Best Oklahoma Grants for Nonprofits

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

CTE New Program

Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) supports the implementation of quality CTE programs. The purpose of this grant is to provide startup funding for new CTE programs. This would include any program approved within the past three years. Applicants can only receive one grant within the three-year period. This grant will help overcome the cost barrier of implementing CTE programs by providing schools with funding to purchase necessary equipment and resources to increase enrollments and opportunities for students statewide.

About Oklahoma CareerTech

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma CareerTech is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 62 campuses, 394 PK-12 school districts, 20 Skills Centers campuses that include three juvenile facilities and 49 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

Perkins Innovative Grants

Things to know:

• All grants will be on a two-year award cycle (except CTE New Program Grant) to match the Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment timeline. To be eligible for awards, recipients will be required to complete and submit their Comprehensive Local Needs Assessment.

• Grant recipients will have to show progress towards goal completion by the end of the first year of funding to receive 2nd year funding. These Benchmarks will be developed in collaboration with the Program area innovative grant leads and the recipients.

• Districts can apply for multiple grants. 

There are 8 Innovative Grants that all eligible recipients can apply for: 1) Career Development and Programs of Study; 2) Career Pathways, Workforce, and Industry Partnerships; 3) Supporting CTE Special Populations; 4) High Growth and Emerging Technologies; 5) Innovation in Career Exploration; 6) Innovative Strategies to Recruit and Retain - High Schools/Tech Centers That Work & Other; 7) CTE New Program; 8) Improving Academic Proficiency

Improving Academic Proficiency

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (ODCTE) is committed to improving the academic proficiency of CTE students. This grant is designed to increase academic outcomes in English Language, Arts, Science, and/or Mathematics. Funds are provided so that schools can implement innovative strategies to improve academic performance.

The OAC Creative Aging Partnership Grant aims to enhance arts education for older adults in Oklahoma. This program provides funding for workshops and artist residencies, fostering community connections and promoting health benefits. Organizations can receive up to $30,000, with a 1:1 match requirement. Eligible applicants include nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions. This initiative supports creative aging opportunities, encouraging lifelong learning and engagement among seniors, ultimately improving their quality of life through the arts.

The Royalty Fields Grant Program, presented by the Kansas City Royals Foundation, supports the enhancement of youth baseball and softball facilities across the Midwest. This initiative offers matching grants for major renovations, including essential upgrades such as new sod, infields, fencing, and dugouts. Eligible applicants include 501(c)(3) organizations or local government entities that can demonstrate secured funding. Grants aim to foster safe and improved playing conditions for youth athletes.

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 Ernest Morgan Memorial Scholarship, managed by CommunityGiving, supports central Minnesota student athletes and leaders to pursue higher education outside their home states. This scholarship aims to expand students' horizons and experiences, with a total award of $5,000 available. Open to high school seniors from specific schools, applicants are encouraged to apply online and demonstrate their leadership or athletic skills. This initiative enhances educational opportunities and fosters personal growth among local youth.

The OAC Expanded Arts Education Grants for Schools support arts education programs in Oklahoma that occur outside regular school hours. Schools can apply for up to $2,500 annually with a 10% cash match. These grants enhance academic performance, increase student engagement, and promote civic involvement. Arts education fosters creativity and critical thinking, benefiting students in various subjects. The program encourages sequential, hands-on learning led by qualified educators to provide meaningful arts experiences for students.

Rob-See-Co is an independent seed company with regional expertise, providing customers access to leading genetics and traits through the Rob-See-Co and Innotech® seed brands. Rob-See-Co also sells Masters Choice specialty silage and forage products, as well as Streamline Ag seed-driven crop inputs. Rob-See-Co works alongside its customers, building strong relationships and helping them plant the right seed for their long-term success, while keeping the process friendly, straightforward, and simple. 

Rob-See-Co Library Grant

In recognition of National Library Day, Rob-See-Co, an independent seed company located in Elkhorn, Neb. is proud to announce the continuation of its Rural Library Grant program.

Originally launched in 2023 to commemorate the company’s 10th anniversary and honor Agnes Robinson’s dedication to the rural library in Waterloo, NE, the program continues to hold special meaning. Agnes, great-grandmother of Jim Robinson, CEO of Rob-See-Co, was a passionate advocate for rural libraries. Today, the program extends support to libraries across rural communities within the company’s footprint. 

