Best Unrestricted Grants for Nonprofits in Oklahoma

The JFNY Grant for Arts & Cultural Exchange supports U.S. non-profit organizations aiming to enhance understanding of Japanese arts and culture. Eligible projects include performances, workshops, and exhibitions, with priority given to those with additional funding and in areas with limited access to cultural events. Applications must be submitted at least one month prior for online projects and three months for others. The grant covers expenses like travel, publicity, and artist fees, and is reimbursed upon project completion.

About ODL

Preserving Oklahoma’s history, supporting efficient governance and ensuring libraries remain vibrant community hubs

Mission and History

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL) serves as the State Library, State Archives, and Records Administrator for Oklahoma state government, overseeing public library development, statewide resource sharing, and programs such as literacy initiatives. The agency ensures every Oklahoman has access to innovative, high-quality library and information resources while fostering literacy skills essential for success in the workforce, educational attainment, active participation in democracy, and the achievement of individual life goals.

Library Grants and Funding Opportunities

Oklahoma Department of Libraries offers information about grant opportunities, application resources, and funding support to help libraries serve their communities.

Professional Development Conference Grant - General CE Opportunities

The Professional Development Conference Grant supports continuing education opportunities for Oklahoma public library staff. Funded through the Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA) and the Institute of Museum and Library Services, the grant helps library professionals attend conferences and training that strengthen skills, support certification goals, and improve library services across the state. Eligible applicants may request funding assistance for approved professional development opportunities.

This LSTA Grant, offered through the Institute of Museum and Library Services, is for the purpose of educating library professionals and improving library services in Oklahoma. In accordance with the Public Library Academy Manual, the certification program is to ensure that "public libraries in this state be administered and staffed by trained personnel... library staff must increase their skills and knowledge through continuing education in order to keep abreast of development in the information age" in order "to improve library service throughout the state."

The American Electric Power Foundation provides grants to 501(c)(3) organizations focused on educational improvement, particularly in STEM fields, and basic human services such as hunger and housing. Organizations must operate within AEP's service territory or have a broader beneficial purpose. The Foundation also supports social justice initiatives and environmental protection efforts. Eligible applicants must affirm compliance with anti-discrimination policies and demonstrate commitment to diversity and inclusion.

The Cresap Family Foundation Grant supports charities in Central and Northeast Oklahoma, reflecting the family's commitment to the community after their long-standing business. With a focus on youth, health, education, arts, and welfare, the Foundation seeks to enhance the quality of life for Oklahomans. It prioritizes funding for 501(c)(3) organizations, especially those in counties where the family operated, ensuring a targeted impact in the areas most connected to their legacy.

The Kirkpatrick Foundation Small Grants program supports diverse initiatives in arts, culture, education, animal wellbeing, environmental conservation, and historic preservation, primarily in Central Oklahoma. With no specific deadlines and monthly reviews, the foundation aims to enhance the quality of life through strategic funding. Organizations that qualify as 501(c)(3) nonprofits and serve the local community are encouraged to apply. This program reflects the foundation's commitment to fostering a vibrant and sustainable environment for all citizens.

The Victims Assistance Grant (VOCA) in Oklahoma, established by the Victims of Crime Act, provides essential funding to support services for crime victims. Managed by the Oklahoma District Attorneys Council, this grant prioritizes support for victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, child abuse, and underserved populations. Annually awarded on a competitive basis, VOCA grants aim to enhance victim services across the state, ensuring a minimum allocation for each critical area of need.

The Wellness Across the Lifespan Grant supports the health of communities by providing access to nutritious food and essential nutrition education. Grants ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 are awarded to 501(c)(3) nonprofits in areas where Sprouts Farmers Market operates. This funding emphasizes health and nutrition education, as well as programs that promote healthy lifestyles and nutrition security, ultimately benefiting adults and vulnerable populations.

The Ragland Family Education Foundation Scholarship offers $20,000 to Oklahoma students pursuing degrees in STEM fields. Renewable for up to four semesters at $5,000 each, this scholarship supports tuition, fees, and related educational expenses. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and college students, provided they maintain a GPA of 2.5 and complete 12 credit hours per semester. The program aims to assist students with limited financial resources in achieving their educational goals.

