Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in New York

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 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 Dollar General Literacy Foundation offers Adult Literacy Grants to support organizations providing essential literacy services to adults. Grants of up to $10,000 are available for programs in Adult Basic Education, GED preparation, and English language acquisition. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations, schools, and libraries located within 15 miles of a Dollar General store. The foundation aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster personal growth through literacy.

The Dogs for Joy Grant, funded by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, supports the integration of trained facility dogs in pediatric hospitals. These dogs provide emotional support, help children cope with medical procedures, and enhance overall well-being. The program aims to increase the presence of in-residence dogs, as research highlights their positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving patient outcomes. Grants typically cover multi-year funding, promoting innovative animal-assisted therapy approaches in healthcare settings.

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 Harkness Foundation for Dance Grant supports the dance art form in New York City through various initiatives, including program and project grants. It has significantly contributed to over 660 organizations and artists, promoting equity in its funding approach. The Foundation focuses on dance creation, presentation, education, and related services, while prioritizing organizations with non-profit status. Grants are awarded annually, fostering a vibrant dance community and addressing social justice within the field.

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 NYSCA/GHHN Conservation Treatment Grant Program, a collaboration between the New York State Council on the Arts and Greater Hudson Heritage Network, offers funding for the conservation of various objects in New York's museums and cultural organizations. This grant supports projects that promote diversity, equity, inclusion, and access, encouraging the preservation of artifacts from historically marginalized communities. Eligible nonprofit organizations can apply to enhance their collections while adhering to New York State guidelines.

The Elevance Health Foundation's Behavioral Health Grant aims to address significant challenges in mental health and substance use disorders. With a commitment of up to $90 million over three years, the Foundation seeks partnerships with nonprofits to enhance treatment access, promote prevention strategies, and alleviate loneliness among affected individuals. This initiative emphasizes innovative solutions and measurable outcomes, targeting both national and local programs, particularly in states with pressing health disparities.

The NYSCA/GHHN Grants for Site Assessment offer support for half-day museum site assessments in New York. Funded by the New York State Council on the Arts and the Robert David Lion Gardiner Foundation, this initiative helps museums and cultural organizations improve their collections care. Organizations can apply for up to $1,000 for professional consultancy services, focusing on stewardship and collections-related issues. Eligibility includes chartered nonprofit museums and historical organizations, while federal and municipal institutions must inquire about their status.

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.

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.

RFP #237: Extended School Day / School Violence Prevention Grant 2026-2031

Purpose

Pursuant to New York State Education Law §2814: Omnibus school violence prevention grant program, the primary purpose of the Extended School Day/School Violence Prevention (ESD/SVP) Program is to award competitive grants to provide support to students through extended school day activities and/or school safety programs that promote violence prevention. Programs must demonstrate consistency with the school safety plans required by §2801-a of New York State Education Law and should not displace existing school district after-school funding. 

Under State Education Department bill S4598D, school-based and school-affiliated anti-gun and anti-violence programs are now eligible as school safety activities under this grant. Public school districts and not-for-profit organizations working in collaboration with a public school district(s) may submit an application to conduct either an ESD program or an SVP program.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

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.

Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

The FCIDD was founded for the purpose of providing support to organizations that serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Mission Statement: The Foundation supports organizations which enhance the lives of persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities by promoting research, projects, education and advocacy. 

Nonprofit Project Grants

The Foundation for Children with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (FCIDD) funds 501(c)(3) organizations working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages, primarily in the states of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Delaware, Maryland, the District of Columbia, and Virginia. 

Funding Priorities

• Grants will be awarded for the purpose of primarily benefiting, including, or increasing accessibility for individuals with intellectual or development disabilities.
• Grants may be awarded for scholarships or training personnel in the care and education of individuals with developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. 
• Grants shall mainly be distributed to a Charity whose primary purpose or whose project is to support individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. A Charity which has a project to benefit individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities based on financial need shall be awarded the grant money based upon its own objective criteria and without any special preference to members of Civitan or members of their family.

