Best Oneida County Grants for Nonprofits in New York

The New York State Regional School Food Infrastructure Grant Program aims to enhance K-12 meal preparation by utilizing fresh local farm products. With a total funding of $50 million over five years, the program will award $5 million to each of the ten regions, encouraging projects that alleviate food insecurity and bolster market opportunities for local producers. This initiative seeks to strengthen the state's food system resiliency while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

About National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF)

The National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) works with partners to foster sustainable and impactful conservation solutions so that people and nature thrive together. Chartered by Congress in 1984, NFWF has grown to become the nation’s largest conservation foundation. Since its founding, NFWF has funded more than 23,900 projects that have generated a total conservation impact of more than $12 billion.About Sustain Our Great Lakes Program

Sustain Our Great Lakes is a public–private partnership designed to sustain, restore and protect fish, wildlife and habitat in the basin by leveraging funding, building conservation capacity, and focusing partners and resources toward key ecological issues. The program achieves this mission, in part, by awarding grants for on-the-ground habitat restoration and enhancement.Funding priorities for this program include:

• Habitat Restoration to Conserve Species and Improve Water Quality
• Expand and Maintain Nature-Based Solutions in Great Lakes Communities
• Invasive Species Control to Protect and Enhance Restored Habitat
• Activate Restored Habitats and Natural Areas

Spectrum Digital Education Grants support nonprofit organizations in educating communities about broadband benefits and usage. These grants aim to bridge the digital divide, particularly for seniors and those with disabilities or ethnically diverse backgrounds. Applicants must demonstrate community partnership, address specific needs, and provide measurable impact metrics. With a focus on financial feasibility and meaningful outcomes, this initiative ensures that underrepresented urban and rural communities gain access to essential digital resources, fostering long-term improvement in their lives.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, led by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF), invites proposals for Planning and Technical Assistance Grants up to $75,000. This initiative focuses on enhancing conservation and stewardship efforts in the Chesapeake Bay watershed, supporting local partners in effective project implementation. With an estimated $8.5 million available, applicants are encouraged to engage with NFWF staff for proposal guidance and feedback to strengthen their submissions.

The Chesapeake Watershed Investments for Landscape Defense (WILD) Program, managed by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) in collaboration with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, invites proposals for grants ranging from $75,000 to $500,000. These funds aim to support on-the-ground conservation projects that enhance vital fish and wildlife habitats within the Chesapeake Bay watershed. Up to $8.5 million in funding is available, contingent on resources.

The M&T Charitable Foundation Grants provide essential support to a variety of organizations focused on enhancing community well-being. With a mission rooted in corporate responsibility, the foundation prioritizes partnerships with 501(c)(3) organizations in sectors such as arts, health, education, and human services. By investing in local initiatives, the foundation aims to create healthier communities and improve the quality of life for all stakeholders involved.

The Citizens Charitable Foundation offers grants focused on Workforce Development and Financial Empowerment. Organizations applying must be IRS-qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofits located in specific states. The foundation seeks to partner with high-impact nonprofits to create measurable community impact through innovative programs. Funding is directed towards job training, career education, and coaching initiatives, with a strong emphasis on collaboration and volunteerism.

The KeyBank Foundation offers Community Sponsorships to support local organizations in their fundraising efforts. These sponsorships range from $500 to $5,000 and can fund events or provide general operating support. Applications are accepted from January to October, with a decision made within 90 days. Eligible nonprofits must serve areas where KeyBank operates and adhere to strict ineligibility criteria, including no support for individuals or organizations that discriminate based on various identities.

The Citizens Grants: Financial Empowerment program supports nonprofits focused on creating measurable impacts in financial education for low to moderate income individuals and small businesses. This grant emphasizes partnerships with established 501(c)(3) organizations and encourages collaborative efforts that demonstrate alignment with funding priorities. By investing in financial literacy, Citizens aims to enhance fiscal health in underserved communities across select geographic areas.

The Polisseni Foundation Grant aims to enhance the quality of life in upstate New York by supporting organizations that address community needs in education, human services, and civic improvement. To apply, organizations must submit their IRS 501(c)(3) Determination Letter and ensure their applications are formatted correctly. All submissions must be made two weeks before the scheduled board meeting for consideration.

Hero Fund America offers grants to EMS, Fire, and Law Enforcement Agencies, supporting essential training, education, and equipment needs. Established in 2016, the fund emphasizes mental health and life-saving resources for first responders. With funding requests capped at $2,000 annually, the program is designed to directly benefit eligible 501(c)(3) organizations and government entities. Notably, the fund is backed by unique fundraising events like the Run 4 the Hills and the Hero Fund America Tour.

