Best Community Development Grants in Oklahoma

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.

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.

Kirkpatrick Family Fund provides Oklahoma 501(c)(3) nonprofits with project-based support for time-limited initiatives that achieve measurable results in areas like community development, education, health, and human services. Eligible organizations, especially those serving central Oklahoma, can request up to US $15,000 for small community-focused projects rather than ongoing operations or capital campaigns.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oklahoma can apply for Kirkpatrick Family Fund large grants of more than US $15,000 to support time-bound projects with measurable results in areas like community enhancement, education, and human services. Programs that strengthen neighborhoods, expand economic opportunity, or improve quality of life in Oklahoma communities may be especially competitive.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oklahoma seeking to build or grow endowments can access matching support for endowment campaigns through the Kirkpatrick Family Fund, with awards around Approximately US $15,000. Focused on community development and related areas, applicants must hold or establish an endowment at the Oklahoma City Community Foundation and raise required matching funds.

About

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality web site’s goal is to provide all users with a functional, accessible and interactive web experience. We are continually striving to make all of our online resources as accessible as possible. In the meantime, if you encounter problems with any area of our site, please contact the site’s Webmaster. DEQ strives to ensure the accessibility of all electronic applications and publications to all individuals in compliance with applicable laws, including Oklahoma HB 2197 and Federal Section 508 accessibility laws.

Community Revitalization Program

The Site Cleanup Assistance Program (SCAP) has updated its Community Revitalization Program and introduced an application and ranking tools to select projects. Our goal continues to be working with City and County governments across the State to resolve environmental issues that are preventing property revitalization. This program allows for renewed use of a building or a site for business or government, and has the potential to revitalize communities by increasing the tax base, creating new jobs, and removing community eyesores and safety hazards. This program allows local communities to access the DEQ’s expertise in site cleanup, paving the way for reuse of a site or building.

While the focus of the Community Revitalization Program is asbestos and lead-based paint, properties that pose an imminent and substantial endangerment to human health and/or have other types of environmental contaminants may be considered on a case by case basis. If you believe your property poses an imminent and substantial threat, please contact the Community Revitalization program contact, Trenton Wilhelm.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on community development and related services in Oklahoma can seek support for programs benefiting youth and families, health and wellness, education, arts, and animal welfare. Cresap Family Foundation prioritizes charities in Central and Northeast Oklahoma counties where Premium Beers operated, though this preference is not mandatory.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations in Oklahoma seeking support for family and community services, health care, education, or arts and culture projects can apply for funding, with a focus on capital items and special program needs. Centered on northeastern Oklahoma, the Gelvin Foundation particularly supports work near Tulsa and Eufaula that benefits local residents.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations near James Avery retail or corporate locations in Oklahoma can apply for James Avery Charitable Foundation’s corporate grants, awarding US $10,000 - US $25,000 for community-focused programs. Eligible projects may include community development and revitalization, arts and cultural initiatives, veteran and first responder support, and people and wellness services.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations supporting community development, arts, veterans, wellness, diversity, or first responders in Oklahoma and other eligible areas can receive cash sponsorships and in-kind support for events and direct-service programs. The James Avery Charitable Foundation offers more than US $10,000 to groups located within 50 miles of a company-owned James Avery retail location or major corporate facility.

Nonprofit entities in Oklahoma that provide mortgage foreclosure defense for underserved residents or run community revitalization programs can apply for the Mortgage Foreclosure & Community Redevelopment Grant. Grants from Oklahoma Bar Foundation help community development and revitalization efforts, legal services, and housing initiatives, with funds restricted to these specified purposes.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations and local government entities in Oklahoma can seek funding for community development, food security, agriculture, and education projects or general operations. Greenpoint Foundation supports initiatives that enhance local communities, with priority for efforts advancing food security, community enhancement, education, and agriculture; multiple applications per year are allowed.

Nonprofits, government entities, and educational institutions working on community development and revitalization in Oklahoma’s Mid-South counties can receive US $1,000 - US $25,000 for projects that create positive change. PGA Tour’s Positively Memphis Community Fund accepts one application per year and awards quarterly, prioritizing a different focus area each cycle.

The EDA FY25 Disaster Supplemental program provides critical funding to support communities recovering from severe economic distress caused by natural disasters in 2023 and 2024. With no submission deadlines for Readiness and Implementation Paths, and a specific deadline for Industry Transformation applications, this initiative aims to enhance community resilience and improve economic trajectories through strategic projects that engage local stakeholders and private industries.

