Best Grants for Small Nonprofits in New York

The SUNY Innovative Instruction Technology Grants (IITG) program, integrated with OER Impact Grants as of 2024, fosters innovation in teaching and learning within the State University of New York (SUNY) system. By funding projects that enhance the use of Open Educational Resources (OER) and explore AI applications in education, the initiative aims to improve accessibility, affordability, and student success. It promotes collaboration among faculty and institutions to build effective educational practices and sustainable partnerships.

The Grand Rapids Community Foundation's Fund for Community Good supports projects that promote equity and justice across various sectors, including education, health, and economic prosperity. This unrestricted fund invites partnerships with 501(c)(3) nonprofits and government entities, primarily focusing on Kent County, Michigan. The foundation prioritizes initiatives that dismantle systemic racism and foster inclusive opportunities, ensuring all community members can thrive. Eligible applicants can submit pre-applications year-round for potential funding.

The Coby Foundation Grant is dedicated to supporting non-profit organizations in the Mid-Atlantic and New England regions, focusing on innovative projects related to textiles and fashion. Applicants are encouraged to submit a letter of inquiry with a project description and budget at least nine months prior to the project start. The foundation seeks exhibitions, public programs, and publications that enhance understanding of textile arts, while promoting underrepresented artists and cultures.

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 Arts Fund Grants provide vital support for emerging artists from Australia and the USA, facilitating their artistic development through grants of up to $5,000. This funding can be used for travel, living expenses, tuition, and other related costs. Eligible applicants must be citizens or permanent residents of either country and have a formal offer from an accredited institution. The program emphasizes merit-based opportunities across various artistic fields, fostering international collaboration and cultural exchange.

The Aquatic Organism Passage Grant, managed by the Lake Champlain Basin Program, aims to restore aquatic organism passage and enhance stream connectivity in the Lake Champlain Basin. With approximately $2.5 million available, the program invites proposals that support the Healthy Ecosystem goals outlined in the Opportunities for Action plan. Projects can include activities like culvert replacements and dam removals, with a focus on improving habitat and ecosystem functions for aquatic life. Applications are due by either September 8 or October 8, 2025.

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 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.

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 Inserra Scholarships, provided by the UNICO Foundation, aim to support students of Italian descent pursuing higher education. Two scholarships of $2,500 each are awarded annually to eligible candidates who are U.S. citizens attending accredited colleges or universities full-time. Applicants must maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and continue their studies in the 2026-2027 academic year. This initiative reflects UNICO's commitment to empowering the Italian American community through education.

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 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.

This funding opportunity invites innovative pilot studies focused on biological, behavioral, and social mechanisms related to HIV pathogenesis, aligning with NIDDK's mission and NIH HIV/AIDS research priorities. Topics may include exploring pathophysiological mechanisms of HIV comorbidities and coinfections, understanding HIV reservoirs in relevant tissues, and examining social determinants affecting health outcomes. Applications are due by 5:00 PM local time of the applicant organization.

The Kappa Alpha Psi Scholarship Fund, established by the Syracuse Alumni chapter in 1973, aims to support men of color pursuing education. This fund honors the legacy of its founders and provides up to two scholarships annually, ensuring access to educational opportunities that can transform lives. The scholarship reflects the commitment of the Central New York Community Foundation to promote equity and shared prosperity in the region, helping students achieve their academic and professional goals.

The Patterson Foundation offers Assistance Dog Program Grants to support organizations providing service animals to veterans and individuals with disabilities. Funding is available for projects that expand capacity, personnel costs related to puppy training, and program support aimed at improving client experiences. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) non-profits and can request grants up to $35,000 for capital projects or $10,000 for program support. Applications are accepted through a two-step process.

The James and Linda Ward Memorial Scholarship Fund honors a dedicated physics teacher, Jim Ward, who inspired many students at Henninger High School. Established by his family, this scholarship aims to support students graduating from Henninger or Nottingham High School who have completed a physics course and plan to attend college. By providing financial assistance, it contributes to educational equity and empowers students to pursue their academic dreams.