The Ethnic Minorities and Women’s Internship Grant supports entry-level athletics administrative positions for one academic year, promoting diversity in NCAA Division II. It provides $30,000 for intern salaries and $3,000 for professional development, benefiting six schools annually from a total budget of $180,000. Eligible applicants must be active NCAA members, with a focus on enhancing ethnic minority and gender representation in athletics administration. This initiative encourages professional growth and compliance in diverse environments.

The Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research (OCASCR) grants program supports innovative research in adult stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Established by the TSET in 2010, OCASCR aims to enhance research capabilities in Oklahoma, addressing critical health issues related to smoking and obesity. Eligible applicants include Principal Investigators from universities and research institutions, with a focus on projects that document unique funding needs. OCASCR welcomes inquiries regarding additional support mechanisms to foster research growth.

The OCASCR Shared Equipment Grant provides essential funding for equipment to enhance adult stem cell and regenerative medicine research in Oklahoma. This program, backed by the Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research, promotes collaboration among universities and private institutions, ensuring cutting-edge resources are available to researchers. Grants range from $27,000 to $450,000, with an average of $150,000 awarded. Eligible applicants include Oklahoma Principal Investigators with relevant qualifications and institutional support.

The Oklahoma Center for Adult Stem Cell Research (OCASCR) Grant Program aims to advance research in adult stem cell biology and regenerative medicine in Oklahoma. Established in 2010, it supports innovative research focused on diseases linked to smoking and obesity. Grants, typically around $130,000, are available to eligible principal investigators at Oklahoma institutions, promoting impactful studies in this vital field of medicine.

The US Department of Health & Human Services, through the NIH, invites applications for innovative approaches to implement SBIRT/P for addressing alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use in adults facing health disparities. This funding opportunity encourages research that tests screening, brief interventions, and referrals for treatment or prevention services. Applications are due on specified deadlines from February 2024 through March 2027, fostering collaboration with healthcare and community partners to enhance public health outcomes.

About PCORI

PCORI funds patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER).

Our Mission

PCORI helps people make informed healthcare decisions, and improves healthcare delivery and outcomes, by producing and promoting high-integrity, evidence-based information that comes from research guided by patients, caregivers, and the broader healthcare community.

Broad Pragmatic Studies PCORI Funding

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA), seeking to fund patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. 

Research Initiative Highlights

CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences.

Special Areas of Emphasis

For Cycle 2 2026, PCORI is particularly interested in submissions that address the following Special Areas of Emphasis (SAE) within the BPS funding opportunity. The purpose of identifying these SAEs is to encourage submissions to these areas, rather than limiting submissions to these topics. Applicants addressing one of the below SAEs should identify the area that is best associated with their research approach:  

• Addressing Obesity
• Diabetes Prevention, Care and Treatment
• Management of Urogynecological and Pelvic Pain
• Pain Management for Individuals Living With Sickle Cell Disease

In PCORI-funded research, patients and other research partners are expected to meaningfully contribute their lived experience or professional expertise to ensure studies are patient-centered, relevant and useful for healthcare decision making. Applicants must address PCORI’s Foundational Expectations for Partnerships in Research — an evidence-based framework supported by tools and resources to guide effective engagement strategies. Applicants are also strongly encouraged to consider the inclusion of a broad range of patient-centered burdens and economic outcomes. 

Broad Pragmatic Studies PFA: Category 1, Category 2 and Category 3 Study Specifications

PCORI will commit up to $120 million in direct costs through this funding opportunity. This funding opportunity contains three categories for funding:

• Category 1: Category 1 will support research projects with direct costs up to and including $5 million.

• Category 2: Category 2 will support research projects with direct costs greater than $5 million and up to a maximum of $12 million. Applications for funding under Category 2 will be required to provide additional information in the Letter of Intent (LOI) and application to justify the size and scope of the proposed research projects and to explain how additional funds are necessary with respect to the scale, scope and complexity of personnel and material resources needed to address the research question.

