Best Grants for Community Service Projects in North Dakota

Aberdeen Area Medical Foundation

Since our inception in 1988, the Aberdeen Area Medical Foundation (AAMF) organization has expended over 2.5 million in the NE South Dakota and SE North Dakota area for medical equipment, medical scholarships, and healthcare delivery.

The general objectives of the corporation shall be to ensure the maintenance and the highest standards of healthcare in the Aberdeen area; to aid, assist, and promote healthcare facilities in the Aberdeen area; to promote research and provide facilities and equipment to that end; to assist in medical and healthcare education, both publicly and privately, and to promote legitimate healthcare objectives; to provide healthcare for those unable to provide for themselves; and generally do all things necessary to carry out the corporation’s objectives.

Aberdeen Area Medical Foundation Funding Requests

AAMF works to provide funding and benefits to healthcare, healthcare delivery, medical scholarships, and funding of medical equipment for charitable hospitals and ambulance services. They have furnished ambulance equipment for all of the small community and rural ambulance volunteers in Northeast South Dakota and Southeast North Dakota. AAMF serves an area bounded by Hwy 14 to the south, I-94 to the north, the Missouri River to the west, and the SD border to the east.

Funding requests can be made for medical equipment or health-related projects. The AAMF board meets twice per year in the spring and fall to review requests.

The BCBSND Impact Grants aim to enhance the health and well-being of North Dakotans by supporting innovative community initiatives. Funded by the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation, these grants focus on whole-person health, emphasizing behavioral health and social determinants of health. Eligible organizations can receive up to $10,000 to implement projects that promote healthier lifestyles and address critical health issues, ensuring a lasting impact in local communities.

The Community Possible Grant Program by U.S. Bank aims to foster economic and workforce advancement, as well as safe and affordable housing. By partnering with 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, the program seeks to drive lasting change within communities through collaborative grantmaking. Priority is given to organizations that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion, and that address multiple pillars of work, home, and play. This initiative reflects U.S. Bank's commitment to creating a more equitable society.

The Energy Conservation Grant in North Dakota supports energy efficiency improvements in public buildings owned by political subdivisions. Eligible projects include insulation installation, efficient lighting, HVAC upgrades, and weather sealing, with awards up to $100,000 requiring a 50% cash match. Projects must achieve a payback period of 10 years or less, and all energy savings calculations will be reviewed by Community Services. Funding is provided on a reimbursement basis.

The Office of Legal Immigration Grant Program (ND) aims to support businesses and community organizations in North Dakota that seek to recruit, retain, and integrate New Americans. Funded by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, it addresses the need for improved access to international recruitment and community integration activities, enhancing the workforce and economic inclusion for foreign-born individuals. This program facilitates employer strategies and community-based initiatives, promoting long-term retention and positive experiences for immigrants.

The North Dakota Civil Money Penalty (CMP) Funds program supports applications for the reinvestment of CMP funds aimed at enhancing the quality of care and life for nursing home residents. Eligible organizations include consumer advocacy groups, nursing home associations, and state agencies. Funds can be used for resident support, facility improvements, and community-based relocations. However, they cannot be utilized for compliance issues or exceed three years in duration, ensuring focused and effective use of resources.

The Impact Fund provides recoverable grants to legal services nonprofits and small law firms working on social, environmental, and economic justice issues. With over $10 million awarded since 1992, the fund supports impactful litigation addressing systemic injustices. Grants range from $10,000 to $50,000 and prioritize cases directly involving affected communities. Recipients must repay the grant amount with interest if they recover fees or costs, ensuring sustainability for future funding.

The John & Elaine Andrist Charitable Trust aims to enhance the quality of life in northwest North Dakota through its grantmaking approach. Funding focuses on arts, community development, economic growth, and innovation, supporting projects that strengthen local communities. Eligible applicants include IRS tax-exempt organizations and government agencies. Priority is given to initiatives in Crosby and Divide County, promoting sustainable growth and creative endeavors to uplift residents.