The Crawford Taylor Foundation focuses on enhancing programs that create lasting legacies in St. Louis. With priorities in community development, women's health, animal welfare, and environmental preservation, the foundation seeks to support 501(c)(3) organizations that meet specific eligibility criteria. They avoid funding multi-year grants or for-profit initiatives, emphasizing support for local causes and relief efforts deemed important by the Taylor family.

The Peter Chortek Leadership Award honors Jewish high school students in San Diego who demonstrate outstanding leadership and commitment to community service through tikkun olam. Awardees receive a $9,000 stipend, $540 to set up a Donor Advised Fund, and a professional video showcasing their project. This award encourages students to create or enhance community initiatives, fostering engagement in social justice and service projects.

The OCCF: Lawton Community Grants program, managed by the Lawton Community Foundation, awards grants up to $5,000 to eligible 501(c)(3) organizations in the Lawton area. It supports projects that enhance the community's quality of life, require matching support, and benefit a broad audience. Eligible projects should be new or significantly expanded initiatives. The program aims to empower citizens by providing resources for impactful community improvements.

The U.S. Venture/Schmidt Family Foundation supports initiatives that drive self-sufficiency and community enrichment for vulnerable populations. With over $4.31 million awarded last year, the foundation prioritizes projects that demonstrate measurable impact and foster stronger communities. Eligible organizations include those designated as public charities by the IRS. The foundation emphasizes collaboration with other funders, avoiding sole financial support to ensure comprehensive community development.

The Thriving Community Impact Fund offers grants up to $2,499 to support local programs that enhance community health and well-being. This initiative by Gundersen Health emphasizes collaboration, focusing on areas such as physical and mental health, poverty alleviation, and neighborhood improvements. Organizations like non-profits and government agencies can apply for funding during a rolling application period, with decisions made monthly. The fund aims to empower communities and address health inequities through impactful partnerships.

The Ochylski Family Foundation supports registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations through grants aimed at enhancing their operational capacity. With an application deadline of October 1, organizations must submit a detailed request outlining their initiatives. The foundation's mission aligns with its commitment to foster community development and nonprofit effectiveness in Iowa, ensuring that resources are allocated to impactful projects that serve the public good.

The Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grants for Fiscal Year 2025 support revitalization efforts in severely distressed public housing and surrounding neighborhoods. This program encourages collaboration among local governments, housing agencies, and community partners to create comprehensive plans aimed at improving housing quality, promoting upward mobility for residents, and attracting long-term investment for neighborhood development. Successful applicants will implement their Transformation Plans, which were developed through prior Planning Grants to enhance the quality of life for residents.

Oklahoma community development and revitalization nonprofits can access funding through the H Hovnanian Family Foundation for projects in areas like education, public health, arts and culture, entrepreneurship, and youth development. U.S. 501(c)(3) organizations with at least one year of outcomes may receive up to US $10,000, with preference for work benefiting New Jersey communities.

501(c)(3) public charities working on community development, education access, international development, or humanitarian programs, including those serving Oklahoma, can apply for Strategic Impact Grants to support impactful projects. Bertin Family Foundation supports community development by funding feasible, well-governed initiatives that demonstrate strong stewardship, measurable outcomes, and alignment with its values, with applications accepted annually in Q3.

Nonprofit organizations working on community development, housing, homelessness, youth, veterans, or social services in Oklahoma and other eligible areas can seek program or project support through the St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s 1908 Funds. Grants, typically US $500 - US $5,000, support activities that build financial literacy, thrift, and economic self-sufficiency for individuals and families.

Nonprofit organizations providing youth, housing, homelessness, social services, veteran support, or civic and community programs can apply for St. Marys Bank Charitable Foundation’s community support grants, awarding US $500 - US $5,000. While the funder is based in New Hampshire, Oklahoma community development groups with similar missions may be eligible if they serve the foundation’s priority areas.

U.S. nonprofit staff leading community development projects can request micro grants of US $500 - US $1,000 for new initiatives or new components of existing work. Focused on uplifting unseen leaders, Enhearten Unseen Leaders invites Oklahoma community development efforts that reflect humility, integrity, and love to apply for project-specific funding.

Nonprofit 501(c)(3) organizations working on housing, skilled trades, clean water, sanitation, or community development within Ferguson’s U.S. service areas can seek project support. Grants from Ferguson help Oklahoma community development groups and similar organizations in its geographic footprint build stronger, more resilient communities through partnerships that enhance local wellbeing.