Best Grants for New Nonprofits in North Dakota

New 501(c)(3) and similar tax-exempt organizations providing education, human services, health, or cultural programs in the greater Chicago area can apply for McGraw Foundation support. Grants of US $2,000 - US $10,000 may fund general operations, specific projects, or occasional capital needs, which could benefit emerging nonprofits building comparable programs in North Dakota.

Graduate students conducting research on drinking water quality, environmental science, or public health can receive US $3,000 to advance timely, actionable projects. Focused on water industry challenges, American Water Works Association funding may benefit students connected with new or emerging North Dakota nonprofits working in related fields.

Agricultural producers and land managers in North Dakota can receive technical and financial assistance to enhance conservation on working lands through the Conservation Stewardship Program. With a mission to improve natural resources and agricultural operations, USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service provides support for practices like grazing management, crop resiliency, and wildlife habitat, including five-year conservation contracts.

New and established 501(c)(3) nonprofits in North Dakota can seek funding for economic and workforce advancement, safe and affordable housing, and community arts and culture projects. Grants from US Bancorp Foundation help organizations, especially those led by people of color, that advance diversity, equity, and inclusion in designated U.S. Bank communities; new nonprofits apply via LOI.

New or established nonprofits in North Dakota supporting women and children through self-sufficiency, humanitarian aid, or child welfare programs can apply for funding up to US $750,000. The Father's Table Foundation provides grants for initiatives like homelessness services, education, job readiness, food security, microfinance, health care, and disaster relief that build long-term resilience.

Undergraduate-focused higher education institutions in North Dakota can apply for NIH funding to support small-scale biomedical research projects that engage primarily undergraduate students and strengthen campus research environments. The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services’ National Institutes of Health offers up to US $375,000 for eligible institutions that have historically received limited NIH support.

Agricultural landowners, Indian tribes, and eligible conservation partners in North Dakota can receive easement funding to protect working lands and restore wetlands. USDA: Natural Resources Conservation Service of North Dakota supports agricultural land and wetland reserve easements that preserve farmland, grasslands, and habitat, offering significant cost-share for easement value and restoration work.

Early-career clinical and health researchers at low- or middle-income country institutions can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award to secure mentored research time and support, with awards around Approximately US $140,000. Grants from the National Institutes of Health help build independent research careers, which North Dakota-based partners collaborating with LMIC investigators may benefit from.

About CommonSpirit

A calling that defines and unites

At CommonSpirit Health, we passionately care for the most vulnerable, relentlessly innovate how and where healing can happen and believe in uniting to benefit the common good. Our expansive network spans diverse communities, uniquely positioning us to meet their changing needs, improve population health and help chart the path to health equity.

Our mission, vision and values inform every aspect of our work each day and remind us that we serve our patients, their families, our communities – and each other. Our community health, research and home health programs help us address the primary barriers to healthier communities.

Sponsorship requests

We’re proud to support nonprofits that expand access to care, advance health equity and healthier communities. Learn more about our priorities.

Supporting our communities

CommonSpirit Health and our local facilities support nonprofit organizations that share our mission, vision and values. We give priority to programs that improve access to care and promote health equity and healthier communities.

CommonSpirit is proud to support nonprofit organizations that help improve the health and well-being of our communities. Guided by our mission, vision and values, we prioritize projects that focus on advancing health equity, improving access to care and improving community wellness.

Early-career research scientists at academic or research institutions in low- or middle-income countries, including those in North Dakota–affiliated LMIC partnerships, can apply for the Emerging Global Leader Award; awards approximately US $140,000 for mentored health research career development. This National Institutes of Health program supports three to five years of protected research time on locally relevant health priorities.

New 501(c)(3) organizations offering educational, youth, arts, or community programs in North Dakota and other U.S. regions can apply for grants of US $5,000 - US $20,000. Focused on education, John Ben Snow Memorial Trust invites proposals for scholarships, tutoring, literacy, youth initiatives, arts education, community services, and related efforts serving disadvantaged populations.

North Dakota health and science organizations planning congresses, conferences, or educational events can access funding through Biogen Foundation corporate sponsorships. Biogen provides support in exchange for tangible benefits like exhibit space, banners, or other recognition, prioritizing programs focused on neurology, neurodegenerative diseases, biosimilars, pharmacology, chemistry, and related medical research areas.

New or established 501(c)(3) nonprofits, including those in North Dakota, can seek $5,000 - $50,000 in general operating support for grassroots work in regenerative agriculture, climate justice, and healthy food access. Focused on community-centered environmental and food system change, Clif Family Foundation prioritizes U.S.-based groups with strong local ties and modest budgets.

