Best Large Grants for Nonprofit Organizations in New York

The AEO Better World Foundation Community Grant supports local nonprofit organizations in cities like Pittsburgh and New York City. Established in 1999, the foundation empowers youth by funding programs that educate and uplift teens and young adults. New applicants can request $5,000, while returning organizations may apply for up to $15,000. This initiative reflects AEO's commitment to creating positive change and fostering optimism in the community.

The New York Public Library offers Short-Term Research Fellowships for scholars outside the New York metropolitan area, supporting research in the arts and humanities. These fellowships, providing stipends of $1,000 per week for two to four weeks, are designed for projects that benefit from access to special collections at the library's research centers. Applicants must be U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or foreign nationals living outside the metro area.

The Wold Foundation Grant, established in 1985, aims to support charitable, scientific, literary, and educational projects primarily benefiting Wyoming citizens and youth. It prioritizes initiatives in education, human services, cultural activities, healthcare, and scientific endeavors that promote conservation and outdoor recreation. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) classified and operate in the U.S. The foundation does not fund individuals or projects that discriminate based on sex, age, or religion.

The Adirondack Trust Community Fund's Lend-A-Hand Grants support local charities in Saratoga, Warren, and Washington counties. With grants up to $3,000, they prioritize projects addressing civil rights, community services, education, and more. Eligible applicants must be 501(c)(3) organizations and demonstrate a clear community need. The fund aims to efficiently allocate resources to impactful initiatives, ensuring that local needs are met effectively and sustainably.

The Raftelis Leadership Scholarship, offered by the American Water Works Association, supports undergraduate and graduate students pursuing a consulting career in water utilities. With a value of $5,000, this scholarship aims to foster relationships with diverse, promising students who demonstrate leadership and strong academic performance. Applicants from various academic backgrounds, including business and finance, are encouraged to apply, emphasizing initiative and a desire to contribute positively to the community.

New York State Energy Research and Development Authority

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) offers objective information and analysis, innovative programs, technical expertise, and support to help New Yorkers increase energy efficiency, save money, use renewable energy, and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. A public benefit corporation, NYSERDA has been advancing energy solutions and working to protect the environment since 1975.

Green Jobs - Green New York Energy Studies

Through Green Jobs - Green New York (GJGNY), energy studies are available for small commercial and not-for-profits to identify and analyze opportunities to make buildings more efficient, which lowers associated energy costs. Small commercial with 100 or fewer full-time equivalent employees or not-for-profit organizations of any size are eligible for this offering, in facilities 50,000 sq ft or less.

Studies include:

• A comprehensive walk through of the facility
• Site staff interviews
• Utility bill analysis
• Fuel-neutral, unbiased evaluation of potential low-cost/no-cost and capital improvement energy efficiency upgrades
• Energy study report that outlines potential energy and cost savings opportunities for your facility.

The NYSHF Special Projects Fund Grant offers one-time funding to support innovative health projects that address pressing community needs in New York. This initiative seeks to empower organizations that can enhance health outcomes for marginalized populations, while fostering systemic change. Competitive applications should demonstrate potential for replication and sustainability beyond the grant period. This fund represents a unique opportunity for organizations committed to improving public health through impactful projects.

The Aaron & Rachel Meyer Memorial Foundation, established in 1964, aims to enhance the quality of life for people and animals in New Jersey and New York through charitable support. Focused on healthcare, education, research, and animal welfare, the foundation has funded diverse projects, from medical equipment to community services. By fostering relationships with local organizations, they address the pressing challenges faced by nonprofits in the tri-state area, ensuring a significant impact on the community.

The Hypertherm HOPE Foundation Grant supports nonprofit organizations with a mission to create sustainable, positive change in communities. Established in 2010, the foundation prioritizes projects in areas like disaster relief, education, and health. Eligible organizations must have 501(c)(3) status and align with the foundation's values of respect and inclusivity. Grant decisions are made by HOPE teams composed of Hypertherm Associates across various regions, ensuring local needs are met effectively.

The Hypertherm Good Neighbor Grant, offered by the HOPE Foundation, provides financial support of up to $500 to non-profit organizations. Founded in 2010, the Foundation aims to foster collaboration and sustainable change within communities. Grant allocations are made quarterly by a team of volunteer Associates, ensuring alignment with the Foundation's mission of respect and inclusivity. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) or educational entities focused on health, education, and environmental initiatives in specific geographic areas.