The TJX Foundation Grants support nonprofit organizations located within 15 miles of a TJX store that align with their community mission. Eligible areas include basic needs, education for at-risk youth, workforce training, and safety from domestic violence. Organizations must be a registered 501(c)(3) for at least 12 months and have a nondiscrimination policy. Applications are invited through a Letter of Inquiry, with funding decisions based on community impact.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - North Dakota

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The AgriBank Rural Community Grant Fund aims to boost infrastructure and community development in western North Dakota, supporting initiatives like housing, health, and safety projects. Grants up to $50,000 are available for local entities, including 501(c)(3) organizations, to foster improvements in areas affected by mineral development. This fund reflects AgriBank's commitment to enhancing community well-being and sustainability in the region.

The Tree Campus Higher Education Program, led by the National Arbor Day Foundation, promotes the importance of trees in campus environments. By fostering community forests, this program not only enhances the beauty and livability of college campuses but also addresses critical environmental issues. Schools can gain national recognition by meeting five key standards, thereby encouraging student involvement in tree-related projects while benefiting mental health and reducing energy needs.

The Region 4 Professional Development Awards for 2025-2026 foster the growth of health information access and data science skills among network members. This funding supports diverse projects such as workshops, conferences, and educational activities aimed at enhancing the professional capacity of individuals affiliated with NNLM Region 4. By encouraging proposals that address the needs of underrepresented communities, the awards aim to improve health information services and access across the region.

The BCBSND Health Innovation Grants support innovative projects aimed at improving health outcomes in North Dakota. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) nonprofits, municipal entities, or school systems. Projects may focus on expanding access to fresh foods, behavioral health services, or recovery education programs. The grants are not intended for existing programs or operational costs, and restrictions apply to funding for employee positions and capital campaigns. Successful proposals should demonstrate replicable models for community health improvement.

The Alex Stern Family Foundation Grant provides funding to nonprofits in the Fargo-Moorhead area, focusing on arts, education, social welfare, youth recreation, civic projects, and health issues. Established by Alex Stern, a notable community figure, the foundation aims to support initiatives that enhance the local quality of life. Organizations seeking assistance should confirm their eligibility with the Program Manager before applying, ensuring alignment with the foundation's mission.

The Arts in Education Collaboration Grant offers up to $6,000 to support collaborative projects that enhance arts education for K-12 students in North Dakota. It encourages partnerships among schools, arts organizations, and community resources to increase access to quality arts education. Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and public entities located in North Dakota. The program aims to address barriers to arts education and support sustainable, participatory learning experiences for students.

The Workforce Retention Funding program, managed by North Dakota Health and Human Services, aims to bolster the rural healthcare workforce by providing grants to critical access hospitals and their clinics. With approximately $10 million in funding, the initiative supports retention strategies such as employee incentives, childcare partnerships, and professional development. By enhancing workforce sustainability, this program addresses healthcare access challenges in rural communities, aligning with the state's goal to improve overall health outcomes.

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services

North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services' vision is focused on North Dakota becoming the healthiest state in the nation. HHS Mission Statement: HHS fosters positive, comprehensive outcomes by promoting economic, behavioral, and physical health, ensuring a holistic approach to individual and community well-being. Our mission underscores the incredible work that is already underway across HHS today. It reflects our commitment to keep the well-being of individuals and communities at the forefront of our efforts. 

Ensuring Safety Net Service Delivery Grant

The Ensuring Safety Net Service Delivery funding opportunity aims to fill gaps in the health and behavioral health service delivery systems. This will improve North Dakota’s health care safety net, the system of providers and programs ensuring health care access for vulnerable populations, including those living in rural areas and needing specialized care. This is identified in Initiative 3: Bring High-Quality Health Care Closer to Home of North Dakota’s RHTP. Proposed projects eligible for this funding opportunity are:

• Technical assistance, training, planning and infrastructure development or equipment and remodeling for providers aiming to fill a gap in the current continuum of care. Examples may include:
  • medically managed withdrawal management services
  • youth and adult partial hospitalization/day treatment programs
  • behavioral health crisis response
  • pediatric and ventilator beds
  • obstetric care
  • home-based services
• Technical assistance, training, equipment and remodeling for providers expanding outreach and telehealth supports for underserved communities. Examples may include:
  • telehealth equipment
  • development of outreach models
  • mobile clinics
  • virtual care rooms for telehealth visits 

The North Dakota Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program provides essential financial support to local governments for public facilities, housing rehabilitation, and economic development projects aimed at assisting very low and low-income individuals. Projects funded may include housing rehabilitation, public facility improvements, and economic initiatives that create job opportunities. Ensuring compliance with national objectives, the program promotes community development and addresses urgent needs while enhancing the living conditions of residents.

