Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in New York

The Josh Allyn Scholarship, established by Josh Allyn, provides financial support to students from specific districts in New York who plan to pursue a degree in agriculture, food science, or engineering, or come from farming families. This scholarship is renewable for up to four years, contingent upon maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0 and proof of enrollment. Scholarships play a crucial role in advancing educational equity and opportunities for students in the region.

The New York State Historic Marker Grant Program, initiated by the William G. Pomeroy Foundation, aims to preserve local history through the installation of historical markers. This program celebrates significant events, people, and places from 1683 to 1925, having funded over 1,150 markers statewide since 2006. Applicants must provide detailed historical documentation to ensure accuracy, as well as adhere to specific placement guidelines to enhance community engagement and tourism.

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 WGPF: Legends & Lore Marker Grant Program celebrates and promotes local folklore, legends, and folklife as vital aspects of cultural heritage. Targeted at 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities across 14 US states, it aims to enhance cultural tourism by commemorating community stories. Successful applications typically focus on folktales, historical legends, and community traditions, while excluding purely literary works or personal folklore that lacks broader community significance.

The Hillrom Scholarship Fund, established by Hillrom/Welch Allyn, aims to support the educational aspirations of graduating seniors who are children or grandchildren of employees from the Skaneateles Falls facility. This initiative promotes equitable access to education, particularly for students pursuing studies in STEAM fields at accredited colleges or universities. By focusing on academic excellence and community involvement, the fund seeks to empower future leaders and enhance opportunities for personal and professional growth.

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 New York State Office of Mental Health is offering funding through the HealthySteps RFP to enhance the implementation of the HealthySteps program. This evidence-based initiative targets young children (0-3 years) and their families in pediatric healthcare settings, ensuring non-stigmatizing and universal access. Up to 50 awards will be granted statewide, promoting early childhood development and supportive family services.

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 Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Veterinary Studies, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for students pursuing veterinary studies at accredited U.S. colleges. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens, enrolled full-time, and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or higher. This opportunity supports diverse applicants and emphasizes community service, reflecting UNICO's commitment to Italian American heritage and educational advancement.

The Andrew M. Greller Graduate Student Research Award, established by the Torrey Botanical Society, supports graduate students conducting research on local flora and ecosystems within 100 miles of New York City. This award, honoring Dr. Andrew M. Greller, provides $1,000 annually to assist with field and laboratory work costs, fostering conservation efforts and advancing the understanding of plant life in urban environments.

The Starseed Foundation Grant offers support to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on enhancing the arts, environmental protection, literacy, and social services. Grants are available to organizations throughout the United States, with a specific emphasis on programs based in Oregon. Interested parties must first submit a Letter of Inquiry to be considered for funding. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for underserved communities through cultural and educational enrichment.

The FDC Foundation, established in 2008, is a private non-profit dedicated to providing grants to 501(c)(3) public charities across three main areas: Health & Nutrition, Education, and Housing. The foundation supports initiatives that improve nutrition, assist diabetic individuals, enhance early childhood development, and promote housing opportunities for those in need. However, it does not fund for-profit entities or international organizations, nor does it provide grants for specific excluded purposes.

The Ralph J. Torraco Scholarship for Special Education, offered by the UNICO Foundation, provides two scholarships of $2,500 each for U.S. students pursuing degrees in Special Education. Eligible candidates must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 and plan to continue their studies into the 2026-2027 academic year. This scholarship supports students with various disabilities, ensuring that education is accessible and equitable for all.

The Bayard Long Award supports students researching plant species in the Philadelphia area and surrounding regions. With a typical funding of $2000, it encourages studies that enhance understanding of local flora, including field and herbarium work. Eligible projects must include at least one native plant species, promoting both academic and practical botanical endeavors. This opportunity is available to all students enrolled in degree programs at any post-secondary institution, furthering educational and scientific exploration in botany.

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.

Meland Foundation Nursing Scholarship

The Meland Foundation grants funding for scholarships to nurses in the NJ-NY-CT-PA area with BSN degrees wishing to pursue Nurse Practitioner, MSN, and DNP degrees with a pediatric specialty and who share the vision of the Foundation.

