Best Operating Grants for Nonprofits in Oklahoma

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for regional fire science exchanges across nine designated regions in the U.S. This initiative aims to promote the sharing of fire science knowledge and practices over a two-year period. Eligible applicants can focus on regions including Alaska, Appalachians, Great Basin, North Atlantic, Northern Rockies, Northwest, Oak Woodlands, Pacific Islands, and Southwest. Proposals must be specific to one region.

The Southern Plains Grassland Grant Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), aims to conserve and restore vital grasslands in the Southern Great Plains. Collaborating with nonprofit organizations and ranching communities, the program enhances ecosystem health and resilience while providing financial resources. Additionally, it supports carbon storage efforts, benefiting both wildlife and rural economies. Key funding partners include Sysco, Burger King, Cargill, and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

The Environmental Officer Grants aim to combat illegal dumping in Oklahoma by providing funding up to $50,000 for salaries, equipment, and cleanup efforts. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations. The grants support part-time Environmental Officers and cover costs for supplies and labor. Monthly reporting on metrics like dumps identified and trash collected is required. Preference is given to agencies with prior enforcement experience and those not previously funded, promoting sustainable environmental practices.

Collection Event Grants provide funding for the collection of electronic waste and other hazardous materials, including household hazardous waste, tires, and pharmaceuticals. Grants, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, support discrete collection events coordinated with certified recyclers and local authorities. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations in Oklahoma. The program promotes safe disposal practices and environmental stewardship, ensuring responsible management of e-waste and hazardous materials.

What does this program do?

It provides loans and grants to Microenterprise Development Organizations (MDOs) to:

• To help microenterprises startup and growth through a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund.
• Provide training and technical assistance to microloan borrowers and micro entrepreneurs.

Microenterprise Development Organizations must demonstrate experience in managing a Revolving Loan Fund, or:

• Certify that it or its employees have received education and training from a qualified microenterprise development training entity so that the applicant has the capacity to manage such a revolving loan fund.
• Demonstrate that it is actively and successfully participating as an intermediary lender in good standing under the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Microloan Program or other similar loan programs as determined by the Administrator.

What kind of funding is available?

• Grants are available to provide technical assistance to rural micro-entrepreneurs or microenterprises, up to $205,000 annually.
  • Funding at the requested level is not guaranteed, and at least 15 percent matching funds are required.
• Loans of $50,000 to $500,000 may be used for establishing a Rural Microloan Revolving Fund managed by the Microenterprise Development Organization.
  • Total aggregate debt is capped at $2.5 million.

What are the loan terms?

• Maximum term is 20 years.
• Two-year payment deferral.
• Must establish a loan loss reserve fund.

What terms are required on loans to ultimate recipients?

• Up to $50,000.
• Fixed interest rate.
• Limited to 75 percent of project cost.

How may the funds be used?

Microlenders may make microloans for qualified business activities and expenses including, but not limited to:

• Working capital.
• Debt refinancing.
• Purchasing equipment and supplies.
• Improving real estate.

Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security

The Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security serves as the representing office for the State of Oklahoma in developing and implementing a comprehensive statewide homeland security strategy; planning and implementing a statewide response system; administering the homeland security advisory system; coordinating, applying for and distributing federal homeland security grant funds, and the implementation of national homeland security plans. 

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

This grant provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attacks. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA); and NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA)

NSGP-UA funds nonprofit organizations located within designated high-risk urban areas. Under NSGP-UA, each urban area will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations within the designated high-risk urban areas.

The EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement-Focused Collaborations Program (RII-FEC) aims to enhance research capabilities in eligible jurisdictions by fostering partnerships among government, higher education, and industry. This program supports interdisciplinary teams of researchers to tackle significant challenges in STEM fields, promoting diversity and broadening participation. By integrating Minority-Serving Institutions and early-career faculty from underrepresented backgrounds, RII-FEC seeks to build sustainable STEM capacity and drive impactful discoveries across regions.

The Equipment Grants program, managed by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality, supports the purchase of solid waste management equipment valued between $5,000 and $50,000. Eligible applicants include government units and recognized organizations in Oklahoma. This funding is intended for one-time purchases, with a requirement for storage and maintenance plans in applications. Ineligible items include buildings and vehicles, ensuring a focused investment in necessary equipment.

The Strengthening Families and Communities Grant by Telligen Community Initiative focuses on enhancing the resilience of youth and families through community-based funding. This initiative is transitioning to two-year funding periods, with applications due in March and October for different states. The grant aims to address social determinants of health, providing targeted support based on extensive applicant feedback. The program emphasizes a narrowed applicant pool to ensure more consistent funding for impactful projects.

