Best Recycling Grants in New York

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with innovative human services or social problem–solving programs in New York may be eligible for funding, including projects that incorporate recycling or related community initiatives. Grants from Creag Foundation help smaller or evolving organizations test new approaches; funding is by invitation, but qualified groups can submit a letter of inquiry.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations serving youth welfare, education, or development can seek up to US $15,000 for programs in New York and beyond. The Dan Paul Foundation supports projects for children’s health, early childhood development, environmental education (including clean air and water), homelessness, poverty, and refugee enrichment, which may include recycling-related youth initiatives.

With a mission to support innovative social and environmental solutions, Draper Richards Kaplan Foundation provides New York recycling and sustainability organizations with up to US $300,000 in early-stage funding and intensive capacity-building support. Eligible independent nonprofits or impact-first for-profits must be post-pilot, scalable to at least 10,000 people, and focused on underserved communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations, educational institutions, government programs, and volunteer fire companies in New York can seek funding for safety, education, and community development initiatives from State Farm Companies Foundation. Programs such as disaster preparedness, neighborhood revitalization, financial literacy, and STEM or career pathways may be eligible, including projects that incorporate recycling or sustainable housing and transportation elements.

Nonprofit cultural institutions in New York offering arts or science programs for broad U.S. audiences can seek more than US $100,000 to support programs, capital needs, or limited general and endowment costs. William Randolph Hearst Foundation prioritizes arts education, artist development, and STEAM-focused initiatives that demonstrate measurable, lasting impact and organizational sustainability.

U.S.-based 501(c)(3) organizations working in health, education, or community services can apply for Labcorp Charitable Foundation grants to support food pantries, healthcare for underserved populations, STEM programs, and healthy lifestyle initiatives. New York nonprofits with recycling-related education or community programming may be eligible if their projects fit these focus areas.

New York organizations and social enterprises serving urban low-income children through education, health, or family economic stability projects can access funding through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation; awards are typically more than US $50,000 for project support or scaling. Eligible applicants must request at least $50,000 and meet the foundation’s mission and values criteria.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations advancing early childhood education or economic and community development can apply for funding, including work in New York where PNC has a significant presence. With a mission to strengthen communities, PNC Foundation provides grants for programs serving low- and moderate-income families, including education, affordable housing, job readiness, arts, and neighborhood revitalization.

Roche Corporate Donations and Philanthropy (CDP) focuses on impactful projects that foster sustainable development, engage employees, and leverage Roche's expertise. Their philanthropic efforts prioritize humanitarian, educational, environmental, and cultural initiatives, aiming to build stronger communities and support innovative projects. Eligibility is limited to local organizations, while ineligible projects include those with political or religious ties. The foundation strives to create a positive societal impact through collaboration and strategic partnerships.

Nonprofit and humanitarian organizations working on health, education, or disaster relief can apply for support from Semnani Family Foundation, which funds projects in New York and worldwide. Grants may benefit programs serving marginalized communities through healthcare access, disease prevention, child and women’s health, hunger relief, and related human and social services initiatives.

The Sidney Stern Memorial Trust Grant supports charitable, scientific, medical, and educational organizations that are 501(c)(3) certified. This private funder emphasizes impactful service to diverse populations without discrimination. Grants must be utilized within the United States and cannot be awarded to individuals, political candidates, or lobbying efforts. The Trust is dedicated to enhancing the general welfare through soundly-managed initiatives that contribute significantly to community needs.

The Bank of America Foundation Sponsorship Program aims to enhance economic mobility and social progress in low- and moderate-income communities through partnerships with nonprofit organizations. This initiative focuses on critical areas such as workforce education, basic needs like food and housing, and community development. The Foundation invested $350 million last year and encourages employee volunteerism and giving, supporting nonprofits in various sectors, including arts, culture, and diversity initiatives.

Southern U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations active for more than three years can seek funding for programs addressing poverty, education, families, health, disaster relief, animal welfare, veterans, or spiritual needs. Grants from Robinson Foundation help eligible charities below the Mason-Dixon line create tangible, immediate impact; New York recycling groups with qualifying Southern operations may be eligible.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on environmental or community initiatives in New York can seek support for their programs and projects. With a mission to foster positive change, Dudley T Dougherty Foundation provides charitable groups with funding that may benefit recycling, environmental conservation, community services, and peacebuilding efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations near TJX locations that support basic needs, at-risk youth education, workforce readiness, or domestic violence safety can apply for The TJX Foundation’s invitation-only grants. New York nonprofits within 15 miles of a TJX store, distribution center, or office may be eligible if they meet the mission and nondiscrimination requirements.