Grant Categories

A grant application typically fits into one of the following categories: Accessibility & Engagement; Educational Spaces; Program Area Improvements; Outreach and Education 

Educational Spaces

For I/DD serving school programs with a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) attached needing property improvements or equipment/resource purchases to better serve their students with I/DD.

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 Spencer Fellowship for Education Reporting at Columbia Journalism School offers journalists and educators the opportunity to develop impactful long-form journalism projects. With residential and non-residential options, selected fellows receive mentorship, financial support, and access to resources. This prestigious fellowship encourages innovative education journalism, enabling fellows to deepen their expertise while contributing to public understanding of educational issues. The program fosters collaboration and creativity, ensuring a diverse range of voices and perspectives in education reporting.

The Transformative Youth Justice Hubs initiative by the New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services aims to establish four collaborative hubs to enhance youth justice systems. With $4 million funding, each hub will receive approximately $1 million over three years, focusing on community-driven solutions and coordination of resources. This program emphasizes prevention, justice, and youth well-being, ensuring that local communities can effectively address barriers to support youth in achieving their full potential.

The Connect Kids to Swimming Instruction Transportation Grant Program in New York aims to enhance swimming accessibility for school-age children by reimbursing transportation costs. This initiative, part of Governor Hochul's NY SWIMS, emphasizes the importance of swimming instruction in preventing drowning, particularly among children aged 1-4. Eligible organizations can apply for funding up to $250,000 per fiscal year, supporting their efforts to provide safe swimming experiences across New York State.

The Anchor QEA Scholarship supports graduate students pursuing degrees in engineering, environmental sciences, or related fields, with awards between $1,000 and $10,000. This program emphasizes helping those in financial need, particularly focusing on BIPOC students to address inequities in STEM. Eligible candidates must demonstrate a commitment to community service and possess an inclusive mindset. This initiative reflects Anchor QEA's dedication to fostering a diverse and equitable educational environment.

The Honda USA Foundation provides funding to support mobility initiatives that empower individuals, particularly those facing disabilities, by removing barriers and expanding opportunities. Focused on sustainable change in underserved communities, the Foundation encourages applications for programs in education, infrastructure, and technology that align with its commitment to accessibility and inclusion. Eligible organizations must be based in the U.S. with appropriate tax-exempt status and can apply for multiple funding opportunities while adhering to specific eligibility criteria.

New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services

The New York State Division of Criminal Justice Services supports all facets of the state’s criminal justice system. The agency provides direct training to law enforcement and other criminal justice professionals; oversees a law enforcement accreditation program; ensures Breathalyzer and speed enforcement equipment used by local law enforcement operate correctly; manages criminal justice grant funds; analyzes statewide crime and program data; provides research support; oversees county probation departments and alternatives to incarceration programs; and coordinates juvenile justice policy.

The agency also maintains criminal history records and fingerprint files and performs background checks for employment and licensure. The agency also administers the state’s Sex Offender Registry; the Missing Persons Clearinghouse; the state's DNA Databank in cooperation with the New York State Police Forensic Investigation Center; and provides staff support to independently appointed commissions and councils, including the New York State Commission on Forensic Science, which monitors and accredits the state’s forensic laboratories.

Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes (SCAHC) Grant Program

DCJS seeks applications through the state’s Securing Communities Against Hate Crimes grant program, which funds safety and security projects at nonprofit organizations at risk of hate crimes or attacks because of their ideology, beliefs, or mission. DCJS expects between $35 million and $70 million will be made available to support these projects. Each eligible organization may submit one application for one or more physical security enhancements and/or cybersecurity enhancements.

Organizations can submit for different types of enhancements within their application (e.g., locks and alarm systems) as long as the total requested by the organization is equal to, or less than, $250,000. Organizations may submit applications for projects at facilities that have received prior funding through the program from DCJS or the state Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services if the proposed project is different than any previously funded projects or if the new project builds upon or enhances the security measures previously undertaken.

