Best New York Grants for Nonprofits

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses, boat launches, and campgrounds across more than 360,000 acres and welcomes more than 88 million people annually.

The mission of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.

Parks and Trails Partnership Program

Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the New York State (NYS) Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) with support from Governor Hochul and the NYS Legislature, are pleased to announce the twelfth round of competitive grants through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program. The program is administered by PTNY, in partnership with OPRHP and DEC.

The Park and Trail Partnership Grant program is a $2.65 million capacity-building matching grants program funded through the NYS Environmental Protection Fund. The program is designed to:

• Enhance the preservation, stewardship, interpretation, accessibility, maintenance and promotion of New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites, and public lands.
• Increase the sustainability, effectiveness, diversity, productivity, and volunteer and fundraising capabilities of not-for-profit organizations that promote, maintain, and support New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites and public lands.
• Promote the tourism and economic development benefits of outdoor recreation through the growth and expansion of a connected statewide network of parks, trails, greenways and public lands. 

Eligible applicants must be registered nonprofits who have a formal memorandum or agreement with OPRHP or DEC.

Award Categories

There are four types of capacity-building grants available to eligible organizations through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program: Stewardship and Public Access Capacity Grants; Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants; Professional Development Grants; and Step-Up Grants.

Step-Up Grants

Step-up Grants assist organizations with the administrative and legal fees needed to secure 501(c)(3) status, along with the costs associated with completing a consultant-facilitated organizational assessment and resulting plan(s). 

A $500 match is required, cash or in-kind. Award disbursed at contract signing.

The Occupational Safety and Health Training and Education (OSH T&E) Grant, offered by the New York State Department of Labor, provides approximately $5.9 million in funding for safety training programs across New York State. This initiative aims to enhance workplace safety by offering training on toxic substances and the prevention of occupational diseases and injuries. Projects funded under this program will occur between August 1, 2026, and July 31, 2027, promoting safer work environments.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses, boat launches, and campgrounds across more than 360,000 acres and welcomes more than 88 million people annually.

The mission of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.

Parks and Trails Partnership Program

Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the New York State (NYS) Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) with support from Governor Hochul and the NYS Legislature, are pleased to announce the twelfth round of competitive grants through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program. The program is administered by PTNY, in partnership with OPRHP and DEC.

The Park and Trail Partnership Grant program is a $2.65 million capacity-building matching grants program funded through the NYS Environmental Protection Fund. The program is designed to:

• Enhance the preservation, stewardship, interpretation, accessibility, maintenance and promotion of New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites, and public lands.
• Increase the sustainability, effectiveness, diversity, productivity, and volunteer and fundraising capabilities of not-for-profit organizations that promote, maintain, and support New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites and public lands.
• Promote the tourism and economic development benefits of outdoor recreation through the growth and expansion of a connected statewide network of parks, trails, greenways and public lands. 

Eligible applicants must be registered nonprofits who have a formal memorandum or agreement with OPRHP or DEC.

Award Categories

There are four types of capacity-building grants available to eligible organizations through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program: Stewardship and Public Access Capacity Grants; Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants; Professional Development Grants; and Step-Up Grants.

Professional Development Grants

Professional Development Grants support the hiring of permanent staff to advance organizations to a higher and sustainable level of professionalism, fiscal and administrative stability, and community outreach that in the future they will be able to sustain on their own. Professional Development Grants may be used to support:

• First Staff Hire: hiring the organization’s first permanent employee, full- or part-time.
• Additional Staff: hiring an additional full- or part-time permanent staff member to fill a critical administrative, outreach or development need, or other key function. Park and Trail Partnership Grants 5
• Upgrade to Full-time Staff: increasing a part-time Executive Director, or other key staff position to full time.
• Shared Staff: hiring a staff person to be shared by two or more eligible organizations.

Professional Development Grants are meant to support permanent increases in staffing capacity. If an organization is interested in hiring temporary contractors or staff to support the organization’s work, this request would fall under a Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grant or a Stewardship and Public Access Capacity grant.

A 20 percent cash match of the total project budget is required. Fifty percent of award will be disbursed at contract signing; remainder will be disbursed after submission of satisfactory one-year progress report.