The Rural Business Development Grants in North Dakota aim to provide essential technical assistance and training to small rural businesses, defined as those with fewer than 50 employees and under $1 million in revenue. Funding is prioritized for smaller requests, with two grant types available: Opportunity and Enterprise. These grants support various projects, from training and technical assistance to community and technology-based economic development, ultimately fostering growth in rural areas.

GoodInND Foundation Grants

At GoodInND Foundation, our mission is to drive positive change and support sustainable development across North Dakota. We achieve this by funding projects that empower individuals and enrich communities through strategic support and partnerships.

Our Funding Areas

Education

At GoodInND Foundation, we are committed to enhancing educational opportunities for North Dakotans of all ages. Our grants and strategic partnerships support innovative programs that improve access to quality education, foster lifelong learning, and help students achieve their full potential.

Heath, Wellness & Human Services

Promoting comprehensive health and wellness is crucial for thriving communities. We fund initiatives that address physical, mental, and emotional health, including preventive care, wellness education, and support services in North Dakota.

Civic & Community Development

Building strong, resilient communities is at the heart of our work. GoodInND Foundation invests in projects that strengthen local infrastructure, encourage civic engagement, and foster community spirit and leadership.

Culture & Arts

The arts and humanities enrich our lives and reflect our shared cultural heritage. We support projects that promote artistic expression, cultural understanding, and the preservation of our collective history and traditions, with a special focus on North Dakota's unique culture.

The Tom and Frances Leach Foundation is dedicated to fostering healthy, thriving communities by awarding grants to nonprofit organizations. Their focus areas include education, health, human services, and arts & humanities, particularly in the Bismarck-Mandan and Western North Dakota regions. The foundation aims to support initiatives that promote educational opportunities, enhance healthcare access, improve quality of life, and preserve artistic endeavors, ensuring transformative impacts on local populations.

The Otter Tail Corporation Foundation Grant Program focuses on supporting 501(c)(3) organizations in communities across Arizona, Georgia, Illinois, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota. Priorities include early childhood education, health services for families in need, community development, and environmental sustainability. While the 2025 budget is fully allocated, they encourage applications for 2026, emphasizing collaborative projects that create measurable impacts.

St. Joseph's Community Health Foundation Grant supports initiatives that enhance the mental, physical, and spiritual well-being of residents in Northcentral North Dakota. Established by the Sisters of St. Francis in 1914, the foundation emphasizes sustainable community health through financial gifts and collaborative efforts. Eligible applicants include non-profits and governmental organizations, ensuring impactful projects across counties such as Bottineau, Burke, and McLean. The foundation aims to foster healthier communities while promoting voluntary financial support.

The Destination Development Grant (ND) provides $15 million in funding to enhance tourism in North Dakota for the 2025-2027 biennium. It aims to develop new visitor experiences aligned with the state's identity, focusing on infrastructure for attractions that stimulate economic growth. Eligible projects include unique lodging, culinary experiences, and outdoor recreational venues. This program is designed to support projects that are ready for implementation, not for early-stage development.

The Media Partnerships Program, funded by the Bush Foundation, supports nonprofit media organizations in Minnesota and surrounding areas. It provides three-year operating grants to enhance news coverage, foster community engagement, and ensure diverse voices are represented. By promoting transparency and editorial independence, the program aims to amplify storytelling that addresses local issues, ultimately strengthening the region's informational landscape. Eligible organizations can receive up to $150,000 in support to further their mission while collaborating with the Foundation.

The Community Facilities Grant Program in North Dakota supports rural development by providing essential funding for community facilities. Eligible areas include rural communities with populations under 20,000. The program prioritizes projects that serve low-income areas and offers varying grant assistance based on the community's income level. Funding can be used for construction, equipment purchases, and project expenses, ensuring that vital services such as healthcare, education, and public safety are accessible to rural residents.