• Category 3: Category 3 will support research projects with direct costs up to $12 million that utilize PCORnet® to conduct observational studies and/or pragmatic trials that are national in scale. Category 3 PCORnet Studies® must include two or more Clinical Research Networks and share study progress, performance metrics and best practices with the network to promote continuous learning and improvement. PCORnet Studies® will leverage the PCORnet Common Data Model® as appropriate. Additional details about Category 3 can be found on the PCORI website.  

Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research

The Asia-Pacific region, home to over half the world's population, faces challenges due to its development goals, which strain natural resources, communities, and cultural heritage. These issues are exacerbated by adverse environmental changes. While research has shed light on these problems, it's clear that more challenges lie ahead. The Asia-Pacific Network for Global Change Research (APN) is well-positioned to generate new knowledge and solutions for these evolving global change and sustainability issues by supporting collaborative research and scientific capacity development activities, particularly those aimed at training the next generation of early career professionals.

APN 2025 Call for Proposals: CAPaBLE Programmes

CAPaBLE, our scientific capacity development programme, aims to enhance the capacity of scientists, policymakers and practitioners to assess global change issues, and explore options to resolve issues towards achieving sustainability. Through CAPaBLE, we support activities that enhance capacity at individual, organizational and systemic levels.

Activities of interest under the CAPaBLE Programme

APN supports CAPaBLE activities that enhance existing capacities of developing countries at three levels of individual-based capacity development; group, organisation, network-based capacity development; and societies, governance, and system level capacity development. APN accepts CAPaBLE proposals that engage 1 or more member/approved countries. Proposals must address one or more of the following activities:

SCIENTIFIC CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES that promote the following approaches related to one or more of the six thematic areas of APN:

• Utilising and strengthening existing capacity, 
• Creating opportunities to use/instil capacity, 
• Developing new capacity through innovative approaches.

AWARENESS-RAISING AND DISSEMINATION activities through policy- and decision-making communities, civil society, and/or the general public.

SCIENCE-POLICY interfacing in the context of the priority topics.

CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT PARTNERSHIP ACTIVITIES that contribute to the capacity development components of the evolving global change arena, including the UNFCCC Paris Agreement, IPCC, IPBES, post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals, Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, and the UN Decade of Ocean Science, and ongoing and new global change and sustainability research programmes.

Activities geared towards using SCIENCE COMMUNICATION to disseminate knowledge generated from projects, particularly to non-science audiences.

Service Objects In-Kind Grants support non-profit organizations dedicated to environmental conservation and sustainability. By leveraging their data validation services, they aim to assist projects that promote ecological health and responsible resource management. The program prioritizes applications with clear, measurable objectives and impactful outcomes within one to three years. Organizations with 501(c)(3) status in the U.S. are eligible, while initiatives lacking detailed plans or focusing on generalized education will not qualify. This grant fosters community involvement in environmental stewardship.

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.

BOK Charitable Contributions aims to enhance community life and economic wellbeing across several states, focusing on four key pillars: United Way, economic development, education, and basic needs. The foundation supports organizations that address poverty, education, and community health. Their strategic approach ensures impactful contributions, and they welcome grant applications year-round. BOK Financial's commitment is evident in its partnerships with local nonprofits, fostering sustainable growth and development in the regions they serve.

The Express Health Information Outreach Awards aim to enhance public health by increasing access to biomedical information for U.S. health professionals and the general public. These awards support projects that improve health information literacy among consumers and caregivers, ensuring they can effectively find and utilize health information. Focused on partnerships and outreach to underrepresented communities, the initiative seeks to promote healthy behaviors, prevent illness, and improve health outcomes through informed decision-making.

The FlightSafety International Oklahoma Aviation Scholarship, supported by The Columbus Foundation, offers financial assistance to high school seniors in Oklahoma pursuing aviation careers. Emphasizing STEM education, the scholarship seeks to recognize passionate individuals with strong academic records. Recipients are inspired to contribute to aviation safety through exceptional training, reflecting the Foundation's commitment to enhancing the quality of life in the community and supporting future leaders in the aviation industry.

The Patient-Centered Outcomes Research Institute (PCORI) intends to issue a Broad Pragmatic Studies (BPS) PCORI Funding Announcement (PFA) on Aug. 4, 2026, seeking to fund high-impact, patient-centered comparative clinical effectiveness research (CER) projects. This preannouncement provides potential applicants additional time to identify collaborators; obtain patient and stakeholder input on potential studies; and develop responsive, high-quality applications. 