The MacDowell Fellowship supports artists by providing a nurturing environment for creative work. This prestigious opportunity awards around 300 artists annually across various disciplines, including architecture, literature, and visual arts, based solely on artistic excellence. There are no residency fees, and financial assistance is available for travel and living expenses. MacDowell encourages applications from artists of diverse backgrounds, fostering inclusivity in the arts community.

Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation

The New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation oversees more than 250 parks, historic sites, trails, golf courses, boat launches, and campgrounds across more than 360,000 acres and welcomes more than 88 million people annually.

The mission of the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation is to provide safe and enjoyable recreational and interpretive opportunities for all New York State residents and visitors and to be responsible stewards of our valuable natural, historic and cultural resources.

Parks and Trails Partnership Program

Parks & Trails New York (PTNY), the New York State (NYS) Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation (OPRHP), and the Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) with support from Governor Hochul and the NYS Legislature, are pleased to announce the twelfth round of competitive grants through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program. The program is administered by PTNY, in partnership with OPRHP and DEC.

The Park and Trail Partnership Grant program is a $2.65 million capacity-building matching grants program funded through the NYS Environmental Protection Fund. The program is designed to:

• Enhance the preservation, stewardship, interpretation, accessibility, maintenance and promotion of New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites, and public lands.
• Increase the sustainability, effectiveness, diversity, productivity, and volunteer and fundraising capabilities of not-for-profit organizations that promote, maintain, and support New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites and public lands.
• Promote the tourism and economic development benefits of outdoor recreation through the growth and expansion of a connected statewide network of parks, trails, greenways and public lands. 

Eligible applicants must be registered nonprofits who have a formal memorandum or agreement with OPRHP or DEC.

Award Categories

There are four types of capacity-building grants available to eligible organizations through the Park and Trail Partnership Grant program: Stewardship and Public Access Capacity Grants; Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants; Professional Development Grants; and Step-Up Grants.

Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants

Capacity and Organizational Effectiveness Grants strengthen the capacity and expertise of individual organizations that support New York’s state parks, trails, historic sites and public lands, or a partnership involving more than one such organization, in order to aid them in fulfilling their mission and to improve their reach, effectiveness, and impact.

A 10 percent match of the total project budget is required, up to 50 percent of which may be in-kind. Fifty percent of award is disbursed at contract signing; remainder disbursed after submission of satisfactory six-month progress report.

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.

The Green Innovation Grant Program (GIGP) in New York State provides funding for projects that enhance water quality and combat climate change through innovative green technologies. Grants cover up to 90% of construction costs, promoting practices such as green stormwater infrastructure and energy efficiency. Projects are evaluated on their potential impact, sustainability, and ability to foster collaboration. This initiative aims to drive environmental innovation while supporting local communities in addressing pressing ecological challenges.

The Clean Water State Revolving Fund Grant offers municipalities in New York State access to low or no-interest financing for vital wastewater and sewer infrastructure projects. This initiative supports various projects, including the construction of wastewater treatment facilities and stormwater management systems. By repaying their loans, communities can reinvest in future projects, ensuring sustainable funding for essential environmental protection and infrastructure improvements across the state.

The Community Forest Conservation Grant Program, funded by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, supports municipal land acquisition for community forests. These vital spaces enhance wildlife habitat, improve air and water quality, and promote public health. By fostering local ownership and management, this program encourages community engagement and connection to nature. Additionally, it aligns with New York's goal to conserve 30% of its lands and waters by 2030, strengthening biodiversity and climate resiliency.

The CFF Champions Award celebrates organizations in the NY-NJ-CT region that drive food system change towards equity, sustainability, and economic viability. Each year, the award promotes exemplary work, offering a $10,000 grant to support transformative initiatives. Awardees present their efforts at the Annual Gathering, share updates with the CFF network, and contribute to future selection committees, fostering collaboration and community engagement in building a better food system.

The Carolyn L. Kuckein Student Research Fellowship, awarded by Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society, supports first and second-year medical students conducting research over 2 to 12 months. With a total funding of $7,000, students can receive reimbursement for travel expenses up to $1,000 for presenting their findings at national conferences. Eligibility requires enrollment in schools with active AΩA chapters, while those taking a year off for research or holding a PhD are ineligible.