The Michael Darcy Scholarship, offered by The Community Foundation for the Greater Capital Region, supports non-traditional age students who are New York State employees and members of the Public Employees Federation (PEF) Region 8, at Grade 18 or less. Since 1968, the foundation has been dedicated to enhancing community life through meaningful giving opportunities, empowering individuals to achieve their educational goals.

The Agricultural Fairgrounds Advertising, Promotion, and Education Program provides funding to eligible agricultural and horticultural organizations that host annual fairs. The program aims to enhance participation and promotion of local fairs, offering $10,000 to each awarded entity for advertising and educational initiatives. Organizations must register in the State Financial System and be prequalified to apply, ensuring support is directed to qualified participants that contribute to community engagement and agricultural education.

The UrbanGlass IGNITE Scholarship offers aspiring glass artists the opportunity to explore their creative potential through a fully funded class. This program is designed for individuals with little to no glass experience, aiming to foster artistic growth and innovation. UrbanGlass, a 501(c)3 organization, is dedicated to advancing the appreciation of glass as a medium. This scholarship not only alleviates financial burdens but also serves as a gateway for emerging artists to develop their skills.

The UrbanGlass LEAP Scholarship fosters artistic growth by providing fully funded classes for artists experienced in glass. This initiative encourages innovation and supports individuals eager to advance their skills in glass artistry. It celebrates creativity and unconventional thinking, creating a community of visionary artists. The scholarship is awarded once per deadline, ensuring that selected students receive essential financial support to explore and expand their artistic practice in the field of glass.

The UrbanGlass Studio Residencies provide a unique opportunity for artists to explore glass as a creative medium. Selected artists receive a $5,000 budget for studio rentals and materials, culminating in a public presentation of their work. UrbanGlass, a prominent resource for glass art, encourages independent artists and collaborative pairs to apply, with a focus on amplifying underrepresented voices in the arts. This residency fosters innovation and community engagement in the vibrant field of glass artistry.

The Frank and Lydia Bergen Foundation Grant supports classical music and musical education, honoring Charlotte V. Bergen's legacy. Established in 1983, it provides funding to 501(c)(3) organizations, particularly in the New York/New Jersey area. The foundation prioritizes projects that aid music students and promote educational concerts. Organizations must not have received grants for three consecutive years to be eligible for future funding. Grants foster the appreciation and performance of fine music, enriching community cultural life.

The Clyde E. Rutherford Leadership Scholarship honors the legacy of Clyde Rutherford, former board president of Dairylea Cooperative Inc. This scholarship aims to support high school graduates and college students pursuing degrees in agriculture, especially dairy. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to the dairy industry and community involvement, reflecting Clyde's values. Three scholarships are available annually, emphasizing leadership and cooperative spirit, to empower the next generation of agricultural leaders.

The Carol Hansen & Ethel Bauder Fund, established by Robert E. Hansen, supports scholarships for children of Fayetteville Volunteer Fire Department members. Aimed at promoting education equity, it offers renewable scholarships for up to four years for eligible high school graduates who volunteer or have parents in the department. This initiative highlights the importance of community service and provides transformative educational opportunities for deserving students.

The Jeremiah Lucey Grant Program, managed by the Leary Firefighters Foundation, supports paid and volunteer fire departments across the US, focusing on training, equipment, and technology enhancements. Grants typically range from $5,000 to $25,000, with larger amounts occasionally available. Departments must demonstrate proactive problem-solving efforts. The Foundation prioritizes partnerships aimed at achieving impactful results, particularly in response to emergencies caused by natural or man-made disasters.

The Alpha Kappa Alpha Fund, established by the local chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha sorority, offers scholarships to African-American female high school seniors pursuing higher education. This permanent endowment aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in Central New York, promoting equity and shared prosperity. Scholarships are awarded to deserving candidates who meet the eligibility criteria, ensuring continued access to education for those in need.

The NYFA’s Immigrant Artist Mentoring Program offers essential 1-on-1 mentorship to foreign-born artists, fostering community connections and professional development. This unique initiative, recognized as one of the best mentorship programs in the U.S., has supported over 525 artists from diverse backgrounds since its inception in 2007. Participants gain access to networking opportunities, workshops, and exhibition prospects, all aimed at enhancing their artistic careers in the vibrant New York cultural landscape. This program is free for accepted applicants.