New and existing nonprofits in North Dakota that sponsor AmeriCorps service programs can apply for the ND 2025-26 AmeriCorps Formula Fund to support community service in areas like education, health, environment, disaster services, and veterans. Administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, awards require a minimum 24% grantee match that increases over time.

Nonprofit and conservation organizations helping private landowners adopt regenerative agriculture and conservation practices in North Dakota and other eligible states can seek US $250,000 - US $750,000 for technical assistance. National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s Conservation Partners Program supports planning, implementation, and Farm Bill participation to improve soil, water, fish, wildlife, and habitat outcomes.

Free and charitable clinics in North Dakota that are NAFC member nonprofits can apply for the NAFC Healthcare Services Expansion Fund; awards US $30,000 - US $50,000 for launching or expanding clinical services. Funding can support patient care programs such as behavioral health, women’s health, telehealth, chronic disease management, dental, vision, or mobile clinic services.

Students pursuing natural resources or environmental studies in North Dakota can receive scholarship support for full-time study at accredited two- or four-year institutions. With a mission to support education and conservation careers, Community Foundation of Northern Illinois backs fields like ecology, forestry, hydrology, soil science, and pollution control; new nonprofits mentoring such students may also benefit.

Research scientists planning agriculture, forestry, fisheries, or food-related conferences, workshops, or symposia in OECD Co-operative Research Programme member countries, including the U.S., can seek sponsorship to support these events. With a mission to strengthen scientific knowledge, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development provides funding to share innovative research with policymakers, industry, and academia; North Dakota-based researchers may be eligible.

New or established 501(c)(3) organizations in North Dakota and across the U.S. implementing collaborative environmental projects can apply for US $50,000 - US $200,000 to put research and evidence-based practices into action. Grants from Renewable Natural Resources Foundation help fund multidisciplinary initiatives in areas like air quality, water resources, regenerative agriculture, recycling, and sustainable infrastructure.

The RNRF Planning and Small Grants program provides funding up to $50,000 to support projects that enhance collaboration among community partners in addressing critical environmental issues. Eligible applicants must be 501c3 organizations in the U.S. and demonstrate multidisciplinary cooperation. Projects should align with RNRF's mission and focus areas, including air quality, biodiversity, and renewable energy. The initiative aims to create sustainable and impactful outcomes by bridging research and practical implementation.

The Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund, established by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz Indians, has distributed over $16.3 million in grants since 1999. It supports charitable organizations and local governments in eleven Oregon counties, as well as Native American initiatives across the U.S. The fund prioritizes education, health, public safety, addiction prevention, housing, arts, and environmental preservation, ensuring the Tribe's commitment to community support and cultural heritage.

RBC Foundation – USA aims to enhance community quality of life by supporting non-profit organizations that promote diversity and positive change. In 2023, it awarded over $2.8 million in grants, prioritizing youth programs for ages 15-29, arts access for diverse populations, and mental well-being initiatives. The foundation encourages sustainable projects that foster economic independence, providing critical support for education, mental health, and cultural enrichment, thereby making a significant impact across various communities.

The Stantec Community Engagement Grant is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in communities where Stantec operates. Focused on arts, education, environment, and health and wellness, the grant supports initiatives that foster sustainable development and responsible practices. Organizations seeking funding must align with Stantec's values, emphasizing ethical practices and community impact. Preference is given to projects located near Stantec offices, ensuring a more significant local impact through their contributions.

Sanofi Philanthropic Donations support non-profit organizations aligned with Health Equity, STEM Education Equity, and Local Communities. Applications are accepted year-round, with a review process of 8 to 16 weeks. The initiative focuses on improving healthcare access, fostering innovation, and addressing social determinants of health. Sanofi emphasizes collaboration and sustainable solutions, advocating for equal opportunities in health and education, and nurturing future talent to tackle medical challenges.

The FY26 Defense Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (DEPSCoR) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible states by increasing the number of university researchers and institutions conducting relevant science and engineering research. Sponsored by the Department of Defense, this program will fund multiyear awards to promote research aligned with national security needs. Applications require a multi-stage submission process, emphasizing early registration and timely proposal submissions.

The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation offers the BUILD Grants Program aimed at enhancing the health and well-being of rural communities in North Dakota. This initiative addresses social determinants of health and focuses on key areas such as economic stability, education access, healthcare quality, neighborhood environments, and community context. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $7,500 will be awarded, prioritizing applicants with strong community collaborations and sustainability efforts.

The Impact100 Global Veterans Awards empower women to make a significant difference by awarding grants up to $100,000 to nonprofits that serve veterans. Focus areas include art and culture, education, health and wellness, environment, and family initiatives, promoting the well-being and support of veterans across the United States. Eligible organizations must meet specific criteria, including tax-exempt status, and are encouraged to submit proposals that utilize funds effectively within two years.