the joy of mobility is accessible to all.

The Environment Pillar Award by Honda supports nonprofit organizations and schools in the U.S. focused on sustainability. Grants aim to reduce environmental impact through programs in decarbonization, clean energy, and efficient resource use. Eligible projects must align with Honda's mission and primarily benefit communities where Honda associates live and work. Organizations can apply for up to two grants, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria, including tax-exempt status under the IRS.

The Programmatic Support - Education Pillar Award by Honda aims to enhance workforce readiness in the manufacturing sector. It supports nonprofit organizations and schools focused on hands-on programs in design, software/data analytics, and AI/machine learning. Eligible applicants must be US-based and have 501(c)(3) status. The initiative prioritizes projects that train individuals for manufacturing roles, develop technical skills, and introduce automation to prepare for evolving industry demands, ultimately fostering economic prosperity in local communities.

The Liberty Partnerships Program, initiated by the New York State Education Department, aims to foster partnerships among Institutions of Higher Education and communities to support at-risk students. By providing essential services such as tutoring, counseling, and mentoring, the program seeks to enhance student engagement and reduce dropout rates. Through collaborative efforts, this initiative promotes innovative educational strategies that empower students to take active roles in their learning journey.

The McKinney-Vento Competitive Grant Program in New York supports educational initiatives for homeless children and youth, ensuring they have equal access to quality education. Funded by the New York State Education Department, the program allocates substantial financial resources to local educational agencies based on the number of identified homeless students. This grant is pivotal in providing essential services like tutoring, health care, and transportation, ultimately promoting academic success and stability for vulnerable populations.

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.

Harkness Foundation for Dance

The Harkness Foundation for Dance is a private grant-making foundation dedicated to invigorating and supporting the dance art form, predominantly in New York City. Since its inception the Foundation has contributed significantly to the dance field, extending grants to over 660 organizations and fiscally-sponsored artists. The Harkness Board of Trustees meets three times annually to consider proposals. The Foundation stands in solidarity with social and racial justice work in the dance field, and we are committed to ongoing evaluation of equitable practices in our grantmaking.

There are four major areas of support:

• Dance creation
• Dance presentation
• Dance education
• Dance medicine/other services to the dance field

Project Grants

Project grants provide targeted support for specific projects. Pilot projects and collaborative projects involving multiple organizations may also be considered.

The Hudson River Fund Research Grant, provided by the Hudson River Foundation, aims to support innovative research that explores the complex interactions within the Hudson River ecosystem. This grant focuses on projects that are scientifically significant and relevant to public policy and resource management in the Hudson River watershed. Established in 1981, the Foundation seeks to enhance public access and understanding of the River's ecological systems while promoting sound environmental policies.