The Radiance Gives Fund Grant, established in 2022 by Radiance Technologies, supports 501(c)(3) organizations in local communities. This employee-run charitable initiative ensures that 100% of contributions go directly to grant awards, enhancing community impact. With no administrative fees deducted, Radiance empowers its employees to make meaningful contributions to the causes they care about, fostering a culture of giving and community support.

The NRA Foundation provides funding through its State Fund Grant Program to support local groups focused on shooting sports, education, and community outreach. Grants aim to benefit youth, women, veterans, and law enforcement, requiring applicants to have a valid EIN and meet specific eligibility criteria. Since its inception, the foundation has awarded over 60,000 grants totaling more than $473 million, ensuring that funds are used for charitable purposes as defined by the IRS.

About Us

A Vibrant Region with Opportunity for All

Who We Are

The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties is a community-based social impact investor whose mission is to engage, invest, and lead—working toward a vision of community vibrancy with opportunity for all. Our team of experienced staff and dedicated trustees is committed to boldly leading and supporting transformational community investments. We channel charitable contributions from donors through nonprofit partners that are meeting current community needs and steward community resources responsibly to ensure greater capacity for the future.

No organization has all the answers, but together, with our partners and donors, we have the means and the will to chart a new course—one that will build upon generations of philanthropy and strengthen the fabric of Herkimer and Oneida counties.

Scholarship Opportunities

We help those seeking educational opportunities that will enrich their lives—and enhance our community.

Please note that scholarships administered by the Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties are awarded through a variety of different mechanisms, including by school district selection, public application, or through our community partners, such as Utica Dollars for Scholars.

Virginia A. Bowmaker Scholarship

Awarded by Virginia A. Bowmaker Scholarship Trust Fund of the City of Utica, New York

Established to benefit qualified graduates of public and parochial schools in Utica who demonstrate eagerness for intellectual and cultural advancement.

Candidates are identified by Utica Dollars for Scholars.

The Mele Scholarship, established by the Mele Family, provides 4-year scholarships to students from over 20 school districts in Herkimer and Oneida counties. This initiative by The Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties aims to enrich educational opportunities for those studying math, science, and humanities. With a commitment to community vibrancy, the foundation supports students attending 4-year colleges or universities, ensuring that deserving candidates receive the assistance they need to succeed.

The Thomas Memorial Fund for the Education of Prospect Youth Scholarship, managed by the Community Foundation of Herkimer and Oneida Counties, supports students from the 1969 Town of Trenton Fire District. Scholarships are awarded to those who have resided in the area for at least three years and plan to attend college or vocational school. This initiative exemplifies the foundation's commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and community vibrancy.

The Great Lakes Fisheries Trust offers grants for ecological and biological research aimed at enhancing ecosystem health and sustainable fish populations. These grants support competitive fisheries research, focusing on resilience, sustainability, and stakeholder value. The next funding cycle will open with a request for proposals in late 2026 for the 2027 program year, promoting innovative research and capacity-building efforts within the fisheries sector.

The Fred and Barbara Erb Family Foundation is dedicated to fostering a healthy Great Lakes ecosystem and a vibrant Southeast Michigan community. Since its inception, it has invested over $180 million in environmental, cultural, and educational initiatives. As it transitions to spend down its assets by 2034, the Foundation aims to make bold, impactful investments that address urgent community needs and promote sustainable development.

The Ellen Lea Paine Memorial Nature Fund Grants, established by the Adirondack Garden Club, aim to provide financial support for initiatives focused on studying, protecting, and enjoying the natural environment of the Adirondack Park. This fund prioritizes assistance for individuals and nonprofit organizations, including educational institutions, committed to conservation efforts and the promotion of native plants and wildlife. Through this grant, the Garden Club fosters ecological awareness and community engagement in environmental preservation.

The Lithia 4Kids Program, initiated by Lithia Motors, aims to enhance youth development through strategic partnerships with nonprofit organizations. Since 1946, Lithia has prioritized community enrichment, focusing on supporting 501(c)3 certified nonprofits dedicated to improving the lives of children and families. With over 200 locations nationwide, Lithia empowers its employees to engage meaningfully in local initiatives, fostering confident youth ready to face future challenges. Volunteering is a core value, creating a collaborative environment for positive impact.