New York State Department of State

The New York State Department of State — one of the oldest and most diverse agencies in state government--works to make New York State a more welcoming, equitable, and prosperous place.

The New York Department of State’s core mission is to provide a better quality of life and expand opportunities for all New Yorkers by fostering community revitalization, catalyzing economic growth through business formation, protecting consumers, helping new Americans, supporting local governments, assisting individuals and families to achieve upward economic mobility, and ensuring safety and integrity through the regulation of licensed occupations and the development of building standards and codes.

Downtown Revitalization Initiative Grant

New York State's Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI) is a cornerstone of the State's economic development program. The DRI transforms downtown neighborhoods into vibrant centers that offer a high quality of life and are magnets for redevelopment, business, job creation, and economic and housing diversity. These compact, walkable downtowns are a key ingredient to helping New York State rebuild its economy from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to achieving the State’s bold climate goals by promoting the use of public transit and reducing dependence on private vehicles.

The DRI is led by the Department of State, in close partnership with Empire State Development, NYS Homes and Community Renewal and New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

The Jay L. Smith Family Foundation provides grants to tax-exempt non-profit organizations in the United States, primarily focusing on healthcare, family values, and supporting the disadvantaged. With a strong commitment to Alzheimer's research, the foundation has funded various initiatives including elderly care, domestic violence prevention, and cancer research. Their mission is to enhance the quality of life for individuals and communities through meaningful contributions, aiming to address critical social issues and promote well-being.

New York State Homes and Community Renewal

HCR develops, preserves and protects affordable housing and invests in economically vibrant communities. We work with many private, public and nonprofit partners to create safe, healthy and affordable housing opportunities for all New Yorkers.

HCR is charged with carrying out Governor Hochul’s new $25 billion, five-year, comprehensive housing plan to increase housing supply by creating or preserving 100,000 affordable homes across New York including 10,000 with support services for vulnerable populations, plus the electrification of an additional 50,000 homes.

Community Development Block Grant

The NYS Community Development Block Grant or CDBG Program is a unique source of federal funding for Cities, Town, Villages, and Counties to assist low- and moderate-income communities, households, and people.

CDBG funding assistance can include everything from drinking water and sanitary sewer projects to grants for home repair, senior and community center improvements to grants to small business for start-up and expansion.

The NYS CDBG program provides financial assistance to eligible cities, towns, and villages with populations under 50,000 and counties with an area population under 200,000, in order to develop viable communities by providing decent, affordable housing, and suitable living environments, as well as expanding economic opportunities, principally for persons of low and moderate income. 

Expert technical assistance is always available to help your community apply for and administer CDBG funds, and to help direct assistance to where it is needed most.

Eligible Activities

CDBG funding may be used for eligible activities as outlined below. This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of eligible activities and applicants are encouraged to develop projects in response to local need that may not fit neatly in any one category. In these cases, applicants are encouraged to contact OCR for additional guidance prior to applying.

Funding is available for the following activities: 1) Public Facility; 2) Community Planning; 3) Economic Development - Stand-Alone Business Assistance; 4) Economic Development - Microenterprise Assistance; and 5) Imminent Threat.

Imminent Threat

Funds may be requested to provide eligible municipal applicants financial support for activities that alleviate existing conditions that have a blighting influence or pose a serious and immediate threat to the health or welfare of the community. Applicants will be required to demonstrate a compelling need for public investment and document that no other funding sources are available. CDBG Imminent Threat funds may be used to cover costs associated with:

• Repairs or improvements to water/sewer systems, storm sewer drainage, flood walls, roads, sidewalks and culverts
• Demolition and/or clearance of damaged structures including environmental assessments and mitigation, site work, architectural, and engineering fees
• Public services required as a result of disaster 

Imminent Threat projects typically meet HUD’s (national objective) requirements in one of two ways: Urgent Need or Slum/Blight conditions.