The focus areas for grant distributions from the Rob-See-Co Rural Library Grant program will assist local libraries with expanding book collections, core educational programs for adults or children, and computer or software upgrades. Examples of this would be new books, expansion of school visits or field trips, digitizing research materials, support for funding traveling exhibits and speakers.

Rob-See-Co will award ten grants to selected rural libraries across CO, IA, KS, MD, MI, MN, ND, NE, OH, OK, PA, SD, TX and WI. Funds may be used for core educational, preservation and interpretive purposes, including collection development, facility improvements, traveling exhibits, guest speakers, staff training, programming, and publications. 

The OAC Essential Arts Education Grants for Schools supports Oklahoma schools in enhancing arts education programs during the school day. Schools can apply for up to $5,000 per year, fostering significant improvements in academic performance and student engagement. Arts education develops essential skills, promotes creativity, and encourages civic responsibility. With a focus on hands-on learning led by qualified educators, these grants aim to expand access to various art forms, benefiting both students and the broader community.

Greater Salina Community Foundation

Our mission is to build permanent endowment funds and meet charitable community needs. The Foundation achieves its mission by:

• Enabling donors to fulfill their charitable desires
• Increasing the capacity of nonprofit organizations to fulfill their individual missions
• Facilitating prudent management and care of funds
• Promoting community philanthropy through education
• Providing affiliate services to neighboring communities
• Meeting needs through grants, scholarships, and pass-through funds

Scholarship Program

The community foundation offers a wide variety of scholarships for students, provided by the generosity of local donors. Whether you are a high school senior, a current college student, or a non-traditional student we work with donors to help you take the next step in your education.

Kurt Budke Scholarship

For students entering their sophomore year or above in college who plan on attending Louisiana Tech University, Oklahoma State University, Washburn University, or Wichita State University.

Renewals

• This award is not renewable.

The Oklahoma Arts Council offers Classroom Supply Grants for Visual and Performing Arts, providing up to $500 annually for schools to purchase essential art supplies. This funding addresses the critical need identified by teachers for effective visual and performing arts education, enabling schools to maintain valuable programs that enhance student learning and creativity. Applications are due by August 22, 2025, and require a user account in the Fluxx grant portal.

The OAC Community Arts Experience Grants, offered by the Oklahoma Arts Council, support community vitality through funding for arts-based projects such as festivals and exhibitions. These grants aim to enhance cultural opportunities for Oklahomans and require a 100% match. Organizations may apply for two grants annually, with a maximum award of $5,000. This program fosters engagement and preserves cultural heritage, replacing the previous Small Grant Support program as of September 1, 2023.

District Attorneys Council

The primary function of the District Attorneys Council is to provide a professional organization for the education, training and coordination of technical efforts of all District Attorneys of the State. The DAC assists local District Attorneys by providing financial, personnel, and other administrative services upon request. The Council is the administrative agency for the Crime Victims Compensation Board and the state administrative agency for several federal grants.

It is important to note that the DAC does not have control over individual District Attorneys. Its functions are advisory and administrative support only. The DAC does not have the power to investigate, stop, or otherwise prevent a District Attorney from prosecuting an individual or group.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN)

Project Safe Neighborhoods is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, and community leaders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. Directed by the 93 United States Attorneys throughout the country, Project Safe Neighborhoods is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun crime in America. The District Attorneys Council, Federal Grants Division serves as the fiscal agent for the U.S. Attorneys in the Western, Northern, and Eastern Districts of Oklahoma.

District Attorneys Council

The primary function of the District Attorneys Council is to provide a professional organization for the education, training and coordination of technical efforts of all District Attorneys of the State. The DAC assists local District Attorneys by providing financial, personnel, and other administrative services upon request. The Council is the administrative agency for the Crime Victims Compensation Board and the state administrative agency for several federal grants.

It is important to note that the DAC does not have control over individual District Attorneys. Its functions are advisory and administrative support only. The DAC does not have the power to investigate, stop, or otherwise prevent a District Attorney from prosecuting an individual or group.

Justice Assistance Grant (JAG)

The Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (Byrne JAG) is a federal criminal justice grant that helps states/territories, tribal nations and local governments meet identified needs and improve the administration of justice.

AG awards are for 24 months.

Purpose

The purpose of this grant is to prevent and control crime. The JAG Program provides the State with the flexibility to prioritize and place justice funds where they are most needed.