About the Arkansas Space Grant Consortium

Empowering Arkansas in Aerospace: ASGC's Vision and Mission

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC) is a pivotal part of a nationwide network funded by NASA to enhance America's aerospace science and technology capabilities. ASGC partners with 17 four-year universities and colleges across Arkansas, dedicated to advancing space science education, research, and public outreach. Through scholarships, research grants, and educational programs, ASGC supports students and faculty in STEM fields, aligning with NASA's mission to inspire the next generation of scientists, engineers, and explorers. This commitment underscores ASGC's role in fostering a culture of innovation and discovery within Arkansas and beyond.

Current Student Opportunities

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC) is excited to offer scholarships and awards to students attending affiliated colleges and universities across the state. These opportunities aim to support students’ academic and research endeavors in STEM fields, while recognizing their achievements.

Workforce Development Award

May 15, 2026 – August 14, 2027

The Arkansas Space Grant Consortium (ASGC), a participant in the National Space Grant College and Fellowship Program (NSGCFP), invites applications for the NASA Space Grant Workforce Development Award. This award offers internships at NASA Centers or aerospace-related industries, aimed at encouraging students to prepare for careers in professional aerospace fields.

The Howard E. Stark Charitable Foundation focuses on granting funds to small, dedicated animal welfare organizations in the Northeast US. Established in 2007, the foundation supports various initiatives, including humane societies, rescue organizations, and wildlife rehabilitation services. With a commitment to making a difference, they aim to empower groups with limited assets and fundraising capabilities to enhance animal welfare through essential services and educational programs.

The Secular Distribution Grant supports charitable activities aimed at enhancing community well-being, particularly within 100 miles of Coatesville, PA. Focused on health and human services, the grant encourages projects that address community needs, foster self-reliance, and promote civic engagement. With a commitment to philanthropic impact, funding is reserved for organizations demonstrating 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and a proven need, while maintaining strict eligibility criteria to ensure effective resource allocation.

The NYSCA Support for Organizations Grant provides essential funding to nonprofit organizations in New York State, fostering arts, culture, and creativity. Prequalification is mandatory for eligibility, ensuring that applicants are prepared for the funding process. The grant supports general operations and arts programming, enabling organizations to thrive and enhance their community impact. Interested parties should begin the prequalification process promptly, as it must be completed before applying for the grant.

The NYSCA Support for Sponsored Organizations grant provides flexible funding for eligible New York State nonprofit organizations to enhance their arts programming and general operations. Organizations must prequalify with the State Financial System before applying. This initiative aims to support the diverse arts and cultural landscape in New York, ensuring that all communities have access to rich artistic experiences. The grant is intended for organizations that may not yet be incorporated or are part of larger institutions.

The Large Capital Improvement Grants for Arts and Culture, offered by the New York State Council on the Arts, provide significant funding ranging from $2 million to $10 million for arts and cultural nonprofits. These grants support large-scale capital projects that enhance cultural programming and accessibility, aiming to engage diverse audiences and promote equity. Applicants must commit to initiatives that advance social equity and contribute to the state's economic development goals.

The Small and Midsized Capital Improvement Grants for Arts and Culture provide funding for nonprofit arts and culture organizations in New York, offering grants up to $2 million. These grants focus on projects that enhance accessibility, artistry, cultural development, and sustainability. Smaller no-match grants ranging from $10,000 to $99,000 are available for organizations with operating budgets under $2 million, encouraging strong design and community engagement.

The Capital Design Grants for Arts and Culture, offered by the New York State Council on the Arts, aim to support arts and culture nonprofits with budgets under $10 million. These grants, ranging from $50,000 to $500,000, are designed for organizations in the early stages of design for eligible capital improvements. No-match options are available for smaller organizations, ensuring broad access to funding for essential design documents.

Nature's Path's Gardens for Good program empowers communities by funding organic gardens that address food insecurity. Since 2010, it has donated $930,000 CAD to support 120 gardens. In 2023, grants of $6,500 each will be awarded to 20 gardens across the U.S. and Canada. Eligible applicants must be registered non-profits with urban organic agriculture projects that serve low-income communities, promoting sustainable practices and inclusivity.