The L.B. Research and Education Foundation Grant Program supports U.S.-based nonprofits focusing on innovative education and health solutions for underserved populations. Eligible organizations can apply by submitting a 400-word concept paper, and selected applicants may receive funding ranging from $10,000 to $75,000. The Foundation prioritizes projects that foster critical thinking and creativity, address health disparities, and encourage collaboration. There are no application deadlines, promoting year-round engagement.

The Connecting Joy Grant, provided by the Joy in Childhood Foundation, aims to enhance the hospital experience for children battling illness through engaging gaming programs. This initiative supports children's hospitals and nonprofits by funding equipment, staffing, and connectivity, ensuring children can enjoy gaming at their bedside. With grants ranging from $25,000 to $150,000, the program focuses on offering joy and distraction, helping young patients cope with their hospital stays while facilitating connections with peers.

The Small Business Transportation Technical Assistance Center (Region 5) aims to empower small businesses through comprehensive support from the U.S. Department of Transportation. By providing financial and technical assistance, business training, and outreach, the initiative helps small businesses enhance their competitiveness for DOT-funded contracts. This program is vital for fostering economic growth and ensuring small firms are well-prepared to engage in transportation-related projects at various governmental levels.

Simmons First Foundation: Make a Difference Grant

Amount:

• $2,500 up to $50,000

For the upcoming grant cycle, funding will be limited to programs focused on:Special Education:  K-12 Youth with disabilities, including physical disabilities, developmental and cognitive disabilities, and sensory impairments.   (examples including):

• Inclusive theater and performing arts programs
• Adapted, hands-on STEM learning
• Accessible coding, robotics, and maker-space activities
• Science-based learning adapted for diverse abilities
• Assistive technology and adaptive learning tools
• Adaptive physical education and recreation programs

Substance Abuse and Violence Prevention:  K-12 Youth (examples including):

• Evidence-based prevention programs targeting alcohol, opioids, vaping, and other substance use
• Skill-building programs that focus on refusal skills, decision making, coping strategies, and peer pressure resistanc
• Early intervention programs for at-risk youth
• Recovery support services for youth in early recovery (including peer support groups, mentoring, and relapse prevention planning)
• Youth-focused programs that teach emotional regulation, anger management, and non-violent communication
• Intervention programs for youth exposed to or at risk of violence
• Peer mediation and restorative justice programs that reduce disciplinary incidents and promote accountability

The FY 2026 Cooperating Technical Partners (CTP) Program, funded by FEMA, allocates $41 million to enhance flood risk management in Region 8. This initiative empowers local communities to develop flood hazard data and maps, fostering public awareness and informed decision-making. By bolstering flood mapping capacity, CTPs play a crucial role in reducing flood risk and promoting responsible planning across various sectors, ultimately contributing to community resilience against flooding.

The Mabee Foundation provides challenge grants for projects in Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Arkansas, Missouri, and Kansas, primarily focusing on construction, renovation, and major medical equipment purchases. Organizations must raise 40% of project costs from other donors before applying. Grants can reach up to 20% of total costs, with a maximum of $2 million. Applications are considered quarterly, requiring submissions by specific deadlines for review at upcoming board meetings.

The EDA Austin FY 2016–FY 2019 Planning Program and Local Technical Assistance Program aims to bolster regional economic development by providing grants that assist eligible organizations in creating and implementing Comprehensive Economic Development Strategies (CEDS). This initiative seeks to enhance the economic prosperity and resiliency of distressed areas, ultimately fostering job creation for the unemployed and underemployed. It emphasizes partnership planning and supports organizations, including Indian Tribes, in driving effective economic development.

The Emergency Community Water Assistance Grants in Oklahoma provide essential funding to help rural communities prepare for or recover from emergencies threatening safe drinking water. These grants support projects like waterline repairs or new water sources, with funding up to $1 million. Eligible applicants include local governments and nonprofit organizations in rural areas. This initiative aims to ensure access to clean water and bolster community resilience after disasters, improving overall public health and environmental conditions.

The Fiscal Year 2026 Cooperating Technical Partners (CTP) Program in Region 6 aims to enhance community flood risk awareness and management through the development of flood hazard data and maps. Funded by FEMA, this initiative supports local decision-making and responsible planning across various sectors, ensuring communities are better equipped to reduce flood risks. The total funding for this program is $41 million, distributed across nine regions, facilitating improved flood information delivery and risk reduction efforts.

The Department of the Interior's Wildland Fire Service Joint Fire Science Program (JFSP) invites proposals for the FLAMES award, aimed at master and doctoral students in wildland fire studies. This initiative enhances research relevance by connecting students with fire management practices, providing experiential learning opportunities, and fostering mentorship. Students will gain valuable insights into management and policy, preparing them for impactful careers in fire science. The program emphasizes peer-learning and professional development in the context of wildland fire management.