Purpose Areas: There are eight purpose areas under which JAG applications may fall. Each funding year, the Justice Assistance Grant Board prioritizes funding under these purpose areas. The purpose areas are:

• Law Enforcement Programs
• Prosecution and Court Programs
• Prevention and Education Programs
• Corrections and Community Corrections Programs
• Drug Treatment Programs
• Planning, Evaluation, and Technology Improvement Programs
• Crime Prevention and Witness Programs (Other Than Compensation)
• Mental Health Programs and Related Law Enforcement and Corrections Programs, including Behavioral Programs and Crisis Interventions Teams

Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education

For more than 100 years, Oklahoma’s system of career and technology education has focused on improving Oklahoma’s economy by offering individuals the training and skills necessary to be successful in the workplace and providing companies with the workforce necessary to compete globally.

Oklahoma's CareerTech system significantly contributes to the state's economic development and quality of life. Vision: We are securing Oklahoma’s future by developing a world-class workforce. Mission: We prepare Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education and in life.

Competitive Technology Center Lottery Grant

The Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education requests proposals from technology centers for funding the implementation and/or upgrading of instructional and training technology for the purpose of (1) innovative “cutting edge” hardware and software, (2) curriculum materials, (3) machinery and equipment for new technologies, and/or (4) instructor training.

All proposed expenditures, including instructor training/professional development, must be related directly to the approved proposal. Curriculum materials purchased should support the technology requested in the proposal and could include digitally delivered curriculum and assessments. The request should not supplant current curriculum expenditures. For the purpose of this grant request, technology refers to any use of innovative processes, equipment and software that will enhance and/or advance instructional techniques or an advanced interactive learning environment to provide for the needs of the students and clients of the district, including business and industry.

Any and all technology equipment purchased with these funds will become the sole property of the local school district and will be placed on the local school district inventory. However, technology/equipment purchased with the grant must remain located at the technology center and in the specific Career Tech program to which it is awarded. 

Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) emphasizes 5 core principles and beliefs that guide the department's actions and decision-making. These ICARE Values (Integrity, Compassion, Accountability, Respect, and Excellence) set the standard for all our employees. These values are foundational to the way we seek to provide services.

Mission: Dedicated to Excellence in Behavioral Health Services. Vision: Oklahoma sets the standard for behavioral health systems that provide transformative, agile, and quality care. 

Community Safety Investment Funds

Proposed projects/programs shall be an addition of services to the county/counties and shall not supplant existing funds or otherwise fund programs or services which are existing governmental service requirements or funded through other governmental funding sources, i.e., other ODMHSAS funds, Oklahoma Opioid Abatement Grant, or Oklahoma Sheriff’s Office Funding Assistance Grant. All SQ781 funds must be used by a county or multi-county government partnership from a previous fiscal year before current fiscal year dollars are expended. 

Projects/programs shall include the development and implementation of evidence-based programs within one or more areas:

• Mental health and substance abuse treatment programs or other health care programs provided in the community.
• Pretrial diversion programs, including intake substance use and mental health screenings or jail reentry programs.
• Employment programs.
• Education programs; or
• Housing programs. 

The Mercy Work Foundation of Oklahoma, established in 1992, focuses on the welfare of small animals. It provides grants ranging from $5,000 to $20,000 for care, shelter, food, and veterinary services for stray and injured pets. Typically awarding 2-3 grants annually, this foundation aims to support charitable organizations in Oklahoma dedicated to animal protection.

The Southwestern Branch John Henry Comstock Graduate Student Award promotes graduate-level interest in entomology. It recognizes one graduate student from the Southwestern Branch, who will be honored at the Southwestern Branch Meeting. The recipient receives an all-expenses-paid trip to the ESA Annual Meeting, a $200 cash prize, and a certificate. Covered expenses include airfare, hotel arrangements, meeting registration, and per diem allowances, fostering attendance at the fall/winter ESA Annual Meeting.

The James Avery Fundraising Support provides limited cash contributions, sponsorship of special events, and in-kind support to organizations enriching community life within 50 miles of a James Avery retail location. Eligible organizations must be 501(c)(3) certified and focus on arts, community improvement, veteran support, and wellness. Requests must be made at least 60 days prior to events, and organizations can receive support only once per year.