About NYSERDA

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) works to promote energy efficiency, renewable energy, and emissions reduction across New York’s economy and energy system. Since our founding in 1975, NYSERDA’s mission, vision, and programs are continually evolving to improve the lives of New Yorkers. In addition to supporting clean energy and technologies, we’re working to advance equity and inclusivity, jobs and economic development, public health, and community resilience through our work. Collectively, these efforts are key to developing a cleaner, more reliable, and affordable energy system for all New Yorkers.

NYSERDA is on the front lines of the global energy transition. Our executive leadership and staff play a crucial role in accelerating climate action and efforts to secure a just and equitable transition to a clean energy economy. NYSERDA also supports other New York State regulations and statewide energy planning for a clean energy future.

NYSERDA works with stakeholders across New York, including residents, businesses, developers, community leaders, local government officials, universities, utility representatives, investors, and entrepreneurs.

Innovation for Affordable Building Electrification (PON 6162)

Description

This funding targets the commercialization of affordable innovative solutions that can rapidly scale to enable electrification, reduce peak loads, and improve efficiency of the building stock in New York. NYSERDA seeks projects at committed New York State site(s) that address one of the following Innovation Topic Areas:

• Energy Efficiency
• Electrification
• Load Management

NYSERDA has no predefined funding amount or number of awards based on topic area. Eligible solutions must show strong potential to advance one or more aspects of NYSERDA’s core mission in the buildings sector in New York State through reducing GHG emissions, improving energy efficiency, increasing affordability, and/or resiliency in existing buildings in the residential, multifamily, and small/medium commercial market.

The Investors Foundation Grant aims to create positive, lasting impacts in communities through support for arts, education, health and human services, youth programs, and affordable housing. With over $40 million awarded since 2005, the Foundation aligns its efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, focusing on key areas such as poverty alleviation and quality education. Organizations eligible for grants must be 501(c)(3) compliant and serve specific communities in New Jersey and New York.

The Investing in Artists: Tools & Equipment Grant, offered by the Center for Cultural Innovation, provides funding between $1,000 and $5,000 for individual craft artists in the U.S. to purchase essential tools and equipment. This program aims to enhance the creative support system, enabling artists to produce object-based work and meet safety standards. Eligible applicants must demonstrate a commitment to their craft and have presented public artistic work within the last three years.

The New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) is offering up to $3.9 million in funding under Program Opportunity Notice (PON) 6021. This program supports the development of innovative maritime vessels for efficient bulk hydrogen transport over short- to medium-distance routes. The initiative aims to overcome logistical barriers and enhance hydrogen infrastructure deployment within New York State, inviting proposals from experienced teams in the maritime and hydrogen sectors.

The Alvah H. and Wyline P. Chapman Foundation offers grants to support charitable, educational, and community-focused initiatives, primarily in Florida and Georgia. Eligible applicants must be IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations. The foundation prioritizes projects that address children's welfare, education, multicultural understanding, substance abuse prevention, and homelessness. Grants typically do not exceed $15,000, and proposals must be endorsed by a Foundation Director. Interested parties should submit a Letter of Inquiry for consideration.

The Dale Jr. Foundation, founded by NASCAR driver Dale Earnhardt Jr., has raised over $8 million since 2007 to support various charities focusing on youth and underprivileged communities. The foundation emphasizes empowerment, education, wellness, hunger relief, and hope, aiming to provide resources that enhance confidence and opportunities for children facing hardships. Through fundraising efforts and partnerships with organizations like Make-A-Wish, the foundation strives to positively impact lives and foster a sense of normalcy among children in need.

Project Lead The Way (PLTW) offers grants for schools to implement the PLTW Computer Science program from 2025 to 2028. Schools must provide at least one PLTW course in the first year and two courses in the second year. The total grant is $14,000, covering participation fees and training costs. Eligible institutions include public, private, and charter schools located in the U.S., with special encouragement for those serving low-income or minority-majority populations.

The NYSS Student Support program, offered by the American Physical Society, provides financial assistance to students attending physics symposia. Grants of approximately $150 help cover travel and accommodation expenses, encouraging attendance at both sessions and the symposium banquet. Applications are open to students from New York and nearby states, with a focus on fostering educational outreach and engagement in physics. Each application must be signed by the student and their Department Chair, ensuring a streamlined process.