The Highlands Conservation Act Program, administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, supports land conservation projects in Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Grants cover up to 50% of project costs for acquisitions from willing sellers. The program typically allocates funds in two categories: Base and Competitive. Eligible applicants can apply for Base Funding through this Notice of Funding Opportunity, while a separate notice will address Competitive Funds.

The F25AS00332 Highlands Conservation Act provides competitive funding for land conservation projects in the Highlands Region, which includes Connecticut, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Administered by the US Fish and Wildlife Service, this program allows eligible state, county, or municipal entities to request grants covering up to 50% of project costs. The program aims to protect vital natural resources and is divided into Base and Competitive funding categories, with specific proposals invited for the Competitive Funding Round.

CSX Charitable Investments provide essential in-kind donations to nonprofit organizations focused on supporting military members and community first responders. Through intermodal transportation services, CSX offers equipment and rail services to help reduce transportation costs for eligible organizations. The program also includes occasional donations of railroad materials and equipment based on availability. CSX prioritizes support for organizations operating within its service areas, promoting community betterment and development.

New York State Department of Labor

DOL’s mission is to provide outstanding services to our customers - the workers and businesses that call New York home. We help New Yorkers find the careers they will love by connecting them to employment, training, and up-skilling opportunities. We build and support New York’s businesses, helping them find qualified workers and keeping them informed about tools and incentives to make their businesses thrive. We empower and protect New York’s workers by supporting the unemployed and by ensuring all workers have a safe workplace where they receive a fair wage.

New York State Department of Labor (NYSDOL) Office of Just Energy Transition (OJET) Growing the Clean Energy Workforce – Electric Vehicles (GCEW-EV)

Description 

The Growing the Clean Energy Workforce – Electric Vehicles (GCEW-EV) Request for Applications (RFA) will provide funding to eligible organizations to expand or create training or pre-apprenticeship programs in EV (light, medium, & heavy-duty) repair and maintenance, EV charging station repair and maintenance, and/or EV fleet maintenance, and provide wraparound services to participants in these programs.

Projects must expand or create training or pre-apprenticeship programs in:

• EV and fleet repair and maintenance; and/or
• EV charging station repair and maintenance.

For this program, there is a minimum requirement that 35% of enrolled program participants must be individuals residing in Disadvantaged Communities (DACs), as defined by the Climate Justice Working Group (CJWG), to be eligible for funding. Applicants will be required to submit the DAC Attestation Form (Attachment DAC) stating that this requirement will be met.

Tuition and other fees may not be charged to the individuals served under this funding opportunity.

The New York Community Trust

Mission

As New York’s community foundation, we foster and engage in enduring and innovative philanthropy.

From the creation of the first donor-advised fund to our vital role in the region’s response to the AIDS crisis, September 11th, and COVID-19, The Trust has always been a pioneer, innovator, and leader.

New York Pollinator Conservation Fund

This year, the New York Pollinator Conservation Fund invites proposals for small projects ($5,000 – $20,000) to be implemented in disadvantaged communities, identified through the Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act. Nonprofits or volunteer-led organizations are eligible to apply if they are either: 1) located in the disadvantaged community where the project will be implemented; or 2) located outside the disadvantaged community where the project will be implemented but have at least one year of experience working in the community. Organizations located in the disadvantaged community where a project will be implemented will receive preference.

To be competitive, projects should be consistent with the recommendations of the 2016 New York State Pollinator Protection Plan and subsequent updates. Projects must focus on one or more of the following:

• Preventing, abating, mitigating, or controlling prior or ongoing water, land, or air pollution affecting pollinators and their habitat
• Creating, managing, restoring, or enhancing pollinator habitat, including working with property owners or managers
• Undertaking pollinator-related research, monitoring, education, and outreach
• Working with tribal authorities and local governments to support the development and implementation of pollinator-friendly policies, programs, and activities.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Corporate Giving Program by the Franklin P. and Arthur W. Perdue Foundation focuses on supporting nonprofit organizations within specific states. They prioritize initiatives that enhance community welfare, especially in agriculture, education, health, and environmental sustainability. Organizations must have 501(c)(3) status to apply, and preference is given to those involving Perdue associates. Ineligible requests include those from religious, political, or individual-focused groups. This program emphasizes broad community benefits over organizational affiliations.