The Disaster Resilience Program, supported by Equal Justice Works, aims to provide free civil legal aid to communities affected by disasters in the Midwest. With funding for attorney and summer law student fellows, the program addresses the unique legal needs of low-income families, helping them recover from the impacts of disasters. This initiative not only stabilizes lives but also promotes resilience in communities by ensuring access to essential legal services.

Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security

The Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security serves as the representing office for the State of Oklahoma in developing and implementing a comprehensive statewide homeland security strategy; planning and implementing a statewide response system; administering the homeland security advisory system; coordinating, applying for and distributing federal homeland security grant funds, and the implementation of national homeland security plans. 

Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP)

This grant provides funding support for target hardening and other physical security enhancements and activities to nonprofit organizations that are at high risk of terrorist attacks. The intent is to integrate nonprofit preparedness activities with broader state and local preparedness efforts. It is also designed to promote coordination and collaboration in emergency preparedness activities among public and private community representatives, as well as state and local government agencies.

There are two funding sources appropriated for nonprofit organizations: NSGP - Urban Area (NSGP-UA); and NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP - State (NSGP-S)

NSGP-S funds nonprofit organizations located outside of a Designated high-risk urban area. Under NSGP-S, each state will receive an allocation for nonprofit organizations in the state located outside of Designated high-risk urban areas.

The Oklahoma Urban and Community Forestry Grants, offered by the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, aim to enhance urban forestry initiatives across the state. These grants, ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, support projects such as public tree inventories, management plans, and educational programs. Organizations are encouraged to propose creative solutions that foster community engagement and sustainable forest management, ultimately improving local green spaces and promoting citizen involvement.

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality offers grants for Food Waste Management Projects aimed at reducing food waste through diversion efforts. Eligible applicants include governmental units, educational institutions, and non-profits that can demonstrate specific service provisions. Grants reimburse 80% of eligible equipment costs ranging from $5,000 to $50,000, with total funding amounts typically between $1,000 and $50,000. This initiative promotes sustainable practices while enhancing food recovery infrastructure in the community.

The TSET Built Environment Grants, initiated by the Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust, aim to enhance public health in Oklahoma by funding projects that promote physical activity and nutrition. With a total funding of $4.6 million, eligible organizations can apply for grants to improve community infrastructure, including parks, fitness centers, and access to healthy food. This initiative focuses on reducing preventable deaths related to tobacco use and obesity, thereby improving overall health outcomes for Oklahomans.

Oklahoma AmeriCorps

Oklahoma AmeriCorps improves lives, strengthens communities and fosters civic engagement through service and volunteering. We bring people together to tackle some of the state’s most pressing challenges by providing grants to Oklahoma nonprofits. These programs are located throughout the state and focus on the areas of Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, and Veterans & Military Families. Those who serve in the programs are known as “Members” and earn an education award for their participation. 

AmeriCorps Oklahoma Funding

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is seeking grant applicants to operate or develop AmeriCorps programs in Oklahoma. The AmeriCorps programs will enroll AmeriCorps members to address community-identified needs in one or more focus areas during their term of service: Disaster Services, Economic Opportunity, Education, Environmental Stewardship, Healthy Futures, or Veterans and Military Families.

Oklahoma AmeriCorps is the legal applicant to the federal AmeriCorps agency, and applicants applying under this notice are subgrantees of Oklahoma AmeriCorps. Applicants will initially submit their grant in the Oklahoma AmeriCorps internal application system and successful applicants will enter the final grant application in eGrants for submission to the AmeriCorps agency. Indian Tribes are eligible to apply directly to the AmeriCorps agency.

Application Types

Oklahoma AmeriCorps grants may be either an operating grant with AmeriCorps members to support the program’s operations or a planning grant to develop a future operational program. Planning grants are not awarded AmeriCorps member slots. 

The Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) offers Professional Service/Other Grants to non-profit organizations demonstrating sole-source service provisions and for unique projects outside standard DEQ categories. Funding is available on a reimbursement basis, covering 80% of eligible equipment costs, ranging from $1,000 to $50,000. Grantees must formalize agreements with DEQ prior to project initiation, ensuring compliance with reimbursement policies. This initiative aims to enhance environmental protection through targeted financial support.

The Oklahoma 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) Program aims to enhance educational opportunities for students in low-performing schools. By providing academic enrichment, after-school activities, and family engagement, this program supports students in meeting Oklahoma's academic standards. Eligible applicants include local educational agencies, non-profits, and community organizations, ensuring diverse participation. The initiative focuses on a collaborative approach to improve educational outcomes and foster community involvement in children's education.