The Meland Foundation — founded by a beloved pediatrician who built a successful family medical practice in Northern New Jersey — provides and supports inspirational and informational programs to enhance the ability of families to care for loved ones and to provide hope to patients and their caregivers.

The amount of each nursing scholarship is between $2,000 and $5,000.

Scholarships are granted annually.

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC)

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) was created on July 1, 1970 to combine all state programs designed to protect and enhance the environment into a single agency. 

"To conserve, improve and protect New York's natural resources and environment and to prevent, abate and control water, land and air pollution, in order to enhance the health, safety and welfare of the people of the state and their overall economic and social well-being." DEC's goal is to achieve this mission through the simultaneous pursuit of environmental quality, public health, economic prosperity and social well-being, including environmental justice and the empowerment of individuals to participate in environmental decisions that affect their lives.

Open Space Conservation Grant Program

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) is pleased to announce availability of at least $25,000,000 from the Clean Water, Clean Air, and Green Jobs Environmental Bond Act of 2022 (Bond Act) and the NYS Environmental Protection Fund (EPF). New York offers incredible recreational and outdoor opportunities, from the majestic Adirondack High Peaks to the awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. However, some communities, particularly underserved ones, lack access to green spaces that provide significant community benefits. The goal of this grant program is to provide funding for land conservation partners across New York State. Bids are invited for grant funding to acquire land for the purpose of open space conservation and preservation.  

• The purpose of this grant program is to support land conservation in order to: 
• protect air and water quality;
• provide habitat connectivity;
• preserve diverse ecosystems;
• mitigate the impacts of climate change;
• provide equitable access to open space and recreational opportunities; and
• promote resilient communities.

The NYSCA/GHHN Preservation Supplies Grant, funded by the New York State Council on the Arts and the Greater Hudson Heritage Network, provides financial assistance for collection management supplies to museums and cultural organizations in New York State. Eligible applicants can request up to $650 to purchase essential materials, such as storage boxes and acid-free tissue paper, to support the preservation of their collections. This grant aims to enhance the care and management of historical artifacts across the state.

The Scott Ralls Fund Grant, administered by the American Camping Association, NY and NJ, supports capital improvement projects for nonprofit accredited camps. Established in honor of Scott Ralls, a dedicated advocate for the camp industry, the fund has distributed over $372,000 to enhance the camp experience. Eligible applicants must be nonprofit accredited member camps, with a preference for projects that are standalone and can be completed within a year.

The Edna A. Lauterbach Scholarship, established by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, supports non-traditional age nurses in New York State seeking business-related education to enhance their skills. Since 1968, CFGCR has empowered generous individuals to contribute meaningfully to their communities. This scholarship honors Edna A. Lauterbach, a dedicated RN and former leader in healthcare, ensuring that registered and licensed practical nurses can continue their professional development.

The Bernard and Carolyn Torraco Memorial Nursing Scholarships, funded by the UNICO Foundation, offer $2,500 scholarships to students pursuing accredited nursing programs in the United States. These scholarships support nursing students of all ethnicities who demonstrate financial need and maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0. Eligible candidates must be U.S. citizens and enrolled in a campus-based program, with a focus on continuing their studies within the academic year 2025-2026.

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 Indian Environmental General Assistance Program (GAP), administered by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), provides crucial funding to tribal governments and intertribal consortia for developing environmental protection programs. Since 1992, GAP has focused on remediation of pollutants and, more recently, supports climate adaptation initiatives. The program emphasizes tribal sovereignty while aiding in capacity building, policymaking, and establishing joint EPA-Tribal Environmental Plans to effectively address environmental challenges faced by tribal communities.

New York State Council on the Arts

NYSCA upholds the right of all New Yorkers to experience the vital contributions the arts make to our communities, education, economic development and quality of life. NYSCA funding supports the visual, literary, media and performing arts and includes dedicated support for arts education and underserved communities. NYSCA further advances New York's creative culture by hosting convenings with leaders in the field and providing organizational and professional development opportunities and informational resources.