The Environmental Justice Community Impact Grant Program, offered by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, aims to empower communities in addressing environmental issues and health hazards. By providing competitive grants, the program supports not-for-profit organizations in implementing projects that mitigate exposure to environmental harms, fostering community consensus and enhancing public outreach and education. This initiative is vital for promoting environmental justice and improving the quality of life in affected communities.

The Environmental Grantmaking Program at the Educational Foundation of America (EFA) aims to support projects that facilitate a transition to a net-zero electricity system. Focused on reducing greenhouse gas emissions, the program emphasizes initiatives that enhance access to affordable clean energy, accelerate regional transitions, and strengthen financial investment in electric utilities. Eligible applicants include 501(c)3 public charities, academic institutions, and government entities committed to sustainable energy solutions.

The Sprague Charitable Contribution Program focuses on giving back to communities through charitable donations. With awards ranging from $250 to $10,000, priority is given to organizations that support children and environmental stewardship, particularly within Sprague's operational areas. The program seeks impactful contributions that can achieve significant results, reflecting Sprague's commitment to social responsibility and community improvement.

The New York State Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) offers Wetland Reserve Easements (WRE) to help landowners restore and enhance wetlands previously degraded by agriculture. This program provides funding for permanent and temporary easements, ensuring habitat protection for wildlife, improved water quality, and resilience against climate change. NRCS prioritizes applications that enhance migratory bird habitats, making it a key initiative for ecological conservation in New York.

The Connecticut Sea Grant College Program (CTSG) Grant supports vital applied research, education, and outreach aimed at promoting healthy coastal and marine ecosystems in Connecticut and Long Island Sound. Projects with clear relevance to the region's marine and coastal resources are prioritized, ensuring that public benefits are maximized through sustainable practices and community engagement.

Office of Children and Family Services

OCFS is dedicated to improving the integration of services for New York’s children, youth, families and vulnerable populations; to promoting their development; and to protecting them from violence, neglect, abuse and abandonment. The agency provides a system of family support, juvenile justice, youth development, child care and child welfare services that promote the safety and well-being of children and adults. Among the operating principles across all program areas are that services should be developmentally appropriate, family-centered and family-driven, community-based, locally responsive, and evidence and outcome based.

AmeriCorps New York FY 2026 Competitive Funding

On behalf of the New York State Commission on National and Community Service (the Commission), the New York State Office of Children and Family Services (OCFS) seeks applicants for AmeriCorps New York FY 2026 competitive grant funding.

Application Overview

AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities, and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. AmeriCorps grants are awarded to eligible organizations that engage AmeriCorps members in evidence-based or evidence-informed interventions to tackle some of the country’s most pressing challenges.

AmeriCorps State and National funding is intended to support a wide range of community service initiatives that encourage individuals to engage with others, to address local challenges, and to improve the quality of life in our communities.

An awardee of AmeriCorps funding recruits and enrolls individuals as AmeriCorps members, who may receive a living allowance and other benefits while serving. After successful completion of their service terms, AmeriCorps members earn a Segal AmeriCorps Education Award that they can use to pay for higher education expenses or qualified student loans.

AmeriCorps State and National Funding Priorities

For this funding opportunity, AmeriCorps will prioritize consideration from organizations that: Are Faith-Based; Serve Communities; Benefit AmeriCorps Members; Use Evidence

Key Bank Philanthropic Support - Community Sponsorships aims to enhance community welfare by providing financial backing to nonprofit organizations. With grants ranging from $500 to $5,000, these sponsorships focus on fundraising events and operational support for initiatives that foster economic inclusion and community growth. Applications are accepted from January to October, with decisions typically made within 90 days, ensuring timely support for impactful local projects.

KeyBank's Community Grants support tax-exempt organizations that align with the Foundation's funding priorities, focusing on improving community well-being. With grants ranging from $10,000 to $25,000, eligible organizations must have an operating budget of at least $100,000 and a minimum of three years in operation. The application process is invitation-only, requiring interested organizations to submit an Expression of Interest for review, typically receiving feedback within 90 days.

The Climate Impacts and Adaptation Research (PON 6034) program, funded by NYSERDA, aims to enhance community resilience in New York State while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. With a budget of $1.3 million, it supports projects addressing vulnerabilities in underreported populations, indoor air quality, compound events, and climate projections. The program encourages collaboration and requires a minimum of 25% cost-sharing, facilitating the development of critical adaptation strategies to combat the impacts of climate change.