New York 501(c)(3) public charities, public schools, and libraries can seek funding for environmental and human services programs, including recycling-related work, through unrestricted grants typically ranging from US $5,000 - US $10,000. Focused on environment and community services, Lawrence Foundation supports both program and general operating requests without geographic restrictions.

Grants of US $1,000 - US $20,000 help New York nonprofits fund community-based programs, facilities, and services. The Max and Victoria Dreyfus Foundation supports U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations working in areas like environmental and wildlife protection, cultural institutions, education, and community services, which may include recycling-related initiatives within broader environmental efforts.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in the U.S. working on basic needs, community development, or cultural enrichment may be eligible for Ameriprise Financial support, including groups in New York. Focus areas include hunger relief, shelter and supportive housing, adult self-sufficiency, neighborhood revitalization, arts education, and access to cultural programs, with priority for sites engaging Ameriprise volunteers.

The Nordstrom Community Grant focuses on supporting youth and families by providing over $1 million in grants annually. It aims to assist grassroots organizations that address essential community needs such as food, shelter, and clothing, as well as creating opportunities for economic mobility through mentorship and workforce development. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in areas where Nordstrom operates. Applications are encouraged for those meeting these criteria.

New York environmental and community-focused 501(c)(3) organizations seeking project support can access funding through the Dr Scholl Foundation. Grants of US $5,000 - US $25,000 support work in education, social services, health care, civic and cultural initiatives, and environmental projects, which may include recycling-related programs within eligible nonprofits.

Wildlife conservation 501(c)(3) nonprofits in New York seeking to tell impactful stories about their work can receive more than US $50,000 to support storytelling projects. The J.W. Couch Foundation’s Storytelling Grant backs organizations advancing preservation, education, wellness, and related efforts such as waste and food management that may intersect with recycling-focused programs.

The O'Reilly Automotive Foundation Grant focuses on enhancing community welfare through philanthropic initiatives that support economic stability, workforce development, health services, and disaster relief. Established in 2020, the Foundation seeks to empower underrepresented individuals and organizations in the U.S. by addressing vital community needs. It particularly aims to provide assistance to nonprofits that foster positive change and improve quality of life for those in need, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations with programs in New York that address youth education, food insecurity, housing, or environmental stewardship, including recycling-related projects, can apply for Chick Fil A Foundation’s True Inspiration Awards, offering US $30,000 - US $350,000. Funding supports community-impact initiatives for underserved young people and their families across eligible locations.

Public and private K–12 schools in New York can apply for the New York State Association for Reduction, Reuse and Recycling’s Green School Grant Program, with awards up to US $1,000 for waste reduction, recycling, composting, and outreach projects. Schools in disadvantaged communities receive special consideration and must share program data.

Environmental Protection Fund (EPF)

New York State's Environmental Protection Fund (EPF) is a source of funding for capital projects that protect the environment and enhance communities. Capital projects are usually large projects that purchase land or construct facilities. Most projects that receive grants of EPF money combine it with other funding sources that require matching funds.

Some examples of projects using EPF money are:

• Purchasing land for the NYS Forest Preserve
• Restoring historic sites
• Conserving farmland
• Restoring habitat
• Controlling invasive species
• Upgrading municipal sewage treatment plants
• Cleaning up waterfront property and creating a public park
• Helping business develop ways to recycle material

The EPF also supports the stewardship of public lands, including state parks and millions of acres of public lands throughout the state. Through partnerships with volunteer organizations, state agencies use stewardship funding to manage trails and lands, protect natural resources, preserve wildlife habitats, make critical capital improvements at parks and campgrounds, educate students about conservation and provide access to persons with disabilities.

Nonprofit organizations helping disadvantaged people become self-reliant can apply for Gupta Family Foundation’s grants, awarding US $5,000 - US $250,000 for focused intervention and humanitarian relief. Eligible 501(c)(3)s and qualifying foreign entities, including smaller organizations in New York, may benefit if they meet revenue, leadership, and non-sectarian requirements.

Community-based groups, businesses, partnerships, and nonprofit organizations in New York can apply for New York State Association for Reduction, Reuse and Recycling’s Community Reuse Grant; awards US $1,000 - US $5,000 for local reuse initiatives. Projects that extend the life of materials may benefit recycling-focused efforts by reducing waste sent to processing or disposal.