The Michigan Botanical Foundation Grant supports research and educational initiatives that enhance the understanding and preservation of Michigan's flora. Grants are available for projects involving rare species, environmental awareness, and educational programs. The foundation welcomes applications from individuals and organizations that align with its goals. Grant amounts typically range from $100 to $1,500, with preference given to projects based in Michigan or the Great Lakes region. Funding decisions are made on a case-by-case basis.

The Price Chopper’s Golub Foundation has been committed to community support for over 85 years, offering funding and in-kind donations to various organizations. They prioritize 501(c)(3) non-profits that enhance cultural and economic vitality, and provide resources for local events, youth sports, and cultural initiatives. Applications for support are encouraged from organizations that align with their values, emphasizing community improvement and collaboration. For assistance, contact local stores for resources like ticket printing and promotional support.

Friends of NRA

Friends of NRA is the National Rifle Association’s premier fundraising program, supporting the future of shooting sports. Since day one, Friends of NRA has been a 100% grassroots effort fueled by a united front to secure the Second Amendment and raise money for the shooting sports.

Committee volunteers are appointed to State Fund Committees to make recommendations for local grant funding in areas such as youth education, women-focused clinics, law enforcement training, hunter safety, range improvement, firearms and marksmanship training and safety. Recognizing the impact American youth has on the future of the shooting sports, State Fund Committees frequently recommend grants for youth programs, allocating the most significant portion of monies to this vital area.

Grant awards fund activities and support programs in the United States to promote firearms and hunting safety, to enhance marksmanship skills of those in the shooting sports, and to educate the public about firearms in their historic, technological and artistic context.

Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program - New York

The Friends of NRA State Fund Grant Program provides supplies, equipment, and financial support to a variety of qualified groups and programs at the local level; geared towards youth, women, law enforcement, veterans, the disabled, and the general public, including:

• General shooting programs
• Competitive shooting
• Education, training and safety
• Hunting and conservation
• Community outreach
• Historical education

Grant funding must be used to further a charitable purpose as defined by the Internal Revenue Code under section 501(c)(3) and accompanying rules, regulations, and other IRS law and materials.

The Joseph and Joan Cullman Conservation Grants, supported by the Northern New York Audubon, focus on funding projects that promote the conservation and enjoyment of birds in Northern New York. This program encourages graduate students, researchers, and environmental organizations to apply, although it is currently on hiatus for 2025. The grants aim to enhance public awareness of bird species and their habitats through research and outreach activities.

About Rome Community FoundationThe concept of a Rome Community Foundation was developed to provide individuals and groups with a method for making charitable gifts or bequests of permanently endowed funds, giving the donor favorable tax treatment. Income generated from investment of the endowments is used at the discretion of the Foundation's Board of Directors for the benefit of the Rome area.

Mission

The mission of the Foundation is to assist in providing monetary resources for the present and future enrichment of the Rome area community.Rome Community Foundation GrantAs a general rule, the Foundation only funds capital project activities; however, it would consider start-up charitable initiatives that incur one-time costs. Grants can only be given for charitable projects and generally only to organizations certified as tax exempt under Internal Revenue regulations and have a tax-exempt certificate, or governmental organizations.Rome Community Foundation Board Members meet four times a year to review grant proposals for projects that benefit Rome area residents.

The Kenneth A. Scott Charitable Trust Grants focus on enhancing the quality of life for companion animals and native wildlife. This private foundation supports innovative projects that go beyond basic care, ensuring the well-being of homeless and abused animals. Eligible organizations must have a 501(c)(3) status and be located in specific states, including Ohio and parts of Indiana and Michigan. The Trust emphasizes humane treatment and sustainable funding for animal welfare initiatives.

CNYCF: Community Grants Program- Spring Cycle

We support the following types of projects that promote community impact, capacity building and diversity:

Capital Projects: including large scale capital campaigns, repairs and replacements, technology upgrades, and equipment/furnishing purchases.

Capital and programmatic grants $10,000-$150,000 are available through the Dr. Robert J. Vitkus Fund to organizations in Onondaga, Madison, Cortland, Cayuga and Oswego counties that support outdoor parks and recreation areas. Preferences are for parks and recreation areas that provide access for hunting and fishing, naming opportunities, programs that involve youth, and conservation efforts to improve wildlife habitat and forest health. 

Program: support for new and innovative programs, or the expansion of proven existing programs that address our community’s most pressing needs.

Focus Areas

• Arts & culture, environment, animals, civic engagement, education