Patient-centered CER compares at least two available health treatments, services or care delivery strategies. PCORI seeks proposals that compare clinical interventions (e.g., pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments, screening and diagnostic approaches) and healthcare delivery system interventions (e.g., workforce, technologies, healthcare service delivery designs) to evaluate potential benefits and harms of different treatment and care delivery options, thus generating evidence that empowers patients, caregivers and the broader healthcare community with information to make informed choices that reflect their needs and preferences. 

The Great Apes and Gibbons Program Grant, administered by the Arcus Foundation, supports conservation efforts for great apes and gibbons across 24 priority landscapes in Africa and Asia. The program emphasizes sustainable coexistence between humans and wildlife, having awarded over 2,000 grants to more than 500 organizations globally. Funding is not available for individuals or specific lobbying activities, ensuring resources are directed towards impactful conservation initiatives.

The Great American Cleanup Grants, offered by Keep America Beautiful, aim to enhance community beautification and environmental efforts across the U.S. This initiative encourages KAB affiliates to remove litter, plant greenery, and restore public spaces, contributing to the larger goal of cleaning up 25 billion pieces of litter by 2026. With cash grants available, this program fosters collaboration among communities, promoting sustainable practices and a cleaner, greener future for all.

The National Forest Foundation's Matching Awards Program connects communities to forests by funding stewardship activities that promote engagement with National Forests and nearby public lands. This program aims to create lasting impacts, ensuring that all communities can benefit from the rich resources of these natural areas. By supporting various projects, the program fosters a deeper relationship between people and the environment, ultimately enhancing conservation efforts and community well-being.

The OAC Community Arts Grants - Small Grants Support, offered by the Oklahoma Arts Council, aims to enrich communities through arts festivals, exhibitions, and performances. Established to provide financial support to eligible organizations, these grants require a 1:1 cash match and are available for new applicants. Projects must be submitted at least 60 days prior to their start. This initiative fosters diverse and inclusive arts experiences, enhancing Oklahoma's cultural landscape.

About ODL

Preserving Oklahoma’s history, supporting efficient governance and ensuring libraries remain vibrant community hubs

Mission and History

The Oklahoma Department of Libraries (ODL) serves as the State Library, State Archives, and Records Administrator for Oklahoma state government, overseeing public library development, statewide resource sharing, and programs such as literacy initiatives. The agency ensures every Oklahoman has access to innovative, high-quality library and information resources while fostering literacy skills essential for success in the workforce, educational attainment, active participation in democracy, and the achievement of individual life goals

Library Grants and Funding Opportunities

Oklahoma Department of Libraries offers information about grant opportunities, application resources, and funding support to help libraries serve their communities.

Health Literacy Grants

Public libraries and literacy organizations play an important role in helping Oklahomans access reliable health information and wellness resources. The FFY26 Health Literacy Grant supports projects that encourage healthy living, improve health literacy, and promote community wellness.

Administered by the Oklahoma Department of Libraries, this Library Services and Technology Act (LSTA)-funded grant supports Story Trails, fitness and wellness activities, healthy eating programs, information sharing, and other innovative health literacy projects.

Health Literacy

To help build thriving communities, ODL offers opportunities to develop personal and organizational health literacy. As trusted community anchor institutions, libraries are vital in supporting the community’s abilities to access, to understand, and to utilize health information, which directly impacts health outcomes.

Health Literacy Grant

ODL's Health Literacy grant provides libraries and literacy organizations across the state opportunities to develop and sustain programming that encourages healthy behaviors and information-gathering for members of their communities. Through funded programs, participants can increase their physical activity, grow and prepare healthy meals, learn about various health topics, and more--the possibilities are as numerous as local librarians' imaginations are wide!

The Sumners Foundation Grant aims to engage and educate the public about self-government through various programs, including civic education, democracy reform, and teacher training. Grants are available to qualified 501(c)(3) organizations primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Oklahoma, supporting activities that foster civic engagement and understanding of democratic principles. The Foundation emphasizes direct involvement in the political process and does not fund political activities or provide individual grants.