Our Mission: To foster and advance the full breadth of New York State’s arts, culture, and creativity for all.

State of the Arts Fellowship

The State of the Arts Fellowship is a new initiative of Governor Hochul to embed artists within New York State agencies to use their creative and collaborative arts practices to develop inspired solutions to pressing social and civic questions.

The Fellowship aims to foster collaboration between artists and public agencies, creating new avenues for communication and connection across geographic, cultural, and political boundaries, and to highlight the potential for innovative, cross-disciplinary solutions that are both creative and impactful for communities. Artists are vital to New York as creative problem solvers, socially engaged individuals, and storytellers who humanize societal challenges through their work.

NYSCA will place one (1) artist fellow at each of three (3) host agencies to address important solve-for questions at the core each agency’s public service mission.

Each fellowship will vary greatly in concept, scope, duration, and populations engaged. Artists who can maneuver through different situations and populations are encouraged to apply. Successes will be driven by the openness of the host agencies and the artist-led, collaborative process provided by the State of the Arts Fellowship program framework.

New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities

The New York State Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for coordinating services for New Yorkers with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism spectrum disorders, Prader-Willi syndrome and other neurological impairments. We provide services directly and through a network of approximately 450 nonprofit service providing agencies.

Community Transition Initiative for People With Developmental Disabilities

OPWDD is working to finalize the 2025-26 Community Transition Initiative for People with Developmental Disabilities. OPWDD will require the submission of a completed attestation from the participating providers.​

A community transitional funding payment will be made by the Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (“OPWDD”) to qualifying Providers for person(s) they are willing and able to support and who qualify as follows:

Community Transitional Funding Payment of $100,000 for each person who:

• Has completed or will complete by August 2026 their educational program from an approved residential school placement and are unmatched from previously issued Letter of Intent (LOI) and/or Certified Residential Opportunity (CRO) Referrals and will be served in an existing vacant opportunity; and
• Has been reviewed and approved by the Regional Office.

Community Transitional Funding Payment of $200,000 for each person who:

• Has been deemed ready for discharge from an Intensive Treatment Facility (ITO), is on the CRO list, is unmatched with a provider and will be served in an existing vacant opportunity;
• Has been in the hospital as of 12/31/25 and been deemed ready for discharge, is on the CRO list, is unmatched with a provider and will be served in an existing vacant opportunity; or
• Is a Willowbrook class member who has been discharged to a Skilled Nursing Facility (SNF) and has indicated a desire to return to the community and will be served in an existing facility.
• All people must be reviewed and approved by the Regional Office.

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.

Youth and Teen Mental Health First Aid Statewide Training RFP

The New York State Office of Mental Health (OMH) announces the availability of funds for the creation and/or expansion of Youth Mental Health First Aid (YMHFA) and Teen Mental Health First Aid (tMHFA) statewide training to be offered free of charge. 

Scope of Work

The awardee will be required to display extensive experience in delivery of t/YMHFA training throughout New York State through direct training and/or coordinating certification of YMHFA instructors in Youth Mental Health First Aid. They must have the capacity to certify YMHFA instructors and/or coordinate the training of new YMHFA instructors, the ability to coordinate the training of new tMHFA instructors, and the ability to provide participants with the required training materials. They must have the capacity to support Instructors to maintain certification through the connection of Instructors to training opportunities.

For applicants providing direct training to the public, applicants must demonstrate the ability to train statewide and/or in large catchment areas throughout New York State, and ability to provide training live (both in person and virtual), as well as establishing relationships with a wide array of community providers, organizations, schools, and other organizations that work with or serve young people. 

One (1) award will be made through this RFP to one (1) applicant.

The E.B. Henderson Award, presented by SHAPE America, honors minority members who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy for ethnic minorities within health and physical education. Established in 1885, SHAPE America serves over 200,000 professionals, promoting high-quality education standards. The award recognizes individuals who have significantly contributed to increasing the participation of underserved populations in the field. Limited to two awards annually, it highlights the importance of diversity and inclusion in health education.