The Windgate Charitable Trust Grant supports contemporary craft and visual arts in the U.S. It offers funding for fellowships, residencies, educational outreach, and materials for craft programs. The foundation prioritizes strengthening visual arts in colleges and expanding K-12 art-integrated programs, providing opportunities for artists and educators to enhance their skills and foster creativity among students. Organizations with previous funding from Windgate can apply through the grantee portal.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Water-Wastewater Construction

Oklahoma’s Community Development Block Grant-Water-Wastewater Construction program is for applicants that are ready to begin construction on a water or wastewater project. Eligible units of local government that provide documentation of final plans and specifications or a construction permit secured through the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (ODEQ) may apply under this category. CDBG funds may only be utilized for construction, inspection, and administration costs. Engineering costs are prohibited.

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

AIA WF Architecture High School Student Scholarship

The AIA WF Architecture High School Student Scholarship fund was opened at WFACF in 2020, by the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. It is for local area graduating seniors pursuing a degree in architecture, with preference for students intending to return to our area. There are (2) one-time $1,000 scholarships available for students attending Texas A&M, Prairie View A&M, Texas Tech, University of Houston, UT Arlington, UT Austin, UT San Antonio, or Oklahoma State.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Commerce is a trusted government agency that partners with businesses and communities for strategic and sustainable growth and success, moving Oklahoma forward to becoming a top ten state. As a result of SB 1447 (2024 Oklahoma Legislative Session), Commerce has recently restructured to focus on two key areas of focus: Community Outreach & Revitalization Enterprise (CORE) and Economic Development, Growth & Expansion (EDGE).

Our job is to bring jobs, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

CDBG Community Revitalization

The primary National Objective of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program is the “development of viable urban communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment, particularly for persons of low and moderate incomes.” The CDBG National Objective “benefit to low and moderate-income-persons” is considered a funding PRIORITY under the State’s CDBG Program and is treated as such under the State’s individual CDBG set-asides. 

The Community Revitalization Program addresses quality of life needs in rural Oklahoma communities, helping these communities thrive, grow, and spark a sense of pride in citizens. An Applicant may submit a project proposal for any eligible activity listed under Section 105(a) of the Federal Housing and Community Development Act of 1974, as amended, other than water or wastewater projects.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Water + Wastewater Engineering

The Water and Wastewater Engineering Program funds water and wastewater projects that require more than one year to complete through a “phased approach”. Phase I of the Water and Wastewater Engineering program covers only engineering costs plus an appropriate amount of administration. Once the applicant receives their construction permit, the Community Development Division at Commerce will issue an award for construction, and the second phase (Phase II) of the project will begin.

Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation

For over 25 years, the Community Foundation has remained committed to leaving a legacy for future generations by promoting philanthropy, providing charitable opportunities, and facilitating donors’ interests. We work alongside donors and community partners to help meet area needs, create solutions, and inspire action to build a vibrant community today and a stronger community for tomorrow. 

Scholarships

The Community Foundation is home to 50 scholarship funds established by generous individuals, organizations and businesses to help students from our community and surrounding areas pursue their dreams through education. 

AIA WF Architecture College Student Scholarship

The AIA WF Architecture College Student Scholarship fund was opened at WFACF in 2024, by the local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. It is for graduates of the local area pursuing a degree in architecture entering their sophomore year of college, with preference for students intending to return to our area. There are (2) one-time $2,000 scholarships available for students attending Texas A&M, Prairie View A&M, Texas Tech, University of Houston, UT Arlington, UT Austin, UT San Antonio, or Oklahoma State. 

The OVAC Professional Basics Grant supports Oklahoma artists by funding essential aspects of their art practice, including quality samples, display, and travel. Grants of up to $500 help artists develop their professional practices and engage in community projects. Eligibility requires applicants to be over 21 and have at least 12 months of residency in Oklahoma. This grant aims to empower visual artists, curators, and art writers to enhance their creative projects and visibility.

Oklahoma Department of Commerce

Here at the Department of Commerce, our job is to bring employment, investment, and economic prosperity to the state of Oklahoma. Through dynamic partnerships and innovative collaborations with companies, universities, not-for-profit organizations, and government leaders, we are building a business environment that supports business growth and shared community prosperity.

Community Development Block Grant Programs

The Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program enables rural Oklahoma communities to finance a variety of public infrastructure and economic improvements and helps promote job growth as a result of these improvements. CDBG funds are provided by the federal government (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) and managed by the Oklahoma Department of Commerce to help ensure Oklahoma’s most critical needs are addressed.

CDBG Rural Economic Action Plan (REAP)

The CDBG REAP Program was developed in partnership with the Substate Planning Districts (SSPD) to make a greater impact on each district by matching CDBG funds dollar for dollar on each project in their respective area.